Although many consider kitchen sinks as a trivial thing, they play a key role in the kitchen. These undervalued sinks can complement and complete the overall look of your kitchen.
If you are remodeling your kitchen or want a perfect kitchen sink to match the décor of your new home, then you are at the right place.
Kitchen sinks are available in different types and styles, each with its own significance and uniqueness. If you are not aware of those kinds, do not worry.
In this article, we will explore the various types of kitchen sinks, their construction, advantages, and disadvantages, etc.
Make sure you read the article to the end to equip yourself with all the required information.
Without any delay, let us dive into our discussion.
What Are The Types Of Kitchen Sinks?
We can categorize kitchen sinks into three types based on the mounting style, the material, and the number of bowls.
Each type further has different models under it. Let us try to learn about each type and the further classifications in detail below.
a) Kitchen Sinks Mounting Styles & Types
The different kinds or models of sinks available under the mounting style are as below:
- Top Mount
- Under Mount
- Integrated Kitchen Sinks
- Farmhouse Sink
- Kitchen Sink With Drainboard
- Kitchen Island Sink
- Prep or Bar Sink
- Corner Sink
Let us get into a brief discussion of each type:
1) Top Mount
The top mount kitchen sinks are the most common type available and used in most homes.
Construction
These sinks come designed in such a way that you can easily drop them into a pre-cut hole in the countertop. The edges or the rim of this sink helps in holding it on the counter.
Installation
The top mount kitchen sinks are very easy to install. It does not require special skills to install them.
Characteristic Feature
These sinks are compatible with almost every style of countertop. You would not require any plumbing work or remodelling of the countertop when replacing it.
Cleaning
The top mount kitchen sinks are difficult to clean because the scum and debris get accumulated over the rim or the lip.
Advantages
- The top mount kitchen sinks are very inexpensive.
- They are very easy to install.
- They are a versatile option.
- They work well with any style of countertop.
- These sinks are available in stainless steel, porcelain, and cast-iron materials.
- The top mount kitchen sinks are highly durable.
Disadvantages
- The top mount kitchen sinks are difficult to clean.
2) Under Mount
As the name says, these sinks come mounted underneath the counter.
Construction
Unlike the top mounted sinks, these come installed under the counter. Also, they do not have
any rim or lip, and hence the edges directly drop into the basin.
Installation
The under-mount sinks are a little difficult to install because they need to get glued to the lower side of the counter.
Characteristic Feature
The under-mount kitchen sinks are of superior quality when compared to the top mount ones.
Cleaning
The under-mount kitchen sinks are very easy to clean. Any debris or dirt gets pushed into the sink directly without getting accumulated on the rim.
Advantages
- The under-mount kitchen sinks are modern, sleek, and attractive in design.
- They are a versatile option.
- They work well with almost all kitchen layouts.
- They are easy to clean.
- Installing the under mount creates a seamless look to your sink from the counter.
- These sinks are available in stainless steel, fireclay, and cast-iron materials.
- They are of superior quality to the top mount ones.
Disadvantages
- The under-mount kitchen sinks are not that easy to install.
- They are not compatible with spaces having faucets and attachments.
- They are very expensive.
- This may limit the size of your countertop.
3) Integrated Kitchen Sinks
As the name says, the integrated or integral sinks come integrated with the kitchen countertop.
Construction
These sinks are of the same material as the countertop. They are usually designed by the countertop manufacturer.
Installation
They are a part of the kitchen countertop and do not require much installation work.
Characteristic Feature
These are custom-made kitchen sinks that blend in easily with the countertops.
Cleaning
The integrated kitchen sinks are very easy to clean.
Advantages
- The integrated kitchen sinks are available in different shapes, sizes, designs, and styles to choose from.
- They come in stone, metal, and quartz or solid surface materials.
- They are very easy to clean.
- Because of their elegant design, they are best suitable for a contemporary kitchen.
- These sinks eliminate the chances of debris accumulation and mould formation under the counter seam.
- They do not have a rim and blend in easily with the countertops.
Disadvantages
- The integrated kitchen sinks are very expensive.
- If there is any damage to the sink, you need to remove and repair it.
- Installing a new integrated sink might require replacing the entire countertop of your kitchen.
- These kinds of sinks are mostly seen in bathrooms.
- The integrated sinks are custom-made kitchen sinks.
4) Farmhouse Sink
Also known as apron sinks, these sinks are commonly preferred and seen in houses that love a traditional-looking or country-style design.
Construction
These sinks usually come extended over the edge of the counter. You can install these sinks either on the top of a free-standing table or even on top of a cabinet.
Installation
The farmhouse sinks are very difficult to install as it requires cutting a large portion of your counter.
Characteristic Feature
They come designed with both single and double bowls.
Cleaning
These sinks are easy to care for and also very easy to clean.
Advantages
- The farmhouse kitchen sinks are very large, allowing the cleaning of big baking pans and even casserole pans.
- They are available in fireclay, copper, and cast-iron materials.
- They are very easy to clean.
- The farmhouse sinks are easy to care for.
- These sinks are highly durable.
- Because of their large size, they are best suitable for bigger families and large kitchens.
- These sinks come with both single and double bowls.
Disadvantages
- The farmhouse-style sinks are very expensive of all the sink types.
- They are very difficult, and expensive to install.
- Installing a new farmhouse sink might require cutting a large portion of your counter.
- These kinds of sinks are highly prone to dripping.
5) Kitchen Sink With Drainboard
The kitchen sinks with drainboards are a popular choice for Indian kitchens. It allows the user to drain the utensils and vegetables.
Construction
As the name suggests, these kitchen sinks come with a built-in drainboard. This designated section helps the user to dry the dishes and facilitates a mess-free food preparation process. However, it occupies more space on your counter because of this added feature.
Installation
Installing a kitchen sink with a drainboard is easy when compared to installing an under mount sink.
Characteristic Feature
A kitchen sink with a drainboard comes with a designated space for draining utensils and vegetables.
Cleaning
Cleaning a drainboard kitchen sink is very easy. The built-in drainboard feature helps in keeping the counters clean.
Advantages
- These sinks are eco-friendly.
- The drainboard portion easily traps water around and lets them into the sink.
- These sinks save your time and effort in washing and drying your utensils in a dishwasher.
- They are available in different shapes and sizes to choose from.
- You can use the drainboard portion for a mess-free food preparation process.
- Installation of a drainboard kitchen sink is comparatively easier than the under mount sinks.
- These sinks do not require a second drainage system.
- These are smaller sinks and are ideal for smaller kitchens or limited spaces.
Disadvantages
- If you wash dishes by hand rarely, the drainboard is of little use to you.
- The dashboard kitchen sinks tend to occupy more space on your counter.
6) Kitchen Island Sink
The kitchen island sinks are exclusively for kitchen islands.
Construction
You can have the sink centered and the island built around it to create a beautifully symmetrical design and balance.
Installation
Installing a kitchen island sink is not easy and may require a little extra preparation and work.
Characteristic Feature
Installing a sink in your kitchen island impacts the overall design and feel of your kitchen. They complement your workflow and help you save your main counter space.
Cleaning
The kitchen islands are easy to clean.
Advantages
- The kitchen island sinks create a more aesthetic and symmetrical design for your kitchen layout.
- They create a complete workflow, providing a more functional layout.
- You can use these sinks as primary or prep sinks.
- They help you save more space on your countertops, making them ideal for the preparation process.
- These sinks are easy to clean.
Disadvantages
- The kitchen island sinks are very expensive to install.
- They are difficult to install.
- They require a little extra preparation and plumbing work.
- These sinks may spoil the wow factor of your kitchen.
- Choosing the inappropriate tap and sink may ruin the aesthetic appearance of the kitchen island.
- These sinks are ideal for larger kitchen islands only.
7) Prep or Bar Sink
A prep sink, also referred to as a bar sink is a very smaller type of sink.
Construction
These sinks are exclusively designed for bars or home bars to clean the glasses easily while serving and preparing drinks. You can even install them in your kitchen islands as a secondary sink. They are single-basin sinks that come in round or square shapes.
Installation
Just like the kitchen island sinks, these sinks can be difficult to install and require extra work.
Characteristic Feature
They can be a great option and addition to your home bar.
Cleaning
The bar sinks are easy to clean.
Advantages
- You can use the bar sinks as a secondary sink.
- They are a great addition if you frequently access your home bar.
- They help multiple people in preparing food or drinks simultaneously.
- These sinks are easy to clean.
Disadvantages
- The bar or prep sinks are a secondary option.
- They are usually smaller and shallower than the regular sinks.
- They can take up the valuable space of the counter.
- These sinks are luxurious and can be expensive to install.
8) Corner Sink
As the name says, these sinks come installed on the corner of your countertop.
Construction
The corner sinks are primarily two-basin sinks that are set perpendicular to each other. They come with a unique design that helps in maximizing the counter space.
Installation
The corner sinks are difficult to install.
Characteristic Feature
They come with double basins and a drainboard in the corner, creating an L-shape.
Cleaning
These corner sinks are easy to clean.
Advantages
- The corner sinks are multi-purpose sinks.
- They come with two basins and a drainboard.
- It saves more space on your counter.
- You can use one side for washing utensils and the other to rinse them.
- It occupies a relatively small space for installation.
Disadvantages
- The corner sinks are very expensive.
- They are difficult to install.
- The two bowls may be small enough to accommodate larger pots and pans.
- The corner sinks require custom cuts for installation.
b) Kitchen Sink Types Based on Materials
Kitchen sinks come in different materials. Below are the various types of sinks based on the materials.
- Stainless Steel Sink
- Granite/Quartz Composite Sink
- Cast Iron
- Copper
- Fireclay
- Concrete
Let us discuss briefly about each type:
1) Stainless Steel Sink
Stainless steel sinks are the most popular option for many.
Construction
The stainless-steel sinks are made of stainless steel material. You can categorize these sinks based on the gauge or sheeting thickness. Let us say your sink has a thick gauge. It means the sink is very heavy and inexpensive. Similarly, sinks with a thin gauge are lightweight and very expensive.
If you want to have a solid and sturdy sink, go for one that has about 16-to-18-gauge steel.
It is essential to consider the series number, as well, to ensure whether the steel is magnetic or not. Stainless steel with 300 series is the best for sinks because they are non-magnetic in nature. Moreover, it contains chromium and nickel that helps in preventing corrosion and damage at high temperatures.
Stainless steel sinks with a brushed satin finish easily hide the water spots and scratches.
Installation
Stainless steel sinks are very easy to install.
Characteristic Feature
Sinks made with stainless steel have high resistance to heat and stains.
Cleaning
These sinks are easy to clean.
Advantages
- The stainless-steel sinks are a versatile option.
- They are lightweight.
- These sinks are easy to install.
- They are the most popular option for many.
- These sinks do not require a lot of maintenance.
- They are available in different styles like the top mount, under mount, and farmhouse sinks.
- Sinks made with stainless steel are highly durable than the other types.
- They have high resistance to heat and stains.
- The stainless-steel sinks are very affordable.
Disadvantages
- These sinks are very noisier than the other types.
- Sinks made with stainless-steel material are easily prone to dents.
- They show the water spots clearly on them.
- Stainless steel sinks can scratch easily.
- Keeping them spotlessly clean always is a little difficult.
2) Granite/Quartz Composite Sink
The granite and quartz materials are exclusively used for countertops, and these composite sinks can be a beautiful addition to your kitchen.
Construction
The composite sinks compose of granite or quartz materials. These materials are a mixture of stone dust and acrylic, i.e., they contain 80 percent stone and 20 percent acrylic resin.
Installation
They are made with a single continuous material for the countertops and the kitchen sink.
Characteristic Feature
Sinks made with granite or quartz composites have high resistance to heat (535 F) and scratches.
Cleaning
These sinks are easy to clean.
Advantages
- The composite sinks are available in different colours.
- These sinks are easy to install.
- The composite sinks are less noisy than the stainless-steel sinks.
- They are available in different styles like integrated sinks.
- Sinks made with granite or quartz materials are highly durable.
- They have high resistance to heat and scratches.
- They are bacteria-resistant and smell-resistant.
- They are very easy to clean.
- Because of their elegant design, the composite sinks are best suitable for a contemporary kitchen.
Disadvantages
- The quartz or granite material can be hard on the dishes and may break the fragile items when you drop them against the surface.
- The composite sinks are heavier than the stainless-steel sinks and hence require extra support to accommodate them.
- The composite kitchen sinks are very expensive.
- If there is any damage to the sink, you need to remove and repair it.
- Installing a new composite sink might require replacing the entire countertop of your kitchen.
3) Cast Iron
Cast-iron sinks have been in the market for a long time and have the stainless-steel sinks as their tough competitor.
Construction
These sinks contain cast-iron material, which comes coated with porcelain. This gives the sinks a white glossy finish that is attractive and appealing to look at.
Installation
A cast-iron sink is easy to install and does not require extra elements to support it in its place.
Characteristic Feature
Cast-iron sinks are a green option for kitchen sinks.
Cleaning
These sinks are easy to clean.
Advantages
- The cast-iron sinks are long-lasting.
- Since they come with a porcelain enamel coating, they are available in different colours.
- These top mount cast-iron sinks are very easy to install.
- These sinks are easy to maintain.
- These sinks complement the vintage-style kitchen.
- They are available in different styles like top mount, under mount, and farmhouse sinks.
- Sinks made with cast-iron materials are highly durable.
- They have high resistance to scratches.
- They are very easy to clean.
- These sinks work well with any style of countertop.
Disadvantages
- The cast iron sinks are heavier than the stainless-steel ones.
- Because of their weight, they require two people to install.
- They are not ideal for wall-mount installation.
- Under mount cast iron sinks need extra support to hold them.
- You should not use abrasive cleaners for cleaning these sinks, as they may wear away the porcelain finish.
- Over time, the enamel coating may get stained, and the cast iron will get exposed.
- The top mount cast iron sink installation costs lesser than the under mount cast iron installation.
4) Copper
Often made by hands, the copper sinks add a unique beauty to your kitchen.
Construction
Just like the stainless-steel sinks, even they have a gauge to determine the thickness. The ideal thickness that you should be looking for in a copper sink is from 14 gauge to 16 gauge.
A high-quality copper sink typically consists of 99 percent copper and one percent zinc for strength.
A low-quality copper sink is susceptible to damage.
The copper sinks have a living finish called the patina that changes the colour of the copper sink over time. The colour shift of your copper sink is completely normal, and it is called the patina process. This process helps in giving the copper its unique rustic design qualities.
Installation
The copper sinks are easy to install. However, the installation process can be a little expensive.
Characteristic Feature
The copper sinks are eco-friendly and recyclable.
Cleaning
They require a complex process to clean and maintain them.
Advantages
- Copper sinks have high durability and are versatile, too.
- These sinks complement your kitchen layout by giving a beautiful and timeless look.
- A copper sink has antimicrobial properties.
- These sinks are eco-friendly and recyclable.
- Copper sinks have a longer lifespan.
- Copper sinks are available in different shapes like round, square, and rectangle.
- They are available in different styles like top mount, under mount farmhouse, and bar sinks.
- Copper sinks come in a wide variety of finishes and colours.
- Some finishes of the sink help in concealing the damage.
- These sinks develop a unique and protective patina over time.
- The copper sinks have high resistance to rust and corrosion.
- These sinks come in single, double, and even triple bowls.
- They are available in customizable options.
Disadvantages
- The copper sinks are the most expensive of all.
- These sinks require high maintenance.
- Some copper finishes are prone to scratches and dents.
- The copper sinks are susceptible to acidic reactions, heat, and harsh or abrasive cleaners.
- You should only use a gentle copper sink cleaner for cleaning.
5. Fireclay
Just like the copper sinks, even the fireclay sinks are handcrafted with an artisanal look. However, these sinks are not uniform as sinks from other materials. They look almost similar to the cast-iron sinks.
Construction
The fireclay sinks usually consist of quartz, clay, and glaze. They do not carve these sinks but mould them at extreme temperatures, i.e., at 2000 degrees Fahrenheit for about 24 hours. During this moulding process, the high temperatures fuse the enamel to the ceramic, while strengthening the sink, as a whole.
Installation
They may be a little difficult to install and need a professional for the same.
Characteristic Feature
The fireclay sinks have an extremely hard surface.
Cleaning
The fireclay sinks are easy to clean.
Advantages
- The fireclay sinks have high durability than the cast-iron sinks.
- These sinks complement your kitchen layout by giving a beautiful, timeless, and appealing appearance.
- They blend seamlessly and flawlessly with any kitchen style
- These sinks are easy to maintain.
- The fireclay sinks complement the vintage-style kitchen.
- They are easy to clean.
- They have an extremely hard surface.
- The fireclay sinks are available in different shapes and sizes.
- They are available in different styles, like farmhouse sinks.
- These sinks come in white, off-white, black, and blue colours.
- These sinks have a longer lifespan.
- The fireclay sinks have high resistance to scratches and stains.
- They are resistant to heat and acid.
- These sinks come in single, and double bowls.
- They are functional and reliable.
Disadvantages
- The fireclay sinks require professional installation.
- They are very difficult and expensive to install.
- These sinks crack or chip over time.
- The fireclay sinks come in limited colours and sizes.
- The fireclay sinks are susceptible to scratches when using abrasive cleaners.
- These require enough room on the counter and support for installing.
- They tend to be a little deeper than the other metal material sinks.
- Since these sinks are deep, you may have to bend more when accessing them.
- These sinks can be hard on the dishes and can break the fragile items when you drop them against the surface.
6. Concrete
The concrete sinks are unique models that are most popular in many kitchens and bathrooms.
Construction
These are fixtures made of concrete. The contractors create the concrete sinks in both pre-built structures and custom-made models of desired shape and size.
Installation
The concrete sinks are a little difficult to install and may require additional support underneath to hold them.
Characteristic Feature
The concrete sinks are functional and aesthetic with limitless dimensions and sizes.
Cleaning
These sinks are easy to clean.
Advantages
- The custom concrete sinks are affordable than most think.
- They are available in customized options.
- These sinks have high durability.
- These sinks are available in endless colour options.
- The concrete fixtures are available in pre-built structures.
- They have a very strong and sturdy surface.
- The concrete sink works well with rustic or contemporary, and traditional design styles.
- They come in different sizes, and surface texture that perfectly suits your home.
- The concrete sink vessels come in round, rectangular or other shapes.
- These sinks require less maintenance, i.e., occasional sealing.
- They are easy to clean.
- They are available in different styles like integrated and wall-mount sinks.
Disadvantages
- The concrete sinks are susceptible to scratches and stains.
- These sinks crack or chip over time.
- The concrete sinks require occasional sealing to prevent them from stains, discolouration, and moisture.
- The finish of the sinks will start wearing off when you use abrasive cleaners.
- The custom-made concrete sinks may require a lengthy period.
- These sinks are not ideal for those looking for a more uniform look.
c) Kitchen Sink Types Based on No. of Bowls
You can classify the kitchen sinks based on the number of bowls or basins they contain. Below are the various types of sinks based on the configuration.
- Single Bowl Sink
- Double Bowl Sink
- Triple Bowl Sink
Let us discuss briefly about each type:
1. Single Bowl Sink
As the name goes, these sinks contain a single basin.
Construction
The single bowl kitchen sinks are commonly found in most homes. They are usually large with no divisions or partitions. These kitchen sinks are best suitable for smaller kitchens or those having a limited counter space.
Installation
The single basin kitchen sinks are easier to install than the sinks with other configurations.
Characteristic Feature
A single bowl sink is an all-purpose kitchen sink.
Cleaning
A kitchen sink with a single bowl is very easier and faster to clean when compared to the other configurations.
Advantages
- The single bowl sinks are bigger and occupy the same space as the double bowl sinks.
- These sinks are very cheaper than the other ones.
- Since these sinks are very large, you can comfortably wash big pots, baking pans, and even casserole pans.
- The single bowl sinks are available in different sizes.
- They require less maintenance.
- They facilitate easier placement of the faucets.
- Depending on their size, they even fit well in small spaces.
- They are less expensive to install than the other configurations.
Disadvantages
- It is difficult to divide the clean and unclean dishes.
- Single bowl kitchen sinks may require larger counter space.
- You cannot dry the cleaned dishes unless you have a built-in drainboard.
- Delicate dishes often tend to break when overcrowded or combined with heavy utensils.
2. Double Bowl Sink
As the name says, these sinks contain two basins.
Construction
A double basin kitchen sink comes with two bowls separated by a divider or wall. You can use each basin for separate purposes.
Installation
These basins are a little difficult to install than the single bowl sinks.
Characteristic Feature
The double bowl sinks are available in a wide variety of configurations like equal-sized bowls, unequal sizes, bowls of either the same or different depths.
Cleaning
These sinks are easier to clean. However, they may require a little effort than the single bowl sinks.
Advantages
- The double sinks are multi-purpose sinks.
- They come with two basins for different tasks.
- The double bowl sinks come with separate drains.
- They are very versatile.
- These sinks help in dividing the clean and unclean dishes.
- It saves more space on your counter.
- You can use one side to wash utensils and the other to rinse them.
- The double bowl sinks are available in a wide variety of configurations.
- You can easily separate heavy metal dishes from delicate utensils like glassware.
Disadvantages
- The double bowl sinks are very expensive.
- They are difficult to install.
- The two bowls may be small enough to accommodate larger pots and pans.
- The double basin sinks require more maintenance.
- These sinks have very few options for faucet installation.
- These are not ideal for smaller kitchens, as they require more counter space.
- Only one side of these sinks has a garbage disposal.
3. Triple Bowl Sink
As the name says, these sinks contain three basins.
Construction
Most triple bowl sinks have a central bowl that is smaller and less shallow than the other two basins. These sinks are most suitable for restaurants.
Installation
These kitchen sinks are difficult to install than the single and double basin sinks. Also, they are slightly expensive to install.
Characteristic Feature
These are multi-purpose sinks where each bowl comes designated for specific use.
Cleaning
The triple bowl sinks can be difficult to clean than the single and double basin configurations.
Advantages
- The triple bowl kitchen sinks are multi-purpose sinks.
- They come with three basins for different tasks.
- You can use one side to wash utensils, the others to rinse and dry them.
- You can use two sides for washing and drying while using the other for general purposes simultaneously.
- These sinks help in dividing the clean and unclean dishes.
- The triple bowl sinks offer a more organized way of working.
- You can easily separate heavy metal dishes from delicate utensils like glassware.
Disadvantages
- The triple bowl sinks are very expensive than the other configurations.
- They are difficult to install.
- The three bowls may be small enough to accommodate larger pots and pans.
- The triple basin sinks require more maintenance.
- These sinks are very small and have less depth when compared to the single and double bowl configurations.
- These sinks have very few options for faucet installation.
- These are not ideal for smaller kitchens, as they require more counter space.
- The triple basin sinks do not come in a wide array of styles and shapes as the single and double bowl configurations.
Conclusion:
I hope this article discussed everything that you need to know about the types of kitchen sinks. You must now be equipped with all the information related to sinks and their advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right type of sink that is a perfect fit for your kitchen will no longer be a daunting task. Make a wise choice by investing in the right option that complements your kitchen layout and adds to the aesthetic appearance. Let us know your choice by posting your answers in the comments.
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