To make your home perfect, comfortable, stylish is a priority for a person. The main role in this issue is not the area of the structure, but the functionality of each specific object, its appearance, quality. Among all the rooms, the kitchen room has a special place. It cooks food, gathers with the whole family, conducts spiritual conversations. When arranging it, every little thing is taken into account. This applies to the selection of most things, for example, many are interested in how to choose a sink for the kitchen, which will be convenient, practical, consistent with the general style of decoration.
Before buying a product, you should decide on many parameters, one of which is its shape. Manufacturers produce both standard models and original sinks. Some companies can make an individual order, so the range of different types is huge. Among the most common species, the following options should be distinguished:
Square. The standard form used for most bowls.
Rectangular Like previous models, they are quite practical. They are characterized by a longer length, which may cause some inconvenience during operation. It is a good choice for narrow countertops.
Round. Items are more capacious in comparison with the considered options. Due to the lack of corners, it is easier to care for them, but they do not have additional sections. Conveniently located in the corner of the kitchen.
Oval. Such products may contain several sections, they are more elongated in length. In most cases, they are equipped with an additional wing, have a round bowl.
Triangular (angular). Used to save space. An ideal choice for small kitchens. They are equipped with extra wings and bowls.
Trapezoidal, polygonal. Original designs. They are very spacious, can be mounted along the wall, in the corner. They have several sections, equipped with wings.
Size and depth
Manufacturers offer a wide range of products that differ in their dimensions. To make the right choice, it is necessary to take into account the fact that the distance from the sink to the edge of the countertop, apron, walls should be more than 5 cm.The diameter and depth of the bowl is determined depending on the area of the room, the number of family members, the estimated volume of dishes used.
The standard dimensions of a kitchen sink depend on its shape.The most common parameters are:
for square - 50x50, 60x60 cm;
for rectangular - 55x50, 50x80, 50x100, 50x125 cm;
for round - the diameter varies between 45-51 cm.
There are many other options - you can order designs with purely individual characteristics of the value.
In order to choose the optimal subject, several measurements should be made, based on which to draw a diagram, namely to measure:
the width of the bedside tables, countertops;
length, taking into account the presence of the wing, additional sections, as well as the location of other objects in the room.
Having decided on suitable sizes, it is necessary to calculate the depth of the sink. The optimal parameter of this value is 16-19 cm. But it is also individual, for example, for compact rooms where it is not possible to install a large product, and the estimated number of dishes is large, it is better to take a deeper object.
Number of bowls
In addition to standard sinks with one compartment, you can choose more complex designs, consisting of two, three compartments, with bowls of the same or different size. Let us dwell in more detail on the existing types:
One-bowl. Represented by round, square models. Differ in compactness and convenience in operation. The best choice for small kitchen rooms.
One and a half. This is a compromise between sinks with one and two sections. Combines the advantages of both designs. The main compartment can be used to wash fruits, vegetables, dishes, the second to dry them.
Two-bowl. Sections can be located on one straight line and at an angle. The dimensions of the compartments may vary, but the depth is the same. The second compartment can be used to rinse dishes, temporary storage of items.
Multi-bowl. Manufacturers produce products with three or more compartments, which significantly increase the possibility of using sinks.Options with two equal and an additional bowl, or three identical are suitable for spacious rooms.
Advantages and disadvantages of sinks with and without a wing
In tiny kitchens, where every centimeter counts, it is impossible to equip a working area in which large objects would fit. For such conditions, a sink without a wing will be optimal. Models differ in a more capacious bowl, in comparison with the options having additional functionality that allows to place more ware in it. They are suitable for small worktops, kitchen cabinets. Designs are characterized by attractive design.
Sinks equipped with one or two wings are more functional. Such products are suitable for people who cook a lot. Auxiliary elements will significantly expand the capabilities of structures. Here you can place dirty dishes, or washed for drying, defrost food, stack fruits before cleaning, kitchen items used during cooking. These advantages are the disadvantages of washing without a bowl, because for these purposes a tabletop is used, on the surface of which dirt and water constantly accumulate.
When choosing the location of the wing, it is worth considering the individual characteristics of the countertops and the preferences of the owners. For a left-handed person it is convenient to use the product with an additional element located on the left side, and, conversely, for a right-handed person - on the right.
Features of the washing material
For the manufacture of products, mainly metal or stone is used. This limitation is associated with the requirements for the finished product, namely resistance to mechanical damage and constant temperature change. When choosing the basis of the subject, take into account its relevance to the interior design of the room, personal preferences, financial capabilities.For clarity, we consider kitchen sinks made of different materials, their main advantages and disadvantages.
Stainless steel
Products are characterized by strength and durability. They are quite popular among the population. Differ in low cost. Qualitative options are made of steel with impurities of nickel and chromium, the content of which is 18% and 10%, respectively. Before buying, you should pay attention to the brand of raw materials from which the sink is made. The designation AISI304 corresponds to the best models, others have worse performance.
You can check the quality yourself. To do this, it is enough to hold the magnet on the surface of the structure, if it is attracted, then you should refuse to purchase.
Stainless sinks can be divided by the method of manufacture:
Stamped. Made from a single piece of steel, from 0.4 to 1.2 mm thick.
Welded. Welded from individual parts. They are more expensive, they have a larger wall thickness.
Most products have a standard metallic color, but they produce models with a PVD coating, which allows you to give the design a bronze, silver, golden hue. Also, all sinks can be divided according to surface type. Highlight polished, matte, textured.
Among the main advantages of the finished product can be noted:
durability;
low cost;
environmental friendliness;
universality;
large selection of shapes and sizes;
resistance to mechanical damage;
easy maintenance and cleaning;
immunity to temperature changes.
Such sinks and shortcomings are not without:
small selection of shades;
they are noisy;
scratches appear over time.
Ceramics
The material is fragile. To increase the strength of products, special additives are used. Produce designs of the following types:
Earthenware.Differ in low cost, as they are made from low-quality raw materials. Over time, cracks form on the washbasin that cannot be removed.
Porcelain. More expensive models. Often a pattern is applied to the surface.
Majolica. The most expensive designs. Mostly custom made. More reliable than ceramic counterparts.
Porcelain stoneware. Granite chips are added to the composition. Have a substantial color range. Are in demand.
Product Advantages:
environmental friendliness;
wide range;
large selection of shades;
good sound insulation;
immunity to acids;
easy maintenance and care;
The material does not absorb dirt and odor.
The disadvantages include:
significant weight;
high cost;
single use;
fragility;
complicated installation.
A natural stone
Products are quite rare. Made to order. Wealthy people can afford natural stone sinks. For production, solid blocks of natural material are used, such as travertine, onyx, marble, granite, and others. Among the main advantages of structures it is worth highlighting:
long term of operation;
attractive appearance;
compatibility with any style in the interior;
good sound absorption;
minor defects can be repaired;
inertness to microorganisms;
strength.
The disadvantages of stone structures:
high price;
heavy weight;
the surface can be damaged by a strong impact of a heavy object.
Fake diamond
Kitchen sinks, which are an imitation of natural stone, are popular among most people. This is due to their relatively low price in comparison with natural counterparts, while maintaining the natural texture. For the production of products, mineral filler and binders are used.The first include fine-grained crushed stone of marble and granite (the fraction is 2-5 mm), silicon sand, other components, the second - polymer, acrylic resin. Product advantages are expressed by the following characteristics:
durability;
withstand extreme temperatures, the range ranges from - 30 to + 150 ° C;
the material is quite silent;
good selection of colors;
hygiene;
affordable price;
in most interiors;
easy to clean;
resistance to chemicals;
strength.
Disadvantages:
budget options may deform when the temperature changes;
heavy weight;
spots can appear from very hot objects;
there are many fakes of world brands on the market.
Acrylic
In the plumbing industry, acrylic is a type of artificial stone, which includes acrylic resin. The finished product is obtained in two ways: by thermoforming, by pouring liquid polymer into a mold. Of all the designs made of artificial materials, acrylics are most popular, but it is in this stone that all the main disadvantages are collected. The advantages of such products include:
attractive appearance;
strength;
chemical inertness;
maintainability.
Disadvantages:
requires careful care, scratches appear under the influence of hard brushes and abrasive substances;
the material darkens due to temperature changes;
raw materials are very fragile;
the product may crack.
Sinks from other materials
In addition to these materials, glass, copper, wood, cast iron, polymers, bronze are used. Such products, with the exception of cast iron and plastic, are quite rare, made to order. May have a significant cost. There are also combined models, for example, stainless steel, combined with glass, copper with stone. Let us dwell on the advantages and disadvantages of structures made from different materials:
Cast iron. Differ in durability, low cost. The raw materials, as well as the enamel covering it, are quite fragile. Sinks are afraid of abrasive cleaners, have a lot of weight.
Copper. Ideal for classic and retro styles. They are characterized by attractive appearance, wear resistance, unlimited service life. However, the price of products is high, especially copyright work, the choice of shades is small.
Wooden. The production uses oak, larch, bamboo. Suitable for country, eco, ethnic, other styles. Products have an original appearance, but without special treatment they can quickly deteriorate.
Bronze They can last for more than a dozen years. Decorate any interior. Unlike iron models, such designs are immune to corrosion, but less durable.
Glass. Made of tempered glass. They are characterized by high strength, resistance to shock, do not absorb odor and moisture, do not crack under the influence of temperature. But the raw material is very noisy, can crack from a point mechanical impact, has a very high cost.
Plastic The material is quite fragile, it does not tolerate temperature extremes. This option is better to choose for a summer residence, since it is inexpensive.
Installation Method Selection
The choice of installation method depends on the specific model, your own preferences. Some options require a certain type of installation, for example, products with protruding limiting sides that are installed exclusively by the mortise method. There are objects intended for integration, and sometimes it is necessary to fix the bowl under the work surface to emphasize the beauty of the material used. Let us dwell in more detail on the possible options for connecting structures.
Mortise method
Such a sink will be completely invisible, as it merges with the overall interior, will become part of it.It is installed clearly under the countertop, does not rise a single centimeter. The sink is easy to use in the kitchen. It is easy to brush down the accumulated water from splashes when washing dishes; liquid does not flow into voids. Thanks to this, the care of the mortise product is greatly simplified.
When installing such a sink, difficulties may arise. It is necessary to accurately select the size of the countertops, cut a perfectly suitable hole. The countertop should be made of moisture resistant material, since its surface will often have to come into contact with water.
Way way
The most common and easiest installation method. The product, often made of stainless steel, is worn on a special stand. A sink with a stand is sold as a set, different models have standard dimensions of components, so there will be no problems with fitting sizes. Installation is easy to do on your own. Modular kitchens are equipped with just such sinks. There are several ways to fix a product on a pedestal:
With glue. The ends of the pedestals are treated with silicone sealant, a sink is installed;
Special brackets. If the mounts are not included, you can buy them. On the inside of the walls, screws are screwed in, brackets are baited onto them. Tighten the screws and install the sink;
On wooden bars. A home-made mounting pad is used for defects on the countertop, lack of fasteners.
Integrated sink
The combined modern sink with countertop creates a single surface. Both parts must be specially prepared to give the impression of complete harmony. The edges of the models should be perfectly smooth, this will affect the quality of the installation and the appearance of the structure as a whole. For the manufacture of integrated sinks, thick steel is used, at least 1 cm.
This installation method, flush with the countertop, is suitable for durable surfaces made of natural, artificial stone. The process is time consuming and costly.Integration requires careful hole preparation and good sealing.
Table-top installation
The sink has no protrusions outside, is completely under the countertop. Installation is possible only under moisture resistant surfaces made of stone, quartz, plastic. It is better to entrust the installation to professionals who are able to choose the size, work with saws, jigsaws with diamond spraying. It is necessary to precisely select the size of the hole, cut, strip the edges.
The parts are fastened together using plywood substrates by gluing. Fix the sink with special brackets. For light steel sinks, simple fastenings are sufficient, heavy stone products are mounted on dowels and screws, the joints are coated with epoxy.
Additional modern washing accessories
A kitchen sink can be made more functional if it is equipped with various accessories, among which are:
Additional faucet for drinking water. It makes it possible to use a clean, filtered liquid, both for drinking and for cooking.
Waste shredder. Installed under the product. Prevents clogging of sewer lines due to crushing of various food residues.
Automatic valve. Allows you to block the drainage of water. It is convenient when washing a large amount of food, kitchen utensils.
Colander. Special appliance for washing, drying vegetables and fruits. It is a container that repeats the shape of a bowl, has holes.
Stands for different items used in the kitchen.
Dispenser for household chemicals. Located next to the faucet, and the detergent tank is under construction.
Baskets, cutting boards. Allow maximum use of the sink, unload the countertop.
Some expensive models are equipped with a similar set of accessories. For the rest of the copies, you can choose only the most necessary. This will save money, not buy unnecessary things.
Conclusion
Having dealt with the types of sinks, the materials used for their manufacture, possible installation methods, you can choose the model that is suitable for any requirements. A kitchen sink will become not only a dishwashing tool, but also decorate any interior, and correctly selected additional accessories will significantly increase the functionality of the product.
To make your home perfect, comfortable, stylish is a priority for a person. The main role in this issue is not the area of the structure, but the functionality of each specific object, its appearance, quality. Among all the rooms, the kitchen room has a special place. It cooks food, gathers with the whole family, conducts spiritual conversations. When arranging it, every little thing is taken into account. This applies to the selection of most things, for example, many are interested in how to choose a sink for the kitchen, which will be convenient, practical, consistent with the general style of decoration.
Content
Geometric Shapes
Before buying a product, you should decide on many parameters, one of which is its shape. Manufacturers produce both standard models and original sinks. Some companies can make an individual order, so the range of different types is huge. Among the most common species, the following options should be distinguished:
Size and depth
Manufacturers offer a wide range of products that differ in their dimensions. To make the right choice, it is necessary to take into account the fact that the distance from the sink to the edge of the countertop, apron, walls should be more than 5 cm.The diameter and depth of the bowl is determined depending on the area of the room, the number of family members, the estimated volume of dishes used.
The standard dimensions of a kitchen sink depend on its shape.The most common parameters are:
There are many other options - you can order designs with purely individual characteristics of the value.
In order to choose the optimal subject, several measurements should be made, based on which to draw a diagram, namely to measure:
Having decided on suitable sizes, it is necessary to calculate the depth of the sink. The optimal parameter of this value is 16-19 cm. But it is also individual, for example, for compact rooms where it is not possible to install a large product, and the estimated number of dishes is large, it is better to take a deeper object.
Number of bowls
In addition to standard sinks with one compartment, you can choose more complex designs, consisting of two, three compartments, with bowls of the same or different size. Let us dwell in more detail on the existing types:
Advantages and disadvantages of sinks with and without a wing
In tiny kitchens, where every centimeter counts, it is impossible to equip a working area in which large objects would fit. For such conditions, a sink without a wing will be optimal. Models differ in a more capacious bowl, in comparison with the options having additional functionality that allows to place more ware in it. They are suitable for small worktops, kitchen cabinets. Designs are characterized by attractive design.
Sinks equipped with one or two wings are more functional. Such products are suitable for people who cook a lot. Auxiliary elements will significantly expand the capabilities of structures. Here you can place dirty dishes, or washed for drying, defrost food, stack fruits before cleaning, kitchen items used during cooking. These advantages are the disadvantages of washing without a bowl, because for these purposes a tabletop is used, on the surface of which dirt and water constantly accumulate.
Features of the washing material
For the manufacture of products, mainly metal or stone is used. This limitation is associated with the requirements for the finished product, namely resistance to mechanical damage and constant temperature change. When choosing the basis of the subject, take into account its relevance to the interior design of the room, personal preferences, financial capabilities.For clarity, we consider kitchen sinks made of different materials, their main advantages and disadvantages.
Stainless steel
Products are characterized by strength and durability. They are quite popular among the population. Differ in low cost. Qualitative options are made of steel with impurities of nickel and chromium, the content of which is 18% and 10%, respectively. Before buying, you should pay attention to the brand of raw materials from which the sink is made. The designation AISI304 corresponds to the best models, others have worse performance.
Stainless sinks can be divided by the method of manufacture:
Most products have a standard metallic color, but they produce models with a PVD coating, which allows you to give the design a bronze, silver, golden hue. Also, all sinks can be divided according to surface type. Highlight polished, matte, textured.
Among the main advantages of the finished product can be noted:
Such sinks and shortcomings are not without:
Ceramics
The material is fragile. To increase the strength of products, special additives are used. Produce designs of the following types:
Product Advantages:
The disadvantages include:
A natural stone
Products are quite rare. Made to order. Wealthy people can afford natural stone sinks. For production, solid blocks of natural material are used, such as travertine, onyx, marble, granite, and others. Among the main advantages of structures it is worth highlighting:
The disadvantages of stone structures:
Fake diamond
Kitchen sinks, which are an imitation of natural stone, are popular among most people. This is due to their relatively low price in comparison with natural counterparts, while maintaining the natural texture. For the production of products, mineral filler and binders are used.The first include fine-grained crushed stone of marble and granite (the fraction is 2-5 mm), silicon sand, other components, the second - polymer, acrylic resin. Product advantages are expressed by the following characteristics:
Disadvantages:
Acrylic
In the plumbing industry, acrylic is a type of artificial stone, which includes acrylic resin. The finished product is obtained in two ways: by thermoforming, by pouring liquid polymer into a mold. Of all the designs made of artificial materials, acrylics are most popular, but it is in this stone that all the main disadvantages are collected. The advantages of such products include:
Disadvantages:
Sinks from other materials
In addition to these materials, glass, copper, wood, cast iron, polymers, bronze are used. Such products, with the exception of cast iron and plastic, are quite rare, made to order. May have a significant cost. There are also combined models, for example, stainless steel, combined with glass, copper with stone. Let us dwell on the advantages and disadvantages of structures made from different materials:
Installation Method Selection
The choice of installation method depends on the specific model, your own preferences. Some options require a certain type of installation, for example, products with protruding limiting sides that are installed exclusively by the mortise method. There are objects intended for integration, and sometimes it is necessary to fix the bowl under the work surface to emphasize the beauty of the material used. Let us dwell in more detail on the possible options for connecting structures.
Mortise method
Such a sink will be completely invisible, as it merges with the overall interior, will become part of it.It is installed clearly under the countertop, does not rise a single centimeter. The sink is easy to use in the kitchen. It is easy to brush down the accumulated water from splashes when washing dishes; liquid does not flow into voids. Thanks to this, the care of the mortise product is greatly simplified.
When installing such a sink, difficulties may arise. It is necessary to accurately select the size of the countertops, cut a perfectly suitable hole. The countertop should be made of moisture resistant material, since its surface will often have to come into contact with water.
Way way
The most common and easiest installation method. The product, often made of stainless steel, is worn on a special stand. A sink with a stand is sold as a set, different models have standard dimensions of components, so there will be no problems with fitting sizes. Installation is easy to do on your own. Modular kitchens are equipped with just such sinks. There are several ways to fix a product on a pedestal:
Integrated sink
The combined modern sink with countertop creates a single surface. Both parts must be specially prepared to give the impression of complete harmony. The edges of the models should be perfectly smooth, this will affect the quality of the installation and the appearance of the structure as a whole. For the manufacture of integrated sinks, thick steel is used, at least 1 cm.
This installation method, flush with the countertop, is suitable for durable surfaces made of natural, artificial stone. The process is time consuming and costly.Integration requires careful hole preparation and good sealing.
Table-top installation
The sink has no protrusions outside, is completely under the countertop. Installation is possible only under moisture resistant surfaces made of stone, quartz, plastic. It is better to entrust the installation to professionals who are able to choose the size, work with saws, jigsaws with diamond spraying. It is necessary to precisely select the size of the hole, cut, strip the edges.
The parts are fastened together using plywood substrates by gluing. Fix the sink with special brackets. For light steel sinks, simple fastenings are sufficient, heavy stone products are mounted on dowels and screws, the joints are coated with epoxy.
Additional modern washing accessories
A kitchen sink can be made more functional if it is equipped with various accessories, among which are:
Some expensive models are equipped with a similar set of accessories. For the rest of the copies, you can choose only the most necessary. This will save money, not buy unnecessary things.
Conclusion
Having dealt with the types of sinks, the materials used for their manufacture, possible installation methods, you can choose the model that is suitable for any requirements. A kitchen sink will become not only a dishwashing tool, but also decorate any interior, and correctly selected additional accessories will significantly increase the functionality of the product.