When deciding on a new plumbing fixture like a sink for your San Jose kitchen, it is important to choose a fixture equipped to handle the unique demands of your household while remaining functional enough to serve your everyday needs. Whether you need to replace an old kitchen sink that has reached the end of its lifespan or want to upgrade an outdated version with a brand-new model, knowing how to pick the correct fixture can help ensure that you remain happy with your investment for years to come. A look at how to choose the right kitchen sink can provide unparalleled guidance for your next remodeling or plumbing project.
Kitchen Sink Size
One of the first steps involved in choosing the best sink for your San Jose kitchen is selecting the right size. Kitchen sinks come in sizes as small as 9 inches or as large as 40 inches. Starting at the 9-inch mark, you can count in increments of three to find available models. For example, there are sinks labeled in sizes 12, 15, 18, 21, and so on. The most common sizes for residential kitchen sinks range from 24 to 36 inches. To gain an idea of the sink size you may need, select the cabinet area that will house the sink and measure this space’s width from edge to edge. Sinks are generally two to three inches shorter than the cabinet’s width. For example, a 36-inch cabinet can accommodate a 33-inch sink. You will need to enlist the help of a professional to determine the best size for sinks located on a kitchen island or other custom areas.
It is also important to measure potential bowl depth. In the past, kitchen sink bowl depths were as shallow as 6 inches or even shorter. Today, the average bowl depth is 8 to 10 inches. Residential bowl depths can go as deep as 12 inches. The choice depends on your needs. For example, you may choose a shallow sink to achieve a vintage look if you prefer to hand-wash dishes every day. You may need a deeper sink for frequent heavy-duty food preparation or to accommodate large pots and cookware. Keep in mind that deeper bowl depths may require modifications to in-wall plumbing. A professional can advise you on changes to piping or which bowl depths work best with additions like garbage disposals or under-sink cabinetry.
Kitchen Sink Configuration
Another important consideration is sink configuration. Kitchen sinks come in several configurations: single-basin sinks, double-basin sinks, or triple-basin sinks.
Single-Basin Sinks
The single-basin option features one large bowl. This option is great for people who prefer a wide-open soaking area for large pots, pans, or cookie sheets. The bowl can come in any width, but it often features a greater depth than varieties with dividers. However, the single-basin sink is not a common choice for multi-tasking during kitchen work or food prep.
Double-Basin Sinks
Double-basin sinks feature a divider that creates two separate bowls that are equal in size. This enables multi-tasking such as washing dishes on one side and drying them on the other. Double-basin sinks can also have a garbage disposal on one side while freeing the other side for a separate purpose. These sinks are often 30 inches in width or larger. The divided style can fit two people at the sink and creates a multipurpose workstation.
Triple-Basin Sinks
The triple-basin sink has two dividers that result in three separate bowl sections. Modern versions of this sink often have two large sections and one smaller section. This style is popular for kitchens with a lot of prep work and enables tasks like soaking, washing, and drying all at the same time. However, it requires plenty of countertop space and an experienced plumber to make the necessary pipe modifications.
Kitchen Sink Material
The material that you select for your kitchen sink plays a crucial role in the appearance and durability of this fixture. Popular kitchen sink materials include stainless steel, cast iron, copper, granite composite, or fireclay. Stainless steel is sleek, stain-resistant, and matches faucets in traditional and modern kitchens. It is also hygienic, non-porous, and easy to wipe clean. Cast iron is highly durable and can withstand heat up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit. But keep in mind, since iron is heavy, this material requires adequate cabinet support for realistic installation.
Copper sinks are rust-resistant and antimicrobial. Ask your plumber about the availability of 9% pure copper sinks with added zinc for additional strength. Composite material is made of a combination of granite stone and acrylic resin. This material is the product of modern technology that manufacturers design for low maintenance and everyday usage. Finally, fireclay is a traditional material made from dense clay fired at extremely high temperatures. Fireclay is non-porous, glossy, and resistant to scratches and stains.
Kitchen Sink Installation Type
After considering your preferences for size and material, it is imperative to consider installation type. The installation process is a job for professionals since it requires everything from understanding mounting holes to potentially creating connections for water faucets. However, you can inform your plumber of your preferred installation method based on how you cook and clean. The most common installation types are drop-in sinks, farmhouse sinks, integrated sinks, or undermount sinks.
Drop-In Sink Installation
The drop-in is one of the most popular forms of installation. With this installation, the plumber first cuts a hole in the countertop. The sink then slides into the hole, and the self-contained edge or rim holds the sink in place. Other names for this method include “top-mount” or “self-rimming.” It works with any counter type including wood or laminate.
Farmhouse Installation
The farmhouse installation type is a traditional method that households have used since before the invention of indoor plumbing. This installation features a large, deep bowl with an exposed front that your plumber can then pair with a wall-mounted faucet. Also known as an “apron-front” sink, this sink is highly functional but may require modifications to cabinetry to complete installation.
Integrated Sink Installation
Integrated sinks are built directly into the countertop to create a seamless unit. They use the same material as the surrounding counters and help foster a continuous look to the design of your kitchen. Some plumbers call these “integral” sinks.
Undermount Sink Installation
As the name implies, undermount refers to sinks installed from underneath the counter. Unlike top-mount sinks, undermount varieties do not need a rim or lid to hold the structure in place. Instead, professionals use brackets and adhesives to secure undermount sinks in place. Undermount sinks require sturdy and nonporous countertops like solid granite or quartz for successful installation. Plumbers advise sticking with drop-in sinks if you have a laminate countertop.
Faucet Installation
Plumbers also have the knowledge to help with kitchen sink faucet installation. For example, single-hole mounting faucets come with a handle attached directly to the faucet and include a valve for hot and cold water. In comparison, four-hole mounting systems support two-handle faucets and a matching side-spray unit.
Contact Us Today
If you are in the market for a new kitchen sink, it is easy to feel overwhelmed with the options and factors that go into installation. Plumbtree Plumbing & Rooter offers kitchen sink installation as well as drain cleaning, leak detection, and water valve replacement or repair. Furthermore, we can fix your existing water heater or install a new tankless appliance so that your kitchen always has hot water on demand. If you have a kitchen problem that simply cannot wait, we also offer 24/7 emergency plumbing in San Jose. Contact Plumbtree Plumbing & Rooter today for all of your plumbing needs.
