| Home >
Info Center > Sink
some time into planning kitchen
Sink some time into planning kitchen
 By
Ann Robinson and Annie Vernon
Designing your kitchen is most definitely the time to include the
kitchen sink. In your "kitchen triangle" — the stove,
refrigerator and sink — you will spend the most time at the
sink. So it is important to choose wisely for this very functional
aspect of your kitchen.
Sinks come in a wide array of styles, sizes, and prices. You should
select a sink based on the function you want it to perform, the
space you have available, the style of your kitchen and the size
of your budget.
Sinks come in several configurations. A large single-basin sink
is convenient for oversized pans and cutting boards. A one-and-a-half
bowl or a double bowl is good for washing and rinsing at the same
time. There are even triple sinks—two bowls with a smaller
third in the middle for the garbage disposal.
A sink can connect with the counter in two ways. One option is
a self-rimmed sink where the edge overlaps the counter. The other
choice is an undermount sink that allows the counter material to
continue over the edge of the sink. This type is more hygienic since
there is not an edge to accumulate bacteria and more convenient
since crumbs can be wiped directly into the sink.
The style and material of your sink should complement your kitchen's
overall design. There are several materials to choose from. Here
are some of the most common:
Stainless steel: Stainless steel is generally manufactured in "gauges"
— or thicknesses. The smaller the gauge, the thicker and better
the steel. Better steels contain more nickel, giving the sink a
warmer color and better resistance to water spots. Stainless steel
can have a polished finish or a matte finish. Stainless steel can
be noisy, but an undercoating will minimize sound.
Enameled cast iron steel: In this option, a heavy layer of enamel
is baked on a cast iron sink. This provides for the best selection
of colors, but the enamel is subject to chipping.
Integral solid surface: Produced by manufacturers of solid surface
counters, these sinks become a continuous part of the whole countertop.
You can use the same material as the countertop or a complementary
color. Although not indestructible, solid surfacing can usually
be repaired if nicked or scratched.
Vitreous china: Vitreous china sinks have been used in bathrooms
for years and are now being found in the kitchen. This material
is clay poured into molds, fired in a kiln, and glazed. These sinks
are easy to clean and very decorative. But they are expensive and
can chip.
Composite sinks: These are relatively new. With either a smooth
or textured finish, these sinks are lighter than cast iron. Composites
with a higher content of quartz are the most durable. These resemble
enamel in look and feel but are less porous and therefore easier
to maintain.
Remember, choosing the right sink may seem like a tiny step in
the overall remodeling process, but since you spend more time at
the sink than any other spot in the kitchen, you want a sink that
does its job efficiently and beautifully.
http://deseretnews.com/dn/view/0,1249,635204264,00.html
|
