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Kitchen Sink Buying Guide
Buying a new kitchen sink can be tricky. With so many options to choose from, which type best suits your needs? In our Kitchen Sink Buying Guide, we’ll talk you through each option to help you make an informed decision.
We’re going to cover the different sink types, how to find the perfect model for your needs.
How Do You Choose the Right Kitchen Sink?
There are several things to consider when buying a new kitchen sink. Here are some of the key considerations to help you narrow down your search.
Kitchen Sink Types
Undermount
Undermount sinks are a modern choice. This is a popular option when you have solid worktops like granite or marble. Because this type of sink is fitted underneath the worktop, it highlights the beauty of a stone worktop. An undermount sink sits neatly below the surface, so the focus is on your sleek, uninterrupted worktop. You can of course choose to make your undermount sink a feature by opting for a striking finish like gold or copper.
Sit On
Sit on sinks are sometimes also referred to as Belfast sinks. When imagining a Belfast sink you might picture a traditional large white ceramic farmhouse style sink. As well as this popular style of sit on sink, you can also choose from stainless steel and composite options if you prefer a modern aesthetic. A sit on sink has the front of the bowl visible rather than behind cabinetry. This can look especially effective against contrasting cabinets.
Inset
Inset sinks are arguably the most common sink type. An inset sink slots into a hole in your worktop, but sits slightly above the surface with the rim of the sink visible on top of the worktop. Inset sinks are much easier to install than undermount sinks. You shouldn’t need any previous experience to install one successfully. There are some sinks which can be installed as inset or undermount, depending on your preference.
Installation Type
If you are replacing a sink in your current kitchen, you might want to consider choosing a sink that is the same size as your existing one. This also applies for the installation type. Choosing the same sink size and installation type will cut down costs on fitting the new one. It also means you won’t need to make adjustments to your existing worktop.
As we mentioned above, granite worktops work well with undermount sinks. However it isn’t essential that you choose this worktop type. Solid wood worktops work well too. If you have an MDF worktop and don’t wish to replace it, you’ll need to place worktop edging around the inner surface that’s on display. Inset sinks should work with all worktops.
If you’re replacing your worktop, you’ll have a lot more options to choose from. Although you have much more choice available when planning a whole new kitchen, you’ll still need to consider the dimensions. These include the distance between the bottom of your worktop and the surface below, and the depth of your worktop.
Number of Bowls
Another choice which is down to personal preference, is how many bowls you want. A single bowl sink can provide plenty of space for washing pots and scrubbing vegetables. However some prefer to have a double bowl sink so they can wash dirty pots in one and rinse them clean in the other. This is also handy if you do lots of handwashing delicate clothing. If you’re limited on space but still like the idea of two bowls, take a look at our 1.5 bowl options. This gives you the flexibility of draining and rinsing in one smaller bowl whilst still having one large basin for cleaning and washing.
Sink Colour
Sinks are available in a variety of different finishes. Whilst classics like white and stainless steel are always popular, there are other options you might not have considered or seen before. For instance, if you have a boiling water tap in a statement colour such as copper or gold, you could complete the look with a matching sink. You may also like the muted neutral tones of our composite sink collection. Whichever you prefer, we’re confident we have the sink to suit your kitchen!
Sink Material
There are three main sink materials to choose from; ceramic, stainless steel and composite. Composite sinks are made from a combination of materials such as granite or quartz combined with acrylic resin. Franke have two composite sink materials to choose from; Fragranite and Tectonite. Which sink material you choose will depend on your personal preference. Each option is durable and resistant to things such as heat or scratches but all sinks need to be properly maintained to keep them in good condition. Many busy countryside kitchens choose a ceramic sink for their durability and classic style. While many modern homes will opt for a stainless steel sink due to their low maintenance and timeless appeal. If you want more colour options to suit your kitchen scheme, composite sinks come in a variety of finishes.
Sink Brand
Do you prefer to shop for appliances from brands you already know and trust? You’ll be pleased to know both of our sink brands are well established and reputable manufacturers in the appliance industry. To find out more about Franke and Caple, take a look at our Best Kitchen Sink Brands Guide.
Kitchen Sink Buying Guide: Conclusion
Now you’ve read our Kitchen Sink Buying Guide, you should be well on your way to choosing your new sink. If you need any further help or advice, please contact our experienced sales team on 0115 965 1937 or email [email protected]. We can guide you through the best options to suit your home.
