How to Choose A Sink to Go With Your New Countertop

August 5, 2022

3 minute read

When designing your kitchen, it is important to not overlook the importance of your kitchen sink. If you are uncertain and are still trying to figure out your ideal kitchen sink, reading this article will ensure that you choose the sink that meets your everyday needs. In 2021, Grand View Research submitted a Market Analysis Report stating that due to the COVID pandemic kitchens grew into the central gathering space for families. Individuals found creative ways to better utilize their kitchen space, which resulted in remodeling projects. In 2022 an increasing number of homeowners are cooking at home for a variety of different reasons.

How to Choose the Ideal Sink to Go With Your Newly Installed Countertop

The most important aspect of redesigning your bathroom or kitchen is ensuring you choose the perfect sink. Of the numerous home items we possess, our sinks are amongst the most used feature. When designing your kitchen, it is important to not overlook the importance of your kitchen sink. If you are uncertain and are still trying to figure out your ideal kitchen sink, reading this article will ensure that you choose the sink that meets your everyday needs. In 2021, Grand View Research submitted a Market Analysis Report stating that due to the COVID pandemic kitchens grew into the central gathering space for families. Individuals found creative ways to better utilize their kitchen space, which resulted in remodeling projects. In 2022 an increasing number of homeowners are cooking at home for a variety of different reasons. Harvard University said that from 2020 through 2021 the home improvement industry has increased by a whopping 28%. Covid-19 has driving demand and it is estimated that the remodeling phase will continue to soar through 2022. The decisions you make when you purchase your sink can enhance the efficiency as well as the beauty of your kitchen. Thanks to the enormous selection of options available, you are capable of finding one that will be ideal for the way you and your family cook and live. Here is the most common stuff you should address when choosing yours.

Material Options

Nowadays sinks come in an array of materials, such as stainless steel, fireclay, granite composite, porcelain, and much more. Different types of materials mean different durability as well as the different propensity for getting dirty. An oversized single bowl would be an ideal option if you are a passionate cook who frequently uses the kitchen. Most homeowners still hand wash pans, large pots, and baking sheets making the single bowl a perfect choice. If you are more traditional and prefer a double bowl sink, we recommend the two equal size bowl option. A vast number of homeowners favor the double bowl sink because this type of sink does a lot more than just make dishwashing easier.

Choosing the Perfect Sink Size

In some cases, the size of your sink is often a personal preference. In other cases, it is based on your area's available space. You would not want to purchase a 36-inch sink when your kitchen has very limited space. Another thing to contemplate is making sure you consider reserving space on both sides of your sink. You can make use of the space for prepping food, stacking unwashed dishes, and even placing newly washed dishes. Think about what you favor most and based on your likes and dislikes you can choose the perfect size sink.

Kitchen Size

The telling factor of how large or small your sink will need to be is based on the overall size of your kitchen. A small kitchen has a large sink means less countertop space. A great rule of thumb that contractors tend to use is that kitchens up to 150 square feet can handle up to a 24-inch wide sink. Make sure your sink is proportionate to your kitchen layout. With the advancement of technology, your contractor should be able to provide you with a 3D render of your kitchen. If you are a DIY'er you can make use of free online software tools to render your design. The great user-friendly software that we recommend is Planner 5d or Smart Draw. They both provide the ability to design your space with advanced virtual features. If you can't access a computer and rather work on your smart device, Planner 5d provides a downloadable app on the App Store, Google Play, and Mac App Store.

Sink Base Cabinet Size

Your standard kitchen cabinet size is 24-inches deep with a broad selection of cabinet widths. If you are working with your existing cabinets you have to take into consideration the size of your sink base cabinet. The sink base will determine the maximum size your sink can be. Make sure to measure the interior of your cabinet, from there subtract three inches. An example would be, if you have a 36-inch base cabinet you can install a sink that is up to 33-inches wide. The reason why we suggest subtracting 3-inches is to ensure there is room for the sink clips which hold your sink in place.

Number of Basins

Single bowl sinks are a terrific choice. Not only does it offer greater space in your sink but it also provides you with more counter space. Single bowls are great when you have to clean large roasting pans and cooking sheets. These sinks are available in an array of sizes as well as different mounting options that include under-mount and top-mount. Since these sinks have no dividers it makes cleaning effortless.

Double bowl sinks are extremely popular because they are great for when comes to washing, rinsing, and draining dishes. Double bowl sinks work best in medium-to-large kitchens. Just like the single bowl sinks, the double bowls come in a large variety of sizes and mounting configurations. If you enjoy cooking and you make use of large pots, pans, and baking sheets you might want to reconsider choosing a double sink since each side is fairly small to accommodate such items.

Undermount vs. Drop-In vs. Farmhouse. You Decide!

Undermount

Undermount sinks are great because the countertop expands to the sink. If you need as much countertop as possible, under-mount is the way to go. Under-mount sinks are installed beneath the countertop with sink clips holding them in place. The sink clips are drilled to the underside of your stone countertop and they are attached to the rim of the sink. If the idea of drilling the underneath of your countertop alarms you then the newly designed NO DRILL fasteners will be the right choice for you.

Another great advantage of investing in an undermount sink is how it provides your countertop with a cleaner look by hiding the rim of the sink under your countertop. Having your sink mounted under your countertop creates a seamless counter and it allows for a much easier cleaning experience. So if you are going for an undermount sink your best options are stainless steel, porcelain, or granite composite.

Drop-in

Drop-in sinks are installed above the countertop with the sink's rim resting on top of the countertop. When it comes to the rim of the sink, some are lower-profile while others might have a thicker rim. Cast iron sinks have a thick rim compared to stainless steel sinks which tend to have a thinner rim. Some homeowners avoid drop-in sinks because it can be frustrating when it comes to cleaning the area where the sink joins up with the counter. On the other hand, some homeowners may sway towards drop-in sinks because of their considerably affordable price and the fact that they are accessible in so many different materials. Although drop-in sinks may be affordable and effortless to install it's still becoming less popular. A majority of homebuyers go for an under-mount sink and they are willing to pay a little extra for it.

Farmhouse

Farmhouse sinks also referred to as apron sinks, are uniquely designed with a deep basin and with the front of the sink being exposed. The front of the sink sits flush with the sink cabinet as well as the countertops. The farmhouse sink offers a large number of functional perks that make it an ideal choice for many kitchens. Farmhouse kitchen sinks are available in a broad selection of materials. The most common material are stainless steel, fireclay, granite composite, cast iron, and copper. In most cases, apron sinks are much deeper and wider than other kitchen sink styles for that reason it has become a popular choice.

Sink Depth

Going back to the eighties and nineties, most kitchen sinks were six inches or less in depth. Today the average is seven, nine, or ten inches, and in some cases, they go as deep as twelve inches. Again, choosing a perfect sink depth is based on the needs of the individual. One of the most common questions asked by homeowners when purchasing a sink is, "should I buy a shallow or deep sink?" Let me provide you with some useful information so that when the time comes you make the best decision for yourself and your family.

Shallow Bowl Depth

A shallow bowl typically is less than eight inches. It is most practical for those who are 5 feet, 4 inches tall, or shorter. Shallow sinks are also great for people who are on the taller end, 6 feet, 1 inch, or taller. A shallower depth allows a taller and shorter person to work comfortably without having to lean into the sink. Another great benefit is having a lot more space in the cabinet below the sink and having more room to access plumbing fittings as well as the garbage disposal. If someone in your family has disabilities that require the use of a wheelchair then an ADA Compliant sink is ideal. The Americans with Disabilities Act, ADA, focuses on providing ADA standards that you can consider when designing your kitchen or bath for those with disabilities. Under the ADA requirements, the sink you plan on using must be 5 inches to no more than 5-1/2 inches deep to allow enough clearance for a wheelchair to go underneath.

Deep Bowl Depth

For those who love cooking and seem to dirty all the dishes in the kitchen, a deep sink is ideal. You will have the ability to place large pots and still have room in your sink. On average a sink that is 10 inches deep will provide you with enough room to wash your large dishes without having to splash water on your countertop. Keep in mind with a deep sink the space inside your sink cabinet will be limited. Make sure you consider the size of the garbage disposal you plan on installing. On average the best quality garbage disposals are between 12 inches to about 15 inches high. Another thing to consider is the plumbing that will have to take place under your sink.

I hope the information I provided was useful. Confidently visit us online when shopping for a kitchen faucet and sink. If you are still unsure about the type of sink you would like in your kitchen give us a call at 571-291-3484 or send us an email at allorausa.com/

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How to Choose A Sink to Go With Your New Countertop