Stainless steel sinks - the main advantages, disadvantages
It is safe to say that stainless steel kitchen sinks are the most common and popular type of similar products to date and are unlikely to give up their positions in the near future. This is due to a number of positive factors that we consider below, as well as ease of installation and operation.
We hope that this review will help you understand this topic as best you can.
Pros and cons of stainless steel products
The main reasons for the popularity of stainless steel sinks can be called a number of factors:
| Low price | The cost of such structures is noticeably lower than that of any other analogue, while the economy class designs are some of the most affordable. But still, it’s better to opt for options from the middle or top segment, since the difference in quality is quite noticeable, and , saving at first, you will get many problems later |
| Resistance to deformation | Unlike ceramic products, enamelled and acrylic structures, stainless steel has a high impact resistance, even if dents appear on its surface, this will not impair the performance properties of the product and will not shorten its service life. |
| Low weight | The mass of the sinks is small, which simplifies their transportation and allows you not to create a load on the kitchen furniture. That is, it is suitable for all kitchen sets without any restrictions. |
| Easy installation | Instructions for installing the sink with their own hands is so simple that even those who have never had experience in carrying out such works will cope with it |
| Heat resistance | Stainless steel is not afraid of hot water and dishes, just removed from the stove - its thermal resistance threshold is 1400 degrees, which allows not to worry about the safety of the structure |
| Durability | Due to the fact that the material is not susceptible to corrosion and is not affected by fungus and mold, subject to the basic rules of care, the life of the products can be half a century or more |
Tip! It is very important to pay attention to such factors as the thickness of the material from which the sink is made, the larger it is, the stronger and more reliable the product.
But you need to highlight some of the drawbacks of this option:
- A jet of water creates noise during use. The thicker the walls, the less noise, you can also use special materials for sound absorption or use the popular method, covering the back side of the structure with mounting foam.
- All stainless steel sinks have the same steel color, so if you need another option, then this material is unlikely to suit you.
- If abrasive cleaners are used, scratches may form on the surface. By themselves, they do not affect the functionality, but the appearance deteriorates and dirt begins to accumulate in the damage.
- Before you install the faucet on a stainless steel sink, you should know its weight. Massive structures can not be put on the sink, since it can deform the base, you should use wall options or models that are embedded directly into the tabletop.
The main features of the choice of a specific option and care for the product
In order for the installed sink to please you as long as possible, you should take a responsible approach to the selection process, in addition, it is important to properly care for the sink during operation, so that it maintains an attractive appearance as long as possible.
What you should pay special attention to when buying
To find the best option, you should consider several important factors:
- The dimensions of the stainless sink should be such that it easily fits into the countertop or cabinet. Remember that when cutting a hole at the edges, areas of sufficient width should remain to provide the necessary rigidity and strength.
- The surface can be glossy or matte.. Each of the options has its own characteristics: in the first case, there is a high probability of scratches, which will significantly worsen the appearance of the product, and in the second case, due to the nature of the structure, a deposit will form, although with periodic cleaning it will not become a big problem.
- Another important nuance is the type of installation, if the construction is mortise, then you need to install it in the hole of the tabletop, which you will have to cut yourself during the installation work. There are also options that are attached to the table top from the bottom, they look very original, but the process of installing them is much more difficult due to the laboriousness of processing the butt end of the table top and the difficult sealing of the seam, which should be almost imperceptible.
- It is also very important to determine the best configuration of the shell, it can be of various shapes: square, round, oval, rectangular, and so on. In addition, the product may consist of one bowl, or of two or more containers of different configurations. This allows you to increase functionality and make the most efficient use of every centimeter of space, which is important for small kitchens.
- You should also consider such nuances as the type of shell (stamped or welded), its depth and the thickness of the sheet from which the product is made. All these factors affect the strength and comfort of use, so do not forget about them.
It is worth noting another type of construction - sink for dining room made of stainless steel, this option has a large capacity, and in it the main emphasis is placed on functionality, and not on beauty. Such structures are used in catering establishments and meet all sanitary and hygienic standards.
Care instructions
In order for the products to maintain an attractive appearance as long as possible, you should follow a few simple tips:
- Every day, you should wipe the design with a soft sponge and dish detergent, and then rinse the surface with clean water. Ideally, wipe the surface dry after each use, but you can do it 2-3 times a day.
Tip! It is necessary to eliminate leaks in mixers when they are available as quickly as possible, droplets can very quickly leave stains on the surface that are very difficult to eliminate. The problem is exacerbated, if the flow was long, such spots firmly eats into the surface and it is almost impossible to remove them.
- There are special products for the care of stainless steel surfaces; they should be cleaned once a week. The work is very simple: a small amount of the composition is applied to the flannel cloth and gently rubbed into the surface.
Conclusion
Sinks from a stainless steel - excellent option for any kitchen, the main thing to choose a qualitative product and to follow the elementary rules of operation. The video in this article will vividly show some important points from the topic under consideration.