Pros and cons of countertop-integrated sinks

Types of stainless steel sinks by mounting method

A built-in stainless steel sink is a product that is deservedly popular among housewives. A model of this type can be installed even with your own hands, without the help of specialists. An undermount sink is ideal for countertops made of any materials; this product is of high quality and durability.

Such products may differ in the following parameters:

• depth of the bowl;
• sizes;
• number of bowls.

Key Features:

• ease of use;
• the ability to install in kitchen furniture of any size and shape;
• significant space saving in the kitchen;
• multifunctionality;
• the ability to complete the sink according to your own taste and discretion (add a colander, drying rack, chopping tray, etc.).

Overhead sink - to install such a design, a separate kitchen cabinet is required. A sink of this type will replace a full-fledged countertop. You can install it yourself, but the process is quite complicated.

If the structure is installed incorrectly and in violation of the technology, then during operation of the sink, splashes of water will constantly fall into the space formed between the cabinet and the washbasin itself.

This sink is suitable for any kitchen; in addition, it is inexpensive and looks attractive. Countertop sinks are made in different sizes and shapes, they can be with one or two bowls.

Advantages of an integrated sink

1. Gorgeous appearance, goes well with modern furniture. Sinks of this type can be seen in photographs of stylish kitchens from fashion catalogs. They fit perfectly with the tabletop, as they are made of the same material. If you additionally order a window sill made of artificial stone or a bar counter, the interior will turn out interesting and organic.

2. Sinks of this type are very hygienic, and this is, perhaps, their main advantage. They are glued to the tabletop in such a way that the seam remains almost invisible. This means that water and dirt will not accumulate at the joint. You can easily wipe the countertop along with the sink and sweep away moisture and debris into the sink. In this regard, this option is much more attractive than overhead sinks.

TOP 10 stainless steel sinks among buyers this year

Pairs well with white interiors

Double undermount sink in a modern kitchen

Let's note other advantages:

Durability - the steel surface is indifferent to changes in temperature and humidity, it is not subject to corrosion, can withstand static and peak (impact) loads without deforming its shape, and does not chip. In addition, it is quite flexible, so that a glass or porcelain plate that slips out of your hands and falls into the sink will most likely remain intact.

The universal wide sink is extremely practical

Stainless steel does not tarnish or stain, so your sink remains attractive for a long time.

Stainless steel always looks impressive

Easy to maintain - a stainless steel kitchen sink is easy to disinfect; it easily tolerates even quite chemically aggressive cleaning agents and detergents. Without leaving any traces, they almost completely disinfect the sink, destroying germs. In addition, the surface of stainless steel is an extremely unfavorable environment for the development of microorganisms, and the absence of pores prevents dirt from accumulating.

Stainless steel kitchen sink is easy to clean and disinfect

A white kitchen with a stainless steel sink is always relevant and stylish

It easily tolerates high temperatures (up to +1,450 °C), so you can pour boiling water into the sink or place hot pans and pots there without fear of consequences.

Country style design

Environmentally friendly - the metal has all the necessary certificates and is harmless to humans. Plus, such a sink is easily disposed of, like any metal product.

Stainless steel sink with textured surface

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The main disadvantage of stainless sinks is the large noise that occurs when water falls on a metal plane. To avoid this, expensive models have a special sound-absorbing coating, but its effectiveness is quite controversial.

Stainless steel sinks easily match any interior style

Small kitchen in classic style

Advantages and disadvantages

When talking about any product, its positive aspects should be noted:

• Of course, one of the main advantages of such sinks is their attractive price. If compared with other materials (for example, granite), the benefit will be up to 80%. At the same time, they will be practically in no way inferior to more expensive analogues.
• It is also impossible not to note the fact that stainless steel kitchen sinks are completely resistant to corrosion and physical impact. This steel is very ductile, so if heavy objects fall into the kitchen sink, cracks or chips will not appear.

A sample size of 60x60 is an excellent solution for a small kitchen

• This product is as easy to care for as possible. It can be disinfected using even aggressive cleaning agents. At the same time, this procedure will not affect the appearance in any way.
• You can safely place any hot items on stainless steel kitchen sinks. The critical temperature for this metal is more than 1400 degrees.
• For people who care about protecting the environment, it will be significant that stainless steel is a material that is easily recycled. In addition, it is quite easy to melt down.

It is also worth noting the disadvantages that stainless steel kitchen sinks have:

• The sound of water being drawn is quite loud (however, there are models with a high sound absorption coefficient).
• Steel conducts electricity well. In this regard, it becomes necessary to ground products made of this metal using metal brackets. This is especially necessary in cases where there are any electrical appliances (for example, a refrigerator) located next to it.

Rules for choosing what to pay attention to

To choose a high-quality and easy-to-use product when choosing and purchasing a sink, you need to follow a number of rules and recommendations:

• Even before going to the store, you should determine the exact overall dimensions, number, depth and size of bowls, location of the wings and other nuances. This will not only help save time, but also select a model that meets specific operating conditions.
• It is better to entrust installation to a professional; the slightest error in dimensions will lead to a loose fit of the material, and water getting under the edge will cause damage to the material of the cabinet. A sink with two bowls or a non-standard geometric shape is difficult to install.
• For the manufacture of the sink, high-quality food grade low-carbon steel is used that complies with the AISI 304 standard. The alloy contains at least 18% chromium, which ensures resistance to chemical influences, and at least 10% nickel.

Unscrupulous manufacturers, in order to save money, use grade 202 steel, which is susceptible to corrosion. It is impossible to visually distinguish such a sink. You can check stainless steel using a magnet: it slides on a high-quality steel surface, but sticks to a low-quality steel surface.

It is worth purchasing products from well-known manufacturers who value their reputation and do not allow defective products to enter the market. The thickness of the steel sheet is at least 0.6 mm, and ideally 0.9-1.2 mm. Dents quickly appear on thin steel even from a not very strong blow. When choosing the depth and size of the bowl, the size of a household utensil such as a teapot (height) or the largest saucepan (diameter) is taken as a guide.

It is much more convenient to fill such containers with water directly in the sink, without pouring water using a cup or ladle. You should pay attention not only to design, but also to practicality. Brushed stainless steel is more durable and easier to clean. The final choice must be made by the housewife; only she can determine how convenient a stainless steel kitchen sink will be for everyday use.

In any case, if installation space allows, a kitchen sink with two bowls is more practical than a single one.

WATCH THE VIDEO

For comfortable use, manufacturers offer to purchase a number of related equipment, such as: a dish dryer, a basket for drying vegetables and fruits installed above the sink, or a waste shredder.

Classification of sinks by type of installation

It is also worth understanding what types of stainless steel sinks can be used in the kitchen. So, they are usually divided according to the installation method. There are three varieties in total, which have their own characteristics.

Invoices

The main principle of overhead sinks is simplicity

Sinks of this type are literally “put on” a floor cabinet. As a result, they replace the countertop. At the same time, the dimensions of the cabinet can be completely different, because the manufacturing technology of such a sink allows you to create both small and very large samples.

This type of sink is perfect for inexpensive kitchen sets that consist of individual elements. If we talk about the advantages of this installation method, then simplicity comes to the fore (it is not difficult to implement it with your own hands, that is, without the help of specialists).

As for the disadvantages, the small thickness of the shell is immediately noticeable, which leads to a shorter service life. It is also worth noting the inconvenience during operation, which is associated with moisture getting into the space between the sink and the cabinet, which is very unhygienic.

Mortise

Such sinks look very attractive, which is the reason for the growth of their popularity.

A built-in stainless steel kitchen sink is by far the most popular solution for Russian consumers.

She received this status due to her excellent qualities:

• It is quite easy to embed into any kitchen countertop. To do this, you do not have to resort to the help of specialists. This fact significantly reduces financial costs.
• In addition, a built-in sink is suitable for sets with a solid countertop, which is the majority of them today.
• It is also impossible not to note the fact that a built-in stainless steel kitchen sink can be installed in a countertop of any thickness. This significantly increases the relevance of this product.
• Another equally important advantage of this installation method is hygiene. Due to the absence of seams and cracks, it prevents the accumulation of moisture and subsequent rotting (unlike the overhead method).
• Finally, the last advantage worth noting is the more aesthetic appearance of such sinks. You can verify this by looking at the various photos presented on our portal.

Integrated

This type of sink is a collection of sinks, when installed, the position of their sides may vary. Simply put, these are several sinks that form a common façade.

This variety allows you to combine sinks of different sizes, for example, 60x80 and 40x50, which allows you to achieve increased functionality (soak large dishes in one, and wash small ones in the other)

Integrated stainless steel kitchen sinks are extremely difficult to install. This forces people to resort to the help of specialists, thereby increasing financial costs. Perhaps this is the only drawback of such sinks.

Advice: having given preference to this variety, you should remember that it requires the use of a special mixer that can “painlessly” make turns.

The most attractive method by which an integrated stainless steel kitchen sink is installed is under the counter. It is significantly different from others, since the sinks themselves are installed below the level of the countertop itself. This method is applicable to almost all types of headsets.

In terms of functional advantages, integrated sinks have the same wide range of qualities as built-in sinks.

How to choose and inexpensively buy a stainless steel sink; main points

High-quality sinks are made of alloy steel with the addition of chromium (18%) and nickel (10%), respectively, such products are marked 18/10. They also use other markings, according to the grade of steel; there are two types on the market - 304 (high-quality) and 202 (significantly cheaper, only instead of nickel, the alloy contains manganese and lead, which significantly reduces its performance properties; over time, the metal becomes dull and changes color).

A good sink has a wall thickness of more than 0.6 mm. You can (and should) read about all the parameters in the certificate - this is a sure sign of a bona fide manufacturer.

Stylish variation in the spirit of industrial

When starting to choose a sink, you need to know exactly what you want to get from it.

1. A single-bowl kitchen sink made of stainless steel (round or rectangular) is convenient, compact, and a good choice for a small kitchen.
2. A one-and-a-half-bowl sink is more comfortable and thoughtful; in it, the main bowl is used for washing dishes, and the additional bowl is used for rinsing dishes and drying washed vegetables, fruits and herbs.
3. A double stainless steel kitchen sink consists of two bowls of approximately the same size and depth, although they may differ in shape - one can be square (rectangular), the second can be round. One sink is used for washing dishes, the second is used for rinsing, drying vegetables and temporarily storing food needed for cooking.

Double bowl stainless steel sink

The sink is a reliable assistant in the kitchen

The entire kitchen set, including the sink, is made of stainless steel

Today, manufacturers offer sinks with three (two and a half) bowls, which can be located either in a line or at an angle, as well as at different heights.

One and a half bowl sink with bottom mesh

Double sink is very convenient

It is equally important to decide on the place and method of placing the sink:

Corner kitchen sinks made of stainless steel will help you make the most of your kitchen space. When placed in a corner, even in a small kitchen you can install a double sink.

Double corner sink - impressive and practical

An overhead kitchen sink made of stainless steel is the simplest and most cost-effective installation method; it is universal and resembles a cover that simply fits onto the kitchen cabinet.

Overlay option in a cute gray kitchen

Overhead and undermount sinks in a Victorian interior

A built-in stainless steel kitchen sink is installed and adjusted individually; it is purchased before ordering a kitchen set, and the services of a professional may be required here.

Small mortise model

Built-in sink with convenient tap

How to install a sink correctly - details in the video:

https://youtube.com/watch?v=Ndnm8yp-fLs

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In addition, we note a few more features of the sinks:

The texture is most often matte or polished, although in designer models you can find sinks with a relief pattern. A polished sink looks more presentable, but scratches and traces of dried water drops are clearly visible on its surface. Therefore, after use it must be wiped dry. But it is easy to remove limescale on it. For matte texture, the advantages and disadvantages are exactly the opposite.

Beautiful sink with a relief pattern

Textured stainless steel sinks look very impressive

The drain hole can be a standard size (36 mm), although modern models have a larger size (from 70 mm). In this case, the delivery set of siphon equipment includes a disposer (garbage shredder) and strainer plugs.

Kitchen sink with dispenser

Hole for the mixer – the sink may have a special hole for the mixer (but the weight of the mixer should not exceed 6 kg), otherwise the mixer is mounted on the wall. This allows you to choose a sink with a narrow side and an unusual shape.

Stylish combination of texture and steel

Kitchen in light colors

Peculiarities

If, when installing a built-in sink (for example, a corner sink) for a kitchen, care can be neglected when processing the edge, which bends inside the bowl, then for integrated sinks it is necessary to achieve a smooth and flawless edge, since it acts as a decorative element of the product and an important parameter of its quality. However, integrated sinks can be installed in three ways, i.e. flush, above the countertop and under the countertop (see undermount sinks). The first and third options are the most common.

Surface finishing

Kitchen sinks come in five designs:

• Matte sink is a stainless steel product that does not have additional polishing;
• Polished sink - a product made of the same material, but with polishing;
• Mirror sink is a stainless steel product, polished to a shiny state;
• The decorated sink is a stainless steel product with a surface similar to the structure of linen. This is a very practical surface on which no drops or scratches are visible. Such a pattern with relief on the engraved surface is achieved by rolling (or rolling), when a stainless steel sheet is passed between rollers, which rotate in different directions and “imprint” the pattern on the sheet.

The pattern goes approximately 0.2 mm deep, so small scratches on the surface are almost invisible. This technology with many stages of washing production leads to its higher cost - it turns out to be 15 percent more expensive than smooth copies.

A sink with a microtexture is the same as a stainless steel sink, but with a more noble-looking surface.

Intersectional screed for furniture: how to choose and install it yourself

Initially, such designs were used to equip the kitchen. Some time later, they began to be used in the bathroom, as the products managed to gather many fans and positive reviews. Such countertops, made of artificial stone, are highly valued for their appearance and lack of seams. The material can be given any desired shape and size. At the same time, there are no visible seams and security elements; it is hidden. The connection is made using two-component high-strength glue, the color of which is identical to the color of the tabletop.

In a similar way, you can build a bowl inside, after which all joints are thoroughly sanded. In this case, it is extremely important that the bowl is made on the basis of exactly the same artificial stone as the countertop.

Such structures began to be called integrated or simply monolithic. But the concept of a poured sink also has a right to exist.

Integrated sinks have certain pros and cons that you should consider when choosing. Having understood what it is, you can move on to other sections of our topic today. At the same time, look at photos and videos of the products, and be sure to leave reviews if you yourself have encountered similar design options. Write your impressions, tell us how successful or unsuccessful the decision to acquire a monolithic sink in the kitchen or bathroom turned out to be. It will be interesting to know your opinion.

We continued. Below we have a list of advantages and disadvantages.

Let us give some explanations and then draw the appropriate conclusions.

Materials

What to choose: ceramic, composite or metal kitchen sinks? You need to decide on the material after the kitchen is completed or an accurate design project has been created. Otherwise the sink may not fit.

The choice of material is influenced by:

• Tabletop length. Some products are made too big or small;
• Style. For classics, artificial stone is suitable. Modern style harmonizes with stainless steel. And cozy country - with metal products, artificially aged;
• Preferred characteristics;
• Buyer's budget.

Connecting the washing sector with furniture is not difficult, do everything with taste

Stainless steel

Stainless steel kitchen sinks are the first in terms of prevalence. Modern products differ in characteristics from those produced decades ago. They are of better quality, but they are also more expensive.

Steel kitchen sinks contain nickel and chrome. Such materials protect against corrosion and create a shiny surface. But there are also disadvantages. The bowls are too noisy. Manufacturers suggest eliminating the effect by using sound absorbers installed under the sink.

The sizes of stainless steel sinks start from 38 cm (sink - 31 cm, the rest is sides) and higher. They are endowed with different forms. Sometimes the manufacturer applies a textured design to the bowl. There is a glossy and matte surface.

To check the quality of the bowl, you need to use a magnet. When it glides across the surface, the steel is good. If stuck in place, choose another sink.

Ceramics

Ceramic sinks are loaded with benefits. They are aesthetically pleasing, have a beautiful design, and are resistant to mechanical damage and household chemicals. There are wide and narrow kitchen sinks, different in shape. But finding a ceramic round bowl is difficult, if not impossible.

Other advantages include reliability. It’s okay to place a hot pan on the surface; it won’t leave marks. It is easy to wash.

Ceramics is a very pleasant and stylish material

Large kitchen sinks made of ceramics are rarely hidden in a cabinet or under a countertop. They are so beautiful that they are put on display. Therefore, when ordering or purchasing, you need to ensure consistency in style.

A narrow ceramic sink becomes a decoration for any kitchen. She is petite, but sets accents. It becomes the property of the room when the equipment is built-in and the tools are packaged in cabinets.

Standard sizes for ceramic sinks are common. They are 40x45cm, 42x50cm, 60x90. There are products with two bowls, they are larger in size.

There is a disadvantage of a ceramic sink. She is vulnerable to hits. If you drop the dishes inside it, there is a risk that a crack will appear and the bowl will leak.

Fake diamond

Sinks made of artificial stone are expensive, but they are environmentally friendly, beautiful, harmonize with all styles, and are easy to maintain. They are also not afraid of household chemicals. The noise characteristics are minimized and the splash of falling water is absorbed.

Composite sinks are made from crushed stones, which are combined with resin with the addition of pigments. Therefore, the bowl can have any shape; the manufacturer will have no problem making the product to order. There are several shades.

The housewife, as a future user of the sink, must choose between agglomerate and acrylic. In the first case, the sink is durable and beautiful. It is easy to use and gives pleasure due to its unpretentiousness.

Acrylic products are cheaper, but they are capricious. The stone reacts to mechanical stress, but by grinding it returns to its original state. It is not advisable to place hot dishes or pour boiling water into the bowl.

The depth of a kitchen sink made of composite materials is any (15-30cm). The choice is based on personal preferences and convenience.

Stone texture adds chic to the room

Design Features

First of all, let’s figure out what a sink integrated into a countertop means and what to expect from similar structures made of artificial stone, stainless steel, etc.

Just a few years ago, countertops made from artificial or acrylic stone burst into the interiors of houses and apartments. At the same time, the acrylic tabletop received many positive reviews.

Welded

They are more expensive, but the price increase is fully offset by convenience, quality and design. For such sinks, the base and bowl are made separately and then welded, which allows you to create a sink of any shape, size and depth. After which the finished product is carefully polished and sanded. The quality and durability of the sink is almost entirely determined by the quality of the weld - over time, a carelessly made seam will begin to leak, and welding it is very problematic.

The increased price is fully compensated by the beauty of the design.

Welded sink built into the kitchen island

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Types of kitchen sinks

Kitchen sinks are divided into types:

• With one bowl. Compact copy, offered in rectangular, square or round shape (the latter is more spacious, with the same volume);
• With two or more bowls. They are performed next to each other in one line or at an angle, but not far from the tap. Available only in rectangular shapes;
• One and a half. There are two bowls with unequal dimensions. The additional compartment is not used for its intended purpose; meat is defrosted in it, food is washed, etc.;
• Corner. It is convenient when the headset is positioned in a similar way. Otherwise it is undesirable to install. It is made in the form of two rectangular bowls located at an angle to each other. The space between them is work surfaces (for drying dishes or cutting vegetables);
• With wing/wings. The sink continues with work surfaces (for drying vegetables, dishes, etc.).

Regardless of the shape, the surface of the sink should be easy to clean from household waste and be resistant to chemicals from detergents and mechanical stress.

The coating should be such that it is easy to clean it after cooking.

How to choose a stainless steel sink: expert advice

After familiarizing yourself with such a variety of parameters and characteristics, your head sometimes becomes spinning. Expert advice will help you avoid getting lost in this variety and help you choose the perfect sink.

Tip 1. Pay attention to the material

As mentioned earlier, it is important that the material contains 18% chromium and 10% nickel, as indicated by the 18/10 marking. It is this alloy that is better protected from corrosion, mechanical stress and temperature changes than others.

The best manufacturers additionally cover the surface with a protective layer, with the help of which the liquid collects in drops without forming streaks - this is easier to keep clean.

It is important to look at the grade of the steel. The most popular options are AISI304 and AISI204.

The first brand is considered the best and most durable. But 204 is more convenient to work with, but it contains little chromium and virtually no nickel, so the cost of such a sink is lower and it will fail faster. Information about the brand must be in the certificate of conformity for the product.

Lifehack! You can check the quality of the material of the sink you like using a magnet. On high-quality specimens it will slide freely, but on “short-lived” specimens it will simply stick so that it cannot be moved.

The thickness of the stainless steel sheet from which the sink is made is also considered an important parameter - the average range should be: from 0.4 to 1.2 mm. The more, the better, but also more expensive. The recommended thickness depends on the type of installation.

It is worth noting that a welded sink is better than a stamped one. The main thing is to pay attention to the treatment of the seams, since they are the weak point of the entire structure, where a leak can form.

Tip 2. Decide on size

The most difficult parameter to decide on is the depth of the sink. It should not be too small to prevent too much splashing. But there is no need to be too deep, because when washing dishes you will have to bend over, and your back may get tired.

The optimal depth is 16-20 cm.

When looking for a stainless steel kitchen sink, you should consider the size of the cabinet or countertop in which it will be installed. It is important to ensure that there is at least five centimeters from the sides to the wall or edge of the tabletop.

Square sinks are available with a side of 50 and 60 cm. Rectangular sinks are most often 50 cm wide and from 55 to 125 or more cm long. The diameter of round ones is from 45 to 55 cm. These are the standard and most popular sizes. For a high price you can find something unique.

Lifehack! For a small kitchen, it is better to take a compact sink and compensate for the size with depth.

At the same stage, it is necessary to check the slope of the wing, if it exists, of course. This is important so that the water flows into the sink, and not onto the countertop nearby, or simply does not stagnate. The same water in a bottle or a regular tennis ball will help with this.

Tip 3. Check the sound insulation

The cheapest models of stainless steel sinks have one significant drawback - they are noisy. A rubber pad, which is attached to the outside of the bottom of the sink, should help with this, but it does not always save the situation.

If noiselessness is important, it is better to take a closer look at more expensive options - they are made of thicker metal, which means there will be less noise.

Tip 4. Pay attention to the warranty

Typically, inexpensive models have a manufacturer's warranty of only 1–2 years, but they will last much longer than this. There are very rarely cases when a stainless steel kitchen sink needs warranty assistance, but it is better if it is, of course, available.

The record holder for the longest warranty period for a kitchen sink is the Dutch brand Reginox - a lifetime warranty.

In second place is the German manufacturer Teka: the warranty period for its stainless steel sinks is 75 years.

Tip 5. Look at popular manufacturers

The best sinks are those from European manufacturers. Germany, Italy, Spain and Holland are most valued. The most common brands are as follows.