More recently, the range of kitchen sinks was represented by several standard cast iron models, which could be found in almost every apartment. Today the situation is changing rapidly: a huge number of models have appeared on sale, differing not only in appearance and geometric shape, but also in functional features. As a result, the buyer got a real opportunity to choose the sink that fits perfectly into the kitchen interior.
Types of sinks
Steel sinks
The most popular option in our time, which is distinguished by its excellent appearance, a variety of shapes and designs. It is made of high quality food grade stainless steel with the addition of chromium and nickel. The way to obtain the final shape is either seamless or welded, when the model is connected from several parts by welding. The thickness of the metal for the most common models is 0.5-1.2 mm, which is quite enough for comfortable operation. Depending on the processing technology, the surface can be either glossy or matte, or even anti-graphic, making water drops, scratches and other nuances of operation invisible.
Advantages
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High environmental friendliness;
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Low cost;
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A huge variety of shapes, sizes and colors;
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Resistant to corrosion and oxidation;
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Resistance to temperature extremes and household chemicals;
disadvantages
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High noise from falling water;
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Scratches and abrasions are noticeable;
Composite sinks
Under the name composite materials, many manufacturers mean artificial stone – a mixture based on granite chips, bonded with acrylic resins and hardeners. In order to obtain the desired shade, various dyes are introduced into the composition. The curing process takes place at a high temperature, which allows not only to ensure high strength and resistance, but also a wide range of different colors and shades, as well as a very realistic appearance.
Advantages
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Great appearance;
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Unpretentious care;
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Durability;
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Resistance to mechanical stress, household chemicals and temperature extremes;
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Minimum noise during operation;
disadvantages
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High price;
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Large weight;
Ceramic kitchen sinks
Despite the huge number of disadvantages, they are very popular nowadays. Mainly due to the extremely high aesthetics and noble appearance. Under the general name 'ceramics' they almost always mean porcelain, faience or a combination of ceramics and granite – porcelain stoneware. They fit perfectly into the interior of any room and emphasize good taste.
Advantages
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High environmental friendliness;
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Long term of trouble-free operation;
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They are not afraid of temperature changes and aggressive household chemicals;
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A variety of shapes, textures and shades;
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Stunning appearance;
disadvantages
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Extremely high weight;
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Labor intensity of self-installation;
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High price;
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Fragility;
Kitchen sink selection parameters
Geometric shape
Thanks to modern manufacturing techniques, manufacturers have been able to carry out sinks in the shape that the buyer needs. Currently, the most popular are square or rectangular sinks, as well as triangular-shaped models designed for corner installation. Both round and oval sinks are popular – they are bought mainly by those who choose a mortise model for a specific interior of the room. In addition, it is possible to customize and give the sink a non-standard shape.
Number of bowls
Practically all modern sinks are equipped with one deep bowl, which is used to perform all manipulations without exception. However, on sale you can also find models with several bowls – one deep and two or three smaller ones. Such models allow you to perform many operations at the same time. There are also models with the so-called 'wings' – inclined recesses directly adjacent to the main bowl. They are good for allowing water to drain off freshly washed dishes.
Optional equipment
This item implies the presence of a convenient mixer, the height and length of which is selected for the specific parameters of the sink. It should provide comfortable work in the kitchen and not be a hassle when adjusting temperature and flow. This also includes all kinds of food waste grinders and filters for mechanical impurities, thanks to which it will be possible to avoid blockages, grids that prevent large debris from entering the drain system, as well as siphons and taps for drinking water installed parallel to the main mixer.
The best manufacturers of kitchen sinks
When choosing a sink for the kitchen, preference should be given to products of well-known brands that are popular all over the world:
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Longran
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Blanco
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Zorg
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Alveus
In addition, it will be useful to study the range of catalogs and the characteristics of a suitable model before buying, as well as read user reviews, taking into account both the strengths and weaknesses of a particular model.
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Video on choosing a kitchen sink
Attention! This material is the subjective opinion of the authors of the project and is not a purchase guide.
