The kitchen sink is where you will probably spend most time in the kitchen but how much thought did you give to kitchen sinks before buying it? How much thought do you give it now? Probably not much unless it does not provide the convenience and features you need. You will always be irritated by a sink that is too small for your pots or trays (or the wok). You could be seriously put out if it overflows because it does not have an overflow feature. You will always be dissatisfied if you find that you need a second sink but don't have one.
You only want to buy your kitchen sink once so it is best to choose it with care.
New Zealand’s most popular sink style
Parmco FS-FQ
Consider these points:
Is one sink enough? A second sink can be very handy for rinsing dishes or emptying crockery whilst the main sink is in use. A waste disposer, where used, is usually fitted in the second sink.
Teka UNI 1B 1D
The quality A poor quality sink may look like a cheap bargain but can actually lead to expensive problems. A sink that is too flimsy and wont seat properly can lead to expensive problems. Poor quality steel or material that is too thin can lead to corrosion or even be penetrated by dropping a knife, leading to expensive and inconvenient damage and repairs. A minimum quality to look for in kitchen sinks is 304 grade stainless steel in either 18/10 or 18/8 thickness. Look also for a 25-year guarantee.
Teka CUADRO 60
The finish Kitchen sinks come in various finishes including highly polished. Polished steel can look attractive but is likely to cause glare when sunlight pours through your kitchen window. A high polish will also show scratches more readily on kitchen sinks.
Ceto SKCETO1120
Installation Even the best kitchen sink can give problems if it is not installed properly. Many sinks still come with the old fashioned adhesive foam seal. This should be discarded in favour of water resistand silicone (look for 'wet areas' silicone of professional quality. Ensure that the sink is well anchored with equal pressure all around so that it does not distort. Tapware should be installed by a professional plumber.
