Kitchen Sink Exposé

Laurey W. Glenn
We’ve got the scoop on the pros and cons of different types of kitchen sinks.
Start Slideshow

1 of 7

Stainless Steel

Laurey W. Glenn

Pros: Stainless steel sinks are available in many styles and price points. They are sleek and easily cleanable.

Cons: The heat in hot water will dissipate more quickly from a stainless model than it will from other materials.

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 7

Porcelain and Porcelain Enamel

Photo: Erik Johnson

Pros: Porcelain and porcelain enamel sinks can be purchased in a color to complement your space.

Cons: Both may show stains, and porcelain enamel is susceptible to chipping.

3 of 7

Stone and Solid Surface

Photography Van Chaplin, Charles Walton IV / Styling Buffy Hargett

Pros: For a consistent and cohesive look, use the same material on your countertop and sink. Some stones and solid surfaces are offered in both countertops and sinks.

Cons: Just like stone countertops, some foods may stain or damage the finish of stone sinks.

Advertisement

4 of 7

Apron-Front Sink

Photo: Erik Johnson

Pros:

An apron-front or farm-style sink is characterized by an exposed bowl front, and it is a popular option among decorators.

Cons: Often apron-front sinks have a deep bowl, and it can be difficult for children or seated users to reach items at the bottom of the sink.

5 of 7

Undermount Sink

Photo: Erik Johnson

As the name suggests, and undermount sink is installed underneath an opening the countertop surface.

Pros: Undermount sinks make it easy to sweep water and spills directly from the surface of the counter into the sink.

Cons: Undermount sinks made of heavy materials (like stone) can be difficult to install.

6 of 7

Self-Rimming Sink

Photo: Erik Johnson

Self-rimming sinks are installed through an opening in the countertop, and a small rim protrudes above the surface.

Pros: The self-rimming sink is often the most cost effective option. It is also the easiest to install.

Cons: The lip between the countertop and sink makes it difficult to sweep water from the countertop into the sink.

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 7

Integral Sink

Photo: Erik Johnson

An integral sink is manufactured along with the countertop. Stainless steel, concrete, and some solid surfaces can be custom ordered with integral sinks.

Pros: Like undermount sinks, integral sinks allow you to wipe spills directly into the sink. They also create a completely cohesive look.

Cons: Integral sinks are not available in all material types.

Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Up Next

Advertisement
© Copyright . All rights reserved. Printed from https://www.southernliving.com