Choosing the Best Sink For Your Kitchen Remodel

By: Mark Stein

When remodeling your kitchen it can be difficult to choose the best sink. There are many choices in sinks. By understanding how you use your kitchen, whether it be entertaining or or quick meal preparation, you can decide on the sink that is best for you.

First you need to consider how large of a remodel project you are planning on doing. If you are keeping the existing counters, you may be stuck with the size of sink you currently have. If you want a larger sink, in this case it may be better to look at deeper sinks to get the extra space. If you will be replacing the counters you can customize them to the size of your new sink.

The material of your sink is also important. Stainless steel, solid surface (a composite of acrylic and polyester resins), or enameled cast iron are the most common choices. Stainless steel is the most popular choice as it is durable and easy to clean. Enameled cast iron gives a classic look and also dampens the noise of banging pots and pans. Solid surface sinks come any many colors that are sure to match any kitchen decor.

When choosing the best sink for your kitchen remodel, keep in mind what you need it for. If you only use it to rinse a few dishes and wash your hands, a small and shallow sink will be fine. If you cook frequently and peel vegetables in your sink, a deeper and larger sink is best. A multiple bowl sink is especially handy so you can stack dishes in one side and peel veggies in the other.

If you have stone counter tops, you may choose an undermounted sink. These sinks are mounted under the level of the counter top, allowing you to easily wipe crumbs into them. Rimmed or over mounted models set above the level of the counter top and are the most common. You may also wish to do an integral sink, which is actually part of the counter. It is built in as the counter top is constructed and is made of the same materials.

Keep in mind your decoration scheme and especially what kind of counter tops you will have. Your new sink will need to match into this decor. The wrong sink can be inconvenient at best and lower the value of your remodel at worst.

Mark Stein is a retired builder from Texas who is now a consultant for PMA Partners. Kitchen Sinks