While buying a new sink might seem like one of the easier design decisions in your kitchen, it may not be as simple as you think!
Your sink is central to a functional kitchen—it will be in frequent use for years to come, and can make cooking and washing up much less of a chore with the right choice. It’s important to consider your options carefully, because if it’s not a good fit, it will impact your enjoyment and overall satisfaction with your space.
When it comes to selecting a sink, the type, size and material are all key considerations. So, to help you compare and narrow down your choices, in this article we share an overview of the different options to help you find the perfect match.
Sink types and installation style
When comparing the various types of sinks available, the first point to look at is the installation style. The best fit will depend on your bench space, bench material and the overall style you are hoping to achieve.
There are two common kitchen sink installation style options:
Undermount: as the name suggests, undermount sinks are mounted below the benchtop. This style is growing in popularity, thanks to the modern, streamlined, minimalist design. An undermount sink allows you to maximise bench space as you can avoid the drainer if preferred, plus, they are also easier to clean around due to the lack of edges. Because this type is held in place from underneath the benchtop, DIY installation is not recommended due to the extra work required to affix the benchtop. Another important factor is your benchtop material, with undermount sinks being more suited to stone, granite and other non-porous materials rather than wood or laminates. The harder to cut types of benchtops used and the need for clean and precise cutting of the benchtop, is another reason why professional installation is highly recommended. While undermount sinks are often considered a high-end choice, there are also plenty of value options available.
Top mount: a common and recognisable feature of traditional kitchens, the top mount sink remains a popular choice. Easy to install and remove, it simply drops into the bench, with the lip sitting on top, keeping it secure without the need for strong adhesives. The top mount sink usually comes with a drainer which is a useful and practical feature, however it does take up valuable bench space. Although this style can be harder to clean, it continues to be a go-to option for many, as it does its job well, fits into most spaces easily and is generally more affordable.
Dimensions and number of sinks
The next big question when choosing a kitchen sink is the dimensions and quantity. Do you need a large sink or will a standard size be suitable? What about the depth? And is a single sink enough or will you opt for the convenience of a double? Let’s compare the options in more detail:
Size: firstly your sink needs to fit comfortably within your bench, so start by working out how much room you have (both depth and width). It’s also important to consider how much you will use it, for example, most families will do fine with a standard size, while avid cooks or larger households may need bigger.
Number: if you have the bench space a double sink is handy for rinsing and makes clean-ups much easier. However, if space is limited, a single sink may be a better choice. There is also the option to get a 1 + 1/2 or 1 + 3/4 sink, which will conserve space while also offering the convenience and benefits of a double.
Best kitchen sink material
Your choice in material will come down to your style and budget, but durability and ease of cleaning are also important factors too. The two main kitchen sink material choices are:
Stainless steel: by far the most common, stainless steel is durable, easy to clean and offers top value. It also works well within most designs and kitchens, offering plenty of flexibility in size, shape and style.
Granite: a high-quality material that performs well and looks impressive, a granite sink is a fantastic option for the luxury modern kitchens of today. Resilient, durable and highly resistant to scratches, chipping and discolouration, granite sinks are acid resistant, practically unbreakable and really make a statement.
There’s more to kitchen sinks than you think
When planning your new home or renovation, be sure to give your kitchen sink some careful thought. While it might seem like a small part of the design, it will have a big impact on how you use and enjoy your space.
For expert advice on kitchen sinks, accessories and appliances, pop into our showroom or get in touch with our team on 1300 438 266.