How to choose a sink for the kitchen? Features of construction and materials
Proper planning of the kitchen space not only brings comfort to the room, but also greatly simplifies the work of the hostess. Room decoration is based on three key points: refrigerator, stove and sink. It is generally accepted that when cooking, a woman spends most of the time at the stove, but after observing her work, it can be concluded that washing dishes, vegetables, and hands is much more common than cooking.
Modern manufacturers offer customers a huge assortment of sinks for every taste. It is important to make a choice in accordance with their functional properties, and not based on appearance only.
Varieties of sinks by material
This criterion is of great importance, the material must meet certain standards:
- Strength. Heavy objects are often washed in the kitchen bowl: pots, pans, meat grinders.
- Low porosity. Prevents absorption of grease and dirt into the surface.
- Hygiene It is necessary that kitchen sinks do not act as a drive for harmful bacteria.
- Resistance to corrosion. This indicator is important for long-term operation, the period of which can be reduced under the influence of water of different temperatures.
Which sink is better? Consider the main varieties of models presented on the modern market.
Stainless steel kitchen sink
The products are durable, easily cleaned from contamination, made out in various styles, have an affordable cost. During operation, sinks for kitchens made of stainless steel do not change their color and do not need any special care. The main advantage of such models is the optimal ratio of price and quality. For this reason, they are very popular among the inhabitants of our country.
Stainless sinks for the kitchen are made using different finishes:
- Glossy. It is considered a classic product. Disadvantages include the tendency to scratch, as well as the good visibility of all damage.
- Matt It is made of unpolished metal, has a low cost.
- Corrugated. It is considered the most practical, the surface masks water droplets and scratches. Similar models fit perfectly into any interior.
Copper sink for the kitchen
Such a product will suit true connoisseurs of exclusive things. Similar options harmoniously look in the interiors issued in the Victorian and classical styles. Copper has antibacterial properties, easy to care for. There are no spots on its surface. An important advantage of sinks is their bewitching beauty, which remains intact for a long time.
Enameled sink for the kitchen
Many people believe that a cast-iron sink is a relic of the past. In reality, this is not so.Today, there are economical enamelled cast iron products on sale. The enameled model looks no worse than modern options.
The material is characterized by durability, high resistance to various damage and alkali. The enameled surface is able to serve for many decades.
The only drawback is the tendency to chips that occur in connection with the fall of heavy objects. It is also worth noting that despite the attractive appearance and durability, the enameled sink has a low mechanical strength. Cracks on it can occur due to sudden changes in water temperature.
Acrylic sinks for the kitchen
The surface of this material is durable, has low porosity. Acrylic is used for the manufacture of sinks and countertops with a variety of shapes. Products are hygienic, resistant to pollution, have an aesthetically attractive appearance. As for color design, the palette of colors is limited only by the imagination of designers.
The disadvantages of acrylic sinks include the tendency to scratches. However, such damage is repaired by grinding, chipped edges can also be repaired.
Sinks made of artificial stone for the kitchen
Similar models are made of granite chips, marble or quartz sand, which are bonded with acrylic resins.
Composite sinks for the kitchen have their pros and cons. Products are environmentally friendly, prevent the growth of bacteria, are resistant to shocks and temperature extremes, and absorb noise. Sinks made of stone are durable, they differ in their original appearance. Sinks are easy to operate, resistant to various contaminants.
On the modern market, products with various color options are presented, so the choice will depend on the interior of the room. Among the disadvantages are the high price, the complexity of installation.
Quartz sinks
This is another version of composite products, which is a cross between acrylic and natural stone. Quartz sinks for the kitchen are in high demand in our country. Models do not require complicated care, have hygiene. They can become not just a necessary kitchen attribute, but also a central element in the design of a room.
Stone sinks for the kitchen
Such products are distinguished by luxury design and natural beauty. Natural material is very durable, not afraid of scratches and intensive use. Aesthetic features of stone sinks for the kitchen are often used as the main design element. Products are presented in a wide assortment: marble, granite, onyx and others. Among the shortcomings are the high price and the need for regular proper care.
Steel sinks for the kitchen lose stone in sound-absorbing properties.
Porcelain sinks for the kitchen
Strength and high wear resistance of this material have been known for a long time, but it is worth understanding its pros and cons. Products are distinguished by environmental safety, aesthetic appeal, and durability. Porcelain tile also has significant disadvantages: the need for frequent cleaning, high cost, the inability to carry out repairs when chips and cracks form.
Ceramic sinks
In modern homes, such models are found less and less. Ceramic sink for the kitchen is quite expensive, but it is characterized by low strength. From a strong blow, it can simply crack completely. Most often, such models are used in the bathroom.
Varieties of sinks in shape
When choosing a suitable sink for arranging a kitchen, it is important to pay attention not only to the material, but also to the organic form of the products.
Round sink for the kitchen
It is considered a traditional option that can decorate the entire room.An oval shape is also considered equally popular. Almost all types of dishes are round, so washing them is very convenient. Another advantage is ease of maintenance, the absence of corners does not allow dirt to accumulate on the surface. The round sink is suitable for small and spacious rooms.
Square sinks
This is another classic model. Sinks in the shape of a square are quite spacious and easy to clean.
Corner sink for the kitchen
The shape of such models can be very different. Rectangles, products with two bowls of different sizes and other shapes are also common. The variety of choices is great.
Rooms with a sink in the corner become more ergonomic and functional, a space for storing things appears under the sink, the presence of several bowls simplifies the work of the hostess. The corner model can even be placed in a small kitchen.
The design of the kitchen with a corner sink is convenient and attractive, so many people like it.
Double sink for the kitchen
Such products appeared recently, but have already become the subject of desire for many women. A sink with two bowls allows you to cook much faster and more conveniently, which helps housewives save their personal time. The only drawback of such sinks for the kitchen is that they are designed for spacious rooms. Owners of small rooms should pay attention to one and a half models, as well as narrow sinks for the kitchen.
The presence of wings
Most often they are used as a dryer and are an important functional addition to various types of sinks. The wings are used to defrost, place vegetables or clean dishes.
Mounting Methods
An important factor when choosing a sink is the installation method:
Bracket Mounting
This method is considered the most economical and simple. Suitable for people who are still in search of the perfect sink, weigh all the pros and cons, but temporarily use a simple model.
Mortise sink
The method consists in the fact that the product is recessed in the countertop, being located on the same level with it. Such a sink looks harmonious if it combines a furniture set or several sections.
Surface-mounted sink for the kitchen
It is considered one of the simplest options, which often stops the choice of buyers. The sink in this case will slightly rise above the surface of the furniture.
Integrated way
This is a new labor-intensive technology in which the cabinet with a sink for the kitchen looks the most harmonious. The built-in element becomes one with the countertop.
How to choose a sink for the kitchen? For this, it is necessary to consider all the advantages and disadvantages of materials, the forms and features of the installation of sinks, taking into account their cost and special requirements. And, of course, you should choose based on your own preferences.