Sinks for kitchen made of artificial stone

Of primary importance in the kitchen is the sink. Artificial stone sinks are currently very prestigious. Attractive appearance, not demanding handling, and most importantly - low noise effect when rinsing kitchen utensils, make it possible to make the right choice. In this article we will try to deal with all kinds of types and varieties of such sinks, pluses and minuses that give the user sinks for kitchens made of artificial stone.

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The 6 most common problems with artificial stone sinks

Often doubts and suspicions about the quality of the sink made of natural stone lead to the fact that the tried and tested “reliable” stainless sinks are preferred. The most common unflattering customer reviews make you think before you buy this product.

The most common problems with stone sinks:

1. If the sink is light, then over time stains of a dark shade from washing tea and coffee cups, wine glasses or concentrated juice are clearly visible on it. On the dark surface of kitchen utensils - on the contrary, pale spots left by hot objects are outlined.
2. Using very hot water, an artificial stone sink can crack.
3. Inadvertently a weighty object thrown out of hand can break a stone sink.
4. The surface of the sink is subject to very rapid contamination - for an attractive look, thorough cleaning is necessary.
5. The artificial stone base visually looks like ordinary plastic.
6. The seam connecting the sink and countertop very often bursts, although it is believed that this type of sink is seamless.

Important! All these claims relate to acrylic sinks, so you need to competently and with all responsibility approach the selection of the right kitchen appliance for washing dishes. Acrylic is not the only version of artificial stone, and many of their characteristics are really worthy of attention.

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Myths or truth?

Given all the possible problems listed above, it is nevertheless necessary to clarify what exactly you can really encounter, and whether these problems relate to other types of artificial stone.

So:

• The fragility of the washing surface, the sudden appearance of stains and stains indicates the acrylic basis of the kitchen appliance. This inexpensive material with a low-grade structure is very picky and meticulous to use, since the manufacturing process is disturbed.
• Built-in granite or quartz artificial countertops are reliable and durable in use - neither heavy objects, nor numerous stains are not afraid of them.

Important! The presence of visible flaws or spots appearing indicates a factory defect or low-quality goods.

• Acrylic material compared to granite is brittle and less reliable.It is easy to grind and heat treat. A sink of any modification is freely made from it. In such types, the scar between the surface of the sink for the kitchen made of artificial stone and the built-in countertop is practically not noticeable. In case of adverse moments, such as: temperature change, sharp rumble, vibration of the material, this boundary can be detected. These problems are explained by a violation of the technological process or the use of base glue.
  When choosing sinks without seams, it is necessary to carefully choose your manufacturer. Careful and careful attitude will extend the term of use for many years. If necessary, then damage from heated objects, microcracks and gaps can be repaired easily by grinding surfaces. A cracked border can very quickly eliminate glue.
• Built-in granite or quartz artificial countertops are practically not restored, but during operation they are more advantageous.

Important! When purchasing a sink, you need to carefully study the instructions, find out the manufacturing form, read reviews.

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10 reasons why a stone sink is better than a stainless steel kitchen

Most often, kitchen sinks are made of artificial stone or stainless steel. Due to its low price and many advantages, these types are in great demand among buyers. That is why the consumer is faced with the question of a better option. In order to make a choice, here are a few advantages of a sink made of artificial stone over stainless steel:

1. A variety of colors and textures, in addition, stone sinks give the kitchen a rich and original look, unlike steel.
2. Great depth and spaciousness.
3. Made from a very smooth and pleasant material.
4. Noiseless while washing dishes, cutlery and food.
5. It creates a feeling of cleanliness longer, since drops of water, splashes and stains are absolutely not visible at the sink.
6. Keeps initial beauty and purity for a long time.
7. Does not fade over time.
8. High resistance to all kinds of scratches, which can not be said about steel surfaces, and it is impossible to remove scratches from stainless steel.
9. It does not require special and thorough surface care.
10. No need to wipe dry artificial stone sinks.

Or maybe all the same stainless steel?

Of course, in some situations, it is still worth giving preference to a stainless steel sink, since it:

• much cheaper than stone models;
• has less weight;
• also in perfect harmony with kitchen faucets.

Important! When designing a kitchen in the styles of Provence, Country, Baroque or Classic, a stone sink will be an ideal option, will fit perfectly into this interior and will definitely convey the idea.

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Sinks made of artificial stone: composition, characteristics

We are not currently considering the acrylic version; we are specifying materials for a more interesting alternative. The composition of sinks made of artificial materials includes natural materials and connecting components:

• Granite or marble fillers account for 80 percent of the structure and only 20 percent of the chemical composition belongs to polymer binder resins.
• Also, a small amount of coloring elements is added in the manufacture.
• Helmut serves as an individual coating of the surface of shells made of artificial materials.

Kinds

Thanks to this structure, the strength of the material increases, and also the sink looks polished, without any flaws.

The composition of stone sinks is based on two components: a stone filler (crumb) and a binder polymer resin. It is on the type of crumbs that all the main characteristics of the shell depend (durability, strength, heat resistance).

Important! Kitchen sinks made of artificial stone are made by vibrocasting technology.This process contributes to the design of diverse models, various dimensions, polysyllabic manufacturing options.

In the general case, they use one kind of three possible varieties of crumbs. Stone fillers are:

• granite;
• marble;
• quartz.

Important! Durability and ease of care determines the amount of granite. The best composition is: 80% of quartz or granite chips and only 20% falls on all kinds of acrylic additives. Cheaper, but less durable and heat resistant are sinks made of marble chips.

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Sinks made of artificial stone: colors, models, surface types

A variety of color schemes, a variety of shades, an abundance of textures are achieved using modern technological processes for the manufacture of sinks from artificial raw materials.

Hue palette

Sinks similar to natural stone in texture and roughness of the coating are most often used in operation. Along with the most preferred white, black and beige colors in hypermarkets, blue, green, red, pink and other shell colors are offered.

Important! Even after 7-9 years, the shade of a quality stone sink does not change, despite the energetic everyday use.

There are also a small number of metallic surfaces.

Important! The most profitable solution for the kitchen will be a “speckled” artificial stone sink. It is on such surfaces that all kinds of spots and contaminants will be as invisible as possible, which can not be said about plain shells.

The form

The design solutions for artificial wash basins are incredibly diverse. The most successfully implemented two-cup models have the appearance of a moth or sink - they are incredibly practical and convenient. There are also classic forms of shells in the line of different manufacturers - square, oval, etc.

Important! Modifications of models made of artificial stone are much more diverse than those made of stainless metal material.

Texture

The surfaces of sinks with a non-natural coating can form the impression of gloss, shagreen, antique, dull, or give a silky-matte shade.

Dimensions

Most often, buyers give preference to large sinks, referring to their convenience and spaciousness. However, if a dishwasher is used in the kitchen, then there is no need for a huge sink with a wing, so you should not clutter up valuable kitchen space very much.

Do not forget that you need to choose deep sinks in order to later be able to wash a large pot, pan or baking sheet.

Important! An ideal option for a small kitchen will be a corner stone sink in a trapezoidal or rounded shape with one or two bowls. It will help to make efficient use of the corner space.

Number of bowls

Depending on the dimensions of the kitchen and needs, the most optimal number of bowls is determined:

1. The classic option is single-cup rectangular sinks, since they are very simple in the installation process and quite roomy. Such a sink will be an excellent option for those who manually cope with washing dishes.
2. A two-bowl sink with a “wet table” fits perfectly into a large kitchen. This type is very convenient to use, because it makes it possible to perform several actions simultaneously. But you should not buy such a sink for a small kitchen, as it will reduce the already small work space.

Important! In order to determine the optimal number of bowls, it is enough to observe your actions in the washing area before buying. It is this procedure that will help you choose the right option for the most effective work in the kitchen.

Selection of accessories

In order to facilitate the washing process, it is worth paying attention to special accessories.They are able to turn any stone sink into a powerful ergonomic washing center. Firms produce identical sets of accessories for both stainless steel and stone sinks. This helps to easily find the desired item.

Important! It is worth buying a special metal basket for dishes. It will help prevent damage to the stone sink and protect cookware from breaking.

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Performance characteristics of artificial stone sinks

Kitchen sinks made of artificial granite or marble base perfectly proved themselves in everyday life. They:

• easily withstand a significant temperature difference;
• perfectly treated with various chemicals when contamination occurs;
• practically not subject to mechanical defects and defects during operation.

A feature of a kitchen sink made of artificial stone is a slight thermal indicator. Thus, raising or lowering the temperature regime in the range from -30 to +150 degrees, the washing surface of the product does not undergo any noticeable changes.

Important! Ceramic-coated sinks do not withstand either boiling water poured into a chilled sink or instantly chilling water. Artificial metal products in such episodes are not prone to any cracks.

Also, kitchen sinks made of artificial marble or granite have stability and durability in the process of applying chemicals and reagents used in everyday life.

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Artificial stone sink: pros and cons

Due to the unique qualities of cast artificial stone, such sinks look very aesthetically pleasing and have excellent quality.

disadvantages

The disadvantages of sinks made of artificial materials in comparison with other similar products are very few, but you can still highlight:

• The product itself is very heavy.
• Sinks are very expensive.
• The hot pan just removed from the stove must not be immediately put in a stone sink, as there may be an indelible stain.
• You cannot throw very heavy objects at a sink from a high distance - otherwise it will crack.

Advantages

Despite the minor disadvantages, the advantages of this design are much more:

• Quite a long time using the washing surface. Manufacturers of these sinks guarantee a ten-year quality use.

Important! With the right and careful attitude, a sink can last much longer and 60-70 years. Sinks made of natural composite certainly exceed this gap, but the sinks made of ceramic coating are much lower.

• High hygienic ability of washing, thanks to a peculiar technological process, prevents the development and appearance of harmful microorganisms on the washing surface. In this case, the nasty smell of rot and other decaying pathogens is completely absent.
• A composite of artificial stone does not pick up increased radiation, unlike shells made of natural stone.
• Colossal strength superior to concrete. Even heavy cast iron cookware does not entail any serious damage.
• With fairly minor damage, a sink made of artificial granite or marble is very easy to repair. Sandpaper eliminates cracks and scratches, and a special glue sticks broken pieces. Such minor repairs will be completely invisible to an outside observer.
• Thanks to the use of design and creative developments, there is a wide range of modifications of the shapes and sizes of models.

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Which stone sink for the kitchen is better to choose?

When choosing a sink made of artificial stone, special attention should be paid to the manufacturer. The best option would be to buy a sink from a well-known brand, since such companies provide a guarantee (on average for two years from the date of purchase) and add a technical passport to the kit.

Important! Since the sink is purchased for a very long operational process, it is better not to save and choose the best quality option.

Among the most famous and reliable brands are:

• Reginox;
• Franke
• Teka;
• Blanco;
• Marmorin.

Important! It is worth fearing unknown manufacturers, since such sinks for kitchens made of artificial stone can be substandard and quickly become unusable. And one more important factor is safety, the guarantee of which will not be, because the composition of the material is unlikely to be exactly known to you.

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Rules for caring for a stone sink

Stone sinks do not require special care, so they are very easy to use.

Important! With them, there is never a problem with getting rid of limescale, and if you make a choice in favor of a natural color, then any pollution will not be rushed into the eyes.

To extend the life of the stone sink and keep it clean for longer, it is enough to adhere to a few simple rules of care:

1. From the moment you purchase it, start looking after the sink, and not just during periods of very severe pollution.
2. At the end of the work, thoroughly rinse the bottom and side walls of the sink for the kitchen made of artificial stone. For the best effect, you can still wipe the washed surface dry.
3. Be sure to open the faucet with cold water before pouring boiling water into the sink. This will protect the surface from sudden temperature changes, which will prevent the appearance of cracks. This rule is very important for low-cost models.
4. Use specially designed cork or metal coasters for pots or trays.
5. Regularly clean the sink of accumulated fat with a sponge and a liquid detergent degreaser.

Important! Do not forget that the sink should serve a sufficiently long period, therefore, observing the simple rules of care will help to constantly maintain a beautiful and clean look.

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Stock footage

Now you know everything in order to correctly and easily choose a sink for your kitchen made of artificial stone. We hope that the purchase did not disappoint you and now you can even cope even with a large mountain of dirty dishes after another culinary experiment.