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Farmhouse Sink Materials: Pros and Cons

Posted by The Sink Boutique on

Farmhouse Apron Sink Materials | Pros and Cons | The Sink Boutique
With so many sink materials available on the market today it can be quite a daunting task to decide on the right material for your lifestyle and decor. If you need help determining which sink material is right for you, read on as we break down the pros and cons of each.

Fireclay Sinks

These sinks are extremely popular these days and understandably so. Fireclay is made when clay and glaze are fused together at extremely high temperatures. This creates a highly durable material that is hard and resistant to chips and cracks. Fireclay sinks are timeless, elegant and charming. They can be used in a Kitchen, Bathroom or Laundry room and can match a vintage, traditional or contemporary look. At The Sink Boutique, we have many options, styles, and sizes for Fireclay Sinks.

Nantucket Sinks Vineyard 33 inch Fireclay Farmhouse Sink, White, FCFS3320S-Filigree Nantucket Sinks Vineyard 33" Fireclay Farmhouse Sink, White, FCFS3320S-Filigree

> Fireclay Pros:

  • Durable, Non-Porous, Resistant to Chips and Cracks
  • Resistant to Acids Alkalis and Scratches
  • Classic, Elegant, and Timeless

> Fireclay Cons:

  • If not cared for, can develop chips, cracks, scratches, and stains
  • Heavy and will need extra re-enforcement
  • Measurements can vary -/+ 2%

> Care and Maintenance Tips:

  • Use a non-abrasive mild cleaner and wipe with a soft cloth to maintain it's shine and luster. 
  • We recommend the use of a sink grid to prevent scratches and cracks from heavy pots and pans
  • In the event of a chip, do not worry, you may use a repair kit that can be used to correct minor chips quickly and cheaply.

Stainless Steel Sinks

Stainless Steel sinks are classic and ever-green. One can't go wrong with a good quality stainless steel sink as they are durable, strong, efficient and easy to clean. Professional and heavy duty kitchens always opt for a stainless steel sink as they are durable and can tolerate quite a bit of abuse. We recommend a 16 or 18 gauge stainless steel sink as they are thicker and more durable. At The Sink Boutique, we carry a wide array of stainless steel sink styles and brands to suit to meet your needs.
Karran Elite 36 inch Stainless Steel Farmhouse Sink with Accessories, 50/50 Double Bowl, 16 Gauge, EL-88-PK1 Karran Elite 36" Stainless Steel Farmhouse Sink with Accessories, 50/50 Double Bowl, 16 Gauge, EL-88-PK1

> Stainless Steel Pros:

  • Lower Cost, Low Maintenance, Durable, and Easy to Clean
  • Will not Stain, Chip, Crack or Rust
  • Many Styles and Sizes
  • Easy to install 
  • Lighter than other sink materials, hence no support required.

> Stainless Steel Cons:

  • Can Scratch and Dent
  • Higher Gauge Stainless Steel (20 vs 16) is more vulnerable to damage and noise. Hence always opt for an 18 or 16 gauge sink.
  • Shows watermarks

> Care and Maintenance Tips:

  • Use soft sponges and cleaners for daily cleaning
  • Wipe down with a soft cloth to prevent water marks and the occurrence of rust.

Natural Stone Sinks

Natural stone sinks are beautiful, unique and highly durable. Natural stone sinks are cut from a single boulder making your sink one of a kind. A well-sealed sink that is maintained and resealed periodically makes cleaning a breeze and will last for hundreds of years. With so many stone sink options today including travertine, marble, granite, and limestone you can find the perfect stone sink to match your style and decor.
Allstone 36 inch Smoke Brown Limestone Farmhouse Kitchen Sink, Chiseled Front, Single Bowl, KF362010SB-BE-BLN Allstone 36" Smoke Brown Limestone Farmhouse Kitchen Sink, Chiseled Front, Single Bowl, KF362010SB-BE-BLN

> Stone Pros:

  • Unique, highly durable and heat resistant
  • No two sinks will be alike since natural stone sinks are cut from a single block of stone
  • Non-porous, easy to clean and will last a long time

> Stone Cons:

  • May requires resealing every few years to prevent cracks, chips, and stains
  • Expensive
  • Heavy and will need extra re-enforcement 

> Care and Maintenance Tips:

  • Use mild cleaners and a soft sponge for daily cleaning.
  • Avoid using acidic household cleaners, harsh chemicals, or abrasives, as these will damage the stone

Copper Sinks:

Copper sinks are luxurious and beautiful. They are unique and naturally patina over time giving them a living finish that keeps changing. Copper is known for its naturally antibacterial property that keeps germs at bay, making it an excellent choice for your kitchen or bathroom.
Premier Copper Products 33 inch Copper Farmhouse Sink, 60/40 Double Bowl, Oil Rubbed Bronze and Nickel, KA60DB33229S-NB Premier Copper Products 33" Copper Farmhouse Sink, 60/40 Double Bowl, Oil Rubbed Bronze and Nickel, KA60DB33229S-NB

> Copper Pros:

  • Unique, Durable, Anti-microbial
  • Won't Rust or Corrode
  • Beautiful Living Finish will continually lighten and darken over time

> Copper Cons:

  • Need polishing to maintain the bright polished look
  • Expensive

> Care and Maintenance Tips:

  • Simple rinse and wipe is all a copper sink needs
  • Since copper is naturally anti-microbial, there is no need to disinfect or scrub your sink!
  • Refrain from using abrasive cleaners that use alcohol, ammonia or bleach.

Cast Iron Sinks:

Cast iron has been around for ages and has been used in kitchens for eons. They are long-lasting and attractive. Installation can be a challenge as these sinks are extremely heavy and need to be re-enforced. 

> Cast Iron Pros:

  • Timeless and Durable
  • The oldest material used for kitchen sinks
  • Hard, Glossy and Glass-like surface

> Cast Iron Cons:

  • Extremely heavy and will need extra re-enforcement
  • Enamel can chip and discolor
  • Vulnerable to stains

> Care and Maintenance Tips:

  • Use a soft cloth to wipe the product dry after each use.
  • Use non-abrasive cleaners and avoid using steel wool, wire brushes, and abrasive sponge pads
  • Avoid leaving food, dirty dishes, tea bags, coffee grounds or staining materials in the sink for extended periods of time as they may stain the sink.

Check out our infographic below >>>

Kitchen Sink Materials - Pros and Cons - The Sink Boutique - Farmhouse Sinks

 

Have you decided on a kitchen sink? Share your thoughts and comments on the sink material you chose and why. We would love to hear from you.

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5 comments

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  • I loved how you said copper has natural anti-bacterial qualities, so it is a perfect choice for kitchen and bathroom sinks. If so, then my mom would love to have a copper sink in her kitchen. After all, she’s all about safety and sanitation, especially because of the pandemic. https://newpipeplumbingfl.com/sink-installation

    Elaina D'Agostino on

  • Informative piece on the the various pros and cons of kitchen & farmhouse sinks.. Good read!

    Tap and Sink Contemporary Living on

  • So glad I found your website. You have a wonderful selection of sinks.

    Kr_Rego on

  • I was really concerned about getting the right sink material for my kitchen redesign. Although fireclay is not like stainless steel, we decided to go with it for it’s look and apron front design. This article really helped us. Thanks for putting it together.

    Scotty K on

  • Thanks for this post. It has really helped me narrow down on the sink selection for my kitchen remodel.

    Sheryl C on

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