Kitchen Sink buying guide

The perfect stainless steel sink waiting for you, glistening like a culinary oasis. But before you dive in, let's navigate the options for a sink that's not just beautiful, but built to handle your kitchen adventures. Buying a stainless steel kitchen sink requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure you select the right product for your needs. Here's a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision:

1. Choosing the Right Material and Gauge

  • Material: Stainless steel sinks are popular for their durability, resistance to corrosion, and ease of maintenance. Look for sinks made of 304 or 316 stainless steel for better quality.
  • Gauge: The thickness of the steel is measured in gauge numbers. A lower gauge number indicates a thicker and more durable sink. Kitchen sinks come in various gauges, including , 22, 20, 18, 16, and 15. The premium sink thickness options are 18 or 16 gauge. We recommend 18-gauge sinks because they are slightly lighter, more affordable, and still thick enough for durability. Anything thicker than 18-gauge is unnecessary.

 

sink gauge

2. Size Matters: Finding Your Perfect Fit:

  • Size: Measure the available space in your kitchen and choose a sink that fits comfortably. Consider depth as well; deeper sinks can accommodate larger dishes.
  • Configuration: Decide on the number and layout of bowls. Single-bowl sinks provide more space for large items, while double-bowl sinks allow for multitasking.

3. Style Savvy: Unveiling Your Dream Sink Aesthetic:

  • Mounting Style: Choose between undermount, drop-in (top mount), or farmhouse sinks. Undermount sinks create a seamless look but require professional installation.
  • Finish: Opt for a satin or brushed finish as they are more scratch-resistant and mask water spots better than a polished finish.

4. Sound Insulation:

  • Look for sinks with soundproofing technology or padding to reduce noise when dishes are clattering or water is running.
Sink Sound Insulation

5. Depth and Shape:

  • Deeper sinks can be more versatile and accommodate larger pots and pans. Consider the shape of the basin as well; some people prefer straight walls for more capacity, while others prefer sloped sides for easier cleaning.

6. Accessories and Features:

  • Some sinks come with additional features like built-in soap dispensers, cutting boards, or colanders. Decide if these extras are important for your needs.

Accessories and Features:

7. Installation and Maintenance:

  • Consider the ease of installation. Some sinks may require professional help, especially undermount styles.
  • Check if the sink has an undercoating to prevent condensation and protect the cabinet below from moisture.

8. Brand and Warranty:

  • Stick to reputable brands with positive reviews. Check for warranties to ensure the product's durability and quality.

9. Budget:

  • Determine your budget beforehand. Stainless steel sinks come in a wide price range, so finding one that fits your needs and budget is possible.

10. Reviews:

  • Read customer reviews to get insights into the real-world performance and durability of the sink you're considering.

By considering these factors, you can narrow down your choices and find a stainless steel kitchen sink that not only meets your functional requirements but also complements the overall aesthetics of your kitchen.

Back to blog

Collapsible content

What We Need

We can create designs using hand-drawn layouts, competitive layouts, and construction take-offs. We simply need to know what line, what color, and what cabinets to use!

You must ensure accurate measurements and identify the location of windows, appliances, electrical, plumbing, and any other considerations in the layout.

What’s Included?

We will provide you with several files including:

  • Black and white floorplan***
  • 3-D elevation
  • Complete item list
  • 2020 .kit file of design