Living in well-designed homes has a positive influence on our lives. You don't have to spend thousands of dollars to build a well-designed house. Today, you can make functional and beautiful homes without spending a fortune. For instance, if you plan to renovate or build a new bathroom, you can get a good bathroom sink at a reasonable price. All you have to do is find details of the types of sinks available in the marketplace and buy a sink that suits the decor of your bathroom. The professionals at CopperSmith would like to assist you with some information about conventional bathroom sink materials.
Types of Bathroom Sinks
Sinks have become the focal point of most modern bathrooms because of their functionality and design. Selecting the right bathroom sink from among the myriad of sinks is not easy. You must have some idea about the types of sinks available and the material used to make these sinks. You can use this knowledge to buy a sink that suits the style and aesthetics of your bathroom. Here we're going to discuss the commonly used materials so you get an idea of the sink you can buy to make your bathroom even more beautiful.
Cast Iron Sinks
Cast iron is probably the oldest material used for kitchen sinks. It is still very popular because homeowners love the glossy and bright enamel finish of cast iron sinks. Since iron is prone to rust, most cast iron sinks have a thick porcelain enamel coating to protect the iron from corrosion. If you were to use a cast iron sink without the coating, it would have the same texture and finish of a cast iron pan.
The porcelain enamel coating used on cast iron sinks is usually tough and does not scratch or stain easily. The enamel coating isn’t comprised of just paint but melted glass that is fused to bare iron. Even though it is technically glass, it is incredibly durable and can easily withstand daily wear and tear. Also, cast iron sinks are easy to clean and are unlikely to show spots from the dried water. Porcelain enamel coating also has excellent resistance to fading and light.
There are a few drawbacks that you must be aware of before buying a cast iron sink. For one, it is massive and can weigh three to four times more than a standard stainless steel sink. That can make installation difficult, especially when you install an under mount sink that requires additional supports to hold the sink. Another drawback of cast iron sinks is that the enamel coating can chip which can expose bare iron to moisture. If corrective action is not taken, the iron will begin to rust. However, you must understand that the coating is stable and will not chip off easily.
The cost of cast iron sinks will vary depending on the color and style you select. If you have a limited budget, you can buy a standard white enamel sink, as they are less expensive when compared to a colored sink.
Copper Sinks
If you are planning to purchase a sink that adds glamor to your bathroom, you must get a copper sink. However, this is not the only reason why you should buy a copper sink for your bathroom. There are several other reasons why you should install a stylish copper sink in your bathroom.
- When you install a copper sink in your bathroom, it will make your bathroom appear fresher and upbeat. Most copper sinks are made from a single sheet and are exposed to oxidation and other chemical processes to protect them from corrosion. These chemical processes also help in improving the aesthetic appeal of copper.
- Copper has several antimicrobial properties that make it the apt choice for the bathroom sink. In traditional sinks, bacteria can survive for several days, which is a significant health hazard. When you use a copper sink, bacteria will die in a few hours which reduces health risk.
- Most homeowners prefer using copper sinks because they are available in several colors and styles. Since they are available in several colors and designs, it is not difficult to get a copper sink that suits the decor of the bathroom.
- Another advantage of using copper sinks is that they don't corrode as quickly as cast iron sinks. That makes them an ideal choice for both bathroom and kitchen sinks
- Copper is a highly durable metal, making copper bathroom sinks a cost-effective investment as they are less likely to get dings or dents after a few years of use. After your initial purchase, a copper sink will likely last you for years to come.
- Copper bathroom sinks are heat-resistant and rust-resistant, meaning you can use the hot tap without damaging the metal or worrying about the metal corroding.
- Copper has an attractive honey-colored hue, which can help to brighten up darker or smaller bathroom spaces.
- Copper bathroom sinks can be a statement piece for larger rooms, especially in white or bright bathrooms. Where spaces can look clinical or bland, copper bathroom sinks can make a room more cozy or inviting.
- Copper can also be used in many other fixtures in the bathroom, like bathroom taps, light fittings, or copper bathtubs. This means that after purchasing copper bathroom sinks, you should be able to find other items in copper to match.
Even though copper sinks have several advantages, some people avoid using it because copper is a highly reactive metal and can darken over time. Copper sinks can also get damaged when exposed to acidic liquids like toothpaste and mouthwash. Also, maintaining copper sinks is a time-consuming and laborious process, as they require periodic waxing to retain their appeal and shine.
Although some individuals do not enjoy the dark brown patina that an older sink achieves over time, many enjoy the darker caramel patina that develops as a copper sink ages. A patina is a coat that forms on the outer layer of copper to protect it over time. Copper is considered a ‘living metal’, which means that it forms a patina to prevent damage. Copper bathroom sinks will not turn green as they are specially treated against developing a green patina.
Over time copper bathroom sinks can develop a dark shine that makes them look more stylish and even antique. If you want a rustic feel, copper bathroom sinks that reach that darker hue may be a welcome addition to any home.
How to maintain copper bathroom sinks
With a little maintenance, a copper bathroom sink can be a welcome addition to any home. Some tips for maintaining copper bathroom sinks follow below:
- Remove toothpaste or other stains from the sink immediately. Certain substances like toothpaste can darken the patina of the copper prematurely.
- Although copper is heat-resistant, certain hot combs or tools can damage the wax seal of a copper sink, exposing it to damage.
- Towel dry the sink after each use, removing water droplets to avoid staining.
- Use a salt and vinegar solution to lighten the patina of an older copper sink.
Concrete Sinks
Concrete sinks are custom-made sinks that allow the user to incorporate design features like inlays, drain boards, or unique size or shape. Since these sinks are not used by everyone, they offer several unique style choices. However, concrete sinks are expensive and require periodic sealing to repel moisture and avoid stains. Also, it is extremely heavy and requires additional supports to hold the sink.
Composite Sinks
These sinks are made using a combination of different parts or elements. Composite sinks are made by combining granite, quartz, or glass with a filler. The consistency of the mixture will vary depending on the manufacturer and the product. Most composite sinks are tough and are resistant to scratching and stains.
Granite Composite Sinks
Granite composite is one of the most durable sinks in the market. They have high-density rock particles on the surface which make them chip, heat, and scratch resistant. It is the ideal choice for those who are looking for durable sinks that can withstand daily wear and tear.
Quart Composite Sinks
These sinks are made using a combination of quartz and resin filler. Quartz composite sinks can easily stand up to acidic liquids and are resistant to dents, scuffs, and cuts. However, they are less durable when compared to granite composite sinks.
Ceramic Sinks
Ceramic is made from glass, clay, and metals. This mixture is used to make bathroom sinks for several decades. People prefer using ceramic sinks because it is stain resistant, smooth, easy to maintain, and has low moisture absorbency. However, ceramic sinks are prone to scratching and chipping, and often need replacement when damaged.
Stainless Steel Sinks
Stainless steel sinks are inexpensive when compared to other types of sinks. The versatility of stainless steel makes it an ideal choice for both top mount and under mount installations. Most manufacturers use padding or spray coating to make them more durable. However, steel sinks scratch easily and are likely to show water spots. That can make it difficult to keep steel sinks clean at all times.
What makes copper bathroom sinks better than other sink types?
Copper bathroom sinks are better than other sink types because:
- They are more hygienic than all other metals. In fact, they are the only metal with antimicrobial properties. Copper kills most harmful pathogens within four hours of hitting a copper surface. Stainless steel has little antimicrobial resistance, and ceramic properties are still being investigated.
- They are durable and long-lasting. Steel sinks, porcelain and ceramics are more at risk of scratches, dents, and dings. Copper bathroom sinks are less likely to become damaged by heat, rust or damp environments.
- Copper sinks have a more versatile color range than other sink types. You can also choose between alloys like bronze or brass, which enjoy many of the same properties as copper while offering different design and color types.
If you have any more questions for the copper professionals, call CopperSmith today at 1-888-431-4677 or email us at [email protected].