The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Durable Stainless Steel ...

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Stainless steel kitchen sinks are among the most durable options available. Discover what contributes to their longevity.

According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association, stainless steel is the most favored material for kitchen sinks. Their annual trends survey revealed that 61% of participants selected stainless steel as the leading choice for kitchen sinks.

So, why is stainless steel so popular? What keeps it as a top choice in kitchens?

Stainless steel can withstand years of daily use with minimal maintenance. A mid-quality stainless steel sink can last between 15 to 20 years. It's notably durable, heat-resistant, and resists staining. Additionally, stainless steel sinks come in a variety of styles and configurations, allowing you to find the perfect match for your kitchen. They are also among the most affordable kitchen sink materials.

Despite its long-lasting reputation, not all stainless steel sinks are equal. There exists a significant range in the quality of stainless steel sinks. Here are essential factors to consider in order to choose a durable stainless steel sink that will last for many years.

Look for These Qualities

Consider these five crucial factors to ensure you're selecting a high-quality stainless steel sink:

1. Gauge

The gauge refers to the thickness of the stainless steel. Lower gauges indicate thicker material, while higher gauges indicate thinner material. Why is this significant? Aren't all stainless steel sinks the same? Not at all. Low-gauge stainless sinks are of higher quality and more resistant to dents. In contrast, high-gauge stainless steel may echo and doesn't hold up as well if heavy items are dropped on it. However, Consumer Reports found that gauge had little impact on sound performance for 18-to-23-gauge sinks.

For a high-quality stainless steel sink, aim for a thickness of 16 to 18 gauges. Here’s a breakdown of thickness differences from 16 to 23 gauges:

• 16 gauge: 0.0625 inches thick
• 18 gauge: 0.055 inches thick
• 20 gauge: 0.04 inches thick
• 22 gauge: 0.0315 inches thick
• 23 gauge: 0.025 inches thick

As illustrated, the differences in gauges are minimal but impactful. Typically, high-gauge sinks are more affordable, while low-gauge sinks are pricier. If longevity is essential, investing in low-gauge stainless steel is worthwhile. If the lowest grade exceeds your budget, opt for an 18 to 20 gauge sink.

2. Grade

Along with thickness, pay attention to the grade of stainless steel. The grade signifies the levels of chromium and nickel present in the steel, which contribute to its strength and rust resistance. Various grades of stainless steel exist, but two of the best grades for sinks are:

• Grade 18/8 (Series 304): Contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel. This grade is highly rust-resistant and ideal for sinks, being less expensive than Grade 18/10 while still resistant to rust.
• Grade 18/10 (Series 316): Contains 18% chromium and 10% nickel. This premium grade is rust-proof and retains its polish well. Due to the higher nickel content, these sinks are pricier and commonly used in pots and pans due to their excellent heat conductivity.

Both Grades 18/8 and 18/10 are suitable for kitchen sinks. Among them, 18/8 is generally more affordable than 18/10. Aim for a ratio between 18:8 and 20:10.

3. Depth

Certain sinks might be made from high-quality steel, yet remain shallow, rendering them less functional. A shallow sink can lead to water splashing out and limited dish capacity. While some might find a lower sink appealing, those looking for optimal functionality should choose a sink deep enough to hold a stack of dishes, ideally at least 10 inches deep.

4. Finish

The finish of your stainless steel sink is another vital consideration. While the finish doesn’t necessarily correlate with quality, some finishes conceal scratches and imperfections better. Shiny finishes are more prone to noticeable scratches due to their reflective nature. Instead, opt for a satin finish, commonly found in luxury stainless steel sinks. This textured finish can effectively hide small scratches and minimize water spots.

5. Insulation

Uninsulated stainless steel sinks may produce a noisy, tinny sound. Such noises can detract from the overall experience of even the finest sinks. While not every good-quality stainless steel sink includes padding or insulation, many do. Insulation is typically absent in low-quality sinks. It helps dampen noise from the faucet, particularly when the sink is full of dishes.

When selecting a stainless steel sink, ensure it meets all these criteria. Of course, some aspects are more crucial than others, with gauge and quality being the top priorities. However, in an ideal scenario, a high-end stainless steel sink would encompass all these features.

Even High-Quality Stainless Steel Can Scratch

Regardless of the quality of your stainless steel sink, scratching is inevitable. Initially, the appearance of scratches can be alarming. However, rest assured that this is common for stainless steel in homes. To prevent scratches, avoid dropping items in the sink, and refrain from placing sharp objects like knives in the basin.

Although scratches cannot be completely eliminated from a stainless steel sink, their appearance can be minimized. After cleaning, buff the surface with a small amount of olive oil on a soft cloth. Olive oil helps reduce scratched areas' visibility and enhances the shine of your sink.

Why You Should Purchase a Stainless Steel Sink

Wondering why stainless steel sinks are a preferred choice in kitchen aisles? Here are four reasons to consider installing one:

They’re Easy to Clean

Stainless steel is a non-porous material, making it easy to clean. To maintain the shine of your stainless steel sink, rinse it daily with warm water and mild dish soap. For those tougher cleaning days, gently scrub the sink with baking soda and a soft sponge. Avoid the following materials on your stainless steel sink:

• Abrasive tools like steel wool or Magic Erasers - They can cause scratches.
• Abrasive cleaners like Comet - These can unintentionally scratch your sink.
• Strong acids like bleach - Bleach can damage the protective layer of your sink.

They’re Very Durable

Stainless steel sinks are robust and require minimal maintenance. Use them daily without concerns. Unlike granite or stone sinks, stainless steel sinks do not require annual care. With proper maintenance, they can last 30 years or longer. The finish will not chip away as it does with cast iron sinks.

They’re Available in Various Styles

No matter your kitchen size, stainless steel sinks come in a plethora of styles. Select from drop-in sinks to seamless undermount models. Stainless steel sinks are available in single and double basin configurations, as well as farmhouse and apron-front styles. While traditionally recognized for their metallic appearance, stainless steel sinks are now offered in brass, black, and even copper.

They’re Classic and Timeless

Stainless steel kitchen sinks are not merely a fad. They have been cherished in kitchens for years and still are. Regardless of paint, tile, countertop, or appliance color changes, a stainless steel sink will continue to enhance your kitchen’s aesthetics. Interior designers regard stainless steel sinks as elegant and timeless additions to any kitchen. For a high-end appearance, opt for an undermount stainless steel sink instead of a drop-in.

Invest in a Stainless Steel Sink from CopperSmith

Are you in search of a stunning stainless steel kitchen sink for your remodel? Our high-end stainless steel sinks, crafted from 16-gauge sustainable metals, are designed for durability. We prioritize reducing our carbon footprint by utilizing recycled materials.

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Our sinks offer a long-lasting finish that complements stainless appliances in upscale homes. If you're interested in stainless steel sinks with unique textures, explore our popular options below:

1. Kitchen Farmhouse Sink in Stainless Steel

Are you dreaming of a deep, farmhouse-style sink for your kitchen? Our Kitchen Farmhouse Sink features a rounded apron front and deep basin, with options available in various sizes. Elegant and luxurious, this style is sure to become a centerpiece in your home.

2. Apron Kitchen Sink in Stainless Steel

Our classic Apron Kitchen Sink is an undermount style featuring two deep basins. Choose from several bowl proportions including 50/50, 30/70, 40/60, 60/40, and 70/30. Customize the size, finish, metal, and texture of this sink to fit your home perfectly. Apron sinks are excellent for busy households that accumulate many dishes.

3. Bar Sink in Stainless Steel

If you already own your dream kitchen sink, consider adding a stainless steel Bar Sink to your remodel. These sinks are currently in vogue because they add both function and style to any kitchen space. The square design represents an ideal blend of durability, luxury, and sophistication.

4. Undermount Metal Kitchen Sink

If you have granite, stone, or quartz countertops, our Undermount Metal Kitchen Sink in hammered stainless steel will seamlessly integrate with your kitchen design. Featuring high-quality construction and top-notch design, this sink appears refined and sophisticated.

Interested in seeing more high-end sinks from CopperSmith? Explore our collections of copper and brass kitchen sinks. For inquiries or to learn more about CopperSmith sinks, please contact us today.