117-copper-basinSugar and spice and everything nice, that’s what kitchen sinks are made of.  Wait…that’s not right.

If you’re looking into a new kitchen sink to add some charm to your kitchen remodel, there are many options ranging from stainless steel to stone composite.  So what’s the best option for you?  Take a look at some of these durable options and decide with your professional.

Sink materials vary

Stainless Steel – If you’re the type of person who likes safe choices and reliability, stainless steel is probably the option for you.  It’s the most widely used option today, no doubt for its affordability as well as durability.  Stainless steel sink basins come in a variety of gauges, with the lower gauges being thicker and less likely to dent.  They don’t stain (stain-less – obviously) or rust, are easy to clean, and difficult to dent.

Porcelain – Porcelain sinks have been around for many years – so there’s a good chance you’ve lived with or used one many times during your life. Porcelain sinks are made of durable metal (such as cast iron or steel) covered with porcelain. A positive of these durable, easy-to-clean sinks is that they come in a variety of colors, unlike stainless steel.  They’re also able to retain heat well, in case you’re often soaking those dirty dishes.

Copper – Copper is an excellent choice for kitchen sinks, the germiest place in many kitchens, due to its constant domination over bacteria.  Because copper is naturally antimicrobial, germs can usually only live in a copper sink for a few hours.  In addition, these sinks are durable and full of character, developing a patina over time – however it is not usually an even one, so make sure you like that look before deciding on copper.  If you would like to maintain a bright shiny finish, these sinks will require polishing regularly.  One more added benefit is that they come in a variety of styles and thicknesses, so there should be something for every copper lover.

Composite sinks – These sinks are made from a combination of stone and resin, making composite sinks a strong contender – quite literally.  They are durable and scratch resistant; and while they may dull or acquire burn marks over time, you can try to sand out the damage and reseal them, as the color is the same throughout.  Composite sinks come in a wide-range of colors (as with stone countertops) but may come with a higher price-tag.  Make sure you consult a professional when trying to install these basins, as they’re heavy and you’ll want to make sure your current countertops and cabinets can support the weight.

There’s no wrong answer when deciding on your kitchen sink basin material, so if you want to learn more about any of the above, check with your local kitchen and bath dealer to see what they would suggest.  It all comes down to the style of your kitchen, how you use it, and of course price tag and personal preference.

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