It takes ~ 2 minutes to readNo kitchen can do without such an important part as a sink. To create the desired interior, you must carefully approach her choice. More and more in demand are sinks made of artificial stone, pushing into the background their analogues from metal. They are chosen because of the aesthetic appearance and the absence of noise when washing dishes. Is it worth it to choose a stone sink, and how to choose it correctly will be described in this article.
Main characteristics
Such products are created from a material that consists of filler and additional elements. Natural minerals (in the amount of 80%) act as filler, and resins (20%) as additional elements. Dyes are used to colorize. Such a sink is often covered with gelcoat, which is a special solution to increase surface resistance. Thanks to this layer of protection, it becomes smooth rather than porous. It allows you to preserve color and shape for a long time, which is a good plus when choosing.
It is worth noting that they are cast products created from the so-called cast stone. With the help of modern manufacturing technologies, they are created in absolutely any size, shape and color. Also, this material is characterized by such features as reliability, durability, resistance to any influences.
Types of shells (photo)
In the modern world, when the technological part of production is at the highest level, washing It is created in all kinds of variations: granite, porcelain, different shapes, colors, textures, shades etc. However, sinks similar to a real natural stone in color and pattern are most popular.
You can pick them up absolutely for any interior design and color scheme: green,red,purple or blue, yellow etc. Granite retain their color for 50 years.
In addition, they can be with the following effects: gloss, dullness, shagreen leather, antique, etc. A sufficiently large number is created with a structural surface in any form: circle, oval, shell, butterfly and much more.
Operational Features
As for the operation side of the stone sink, here it has excellent characteristics. Granite does not require special care, is resistant to mechanical damage, high and low temperatures, and is also easy to clean and wash. The exception is sinks with a glossy effect, since here the surface can be scratched with sharp objects.
They are also resistant to chemicals, even very aggressive ones. The surface, pattern and structure do not deteriorate when interacting with acids (hydrochloric, perchloric, phosphoric), ammonia, iodine, hydrogen peroxide, etc. However, it is worth remembering that nitric acid and acetone can leave small traces on it.
Pros and cons of artificial stone sinks for the kitchen
Advantages
- Strength. By mechanical strength, fake stone is 2-3 times higher than natural and even stronger than concrete. If heavy objects, such as iron utensils, hammers, kitchen appliances, etc., fall, they will not cause cracks or chips.
- Durability. Granite has a long service life (at least 10 years). Here we are talking about granite and marble plumbing, inferior in this indicator porcelain. With proper operation and proper care, it can be presented to your children and grandchildren after 50 years of service.
- Purity. Stone washing provides hygienic safety, since bacteria and microorganisms do not accumulate in it. Due to the smooth surface and structure, no plaque occurs.
- Full recovery. When chips and defects appear, you can quickly restore the original look with a simple sandpaper and polishing. If a too large piece breaks off, it can be glued with glue without leaving any glue joints.
disadvantages
- It does not tolerate touching too hot metal utensils, a noticeable trace will remain from it;
- A chip or crack may appear if something very heavy is dropped on it; porcelain stoneware is especially vulnerable, although it is quite popular;
- If plumbing is acquired mortise into the countertop, then with a crack in the sink you will have to completely change the countertop. And they are much more susceptible to damage.
What to choose: stone or steel?
These materials have achieved such fame due to the low price, excellent characteristics and aesthetic appearance. Natural stone is much more expensive (more than 50%), so it is less popular.
As for stainless steel, it has a low price in comparison with others. In addition, they are strong and durable, and also combine appearance with faucets. However, their noise is a big minus: when washing dishes, you hear noise from water, from contact with dishes, etc. Also, the surface is severely scratched, and these scratches are not removed. In just a month of use, 50% of the surface will be scratched, quickly losing its luster and luster.
Metal washers collect a large amount of dirt that accumulates in scratches. To maintain a beautiful appearance, you need to wipe it dry so that there are no stains.
This does not need to be done if the sink is stone. Steel has only one color, and stone - many variations. Therefore, it can be easily matched to the design of the kitchen. However, installing a metal sink will be much easier than installing a stone. Choose what is preferable, depending on the budget, the wishes of the owner and the interior.
How to choose a sink made of artificial stone?
First of all, it is necessary to determine the shape and color. The classic option is rectangular sinks with one bowl. They are very roomy, and they have no problems installing. This option is ideal for washing dishes by hand.
If the kitchen is spacious, and the family is very large, then you should install a sink with two bowls, as well as with a table for dishes (the so-called wet table). They are extremely convenient, because you can put dishes in one and wash in the other. Or in one defrost food, and in the second - wash, etc.
In order to leave dirt and raids invisible, it is recommended to put non-uniform shells - with veins, drawings, etc. In addition, they are easy to care for.
It is worth paying attention to the manufacturer of this or that plumbing, read reviews about it, view reviews, photos and ratings of other owners. Well-known and high-quality companies provide a guarantee, a technical passport, and also label them. The initial composition will be registered in the passport without any exaggeration. If purchased from an unverified manufacturer and at a lower price, then it will not be so durable and durable. Perhaps curvature, deformation, the appearance of unwanted chips and cracks.
The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in the house, and therefore it is necessary to equip it wisely and with special care.
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