Brantford

Home Hardware

A kitchen sink is an integral part of any kitchen. In addition to serving as a spot for cleaning and food prep, it also enhances the overall look of your kitchen and showcases your personal style. Do you want a modern, traditional or country kitchen feel? Uncover the type of sink that will help create your perfect kitchen.

Types of Kitchen Sinks—Key Considerations

Before you buy a new kitchen sink, you’ll want to determine the size, mounting style and material that you prefer.

Sink Size

What size of kitchen sink do you want? If you’re replacing an existing sink, the size is already determined by the existing cut-out. If you want to alter the size, you’ll need to renovate the counter to accommodate it.

A kitchen sink has three main dimensions: front to back, side to side, and depth. These are measured in inches. The interior of the sink cabinet determines the size of the sink. The sink size you choose should be 3 inches smaller than the cabinet the sink sits in.

Also consider the depth of the sink. A deep kitchen sink is ideal for soaking pots and pans, but it uses more undercabinet space. It’s important to make sure you have enough space for the depth of the sink, the plumbing and any other additions such as a filtered drinking water dispenser.

Mounting Method

There are a number of sink mounting methods to choose from. Check out these popular styles:

Drop-in/Topmount Sink

A drop-in sink drops into a precut hole in the countertop and secures underneath. It has a lip that rests on the countertop for support and stability. A drop-in sink is affordable, easy to install and works with most countertop styles.

Undermount Sink

An undermount kitchen sink is fitted underneath the countertop. They are ideal for use with a solid-surface countertop that offers the supportive structure needed. Unlike a drop-in sink, there is no lip that rests on the countertop. While it can be more difficult to install, the result is a sleek look and easy-to-clean surface.

Farmhouse/Apron Sink

A farmhouse sink (or apron sink) features a wide base and deep single bowl. An exposed front drops down in front of the sink rather than stopping at the edge of the counter. This sink style allows for easier cleaning of larger items but does require a certain type of cabinet.

Bar Sink

A bar sink is a small kitchen sink. A convenient addition to a home bar or entertaining area, it allows you to quickly clean glasses and make drinks. A bar sink is also handy as a prep sink in a large kitchen or the main sink in a very small kitchen.

Common Kitchen Sink Materials

Consider the type of material when selecting your new kitchen sink. You’ll want a sink that stands up to your day-to-day needs and complements the style of the kitchen and fixtures.

Stainless Steel Sink

• The most popular kitchen sink material
• Durable and easy to clean
• Comes in a variety of gauges. A higher-quality sink with a higher gauge (18-gauge or thicker) will better resist dents
• Features insulation on the underside of the bowl to help deaden the sound of running water. Foam insulation is best
• Comes in a variety of finishes. A brushed finish hides water spots and scratches better than a mirror finish
• Available in a variety of mounting styles

Granite Sink

• Granite composite is made of a blend of granite and acrylic resins
• Attractive and versatile material offered in a range of colours and prices
• Darker granite colours such as a black kitchen sink are stylish and mask dirt well
• Durable, low-maintenance surface that doesn’t show water marks or scratches
• Scratch, stain and heat resistant
• Available in a variety of mounting styles

Cast Iron Sink

• Made from cast iron with a porcelain enamel coating
• Extremely long-lasting material that will not chip or crack
• Highly durable surface is smooth and easy to clean
• Heavy material requires adequate support and two persons to install
• Sound-deadening qualities
• Available in a variety of mounting styles

Copper Sink

• Durable material won’t rust or tarnish and takes on an aged finish over time for a one-of-a-kind look
• Low maintenance
• Copper has anti-microbial properties that resist bacteria and viruses

Fireclay Sink

• A type of ceramic kitchen sink made by moulding and firing ceramic clay at an extremely high temperature
• Durable material won’t fade or discolour and comes in a variety of colours
• Highly resistant to scratches, staining and chipping
• Easy to clean
• The nonporous surface resists bacteria

Number of Bowls and Holes

A single bowl kitchen sink offers plenty of space for larger dishes and pots and pans. It also takes up less space than other bowls, so it’s a good option for smaller kitchens.

A double kitchen sink has a divider that creates two separate sections. This makes it easy to carry out multiple tasks such as soaking, rinsing and washing dishes and food preparation.

A triple bowl sink features a small third bowl for use as a prep sink. This allows for easy multitasking.

NOTE: Double and triple bowls come in different configurations with equal or varying sized bowls. A larger and smaller bowl combination can make simultaneous cleaning and prep work easy.

Check the number of holes on the sink to make sure it coordinates with the faucet and any accessories you want. A kitchen sink generally features one, three and four holes on the deck behind the bowl. These holes are for mounting the faucet and other items like soap and hot water dispensers and spray hoses.

NOTE: If the sink has more holes than you need, you can use a baseplate to conceal them.

Installing Your Shiny New Sink

Follow these steps to install your new kitchen sink.

Make sure the water supply is turned off. The shutoff valves are typically located in the cabinet below the sink.

Drop-In Kitchen Sink

• Install the fixtures (the faucet and any additional components) to the sink using the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Install the strainer. Apply plumber’s putty around the sink drain hole. Place the drain strainer in the hole and press firmly. Remove any excess putty. On the under-side of the sink, slip the gasket around the strainer. Secure the strainer to the sink with the washer and lock nut.
• Apply plumber’s putty around the base of the sink.
• Drop the new sink into the opening and press down firmly. Remove any excess putty.
• Below the sink, secure the clips and tighten the mounting screws.
• Connect all water supply lines and the drain trap. Tighten the connections without stripping or overtightening.
• Turn the water on and check for any leaks and adjust if needed.

Undermount Kitchen Sink

• Follow steps 1 and 2 from the section above.
• Apply plumber’s putty around the lip at the top of the undermount sink.
• Raise the sink into place. Have someone hold it in place so you can secure it from underneath.
• Underneath the sink, secure the clips in place around the perimeter of the sink. If replacing a sink, you can use the same pilot holes.
• Follow steps 6 and 7 above.

A stylish and functional kitchen sink can make clean-up and food prep easier, and it can elevate the look of your kitchen. Whether you prefer a deep kitchen sink in stainless steel, a modern kitchen sink as a sleek focal point or a distinctive farmhouse sink, we have you covered. Browse our versatile selection and discover the ideal kitchen sink for your home.