Designing a new kitchen or finishing up a remodel takes months, as many of you know. You have most likely spent hours and hours designing, organizing, shopping, and finalizing all of the details. A lot of this time was probably spent focusing on the countertops. For many of you, granite is your top choice. Now that it has been selected and fabricated, it is ready for installation. But wait! Although it is one of the most important pieces in your kitchen ensemble, you may have totally overlooked the sink. Seemingly simple, choosing a kitchen sink is very important and will also take some time and lots of consideration.
There are several types, colors, and shapes of kitchen sinks. Let’s look at some of the most common categories that you will come across and which ones work better with granite….
Choosing a Kitchen Sink- Undermount
To compliment the sleek lines of a granite countertop, undermount sinks are the most popular. Because the sink lies below the kitchen work surface in an undermount, it makes clean up super easy. No more wiping food and crumbs into your hand to drop into the sink. The undermount sink allows you to wipe particles and spills directly into the basin.
If you choose to go with the undermount, make sure that your installer is very familiar with the installation procedure. An undermount sink must be adhered in such a way that it will be able to hold the full weight of the kitchen sink, as well as dishes and pans without any support from the countertop. Also, be aware that if the edge of the sink is not sealed correctly mold can grow between the underside of the countertop and the top of the sink.
Choosing a Kitchen Sink- Overmount
The overmount sink (or drop in sink) is one of the more traditional ways to install a sink. With this mount, the bowl hangs on the edge of the countertop. When it comes to granite countertops, many homeowners and designers do not like the fact that the sink suspends by using the support of the granite. Food, crumbs, and liquids can also become trapped or build up around the lip and can stain the granite. Not only is this unattractive, it is also unsanitary.
Choosing a Kitchen Sink- Stainless Steel
Over the past decade, stainless steel was the trend in kitchen appliances. Although there are many more modern design trends available today, it is still a top choice even for kitchen sinks. Because stainless steel is so durable and easy to clean, it seems to be a timeless material in the kitchen. It looks great with any color of granite and offers an industrial look to even the most elegant kitchen.
When choosing a stainless steel sink, pick one with a higher gauge to prevent denting and scratching. Also, choose a stainless steel sink with rounded corners. Many homeowners have found that square edge stainless sinks, food and debris can become lodged in the corners because the edges can be cut so tight.
Choosing a Kitchen Sink- Granite Composite
Many homeowners and designers are now moving toward granite composite sinks to accompany their granite countertops. Unlike your granite countertop, these are man made and will therefore not match the pattern of the surface of your countertop. However, they are very beautiful and one of the most robust sink choices. Like your granite countertop, they are heat resistant, chip resistant, and scratch resistant.
Most granite composite sinks are installed in an undermount fashion, so they look great with any type of stone countertop. They are also very budget friendly and despite their uniqueness, are cheaper than stainless steel most of the time.
Choosing a Kitchen Sink- Porcelain
If you are not worried about durability and are looking for unique color options, then a porcelain sink may be for you. Unlike some of the other options porcelain has a lot of disadvantages. Not only does it chip and crack very easily, it is also susceptible to staining by multiple substances. Traditionally porcelain sinks are installed as an overmount, but with granite countertops they can be undermounted.
When choosing a kitchen sink, make sure that you consider all advantages and disadvantages because changing out a sink can be a costly, damaging, and time-consuming task.