Stainless steel has been used in kitchen sinks for many years. Most homes will have this type of sink, especially homes built in the last 10 years. While most of these sinks are pretty standard with one or two bowls in rectangular shapes, stainless steel is also easily molded into any shape one can imagine. Of course, the more unique the shape of the bowl, the more expensive it will tend to be. In general, these sinks are the most affordable option on the market and offer a wide variety of styles for your kitchen.
Stainless steel is a somewhat durable metal, which is why it was chosen for this application. Please note that while it is scratch resistant, it is not scratch proof. Most of these sinks will have a brushed finish, which will help hide minor scratches that will occur over the life of the sink. Any larger scratches can usually be buffed out by following the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. These sinks do require some maintenance to keep them looking good, but nothing too extensive.
Granite composite sinks are the result of recent technological advances in the sink industry. These sinks are made of granite or quartz and acrylic composite. They are incredibly resistant to scratches, heat and stains; more than stainless steel sinks. These sinks are available in different colors; the most popular are black, brown and white. They are more expensive than stainless steel sinks, but they also offer more benefits. Granite sinks can be made from eco-friendly materials, making them a great option for eco-friendly homes.
Both types of sinks are available in different shapes and styles and for top or bottom mount installations. Overmount sinks are typically used with non-solid surface countertops, such as laminate or Formica. These types of countertops cannot have undermount sinks due to the fact that water would enter the countertop and cause damage. Undermount sinks are used with solid surface countertops such as granite and marble. The standard is that top mount installations are much less expensive than bottom mount installations.
Choosing a stainless steel sink may be the best option if price is the most important thing. However, recent advancements in the granite sink industry may make it a better option in terms of features and durability.
