Kitchen Sinks and Installation: A Homeowner’s Guide

Home improvement cannot be complete without giving your kitchen a face lift and one of the most important fixtures in that space is the sink. Although it is an unsung hero, this fixture is one that no kitchen can do without; from food prep to washing stuff and cleanup after cooking, a kitchen sink is almost constantly in use every day. This therefore is the reason why the choice of sink to install is a very vital one.

It will be foolhardy to start your renovation project or fresh construction without giving proper though to this component in your cookhouse. There are many things to consider; from material to style/design and installation requirements, all add up to the success or failure of your construction or home improvement endeavour.

In an urban centre like Sydney, the size of people’s home and kitchen layout differ. You have Spacious family houses in the suburbs, modern apartments in the Central Business District and terrace houses in the Inner West. Therefore, when thinking of kitchen sink installations in Sydney, there are different factors to consider. That is why this article is here to guide you so stay with us as we explore the topic. 

Why Kitchen Sink Selection Matters

In an urban centre like Sydney the size of properties and layout of kitchen vary widely. This variety ranges from spacious family houses in the suburbs to terrace houses in the Inner West to the modern apartment homes in the Central Business District of the city. No two homes are the same even if they kind of have the same design. That is why it is important to choose the sink that best fits your home.

Although the kitchen design trend in the city is constantly evolving, one thing remains constant and that is the need for practical sinks that either serve as the central point of a kitchen design or blend seamlessly into the overall design scheme of the space.

You must therefore consider your space and home design amongst other things before choosing any style or design for your kitchen fixtures.

Common Types of Kitchen Sinks in Sydney

Although there are many types of kitchen sinks all over the world, the following are the most popular types in Sydney: –

Top-Mount (Drop-In) Sinks

These are the most popular and easily affordable types and just as the name imply, this type is dropped into a hole that is cut out of the countertop with the rim holding it in place. This style is best for laminate countertop and are easily installed and replaced.

Pros

1.  Affordable and Cost-effective

2.  Ease of installation

3.  Ease of replacement 

Cons

1.  The elevated edge can accumulate dirt and debris

2.  It is not seamless

Undermount Sinks

This is another common style that is found in modern Sydney kitchens, and they are installed beneath the surface of the countertop which creates a sleek and clean finish. They are best for solid surfaces like engineered stone, quartz or granite.

Pros

1.  Seamless finish

2.  Ease of cleaning. Click here for tips on how to clean your kitchen fixtures.

3.  Contemporary look

Cons

1.  Needs to be installed by a professional

2.  Usually more expensive

Farmhouse (Apron Front) Sinks

The main features of this type are the deep bowls and exposed front panel. They were once found only in provincial or rustic designs but can now be found in contemporary homes for functionality and style.

Pros

1.  Deep basin for large cooking utensils

2.  Convenience and comfort

3.  Aesthetic appeal

Cons

1.  Needs cabinet modification

2.  Heavier and more difficult to install

Double Bowl Sinks

Just as the name implies, these come with double basins, and they are great for multitasking. They are ideal for large families and/or people that entertain a lot.

Pros

1.  Flexibility

2.  Functionality

3.  Versatility

Cons

1.  Takes up more space on the countertop

2.  The bowls may be smaller than regular basins

Sink Materials: What Works Finest in Australia?

Although many homeowners do not consider this, lifestyle and climate are important factors to consider when searching for the right kitchen sink. So, for homeowners in Sydney, you need to factor in your lifestyle and the climate of the city when choosing this fixture. The following are some materials that are great for aesthetic appeal and durability: –

1.  Stainless Steel – This is the most popular option because it is rust, stain and heat resistant. These features also make it ideal for busy kitchens.

2.  Granite Composite – They scratch- resistant and durable and give that matte, textured finish that goes well with stone countertops.

3.  Ceramic/Fireclay– These are usually common in farmhouse-style sinks and give that traditional look. Although they are stylish, they require extra care to avoid chips.

4.  Quartz Composite – The major features of this material include scratch and heat-resistance. They are great for contemporary homes.

Other factors to be considered when choosing sink materials include: – hardness of water, regularity of use and cleaning habits of the inhabitants of the home.

Quik Tips for Kitchen Sink Installation in Sydney

Before we wrap up this piece, the following are quick tips to help you with making the right choice: –

1.  Hire a Licensed Plumber – This will help you stay complaint with local codes and regulations, get efficient water connections and prevent risks and damages.

2.  Lookout for WELS Rating – Choose appliances and fixtures that come with a high WELS (Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards) rating. Visit this site: https://www.vba.vic.gov.au/ for more information.

3.  Confirm Cabinet Size and Countertop Depth – Ensure that you have the right option that fits your cabinet design and into your countertop.

4.  Drainage and Waste Disposal– If you intend to add a waste disposal unit ensure that it is approved by your Local Government Area authority. Also make sure that the unit is supported by your plumbing system.

Conclusion

The decision for which type of sink to install in your kitchen is not just about aesthetics; you need to consider functionality too. Additionally, you have to factor in the layout of your home, your cooking habit which determines the regularity of use and your budget which includes the logistics for the installation.

We have shared many tips that will help you make an informed choice. Take out some time to study which option best fits your home before you make a choice so that you can get value for your money.

Quintessential Plumbing Sydney

2/63-69 Bonar Street, Arncliffe, 2205, NSW

02 9002 7385

https://quintessentialplumbing.com.au