Beginners’ Guide to Farmhouse Sinks
Want to build the farmhouse of your dreams? Still feeling stuck on the nitty-gritty details? While there are a million little choices to make when constructing your new home, one of the most important is deciding which sink to install in your kitchen. After all, the sink is where you’ll prep meals, wash dishes, and maybe even do a little laundry.
The overall functionality and importance of the sink shouldn’t be underestimated, as it’s one of the most used appliances in your home. It’s the heart and soul of the kitchen, and it deserves just as much attention as any other part of your home.
What Do You Need to Know About Farmhouse Sinks?
These days, farmhouse sinks are all the rage. They’re stylish, unique, and offer a level of functionality that you just can’t find with other models. They’re designed to resemble the sinks used in old farmhouses, with a deep basin and a wide mouth. This allows you to more easily wash large pots and pans, as well as have plenty of room to move around.
While they’re mainly used in country-style homes, farmhouse sinks can be a great addition to any kitchen. Regardless of your home’s style, these sinks are sure to add a touch of charm to your space.
Choose the Right Material
The build quality of your sink is just as important as its style. After all, most of us don’t replace our sinks very often, which means that you need to choose a material that will stand the test of time. Let’s look into the most popular options at your disposal.
Fireclay Sinks
These models are made from kiln-fired clay, which means that they’re incredibly durable and long-lasting. The material itself is very dense, which gives the sink a smooth and non-porous surface. As a result, contemporary fireclay sinks are resistant to scratches, chips, and even stains.
It’s all too easy for everyday wear and tear to take its toll on your sink, but fireclay models can withstand just about anything. They’re also relatively easy to clean and maintain, as long as you use the right products. Simply wiping them down with a soft cloth should be enough to keep them clean.
However, this level of durability does come at a price. These types of sinks tend to be on the more expensive side, but they’re definitely worth the investment. Even if you splurge on a high-end model, it’s unlikely that you’ll ever need to replace it.In terms of design, fireclay sinks are available in a wide range of colours and styles. You can find bold hues and bright tones such as red, blue, and yellow. Or, if you’re looking for something a little more subdued, there are plenty of white and cream-coloured models to choose from.
Just make sure to choose a model that goes well with the rest of your kitchen. After all, the sink is one of the most visible parts of the room, so it should complement the space as a whole.
Stainless Steel Sinks
Sinks made of stainless steel are timeless and fashionable, which is why they’re one of the most popular materials on the market. They offer a sleek and polished look that can easily elevate the style of your kitchen.
The material itself is quite sturdy and resistant to damage. Its smooth surface is also easy to clean, as it doesn’t allow dirt or grime to stick. Using a soft cloth and some soapy water should be enough to keep your sink sparkling clean.
Natural Stone Sinks
For a more luxurious look, you can’t go wrong with a natural stone sink. Their one-of-a-kind patterns and unique veining make them a true statement piece in any kitchen.
Most of these models are made from materials such as granite, marble, or soapstone. They’re incredibly strong and heat-resistant, which is why they’re often used in heat-intensive areas such as bathrooms or kitchens. Even though they’re quite durable, natural stone sinks still require a little bit of care and maintenance. For example, you’ll need to reseal them every few years to prevent staining. You should also avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can damage the surface.
Copper Sinks
The reddish hue of copper sinks can create a warm and inviting atmosphere regardless of your kitchen’s decor style. Its unique colour will definitely make your sink stand out and turn heads.
Copper is a naturally antibacterial material, which means that it’s ideal for food preparation areas. It’s also resistant to staining and corrosion, so you won’t have to worry about it discolouring over time. On the downside, copper sinks require a bit more upkeep than other materials. For example, they need to be regularly polished to maintain their shiny surface. Use a regular metal polish and a smooth fabric to clean the sink and remove any tarnish.
Look for the Proper Size
What size farmhouse sink should you buy? This is a question that often plagues homeowners, as it’s not always easy to find the perfect size for your kitchen. The best way to determine what size sink you need is to measure the cabinets or base unit that will be housing it.
Keep in mind that you’ll need to leave at least 2-5 cm of space on either side of the sink for proper installation. Use a measuring tape to get the exact dimensions of your base unit, and then add a few extra centimetres to account for any wiggle room.