Farmhouse Kitchen Sink Buying Guide: What to Look for in Quality Farmhouse Sinks
BodenLooking for the perfect farmhouse sink to bring your kitchen to life? Farmhouse style sinks are more than just a place to wash dishes; they add rustic elegance to any modern kitchen.
In this guide, we'll cover essential sink options like sink materials, styles, functionality, and installation options so you make an informed decision and find a high quality farm sink that checks all your boxes. Let’s get right to it!
Why Choose a Farmhouse Kitchen Sink?
- Timeless Charm: Farmhouse sinks bring a touch of rustic charm and classic appeal to your kitchen. With their exposed front and apron design, they add a certain character that sets them apart from ordinary sinks.
- Room to Roam: Tired of struggling to fit those bulky pots and pans into your sink? Farmhouse sinks offer generous space that can handle everything you throw at it. From washing large cooking items to fitting stacks of dishes, you'll appreciate the freedom and convenience a farmhouse sink provides.
- Easy Maintenance: Cleaning up after cooking is a breeze with a farmhouse sink. Its spacious design and deep basin make it easy to tackle dirty dishes and pots without splashing water all over the countertops.
- Versatile Style: Whether your kitchen boasts a modern, traditional, or eclectic style, there's a farmhouse sink to match. They come in a variety of materials, finishes, and colours, allowing you to find the perfect sink that complements your kitchen's aesthetic.
- Durability and Longevity: Farmhouse sinks are built to withstand the test of time. Crafted from sturdy materials like stainless steel, fireclay, or copper, they are designed to handle daily use and resist chipping, staining, and scratching.
Popular Materials for Farmhouse Kitchen Sinks
Boden Belfast Brushed Gunmetal Farmhouse Kitchen Sink
When it comes to farmhouse kitchen sinks, the material you choose can make a big difference in terms of durability, aesthetics, and functionality. Let's take a closer look at some popular materials and what makes them stand out:
Stainless Steel
A tried-and-true favourite, stainless steel farmhouse sinks are known for their durability and versatility. They are resistant to corrosion, stains, and heat, making them perfect for busy kitchens. Stainless steel sinks also offer a sleek and modern look, effortlessly blending with a variety of kitchen styles.
Fireclay
If you're seeking a farmhouse sink with classic charm and exceptional durability, fireclay sinks are worth considering. Crafted from clay and glazed at high temperatures, these sinks are resistant to chipping, staining, and fading. Fireclay sinks add a touch of elegance and can withstand the demands of daily use.
Copper
Looking to make a statement in your kitchen? Copper sinks bring a warm and inviting aesthetic to any farmhouse-style space. They develop a beautiful patina over time, adding character and uniqueness to your sink. Copper sinks are also naturally antimicrobial and highly durable, making them both visually appealing and functional.
Honourable Mention: Granite Composite & Natural Stone
If you want a farm sink that combines durability and style, granite composite sinks are an excellent choice. These sinks are made from a mixture of crushed granite or quartz and resin, resulting in a durable and heat-resistant surface. Granite composite sinks are available in a range of colours and textures, allowing you to find the perfect match for your kitchen.
Or, if you crave the organic beauty of nature, natural stone sinks can bring a touch of luxury to your farmhouse kitchen. From marble to soapstone, these sinks offer unique veining and textures that add elegance and sophistication. However, it's important to note that natural stone sinks require regular sealing and maintenance to preserve their beauty.
Choosing the Right Style for Your Farmhouse Kitchen Sink
Boden Belfast Brushed Gunmetal Farmhouse Sink
The style and size of your farmhouse sink is an important consideration. Different styles offer unique features and functionality to suit your specific needs. Let's explore some popular styles of farmhouse sinks:
Apron Front Sinks
Also known as apron sinks, these are the quintessential farmhouse sink style. With their exposed front panel that extends beyond the countertop, apron front sinks bring a charming and distinctive look to your kitchen. They offer a spacious basin and a visual focal point that enhances the overall look and feel of your kitchen design.
Double Bowl Sinks
If you want flexibility and convenience, double bowl sinks might be your best bet. With two separate basins, you can multitask by using one side for food preparation and the other for washing dishes. Double bowl sinks are perfect for households that require efficient workflow and a clear separation of tasks.
Single Bowl Sinks
For those who prefer simplicity and a generous workspace, single bowl sinks are an excellent choice. With a single, deep basin, you'll have ample room to tackle large pots and pans or to comfortably wash bulky items. Single bowl sinks offer a sleek and uncluttered look, ideal for minimalist or compact kitchens.
Exposed Front Sinks
If you're looking for a unique twist on the classic farmhouse sink style, exposed front sinks are worth considering. These sinks feature a partial front panel that exposes a portion of the sink's front, offering a touch of visual interest while maintaining the farmhouse charm. Exposed front sinks strike a balance between traditional and contemporary aesthetics.Functionality and Design Considerations
Undermount Vs Top-Mount Farmhouse Kitchen Sinks
So, undermount or top-mount? The installation method can affect both the look and functionality of your sink.
Undermount Installation
Undermount sinks are installed beneath the countertop, creating a seamless and sleek look. With this installation method, the edges of the sink are hidden, allowing for easy cleanup and a clean, uninterrupted countertop surface. Undermount sinks provide a modern and sophisticated appearance, perfect for showcasing your farmhouse sink as a focal point.
Top-Mount (Drop-In) Installation
Top-mount (also known as drop-in )installation involves placing the sink on top of the countertop and securing it in place. This installation method creates a more traditional and classic look. The sink's edges rest on the countertop, creating a visible rim around the sink. Top-mount sinks are relatively easier to install and are a good choice if you want to retain the existing countertop or prefer a simpler installation process.
Which is the Best Farmhouse Sink Material For Durability?
Quality and durability are key considerations when investing in a farmhouse sink - but which material stands the test of time the best?
- Stainless Steel Farmhouse Sink: Stainless steel sinks are known for their exceptional durability. They are resistant to corrosion, scratches, stains, and heat. Stainless steel is a tough material that can withstand heavy daily use and is less prone to chipping or cracking. It is a popular choice for its long-lasting performance and ability to maintain its appearance over time.
- Fireclay Farmhouse Sink: Fireclay sinks are highly durable and resistant to chips, scratches, and stains. They are made by fusing clay and glaze at high temperatures, resulting in a dense and solid surface. Fireclay sinks are known for their longevity and ability to withstand the rigours of everyday use without losing their charm and functionality.
- Copper Farmhouse Sink: Copper sinks, while softer than stainless steel, are still highly durable. Copper is a malleable material that develops a unique patina over time, enhancing its beauty and character. Copper sinks are resistant to corrosion and bacteria, making them a durable choice for farmhouse kitchens.
At Buildmat, we believe in creating farmhouse sinks that not only embody timeless style but also provide lasting durability. That's why we've chosen to use stainless steel in our farmhouse sinks. Stainless steel is a tough and resilient material that can handle the demands of a busy kitchen.
It's resistant to stains, scratches, and chipping, ensuring that your sink stays looking beautiful for years to come. Plus, stainless steel is easy to clean, making your kitchen maintenance a breeze. With our stainless steel farmhouse sinks, you can have the best of both worlds: a stunning centrepiece for your kitchen and a sink that can stand up to the demands of everyday life.
FAQs Farmhouse Kitchen Sinks
Can I use bleach to clean my farmhouse sink?
It’s not recommended to use harsh chemicals or bleach to clean your farmhouse sink. These substances can be abrasive and may damage the sink's finish over time. Instead, opt for mild soap, non-abrasive cleaners, or natural cleaning solutions. Always refer to the manufacturer's recommendations for cleaning products that are safe for your specific sink material.
Do farmhouse sinks scratch easily?
Farmhouse sinks made of stainless steel are generally resistant to scratches, but they can still develop fine scratches over time with heavy use. Fireclay farmhouse sinks are also scratch-resistant, while copper sinks, being softer in nature, are more prone to showing scratches and marks.
Can I install my farmhouse sink myself?
While sink installations can be DIY jobs, it’s usually best left to professionals. Incorrect installation can mean your farmhouse sink won’t work as well as it should, and will likely void the warranty.
What is a Belfast farmhouse sink?
A Belfast farmhouse sink, also known as a Butler sink, is a classic style of farmhouse sink that hails from Belfast, Northern Ireland. These sinks have a distinctive look with a deep and rectangular shape and a prominent front apron. They're usually made of ceramic or fireclay.
To Wrapping Up
Whether you're renovating your kitchen or simply upgrading your sink, our Boden Belfast Stainless Steel Farmhouse Sink is a versatile choice. Its symmetrical design allows for reversible installation flexibility, making it suitable for various spaces. The sink's noise-reducing sound-absorbing pads ensure a quiet and comfortable experience, while the exterior coating prevents condensation.
Discover the Buildmat difference today and elevate your space with our Boden Belfast Stainless Steel Farmhouse Sink.
