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The key to a stunning home remodeling design is the details. This is especially true when it comes to a kitchen.
You can pick out all the appliances and fixtures, but if they don’t work together, your kitchen won’t look like it came off the pages of a magazine.
The truth is that some features are much more fun to focus on. For example, choosing paint colors and tile patterns tend to be the more exciting part of a kitchen remodel. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t focus on utility too.
Here’s your guide to choosing the right kitchen sink for your home.
Consider the Style
This is where many homeowners will start when it comes to choosing their sink. If you’re remodeling your kitchen in a certain style, you probably have an idea of what style of sink you would like.
Apron-Front and Farmhouse Sinks
Popular in farmhouse designs, apron sinks have a deep bowl that juts out from the cabinets and counter, so you’re able to see the front of the sink. These require special base cabinets to support this style of sink.
Drop-In Sink
You install this type of sink by dropping it into the counter from above and secures from underneath with screws. The lip of the sink will rest on top of the countertops.
This style is easy to install, so it’s great for anyone who wants to DIY their kitchen design.
Undermount Sink
Opposite to a drop-in, the undermount sink installs from underneath the countertop. It’s raised into place and secured, creating a seamless look from the countertop to the sink as the lip sits under the counter.
Corner Sink
As the name suggests, these sinks are installed in the corner of the cabinets. These are specialized units that allow you to free up some valuable counter space. You can find both undermount and drop-in corner sinks.
Think About the Material and Finish
Now that you have an idea of what style of sink you’d like, the next step is to consider the material and finish. Not only do you want to consider your style preferences, but you’ll want to consider your lifestyle and needs as well.
Do you need to give the material special attention to maintain the look? How easily does it clean? Will the sink be scratch-resistant from cleaners or pans?
Keep these questions in mind when thinking about the sink material.
Stainless Steel
The most popular choice because of its variety of finishes and thicknesses. Durable, lightweight, and easy to clean, stainless steel provides a great option for kitchens.
Copper
For a more stylistic approach, you may choose copper. Durable and resistant to rust and tarnishing, they’ll look great for years to come. This material is also antimicrobial, which is a bonus for kitchens.
Fireclay
Fired at high heat, these sinks are durable enough to resist scratches and chips. A fireclay kitchen sink is also naturally nonporous, so it will resist bacteria.
How Many Basins and Depth
When it comes to the number of basins and their depth, there isn’t one right answer. This depends heavily on your personal preferences, lifestyle, and how you like to wash dishes. Here are some of the most common options.
Single Basin
Single basins are great if you have a small space. They’re also great if you prefer to soak your pots and pans before washing them.
Double Basin
This style features a divider between the basins. The divider will create distinct workspaces if you like separated areas for soaking, rinsing, and cleaning. You can find these in 50/50, 60/40, or 70/30 configurations.
Triple Basin
Triple basins typically feature two larger basins with a small basin in the center. This allows for more distinct areas for washing, rinsing, and sanitizing your dishes.
Basin Depth
If you want to soak your pots and pans, then consider getting a deeper basin. However, you’ll want to keep your plumbing in mind with a deeper basin as there may need to be adjustments.
If you have a sink with two different basin depths, you’ll want to work with the deeper depth.
Drain Placement
The placement of the sink drain is often more of a practical decision than a stylistic one. While you might like the look of one drain location over another, the placement often comes down to where your existing plumbing is.
Off-Center
An off-center drain creates more space underneath the cabinets; however, repairs can be difficult since the plumbing tends to be in the far back corner of the cabinet.
Center
Center drains allow the water to drain quicker, are easier to maintain and repair, and often align with most faucets. However, the water drainage is easily blocked if you place pots and pans over them.
Rear
Rear drains combine the best of the first two with plenty of undercabinet room, less water drainage blockage, and extra space for food prep. But the installation can be difficult, and maintenance can be tricky.
Faucets, Accessories, and Features
Do you have a faucet you absolutely love the look of? Then you better make sure it’s compatible with the sink you pick out. If there are any sink features you want to include, it won’t hurt to double-check the compatibility.
Number of Faucets Holes
The holes for your faucets built into your sink can narrow down your choices. You’ll commonly see one-, two-, three-, and four-hole sinks. The more holes you have, the more accessories and features you can have.
Sprayers, Sink-Mounted Dispensers, and Hot-Water Dispensers
A sprayer can help you clean large pans, crevises, and your sink. You may want to include a soap dispenser mounted on the sink. You also have the option of a dispenser that gives you 190-degree water.
You’ll want to be sure your sink has the holes capable of supporting these features.
Garbage Disposals
A near-must for many homes now is a garbage disposal. Be sure your sink and plumbing can support a garbage disposal. You may want to consider the location for maintenance as well.
Home Remodeling Basics: Kitchen Addition
Your kitchen is probably one of the most used rooms in your home. So why shouldn’t it be as beautiful as it is useful? Home remodeling—especially your kitchen—can be stressful when you realize the choices you have to make.
Even a feature as simple as a kitchen sink has many factors you have to consider. But with this guide, you can better understand how to choose the right kitchen sink for you, your needs, and your kitchen design. Looking for more home remodeling inspiration? Check out more articles on the blog today!
