Kitchen Sinks: Stainless Steel Shines for Affordability and Strength

Stainless steel is always among the most popular materials for kitchen sinks, and for good reason. When it comes to cleaning customs and durability with a selection of cheap options, it is king.

Know the basics and prices here to see if this glistening sink material can work in your dwelling.

Atmosphere Interior Design Inc..

The basics: Stainless steel kitchen sinks contain nickel and chromium, materials which make them truly stainless and resistant to rust. The sinks include varying thicknesses: 16 gauge (thicker and higher in quality) to 22 gauge (thinner and less expensive).

Cost: $100 to $600 average. However, prices can go up dramatically up to $2,000 or even more — for premium steel, a thicker gauge and more complicated sink designs.

Michael Merrill Design Studio, Inc

Benefits: Stainless steel sinks come in a broad range of sizes and shapes, and can be made very large and deep.

Based on the gauge, stainless steel durability can endure the test of time. In reality, hot pots and pans can be loaded directly into a stainless steel kitchen sink without damaging its surface. Fragile dishes will also be less likely to break if dropped into a stainless steel sink, since it is not as hard as rock.

Aesthetically, these sinks enable for cohesiveness in finishes, since so many modern appliances are stainless steel.

ExpressDecor

Kraus KHF203-36-KPF2120-SD20 36 inch Farmhouse Stainless Steel Sink And Faucet

Disadvantages: Not all stainless steel sinks are all made equal. The thicker the steel, the more durable the sink. Thin stainless steel sinks are somewhat more likely to dent, scratch and even rust when the finish wears off.

Stainless steel sinks are also a tad noisy — some may call for sound-deadening pads. These insulating pads are installed on the underside and sides of the sink to absorb noise, protect against condensation and maintain the temperature of water.

TTM Development Company

Yvonne McFadden LLC

Sustainability: Stainless steel is readily recycled and repurposed. Steel is the priciest recycled material from the United States, so it’s easy to find stainless steel sinks made from recycled materials.

ExpressDecor

Kraus KHF200-36 36 inch Farmhouse Single Bowl 16 Guage Stainless Steel Sink

Care: As its name suggests, stainless steel does not stain and can be easily maintained without specific cleansers. But if you would like to get your sink particularly glistening, a gentle – to medium-bristled brush along with a somewhat abrasive cleaner like Bar Keeper’s Friend will do just fine.

Jeanne Finnerty Interior Design

Are you really a fan of the stainless steel kitchen sink? Let’s discuss! Share your ideas in the Comments section below.

Read stainless steel sinks at the Products section

More: Pros and cons of aluminum sinks

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