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Sinks
The variety of kitchen sinks are many if you combine the material it is made from, the colour the location and the design you will see how many choices you have combine that with the taps you can have and maybe Always Plumbing based in St Albans, Hertfordshire can help you get the right solution and the experience to install.
The 3 main reasons for installing a new sink are, your old one is starting to wear or leaks, your having a new kitchen installed or you are redecorating the kitchen/utility room.
The choice of materials can be porcelain , cast iron, Nickel, Copper, and Brass and stainless steel or even Soapstone, possibly the most beautiful sink is made of soapstone. The design can vary from big, single bowl sink with a drop-down faucet with a built-in sprayer to a double bowl sink, with many types in between.
Choosing a sink is based on 4 questions:
- What are your kitchen priorities
- How will you use it
- The location of the sink.
- What type of surface will it be installed in
Types of materials
Stainless steel
For most homes this is the first choice. It's very popular, probably because stainless steel appliances have a very high tech, clean looking and they look really great in a modern kitchen with clean lines. Stainless steel is generally reasonably priced. What makes a good stainless sink is the gauge of the steel. The lower the gauge, the thicker and more durable it is likely to be. Look for 18 or 19-gauge Type 304 stainless. Under mount and self-rimming versions are available in a many shapes and sizes, with and without draining boards, preparation sinks and many accessories.
Nickel, Copper, and Brass
In addition to steel, it's possible to get sinks made in various metals such as Nickel, Copper, and Brass. Disadvantage from steel is the cost.
Porcelain enamel over cast iron
This is one of the most durable,. The range in quality, style, and colour is large. The life expectancy for a high quality sink is about 25–30 years or more. The surface is ground glass melted and applied to the hot cast iron.
Composite stone sinks
Composite stone sinks are starting to gain popularity. They are made of various rock including quartz, granite, or slate and combined with acrylic.
Fireclay
Fireclay is a enhanced type of vitreous china that contains more quartz and feldspar. It is heavier and denser than regular clay, which makes it more durable than a standard china sink.
Soapstone
One of the most beautiful sink is made of soapstone. It is heavy, dense, beautiful, and impervious to stains. A sink and counter out of soapstone is spectacular, but very expensive.
Mounting a sink
Top mount
This is where you would drop a self-rimming sink into the hole for the sink. This is the easiest method of installation and requires the least expertise.
Under mount
More difficult to install but much more functional from a cleaning standpoint. Requires a solid surface countertop or stone for mounting. Typically requires a professional installer. Grooves can be incised for a build-in drain area if desired.
Tile in
This approach is suitable for tiled counters and combines the advantages of the under mount and top mount. This sink has a flange and the tile installation butts right up to the edge of the sink.
Flush mount
This is generally considered the combinationl of sink and counter such with solid surface material. If the sink is fused to the counter, installation is easy, drop it in the cabinet and hook it up to the Boiler pipes.
The way you work, the type of home, and the style of your kitchen are all equally important aspects for deciding what kind of kitchen sink will work best for you.
If you can't decide, Ask Always Plumbing of London Colney St Albans Hertfordshire
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