(BPT) – From enjoying a nice cup of coffee in the morning to putting the final touches on a homemade pie, the kitchen is the center of the home any time of year, but especially during the busy holiday season. The kitchen will be put to the test, filled to the brim with friends and loved ones, whipping up the family’s secret recipes. In order to handle the holiday season with ease, your sink needs to be in tip-top shape. Is yours up for the challenge?
It may be time to replace your current sink if it’s leaking, chipping or the finish is lackluster. Before you make the big purchase, here’s your guide to buying a functional and stylish sink for your kitchen.
Right size, right fit
The first question to ask when looking for a new kitchen sink is about the sink size and number of bowls: Is your current sink too big, too small or just right? Keep in mind you should select a sink that fits in the existing countertop opening unless you are planning on replacing your counters.
The main factor to consider when selecting your new sink is the number of bowls. To help make the selection, think about your kitchen habits and preferences. If you have limited counter space, you may want to select a single bowl sink; not only does it give you more workspace, it can also accommodate larger trays and skillets. If you like to multi-task at the sink by soaking dishes on one side while prepping the meal on the other, a dual bowl sink will better meet your needs.
Along with the number of bowls, also consider the depth when choosing a new sink. With a shallow sink, it’s easier to see any items left in it; the more depth a bowl has also means there’s more room, allowing you to worry less about dirty dishes being seen from afar or toppling over the edge. It’s easier than you think to find the right depth and style – Moen has a wide variety of stainless steel sinks; there’s a perfect option to meet all of your cooking and cleaning needs, with both single and double bowl configurations available. Best of all, every Moen sink features SoundSHIELD sound-deadening technology, assuring exceptional noise reduction.
Suitable type
Once you find the configuration and depth that’s right for your kitchen, it is time to select the sink type. A drop-in sink is level with your countertop, easy to install and is compatible with laminate and ceramic surfaces. Moen’s drop-in sinks feature a recessed deck, allowing sponges, or other wet items, to be placed on the inner ledge to drain back into the sink, as opposed to the countertop.
The other type of sink installation is an undermount. Here, the sink lip is mounted under the countertop, giving the counter a continuous flow into the sink, and making it easy to wipe away food, crumbs and water. Undermount sinks are a great fit for kitchens that have granite, marble or soapstone countertops. Since it adheres directly to the counter, these solid surface options can better support the weight of the sink.
The gauge, or measurement of the thickness of material, should also be considered while shopping for a sink. Remember, the lower the number, the thicker the steel. Cooks and busy families may prefer heavier gauge sinks that will do a better job of resisting dents that can come from frequent use. Thicker steel will also minimize vibration from a disposal and prevent flexing or bowing when the faucet is mounted directly to the sink.
Adding a second sink is a smart idea for kitchens with two cooks and households that frequently entertain. Creating a separate food prep station or beverage center complete with running water prevents congestion around your main sink and helps make the room feel more spacious. Choosing a bar/prep sink that coordinates with the rest of your kitchen is easy. Once this new work area is complete, you’ll appreciate having this practical luxury in your kitchen.
Visually pleasing
The last step is to pick the sink that is aesthetically pleasing to you and fits in with the style and decor of your kitchen. Kitchen sinks come in a variety of materials and finishes, the most popular and cost-effective material is stainless steel. It’s easy to clean and maintain, and has the added benefit of being heat and stain resistant.
Breaking down each aspect of a potential kitchen sink purchase makes shopping a manageable task. Just remember to start with the basics: the configuration, how the sink will be installed and the overall look you’re trying to achieve to supplement your kitchen’s design.
For more information about the Moen kitchen sinks, visit moen.com or call 1-800-BUY-MOEN (1-800-289-6636).
