Exploring Your Options: What's the Best Kitchen Sink Material?

If you're planning to remodel or update your kitchen, the sink is a crucial component that can't be overlooked.

As you shop for new fixtures and finishes, what is the best kitchen sink material to use?

Read on for some tips and insight about different sink material types so you can find the option that's right for your lifestyle. 

Stainless Steel 

In terms of durability, stainless steel has long been the industry standard. This material is easy to make in any size and shape, and it's able to withstand a lot of wear and tear.

Aside from the durability factor, many people choose stainless steel due to its modern aesthetic. It's also easy to match stainless steel with practically anything from wood cabinets to granite countertops.

If you decide to go the stainless route, pay close attention to the gauge. Heavy gauge steel will stand up much better to a lot of use, so aim for something between 16 to 18 gauge for the best results.

One con of stainless steel is that many people find it too "cold" in terms of looks. A white fireclay sink is a great alternative that can add warmth and style to your kitchen remodel. 

Kitchen Sink Options: Enamel

For a timeless kitchen, an enamel sink is a classic choice. These sinks are crafted using heavy cast iron and then covered with a sleek glass-based enamel glaze.

One perk to choosing enamel is that you can find it in a variety of colors, and you can also have your sink customized in any color you like. It's important to note that these sinks are quite heavy and may require additional support underneath to protect your cabinets and countertops.

Another downside to an enamel sink is that it's very vulnerable to chips and stains. Be sure to clean it with a non-abrasive sponge, and treat stains immediately to keep your sink looking new.

You can refinish an email sink using a DIY kit, but it's not the best kitchen sink material if you're worried about damage. The cost of a new enamel sink varies greatly and can range anywhere between $300 and $600 or more. 

The Best Kitchen Sink Material: Fireclay

If you love the look of enamel but not all of the maintenance, consider a fireclay sink instead. This material consists of an enamel molded from white clay. The clay is then fused with glaze and heated at extremely high temperatures.

With a fireclay kitchen sink, you'll get the beautiful look of cast iron enamel with easier maintenance. Fireclay is extremely durable and resistant to chips, scratches, heat, and stains.

Similar to a traditional cast iron enamel sink, a fireclay sink is heavy and may need some reinforcements once it's installed. You'll find fireclay in white and off-white colors, although some other basic hues are available, too.

When it comes to beauty, a farmhouse fireclay sink is an excellent choice. Thanks to its durable nature, these sinks are a great option if you cook and do a lot of dishes in the sink.

Another perk to choosing fireclay is that these beautiful sinks are handcrafted with care. You can choose from a variety of sizes, shapes, and designs to bring beauty and functionality to your kitchen. 

Copper Sinks

If you want something unconventional in your kitchen, a copper sink is a bold choice. This stunning material adds metallic warmth and a modern element to your home. Copper can be beautiful to look at, but it will form a patina over time with exposure to water.

A farmhouse copper sink with a hammered finish will easily become the focal point in any kitchen. In addition to its beauty, this metal also has anti-bacterial properties, which makes it a wise option for a kitchen sink.

In terms of cost, expect to pay quite a bit for a true copper sink. Be aware that some kitchen sinks are made of a thin-gauge metal, so they can damage a lot easier than their heavy gauge counterparts.

Copper is beautiful, but it's not for everyone. If you're planning to sell your home, it may be best to choose something more versatile such as a fireclay or stainless steel.

However, if you're looking for something bold and dramatic, copper can be an excellent choice. Prices can vary widely depending on the design, the brand name, and the quality of the copper. 

Stone

When it comes to your kitchen sink material options, stone is certainly a stunning choice. Whether it's crafted of solid granite or marble, these sinks will bring the "wow" factor to any kitchen.

While stone kitchen sinks are beautiful to look at, they also require quite a bit of maintenance. Stone needs to be sealed on a regular basis to prevent stains and visible signs of damage.

Another downside to a stone kitchen sink is that it can easily crack if you drop something heavy on it. Be very careful when using a stone kitchen sink to avoid costly mishaps. Otherwise, these sinks are striking and add a refined element to your kitchen. 

Find the Right Sink Material

When it comes to choosing the best kitchen sink material, fireclay is certainly one of the best options. This durable material not only looks beautiful, but it will also stand the test of time.

Explore a range of different types of sink materials and styles to help you choose the most durable kitchen sink.

To learn more about our fireclay sinks and other products, visit our website or contact us today.