When choosing a sink, besides considering the type (overmount, undermount, console, etc.), one of the most crucial aspects is the material it is made of. Sometimes, the most affordable materials can also be the best choices.
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Choosing the right material for a new sink can become quite complicated. After visiting a few stores, customers often end up more confused than before. This confusion arises because salespeople typically praise products that benefit them the most, often leading customers towards more expensive options, especially if they earn a commission.
Ceramic: The Popular Choice
Ceramic has been one of the most popular materials for decades, and for good reason. It offers the best price-quality ratio. High-quality ceramic sinks have a glossy surface that is easy to maintain and resistant to all existing cleaning chemicals. Ceramic sinks come in various shapes and installation types. Plus, they are available in all possible colors, including the highly sought-after black.
Porcelain: Expensive but High-Quality
A slightly more expensive option than ceramic is porcelain. Porcelain is similar to ceramic but is processed at higher temperatures, giving it slightly better strength and quality. The surface gloss is also different. However, in real-life usage, you may never objectively notice the advantages of porcelain.
Stone: Requires Maintenance
Stone sinks, typically made from marble or granite, are very attractive but more expensive. Stone sinks are generally heavier than ceramic and especially metal or acrylic ones, requiring a sturdy support. This means a heavy marble sink cannot be placed on the cheapest cabinet, causing costs to escalate. Stone is a natural material that requires more maintenance.
Marble, for example, needs care to prevent its surface from becoming porous and absorbing stains. Despite the effort, it’s questionable whether stone will remain as pristine as the first day, unlike ceramic and porcelain, which withstand challenges for many years.
Glass: A Modern Choice
Glass is another available material. Glass sinks are not necessarily transparent; they come in a wide range of colors. They are high-quality, chemical-resistant, and stain-free. Most models feature an attractive design, making them quite popular. If you choose glass, opt for tempered glass as it is of the highest quality and most resistant to breakage.
Acrylic: Resistant to Breakage but Not to Scratches
Acrylic is also an option. Acrylic sinks come in various shapes and are resistant to damage and breakage due to the material’s elasticity. However, this also means they are less resistant to scratches and wear. Additionally, acrylic sinks are less resistant to high temperatures, so caution is needed with hot objects.