You can take the phrase “everything but the kitchen sink” in one of two ways: packing too heavily or making decisions about kitchen remodeling. Most people acknowledge that a kitchen sink is essential in function, but seldom give much thought to its form. However, since it is such an important part of the kitchen, you should give the style and design of the sink much more thought than you might have intended. Here is a quick rundown of the basic sink options you have for kitchen remodeling, including the types of kitchen sinks you can compare by mounting style, bowl configuration, and sink material. The right sink depends on countertop materials and how often you cook. Many common kitchen sink materials come in standard sink sizes of about 30 to 33 inches wide, and your sink style should also fit the kitchen decor.
Drop-in sink
A drop-in sink is the most common, and usually the least attractive of kitchen sink types. You have probably lived in or visited many homes with one of these sinks in the kitchen.
Other terms from this include the rimmed or top-mounted sink; they are also called top mount, top mount sinks, and self rimming sinks. The visible rim that surrounds the edges rests on the sink cutout and supports the sink’s weight on the countertop surface.
This makes a drop-in sink a good DIY project provided you have a sink cutout all ready and does not require special equipment. You simply secure it to the countertop with silicone and you are good to go. These self rimming sinks work with most countertop materials, including existing countertops and laminate countertops, and are easy to replace during a remodel. It is also the most affordable of sink types, with installation easier and less expensive than undermount sinks.
The problem with a drop-in sink is a mild but persistent one. Since it has a rim all around it that supports the entire thing, a portion of the sink sits higher than the countertop. The difference in height might cause water, food, and other debris to collect along the rim, making it a nuisance to clean. The rim also breaks up the visual line of the countertop, which is not a good thing if you want a sleek look.
Undermounted sink
Undermount sinks are not as popular as drop—in sinks, but they are gaining traction with many homeowners today. In contrast to drop-in sinks, you will not see any part of the sink sticking out of the cutout, which makes it visually pleasing. As the name implies, they are installed beneath stone countertops or solid surface countertops and attach to the underside around the cutout with special clips for a seamless look.
The absence of a rim means you have a cleaner countertop surface and an uninterrupted line from the countertop to the sink. There are no speed bumps to interrupt visual or physical progress, which also means no accumulated gunk around the sink.
However, it is not all roses with undermounted sinks. Because the sink does not have rim, the cutout must be very precise so that the sink will fit perfectly. You will also need support for the sink in addition to the clips to secure the sink more firmly and prevent it from falling off. This implies a skilled and experienced fabricator and installer. They usually need professional installation and are not suited to laminate countertops.
Single-basin sink
A large and deep single bowl sink, including farmhouse styles, is becoming more popular today, especially compared with a double bowl and other bowl configurations. Its uninterrupted basin makes washing oversized items easier, including when you need to wash large pots or other oversized cookware. A workstation sink can also improve meal prep in busy kitchens with built-in ledges for accessories such as cutting boards while helping save counter space.
One possible drawback with a single-basin sink is the lack of a drying area, particularly if you have limited countertop space. These styles often suit people who cook frequently, but they may require a little more planning for drying space. You can solve this by designating one cabinet or drawer as a drying area, or installing an over-the-sink drying rack. If you have some space, you can opt for a drainboard sink.
Drainboard sink
A drainboard sink is simply a sink that has an attached drainboard, typically made of the same material as the sink itself. You’ll also see this layout in secondary sinks for wet bars, where compact cleanup space is useful. The advantage of this type of sink is that the design allows for easy drainage.
However, a drainboard sink is usually a modified version of a drop-in sink. While the fabricator will make a cutout that will accommodate the drainboard part, the sink unit still has a rim. This poses the same visual and practical problems as a regular drop-in sink mentioned previously. Drainboard sinks also tend to be small, which can restrict the size of the items you can comfortably wash in them. Bar-style secondary sinks are smaller and designed for secondary use, so they can save steps but still take up valuable counter real estate.
Double-basin sink
Double bowl sinks are the last of the basic kitchen sink types you can consider for kitchen remodeling, though some layouts also use triple bowl sinks. These are typically two-sink units with separate compartments, which can be equal in size or with one large and one small sink. In most cases, homeowners use one basin to wash dishes, with a garbage disposal option there, and the other for rinsing and food prep. That makes them practical as primary kitchen sinks in busy homes, especially if you still wash dishes by hand.
The problem with a double-basin sink is size. They tend to be on the small side, so large items are an issue, unlike farmhouse sinks, also known as apron-front sinks or apron front sinks, which have a deep basin and exposed front panel better suited to large cookware. These farmhouse models often need cabinet modifications and typically require a 33 inch or 36 inch base cabinet for proper installation. Common fireclay sinks materials include fireclay, cast iron, and stainless steel, and they can become a focal point in traditional kitchens as well as modern kitchens depending on the finish.
Conclusion
The kitchen sink is an essential feature, so it should be one of the most important decisions you make during kitchen remodeling. The choice of sink material affects durability, upkeep, and style, so it is more than just a basin. For this article, key material categories include stainless steel sinks, granite composite sinks, fireclay sinks, cast iron sinks, porcelain sinks, copper sinks, natural stone, composite sinks, and solid surface options. Stainless steel is the most popular sink material due to its durability, and stainless steel sinks are lightweight and available in various sizes; durable picks also include 16-gauge stainless steel, while granite composite is made from stone particles or crushed granite with resin and resists heat and scratches, and fireclay sinks offer a classic, nonporous finish that resists staining and scratching through high-temperature firing. Enameled cast iron sinks are heavy, come in various colors, and may require reinforced cabinetry, copper sinks develop a natural patina and need special care, porcelain sinks suit classic looks, and sinks carved from solid blocks of stone are unique but need periodic sealing to prevent stains. Integrated sinks are made from the same material as the countertop, and the best choice depends on your design goals and maintenance preferences. Many variations are available, but these are basic types that can help you narrow your choices. If you are having difficulty in making that decision, you can ask advice from your contractor.
Cabinets City is your best resource for this type of information in Chicagoland. While we specialize in top-line cabinet brands, we also supply homeowners with high-quality sink brands Brita and Delta you will be proud to display in your kitchen.
We can also help you in other aspects of kitchen remodeling. We carry some of the best brands in the country, from RTA to custom cabinets, and at the best prices compared to Cabinets to Go and Advance Cabinets. These include Fabuwood, J and K, Prolux, and Waypoint Cabinets, each of which come with manufacturer warranties. We always deliver on time, so you will not have to worry about keeping your schedule to stay in budget.
We can advise you on the best cabinets and finishes for your kitchen. Give us a call for a free consultation and quote, or visit our showroom in Mt. Prospect, Illinois. We service cities such as Chicago, Schaumburg, Arlington Heights, Des Plaines, Hoffman Estate, Elk Grove Village, and surrounding areas.