Bathroom Sink Material Guide
t’s an exciting time to be remodeling your bathroom! Never before have there been so many choices available to homeowners in terms of colors and materials. Regardless if it’s a master or guest bathroom, you’ll need to select a bathroom sink. Not sure which material makes the most sense for your needs? Never fear; we’ve got the answers you need to make the right choice for your home.
Glass: Glass sinks are new to the bathroom sink arena, but are quickly becoming fashionable because they come in a plethora of colors and designs. Although your first instinct may be to consider a glass sink as weak, they are surprisingly strong. A basin comprised of tempered glass should hold up to regular use, though dropping a heavy or sharp object into it may result in chips or scratches. Homeowners with hard water should know that irreversible damage can be caused by it through etching.
Stainless Steel:Â Though stainless steel is more common in industrial settings such as restaurants and correctional institutions, it’s still finding its way into residential bathrooms. Positive points about installing a stainless steel sink include they are lightweight, do not rust and are sturdy. A previous complaint about stainless steel was that it’s loud when water is running. This can be overcome by installing a stainless steel sink with hammered embellishments. This type of stainless steel sink will also disguise any scrapes or scratches, another issue that can arise with a stainless steel bathroom sink.
Porcelain:Â If you’re looking for an easy to clean bathroom sink, porcelain is a sure bet. Porcelain sinks also retain their color well and come in lots of shapes, shades and designs. They are a cost-effective option. On the flip side, porcelain sinks can chip or crack if a heavy object falls into the sink.
Concrete:Â Until recently, concrete was reserved for countertops instead of sinks. A reason this material is being sought after for bathroom sinks is because it’s very durable and can be dyed several different colors. Homeowners can appreciate that a concrete sink can come in a variety of sizes and can be used for both the countertop and the sink. It’s worth noting that concrete is not entirely maintenance-free; upon application, it must be sealed and the sealant must be reapplied approximately every 10 years. In the event that the sink becomes damaged, it most often can be repaired with very little effort.
Granite:Â Just as granite counters come in countless colors and finishes, so do granite bathroom sinks. Granite is a great material for a bathroom sink because it is highly resistant to cracking and scratching. It hold up well against staining and hot temperatures. A downside is that granite sinks need to be sealed after installation and will require annual sealings in order to keep it looking its best. Frequent cleaning is also necessary and care should be taken to avoid harsh cleaning chemicals and scrub brushes.
Enameled Cast Iron:Â These types of sinks are offered in a wide range of colors, clean up easily and resist chipping. This material can be desirable in a bathroom because it keeps hot water warmer than many other materials and can be a great spot to hand wash & soak delicate articles of clothing. Because this material is heavy, it’s important that the countertop it rests upon can support it. Do know that customized colors and shapes will cost you extra.