How To Choose Stainless Steel Kitchen/Bathroom/Wet Bar Sink By Teka Expert Kitchen Sink Express

www.KitchenSinkExpress.com

1. Material

Stainless Steel: stainless steel has emerged to become the most popular choice of materials for new sink installations. This is due to its low cost, lightweight, and almost indestructible construction. It is important to note that various qualities of stainless steel exist. The gauge of the stainless steel represents the thickness of the stainless steel sink. The most common gauges are 18 and 20. The higher the number gauge, the thinner the steel. Eighteen (18) is the most recommended gauge for a kitchen sink. A light-gauge stainless steel that is higher in number (22-gauge, etc) is more susceptible to denting and scratching. Stainless steel is also available in a euro radiant finish. This gives it a shinier appearance, but also increases the likelihood that visible scratches will occur. The stainless steal composition of 304 -18/10 represents the highest quality of stainless found in European manufactured sinks. The 18 represents the amount of chromium. An 18% chromium grade is the highest quality available in stainless steel. It enables the steel to form an invisible layer of oxide that protects it against corrosion. As the Nickel level is increased; the quality of the stainless is increased. The highest quality sinks possess 10% nickel content. This amount of nickel increases the sinks corrosion resistance while adding a bright polished appearance, hardness, and exceptional resistance to all temperatures.

2. Installation Type

The installation of the sink can make a substantial difference in the overall look and functionality of it. The most popular installation types available today are the following:

Self-rimming, drop-in: These sinks have traditionally been the most common in the kitchen. They are mounted from above the counter and have a built-in visible rim on which the faucet sits. These sinks work well with any countertop material.

Undermount, recessed:  These sinks are the most popular for their sensational appeal and superior functionality. They are installed from underneath the counter and do not have a rim, so food and debris can be wiped directly into the sink. Any solid surface countertop of manmade material, natural stone or concrete will allow for an under-mounted sink installation

3. Bowls

Kitchen sinks are available in one bowl, two bowl, or three bowl models. The bowls can be deep or shallow, and have straight or sloped sidewalls. When deciding on the number and type of bowls you will need, think of how you are planning to use your sink. Single bowl sinks are basic, but can be purchased with a depth of up to 10" or 12". If you plan on using your sink primarily for rinsing dishes to prepare them for the dishwasher, then a single-bowl sink will probably meet your needs. Two and three bowl sinks allow for multi-tasking. You can rinse or store dishes in the large bowl, and use the small bowl for a garbage disposal or to rinse vegetables.

Bowls are available in different depths. Extra-deep bowls are great for soaking larger pots and roasters, but reduce the amount of space under your counter and may be troublesome for your back on a daily basis. Shallower bowls are great for rinsing vegetables or supporting garbage disposals. Bowl depths range from 5" to 12".

The placement of the drain in bowls varies. The most common is a center-drain. However, some bowls are available with a rear-positioned drain. This offers more usable bowl space. Furthermore, since the plumbing underneath is set further back; it also adds the benefit of additional under-counter cabinet storage.

4. Faucet holes

If you are installing a self-rimming (drop-in) sink then you will have an option for the number of holes you would like the sink to come with. The number of holes you should choose depends on the type of faucet and accessories you are planning to install.

One hole: Allows for a faucet with a single lever handle (no separate hot and cold handles).

Two holes: Allows for a faucet with a single lever handle (no separate hot and cold handles) and an option of a side spray, soap dispenser, hot water dispenser, or chilled water dispenser.

Three holes: Allows for a faucet with separate hot and cold handles OR a single lever handle faucet with an option of two of the following accessories, side spray, soap dispenser, hot water dispenser, or chilled water dispenser.

Four holes: Allows for a faucet with separate hot and cold handles and an option of a side spray, soap dispenser, hot water dispenser, or chilled water dispenser.

Five holes: Allows for a faucet with separate hot and cold handles with an option of two of the following accessories, side spray, soap dispenser, hot water dispenser, or chilled water dispenser

5. Features Available

There are a variety of features available for your kitchen sink. These features assure you are purchasing a quality sink with long-lasting benefits.

Spillway: A spillway feature is available for 2 and 3 bowl sinks. Since it is lower than the sides of the sinks, any overflowing water will go from one bowl to the other, without getting water onto the floor.

Sink Clips: Clips are sometimes provided to attach to the bowl before your sink goes into the countertop. This ensures a secure, trouble - free installation.

Rear Drains: Rear drains provide more storage space in the cabinet below the sink since the pipes are further back.

Deep Bowl: Deep bowls give you more flexibility and room when washing your biggest roasting pans, stock pots and cookie sheets.

Sound Deadening Pad: Sound deadening pads dampen or eliminate all unnecessary noises and reverberations.

For more information or to find that perfect stainless steel sink, please see our website at www.KitchenSinkExpress.com