Choosing a kitchen sink made of artificial stone

If the living room in an apartment can be viewed from an aesthetic point of view, then the kitchen is primarily a functional room, so when choosing design elements, preference should be given to those materials that are practical and durable.

When it comes to kitchen sinks, stainless steel sinks are a thing of the past; they are replaced by products made of natural and artificial stone. If natural stone is still beyond the reach of most of the population, then sinks made of artificial stone (composite materials) are becoming more and more in demand. We will consider their pros and cons today as part of an article on the knigorez.ru website.

Compound

Artificial stone can be either partly natural or completely artificial.

In the first case, we are talking about a mixed material, where the basis is natural stone chips (or even sand). It is much cheaper than a monolithic piece of stone; but nevertheless it is also a natural material. The composition here also contains polymers for gluing and a little dye to give the product natural shades.

The quality of washing depends on the mineral filler (granite, marble, quartz) and the proportions of the components; ideal ratio of stone particles to polymer resins: 80% and 20%. For example, 80% quartz particles and 20% polymers. More resin will reduce heat resistance and strength.

Granite and quartz chips are stronger than marble, such shells are not subject to scratches and damage. Marble sinks are more capricious, but they are also easier to repair.

The second option is acrylic stone, 100% artificial. Made from acrylic and epoxy resins.

Each manufacturer is trying to get an advantage over the rest and create a unique product. Company engineers are constantly adding new components, either silver ions for an antibacterial coating, or hydrophobic impurities for dirt-repellent properties. In general, everyone has their own know-how.

Pros and cons of sinks made of composite materials

all composites imitating natural material have good properties, are strong and durable,

but because this is an artificial material, it is significantly cheaper than natural analogues.

due to resin impregnation, the composites are completely free of pores and cracks. As a result, the sink does not absorb dirt and grease (it is easier to wash), and its structure remains impervious to any bacteria, which has a good effect on its hygienic properties.

the sink absorbs the noise of the water, and the water does not leave white spots.

a wide range of colors and the ability to make a sink of any bizarre shape.

although the surface is prone to scratches, they are easy to sand and polish.

the sink is easy to assemble, when drilling, cracks do not form in them.

sinks made of artificial stone are about 2 times more expensive than stainless steel sinks.

the surface of such a shell is subject to mechanical stress. Scratches are the main problem with these sinks. Therefore, do not wipe them with hard sponges and abrasive cleaners. Moreover, nothing should be dropped into the sink.

very conditional heat resistance, cracks from temperature differences are possible. Pay attention to this indicator when choosing a material for washing, it varies quite widely (200 - 500 degrees). However, it is not recommended to put a hot pot from the stove directly into the sink, and before draining the boiling water, turn on the cold water.

Quartz wins a little in this direction, however, surface contact with hot dishes should be minimal and only in emergency cases.

products have a lot of weight, which must be taken into account when ordering a kitchen furniture set.

What to give preference: marble, granite, quartz?

Here everything depends on your design fantasies and the style of your interior.

Marble is a rock formed from limestone. It consists almost entirely of calcium, and a small admixture of iron (and other) oxides gives it a characteristic pink, creamy, greenish tint. Marble products are matte, with a warm surface, plastic. It absorbs dyes quite easily, so it is advisable to cover them with a protective layer. Marble requires more careful handling, and is more often used in classic interiors.

Granite is an igneous rock (55-65% quartz, feldspars and other minerals), it is harder and stronger than marble. It is more difficult to polish, the surface remains a little rough - this is what it most resembles a real stone. And on its motley structure, stains and minor defects are not visible.

Quartz sand (the main component of glass) is a hard brittle mineral. Quartz sinks are less afraid of high temperatures, but not everyone likes their cold "glass" look.

Types of shells made of artificial stone

Sinks made of artificial stone can be built-in / overhead / mounted under the countertop or monolithic / integrated / seamless.

Overhead

Mounted under the worktop

Seamless

An integrated sink (more precisely, an artificial stone countertop with a cast sink) looks more spectacular, but there is one barely noticeable catch. If a monolithic product is damaged, you will have to change the entire structure - both the sink and the countertop . Inset sinks, in my opinion, are a more rational solution.

Advice! If you really want the sink and countertop to create a single composition, order their production from the same materials, but as independent elements. If necessary, one part can be replaced without replacing the second.

Colors and shapes of artificial stone sinks

A definite plus is the possibility of individual design and rich colors. It is easy to choose a beautiful option for almost any interior.

In addition, an acrylic sink will be an excellent solution for non-standard kitchens and bold design solutions.

such a sink can be given any shape: round, square, rectangular, angular, wavy, and even in the shape of your favorite musical instrument 🙂 You can choose the number of compartments, their location and sections for drying dishes after washing for your own needs.