Learn Which Kitchen Sink Materials Are Most Popular Today

In the not too distant past, you had two choices for your kitchen sink; stainless steel or enameled iron. For colors, you could choose between white or shiny stainless. Well, those days are long gone.

Today's kitchen sink is available in a wide variety of materials. Manufacturers are creating kitchen sinks in a wider range of colors, styles, sizes, and materials than ever before. The kitchen sink has become much more than a utilitarian feature in the modern kitchen. It's not only functional, but it can also be a significant visual focal point in any design.

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In this post, we're going to look at the pros and cons of the seven kitchen sink materials that are most popular with today's homeowners to help you make an informed decision about this aesthetic and functional element of your new kitchen!

Which Kitchen Sink Material is Right For You?

Before you begin shopping for your new kitchen sink, take a minute to step back and define how you'll use your new sink. Consider your family's lifestyle, habits, and practices. Do you use your kitchen sink primarily for washing dishes, pots and pans, or do you just rinse them before placing them in the dishwasher? If your sink sees heavy use, consider a more durable material like stainless steel or granite composite. You might choose to avoid materials that can chip or scratch when subjected to force, or heavyweight, for example, porcelain enamel.

Here are the pros and cons of the seven most popular materials for kitchen sink manufacturing.

Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron Sinks

Enameled cast-iron has been a staple in the kitchen for decades. A durable material, enameled cast-iron sinks feature a glossy finish, and today are available in a wide range of colors.

However, this material requires a degree of maintenance, care, and cleaning to avoid problems like staining, etching, scratching and chipping. Abrasive cleaners can scratch, strong acids can etch, and heavier items like cookware can cause chipping. If the cast-iron is exposed, it can rust.

Stainless Steel Kitchen Sinks

Stainless steel is one of the most popular materials for many homeowners. A stainless steel kitchen sink is durable, looks great in any style kitchen and with stainless steel appliances, and offers longevity at a reasonable price. Stainless sinks are rated by “gauge.” Most are between 16 and 22 gauge and the lower the number, the thicker and higher the quality. If you opt for stainless steel consider choosing a sink that measures 18 gauge or lower. It costs a little more, but the quality is a much better value.

Stainless steel sinks require cleaning to keep them looking good. If you have hard water, it can cause spotting, and they can scratch if abrasive materials or cleaners are used. They are hard to stain, but if not regularly wiped down after use, they can.

Fireclay

Fireclay sinks look similar to porcelain-enamel, however, they are made of clay and minerals then fired at extreme temperatures. Like cast iron, fireclay can chip with enough weight or force, but if it chips it doesn't rust. If you have or are interested in installing a garbage disposal, fireclay is not your best choice. They are prone to cracking or crazing due to the vibrations.

Copper Kitchen Sinks

Copper sinks are incredibly beautiful and can be the stunning focal point of any kitchen. However, copper is one of the more expensive material choices. They are perfect in the kitchen as copper does not rust, and exhibits antimicrobial properties. Manufacturers must register with the EPA to guarantee their products are antimicrobial. Studies have shown that bacteria cannot survive for more than a few hours on a copper surface. Hammered copper was used in the kitchen pictured in the top header. Click here to see the project.

Copper is highly reactive, and over time will develop a stunning blue/green patina. If you prefer to keep your sink polished, it will look new, but it will lose its antimicrobial properties.

Acrylic Sinks

Acrylic is a cost-effective and attractive material that is made of fiberglass, plastic, and resin. It's an extremely lightweight material, making it a great choice for any countertop material and is the perfect option for retrofits. Because they are made from a solid material, smaller scratches can be sanded and polished out. Acrylic sinks are also stain resistant.

The main benefit of an acrylic kitchen sink is its resistance. You won't break many dishes in one because they “give” a little when something is dropped into them. The main drawback is that they are generally intolerant to heat, although some manufacturers have addressed this issue.

Solid Surface Sinks

Made from resin and minerals, solid surface sinks are a non-porous, cost-effective alternative to natural stone. Solid-surface material is used for countertops, sinks, and tubs because it is durable, versatile, and repairable. Like acrylic sinks, scratches can be sanded and polished out. They're easy to clean and because of how they are made chipping is not a concern. However, avoid using metal scouring pads as they can scratch the surface.

Solid surface sinks are relatively resilient and are safe at temperature up to 450-degrees making them a worry-free kitchen sink option.

Natural or Cultured Stone Kitchen Sinks

Nothing is as luxurious and attractive as natural stone. Today, you have several beautiful options including 100% natural marble, natural granite, natural soapstone, granite composite (85% quartz granite 15% resin), and cultured marble (made with marble dust, stone, and resin). These sinks can be heavy and may require some additional structural support of the cabinet in order to make them safe for use.

Solid granite, soapstone, and marble are often found as “apron-front” or Farmhouse style sinks. They can have a chiseled face showcasing the uniqueness of the stone or can be intricately carved. If you're seeking an elegant look, a smooth front matching the interior is a great option. Solid natural stone can be expensive, but choosing a granite composite, or cultured marble can give you a similar look and a much more affordable price.

Work with your designer or design-build remodeler to go over the specific choices to meet your functional, budgetary and aesthetic needs. The takeaway is that your kitchen sink doesn't just have to be a utilitarian element in your kitchen, today they can be a focal point in your kitchen design. Choosing the right material can make all the difference. Remember, when shopping for the perfect kitchen sink always keep your personal needs and preferences in mind. With a little research and a talented design team, you'll find the perfect sink material to meet your lifestyle and aesthetic needs!

If you're planning a kitchen remodeling project in the greater Madison, Wisconsin area, give the experts at Degnan Design Build Remodel a call at (608) 846-5963.

This article was updated by Abe Degnan on 3/8/21.

Since 1981, Degnan Design Build Remodel has been providing home improvement and construction services to customers throughout the Greater Madison, Wisconsin area. Their “Designed For Your Life” approach has been helping homeowners to transform their homes into beautiful living spaces, delivered on time and on budget.