Marble sinks for the kitchen: characteristics and tips for choosing
Not a single detail of the kitchen interior can be accidental, and the choice of such an important element as a sink should be approached with greater responsibility, because this item performs both a practical and a decorative function. A marble sink can be a good option for kitchens of different styles.
Peculiarities
Marble is a noble stone that has been used to make bathtubs since ancient times. Today, the material is used to decorate luxurious rooms, while always looking harmoniously in the kitchen. The sink becomes not only a must-have item with high performance properties, but also a real decoration of the kitchen.
Currently marble is gaining popularity and luxury marble sinks are offered by many companies. In the ranking of materials in demand for sinks, marble takes the second place, however, this is due to the price of the product, and in terms of quality and appearance, such a sink cannot be compared with the leader - budget stainless steel.
The peculiarities of the specimen also include the ability to purchase a color version, which is very important when choosing the color scheme of the kitchen interior.
Advantages and disadvantages
The main advantages of such sinks include the following properties:
- sinks made of natural marble have a long service life;
- you can choose the shade that best fits into the kitchen design;
- the stone is in perfect harmony with other materials: with tiles, metal, wood;
- with an individual order, it is possible to perform a marble sink of any shape and size;
- when washing dishes and products, stains and streaks do not form on the surface;
- it is easy to care for a marble product;
- in case of deformation, the sink can be restored;
- such a specimen is characterized by environmental safety, as well as high hygiene due to a smooth non-porous surface;
- good sound insulation will not spread the sound of dripping water throughout the apartment.
Before choosing a marble sink, it is worth examining its disadvantages as well.
- These are quite expensive products, because even artificial samples with stone chips are not cheap.
- When cleaning the sink, do not use some chemical detergents that may damage the material.
- If it is a natural stone, then the sink will be heavy, which will complicate installation. In addition, a special stand may be required in this case.
Varieties
Stone sinks can be made of natural or artificial material.
- Marble. These are quite practical sinks with the ability to repel moisture. They are not afraid of high temperatures, they are resistant to the formation of mold, fungus and parasites on the surface. However, natural stone has the ability to absorb odors.
- Marble chips. This option is the most popular, since outwardly the shells hardly differ from their counterparts, but the price of an artificial stone is much more affordable. In terms of performance, the artificial sink also does not lose much, because it is strong, durable, does not deform under heavy dishes that have fallen, is resistant to accidental knife cuts, and does not absorb grease and moisture.
Marble chips make it possible to make long surfaces, so many owners try to make both the sink and the countertop from the same material - such a set looks harmonious.
An artificial product is made of fragments of marble mixed with acrylic resin. The more crumb is included in the production, the higher the quality of the wash. For example, shells are considered the best, in which the proportion of crushed crumbs is 94-95%.
Sometimes dyes are added to the composition of raw materials, which make it possible to create products with unique colors. The texture of the artificial sink and its pattern depend on the size of the marble chips.
In terms of hygiene, the artificial version is also not inferior to natural material, and some models are produced covered with an antibacterial layer.
The disadvantages include high cost. It is not as outrageous as for products made from natural stone, but it still requires serious expenses. When using marble chips, there is a high probability of damage to the surface from chemicals and abrasive brushes, so you should take great care of such a coating.
In addition to the material of manufacture, marble sinks may differ in shape.
- Monolithic. In this case, the structure is a single unit with the table top. Manufacturing is possible only by individual order. This option looks quite aesthetically pleasing, but there is no practicality in this design. For example, if the surface is damaged, you will have to replace the entire cracked tabletop.
- Mortise... This is a more traditional, practical and functional option. If the hostess wants the countertop and the sink to be in the same color scheme, then it is recommended to order both products from the same manufacturer.
How to choose?
Below are some tips for choosing a marble sink.
- The most important selection criterion is the size of the sink. It is determined by the installation location and the height of the work surface. According to experts, a sink less than 90 cm wide will be inconvenient to use.
- It is worth carefully examining the product and make sure that there are no chips, cracks or dents on the surface. The level at the edge of the bottom should not be lower than that of the drain.
- It is necessary to familiarize yourself with the warranty period and the rules for returning in case of defects in work. Do not forget about the warranty card.
When choosing a marble sink, special attention is paid to its design.The color is selected taking into account the general theme of the room. It is important to know that this type of sink is not possible for every style. For example, best of all, a marble sink will fit into a classic interior.
It is possible to use such a sink in the kitchen. in the art nouveau style, both in modern and in its traditional variation.
If a marble sink is chosen for a minimalist kitchen, then it is better to give preference to products in soft pastel shades.
When buying plumbing in a style room art deco it is quite possible to use marble products, but it is important to repeat the same pattern in other items of the kitchen interior. A marble sink will do just fine. for eclecticismthat allows the combination of a wide variety of styles and materials.
If the kitchen is done in ethnic or rustic style, then it is better to refuse an elite sink - marble will look ridiculous in the general theme. This sink will not look too harmonious in styles hi-tech, loft and urban... But if such a sink is made of artificial stone and in an unusual color, then you can imagine it in these modern styles.
For tips on choosing a sink for your kitchen, see the following video.