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GUIDE TO SELECTING THE RIGHT KITCHEN SINK WITH EASE!-DirectSinks

GUIDE TO SELECTING THE RIGHT KITCHEN SINK WITH EASE!

Dawn DSU3118 kitchen sink

Originally published by Dawn Kitchen & Bath

Measure Twice

Your choice of sink will be restricted by the size of your cabinets and counter top. When looking for a sink be sure to pay attention to the minimum cabinet size. Your cabinet size can be determined by measuring from left to right and from outside edge. You will need to factor in 2 to 3 inches for the mounting hardware on each side of the sink. For example, a 36" cabinet can accommodate a 30 to 32" sink. Most kitchen cabinets are a standard width of 24" when measured front to back. The width of your sink can be determined by this measurement and whether or not your counter has a back splash. If the counter top has no back splash and the cabinet is of standard size, a sink that measures 22" width will fit. If the counter top has a back splash, measure the thickness of the backsplash and subtract it from the cabinet's width. This will give you the maximum sink size and allow enough spacing for the installation.

Material

Kitchen sinks are manufactured using various materials. Just to name a few, stainless steel, enameled cast iron, porcelain on steel, corian, quartz composition, granite, and vitreous china can be found in today's modern kitchens. Regardless of the wide variety, stainless steel has emerged to become the most popular choice for new installations. This is due to its low cost, lightweight, and almost unbreakable construction.

It is important to understand that various qualities of stainless steel coexist. For example, light-gauge stainless steel or 20-gauge is more susceptible ti denting and scratching. Furthermore, stainless steel is available in a mirrored finish, which gives it a shinier appearance, but also increases the likelihood that visible scratches will occur. Brushed-stainless, also called satin, is the newest trend because scratches are less visible. That does not mean it is scratch resistant.

Accessories

Do you find yourself short on counter space? Once you have decided on your perfect sink, don't forget the many optional accessories available including form-fitting cutting boards, drain mats and colander baskets. Dawn has a few options where units are specially designed to accommodate colanders and drain mats on a rim manufactured on the inside, making it easier to drain food without tipping the container and spilling contents into your sink. Most sinks also have optional faucet hole for convenient attachments like drinking water dispensers, soap dispensers and a pullout side spray for your faucet.

Dawn suggest checking manufacturer's websites or the literature available at most showrooms to get more specifics about the brand or model you are interested in purchasing. It is important to remember that not all sinks are created equal.

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