When you are sorting through kitchen remodeling ideas and brainstorming your dream kitchen, there are so many choices to make. From countertops, custom kitchen cabinets, appliances, a custom kitchen island...the list goes on and on. But there is one feature that may get more use in your kitchen than any of those features: the kitchen sink.
Choosing the perfect sink may take just as much time as choosing your countertops. Here are some guidelines from us at New Life Bath and Kitchen to help you choose the right materials, style, and mounting for your new kitchen sink.
Sink Styles
Farmhouse sinks are all the rage right now. While most of us here on the Central Coast do not live in an actual farmhouse, their sinks have taken over. This does not mean that you have to have a garden outback and deer passing by your kitchen window (although that does sound peaceful). Farmhouse sinks are typically large basins with an apron front, which gives the sink that vintage feel. A farmhouse sink can come in many different materials such as ceramic, porcelain, and stainless steel. The latter is a bit more modern. If one large basin does not suit your needs but you still love the look of the farmhouse sink, you can install a double farmhouse, which would have two equal sized basins.
Basin Sizes
Like we said above, a traditional farmhouse sink will have one large basin. But if you desire one large basin without the commitment to a vintage style sink, you can still have it. Large basins are great options for someone who cooks or bakes often. You can easily soak sheet pans, roasting pans, and other large cookware.
A double basin sink is best for someone who wants a separate space for dishes of different sizes. You can choose a 50/50 double basin, meaning that the basins will be equal in size. Or you can change those dimensions, so that one size is smaller. This is great if you want to have space for your garbage disposal and somewhere to rinse vegetables, etc, without getting in the way of all those dirty dishes.
Installation
Whichever type of sink you choose, you will have to decide if you want to have an undermount sink or a drop-in sink. If you are on a budget for your kitchen installation costs, a drop-in sink may be the way to go. A drop-in sink is compatible with any type of countertop as it simply drops into the hole cut into your countertop. The rim of the sink will sit on the countertops and the faucets will also be installed on the sink rim.
An undermount sink will cost a little bit more since the sink is mounted below the countertop. Undermount sinks work best with solid surface countertops such as granite, concrete, soapstone, or marble. Undermounting will not work well with more porous materials like tile and laminate because the weight of the sink can not be easily held by the weak points in the grout. An undermount sink creates beautiful lines in the kitchen as your countertop simply extends to your sink. If you are more interested in custom kitchen designs, an undermount sink is something you should consider.
When you are ready to discuss all of your sink options, or any kitchen renovation plan, call New Life Bath and Kitchen to guide you through all of the big decisions, even the kitchen sink.