How to choose the right sink ?

How to choose the right sink ?

Whether for storing dishes, washing hands or preparing your fruit and vegetables to whip up your concoctions, the sink is a central and vital element of the kitchen. Your kitchen’s sole water point, you should know that we spend more than 60% of our time in this room. So you don’t go wrong, we provide you with some advice to help you in your choice.

 

What material should you choose for your sink ?

Every sink material is different and they are not suitable for all kitchens. The three main materials found in the kitchen are: stainless steel, resin and granite. 

There are also less common sinks made from glass or ceramic. 

Stainless steel sink

This is the most popular type of kitchen sink. In smooth or satin stainless steel, its smooth, flat surface offers a functional use, provided it is cleaned daily. A version with a microdot or honeycomb surface prevents water from stagnating. Stainless steel is a high-quality material with many advantages, including its resistance to thermal shock, corrosion and stains. It can be sensitive to scratches and it is important to accept that your stainless steel will acquire a patina over time, while retaining its charm.

Resin sink

The main advantage of resin sinks is their range of colours. Indeed, many colours are available and allow you to customise your kitchen and worktop. Resin is a durable and modern material that also requires regular maintenance. It can be sensitive to stains like coffee unless cleaned quickly. It is very light and easy to install.

Granite sink

This is the most commonly used material as it is highly resistant to scratches and heat. It is also a very hygienic material, thanks to its smooth and non-porous surface. A natural material composed of quartz and acrylic, it has excellent resistance to impacts, scratches and temperatures of up to 280°. A very hygienic material, like stainless steel, it is non-porous and easy to maintain. This material also offers the widest range of colours, shapes and sizes and it can adapt to any kitchen !

Ceramic sink

The ceramic sink is certainly the most adaptable to all kitchens, whether traditional or contemporary. A ceramic sink is made from liquid clay which is moulded and then dried. An enamel coating is then applied to the surface before it is fired. This makes it a material very resistant to impacts, scratches and stains and very easy to clean. Ceramic is a heavy material, whose main property is also high resistance to thermal shock. During their manufacturing process, ceramic sinks are fired at more than 1000°C. They mainly exist in white, but also in black and their thin layer of enamel prevents them from yellowing over time. They remain sensitive to major impacts however.

What shape of sink ?

There are various shapes of sinks and it is important to determine which one will be the most suitable for your kitchen. You should choose the shape of your sink based on the layout of your kitchen and the free space on the worktop.  

 

Basin

Ideal for small spaces, these save space in your kitchen. They are popular for occasional use, especially if the kitchen already has a dishwasher. They don’t have a drainer but various sizes and styles of accessories are designed to perfectly fit this shape.

Basin with drainer

This is the most common model, due to its simplicity and practicality. Large basins are increasingly popular. They are much more practical and offer much more freedom of movement around the most important space in the kitchen – the sink. Also very useful for small spaces, models exist with a basin and a small drainer to fit into small kitchens.

A 1.5 basin with drainer

Composed of a large basin and a smaller side basin, this sink configuration is a perfect addition to the dishwasher. The depth of the large basin means you can clean easily clean large utensils. Two basins with drainer:

Two basins with drainer

Given its size, the two-basin sink with drainer is more suitable for large kitchens. The two basins allow more comfort for the dishes. The tray placed next to the drainer is generally smaller than the other, which is useful for washing vegetables or spinning salad, for example.

Corner sink

This sink option is suitable for some kitchens as it is ideal for optimising space. These types of sinks exist in different configurations: with one or two basins, with or without a side sink, and with or without a drainer.

Butler sink

The counter-top butler sink is making a major comeback. It adapts to your kitchen, whether brand-new or a renovation, lending it charm and character. A wide range is available to suit you – in ceramic, granite or stainless steel. Between modernity and tradition, with one or two basins.

What type of installation ?

Built-in sink

Built-in sinks are particularly popular, as they are the easiest to install. The sink rests on the worktop. You will find it in all materials and a wide range of finishes, shapes and sizes.

Flush-mount sink

Less common than the built-in sink, a flush-mount sink sits flush with the counter-top, without any edges. This is very practical for cleaning the worktop as it allows residue and water to be wiped directly into the basin.

Under-mount sink

This sink type sets off the worktop by preserving its continuity, as it is fixed below not above it. This has the advantage of not only looking attractive but also of durability, as the seals become damaged less quickly, extending the life of the sink. Stainless steel is the most commonly used material for this type of installation. However, ceramic and granite sinks are increasingly being offered in the under-mount version.

Counter-top

The counter-top butler sink is making a comeback, with a revisited design and new materials. A wide range is available to suit you – in ceramic, granite or stainless steel. It fits in equally well in a brand-new kitchen or a renovation. It will lend both charm and character to your kitchen.

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