Narrow sinks for the kitchen: an overview of the varieties and selection criteria
The sink is one of the most important parts in the kitchen. It is near it that most of the processes associated with cooking take place: preparation of food, containers and kitchen appliances.
On the modern market of sanitary products, a wide range of kitchen sinks from all kinds of manufacturers is presented. Given the high demand for products, it is not surprising that there is such a variety. In this article we will talk about such an innovation for the kitchen as a narrow sink, which has become popular with consumers since its inception. We will discuss all kinds of such products and selection criteria.
Requirements
Since no kitchen can exist and do without a sink, it is very important that so that it meets all the requirements, namely:
- was roomy;
- withstood the effects of high temperature and its sharp drops;
- was equipped with reliable shockproof protection;
- was resistant to various chemicals, detergents and abrasives;
- was convenient and practical to use;
- over a long period of operation did not change its original appearance.
This is exactly what a quality kitchen sink from a reliable manufacturer should be.
Varieties
The variety of narrow kitchen sinks is quite large. There are several classifications of this sanitary ware.
By the type of insert, it can be:
- mortise - the sink is installed directly into the countertop;
- consignment note - the sink is held on the countertop by the sides;
- fixed at the bottom of the tabletop using special fixtures.
Also, a narrow shell can be of various shapes.
Rectangular
It is a very popular type of product among consumers. The sizes can be very different. The choice is very large and makes it possible to choose the most suitable option for the kitchen.
Square
This is the standard and classic kitchen configuration. It is comfortable and very roomy, it fits well in almost any interior. The size of the square-shaped sink bowl is universal (40x40 cm), it is convenient to wash both large pots and small dinner plates in it.
Oval or round
This elegant piece is suitable for classic and modern interior designs. The sink can be installed both in a straight kitchen unit and in a corner unit. The absence of right angles makes using the sink convenient and comfortable.
Unusual
These include triangular and trapezoidal shapes. Also, a narrow sink can consist of several rectangles or bowls.
Standard sizes
Having familiarized yourself with the variety of forms and methods of insertion, you can talk about the standard sizes of a narrow kitchen sink. They are much smaller than the dimensions of the usual sink.
The standards establish that the width of such a product should be 35 cm.
This size allows you to keep the sink practicality, functionality and the required volume. Of course, on sale you can find models with a width of 30 cm, 40 cm, 50 cm.
As for the depth, there is also a great choice. It is important to consider several key factors here, for example: the volume of work performed in the sink and the size of the countertop. It is thanks to the dimensions that the narrow sink has become so popular, because it makes it possible to save space and does not clutter up the space, which is often so lacking in the kitchen.
Manufacturing material
The number of materials from which kitchen sinks are made today, including narrow ones, is quite large.
Stainless steel
A sink made of this material is considered the most affordable and inexpensive. But despite the cost, stainless steel remains a reliable and durable material that has excellent technical characteristics and properties... The stainless steel product perfectly resists mechanical and chemical influences, withstands temperature changes, and is easy to clean.
Enamelled steel
This is a great option for home use.
The sink is characterized by an affordable cost, resistance to mechanical stress, temperature drop.
Also, such a sink is not afraid of chemical and abrasive substances. If we talk about the shortcomings, then it is worth noting the fact that after some time after the start of use, chips may form on its surface.
Ceramics
It is a very popular material for making narrow kitchen sinks.
Ceramics is an environmentally friendly and safe material that has an excellent appearance.
The cost of such a sink is higher than those listed above, but the manufacturer claims that the price is fully consistent with the quality. As for the disadvantages of a ceramic product, it should be noted poor resistance to mechanical damage and high weight.
Fake diamond
This refers to a mixture of quartz and granite chips. The appearance of the sink completely imitates natural stone - few can tell the difference. A sink made of this material is very beautiful and boasts a variety of colors. The product is durable, has a long service life, but is not so cheap.
Natural (natural) stone
This is the most expensive and high-quality material for making kitchen sinks. A stone sink has many advantages that fully justify its cost.
The best manufacturers and models
Since a narrow sink is a fairly popular sanitary ware for the kitchen, it is not surprising that there are many manufacturers, among which I would like to mention the most reliable and well-known:
- Akvater;
- Blanco;
- Betanox;
- Franke;
- GranFest;
- Florentina.
The most popular models are:
- Tipo 45S from Blanco - the product is made of stainless steel and has a number of advantages;
- BSG 611 - 62 - model from Franke, made of artificial stone, has a beautiful almond color and design;
- GF-S-645L - the product is made of artificial stone in sand color, manufacturer - GranFest.
Criterias of choice
Since the sink is an indispensable kitchen attribute, when choosing it, you need to take into account many criteria and factors that will help you choose the most suitable option. So, we focus on:
- product shape;
- the material from which the sink is made;
- insertion method;
- the size of the sink - it should fit perfectly into the dimensions of the kitchen, be practical, functional and convenient;
- technical characteristics - shock resistance, strength, reliability, sound absorption, wear resistance;
- appearance and design - it is very important that the sink becomes a harmonious addition to the kitchen interior, and not a "eyesore";
- the presence or absence of additional bowls and surfaces for drying dishes;
- manufacturer - it is better to give preference to a well-known brand and brand: a reliable manufacturer is always responsible for its product, gives a guarantee and provides quality certificates;
- the cost of the product.
Remember: a quality sink cannot be cheap.
The cost of a kitchen sink can be influenced by the brand, size, material, insertion method, bowl depth. But expensive options are a guarantee that the product will perform its functions for a long time and well and please the hostess with its appearance.
The following video examines the main differences between stainless and composite sinks and natural stone sinks.