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The choice of kitchen sink is a very important step in creating a harmonious space in the kitchen. The sink must meet all technical and aesthetic requirements. If the sink does not work for one reason or another, then replacing it will not be easy. Therefore, it is important to carefully approach the choice of sink and study all the pros and cons of each type of sink.
The material of manufacture is one of the most important criteria that should be paid priority attention to. Kitchen sinks are usually made of artificial stone, stainless steel, ceramics, cast marble or natural stone.
It is worth noting that in recent years, artificial stone sinks have become especially popular. They are extremely aesthetic, come in a variety of colors and fit into any interior.
Features of artificial stone sinks.
Artificial stone is a composite material that is made of natural mineral and acrylic or polyester resin.
For example, we make granite sinks using Solid Surface technology. Platinum`s sinks contain of 80% natural quartz sand and 20% acrylic resin. This formula provides the product with resistance to mechanical damage, scratches, cracks and temperature extremes.
However, each manufacturer has its own production technology, on which the quality and operational properties of the sink depend. Therefore, we recommend paying attention to the brand and price of the sink before buying. Choose products from manufacturers who value their reputation and give a guarantee for the product. For example, our brand offers a 7-year warranty on granite sinks.
In general, artificial stone sinks have advantages, nevertheless there are also disadvantages.
Advantages of artificial stone sinks:
• Material strength and durability. Washing made of artificial stone can be in operation for more than 10 years and retains its aesthetic appearance for a long time.
• Sinks perfectly withstand extremely low or high temperatures.
• Visual appearance. A large selection of models and colors allows you to choose a sink for any interior. Such sinks fit perfectly into various modern styles: high-tech, minimalism, country, provence, loft, classic and others. Sinks of white, beige and gray shades are ideal for provence, retro or scandinavian interiors. Black or graphite sinks will perfectly harmonize with the industrial or minimalist style in the room.
• Hygiene and safety. Due to the special production technology, the smooth surface of the sink made of natural stone prevents the reproduction of harmful microorganisms.
• Various installation options.
• Resistance to chemical cleaning products that are used for both washing dishes and cleaning.
• Artificial stone adapts to the temperature of the room, so it is pleasant to the touch - not cold.
• Ability to recover. Not deep scratches on the surface can be sanded. If the pistil of the material is broken off, then it can easily be glued with acrylic glue.
There is nothing perfect in this world. The same goes for granite sinks. Here are the most important of the shortcomings:
• Price. When compared with steel sinks, granite will be much more expensive. However, if we take into account the long service life, the overpayment will not be significant.
• Weight. Of course, sinks made of artificial stone are not as heavy as with natural, but still they can hardly be called light. This must be considered when installing the sink. Although sometimes the weight of artificial stone sinks is considered as an advantage, because the sink fits well to the surface and does not require auxiliary compensatory clamps.
• Vulnerability of the surface to stains. Care must be taken to ensure that liquids and products that can paint the surface do not remain in long-term contact with the sink. It is important to systematically clean - washing off dirty substances with water and cleaning the surface. Granite sink is desirable to dry after each use.
Advantages of artificial stone sinks over stainless steel sinks.
• Stainless steel sinks cannot be restored. Scratches and other defects cannot be removed from the surface of the sink.
• Dirt and limestone deposits are very noticeable on the steel surface.
• Resonant noise from the flow of water or slapping of cutlery.
• Limited design options. Such a sink can only be steel in color. When, for example, our brand offers 18 color options for granite sinks.
• Acid and chlorine-containing detergents can leave dark spots on the metal surface.
What is inferior to ceramic sinks?
• Vulnerability to mechanical damage. Although kitchen sinks are made of more durable ceramics than bathroom sinks. Yet they require delicate use.
• If defects appear during operation, then it will not be possible to return to their original form.
• Limited stylistic possibilities. Ceramics can have only a monochromatic color without blotches.
• A sufficiently large weight of the ceramic sink requires the use of reinforcement of the structure on which the sink will be installed.
• High price compared to artificial stone sinks.
Which is better: solid surface granite sinks or cast marble sinks?
• Cast marble and artificial granite have a similar production technology, but mineral components are used for marble, which significantly affect the performance properties of products.
• The glossy surface of marble loses its luster over time.
• Products made of cast marble are very heavy.
• Vulnerability to high temperatures. For example, granite sinks TM Platinum can withstand temperatures up to 250 °C, when cracks may appear on the marble surface from high temperature.
• Marble sinks are significantly inferior to granite in strength.
Why is it worth to buy a sink made of artificial stone, and not from natural?
• Sink made from natural stone is very heavy and requires special tools during installation.
• Due to the complexity of the finish, sinks made from natural stone have a great price.
• Fragility. Artificial stone is 2-3 times stronger than natural stone.
• Sinks made from natural stone will be very bulky, because the minimum allowable wall thickness is 2 cm.
• Natural stone has a porous structure that promotes the dilution of harmful microorganisms on the surface. The stone can absorb contaminants, which are then difficult to remove.
• Sinks made of natural granite may have a radiation background that exceeds the norm.
• Natural stone is cold.
• Sinks made of natural stone are very vulnerable to acid detergents.
Resume
Granite sinks made of artificial stone are ideal for any interior. They are durable and stylish. Granite sink can be called an elegant element of interior design, which will flawlessly perform its task for a long time.
Browse the offer of granite sinks TM Platinum and choose a model for Yourself!