The kitchen is the place where a woman spends most of her time. For this reason, the workspace should be comfortable, simple and practical. Today, fashion trends allow you to give free rein to your imagination and create an ideal corner in which it will not only be pleasant to be, but also where everything will meet the requirements and desires of the owner. An integral element of kitchen furniture is the sink. Among the huge selection of materials and colors, ceramic models stand out the most.
Positive and negative qualities
What do people say about such an important attribute as a ceramic kitchen sink? Reviews from satisfied consumers suggest that it has several serious advantages:
1. Practicality and long service life. The sink is not subject to scratches and chips thanks to the use of special compounds and high-quality coating.
2. Quietness is another excellent quality of a ceramic bowl. Water flows into it almost silently.
3. No foreign smell. Ceramic sinks will not add additional smell or taste to food.
4. Abundance of models and colors. By special order, you can choose a bowl with a pattern or an unusual color.
Despite the practicality of the product, it also has negative qualities, among which users highlight the following:
1. Large weight of the bowl. This characteristic is important to consider when purchasing. It will be difficult to carry the bowl on your own, and even more so to install it. If handled carelessly, the product may fall and break easily. No special coating will protect the product from damage when dropped.
2. High price. Natural materials have always been expensive. Do not be afraid of this factor, because the practicality and quality of this purchase will quickly pay for itself.
3. The presence of a small percentage of radiation. Natural granite is characterized by the presence of radiation. For this reason, it is better to make a purchase from a reliable seller who can always provide documents indicating permissible radiation limits.
4. Prohibition of the use of abrasive cleaning agents that may damage the topcoat.
5. Inability to make an additional hole, like other sink models.
Ceramic kitchen sinks, the pros and cons of which are listed above, are by far the most popular among buyers. Most stores try to have several models available for order in their catalog, because their quality and long service life speak for themselves.
Characteristics of Quartz Sink
Quartz products have a high level of strength, which is especially important for the kitchen area. During operation, you don’t have to worry about a heavy pan slipping out of your hand, hitting the sink and ruining the surface.
The top of the sink is covered with gelcoat - this is a special coating designed to increase its protective properties. The layer provides high resistance to mechanical damage and increases the overall level of strength of the material. Manufacturers use special painting materials to change the color of the structure. Users are given a wide range of color options to choose from.
The quartz kitchen sink is convenient and easy to use. Thanks to the protective layer, all existing pores on the surface are filled, which ensures a smooth surface. Therefore, the product is easy to wash, while the coating prevents the appearance of plaque. A sink coated with a layer of gelcoat will last for many years and retain its original characteristics throughout its entire service life.
Advantages and disadvantages
The pros and cons of quartz sinks will help ensure the reliability of the design.
Pros:
- Quartz kitchen sinks are easy to clean —no specialized products are needed.
- The design is not exposed to temperature changes and is protected from mechanical damage. But there is an exception - when purchasing a sink with a glossy surface, be prepared that minor scuffs may form on it over time.
- Quartz kitchen sinks have an attractive appearance - it’s easy to choose equipment to suit any interior style.
- The protective layer ensures a long service life. Manufacturers provide a guarantee of at least 10 years. The strength of the product is extremely high, and therefore chips or cracks will not appear on the surface.
- The design is safe. Modern production technologies eliminate the possibility of harmful bacteria multiplying on the surface. The sink is made only from natural eco-friendly materials, and therefore no harmful substances will be released during operation. This is important because in the sink there is constant contact with the dishes from which the household eats daily.
- If scratches and damage do appear during operation, it will not be difficult to fix the defect yourself. Sandpaper is used for sanding. The broken parts are attached back with acrylic glue.
Despite a number of advantages, quartz construction also has disadvantages, which you should also learn about before purchasing:
- Manufacturers claim that the sink is not affected by temperature changes. This is true, its performance properties will not decrease if you constantly heat and cool the air in the room. But this does not mean that you are allowed to constantly put a frying pan in the sink that has just been removed from the heat. In this case, an unsightly mark will remain on the surface that is almost impossible to wash off.
- If you use substances with abrasive particles when cleaning the product, the appearance will deteriorate. It is also not recommended to use metal scrapers to clean the surface. To effectively wipe the surface from dirt, you don’t need to make a lot of effort. Just take a soft cloth and gently wipe the sink.
- And the main disadvantage is the high cost. But since the sink has a long service life, the price is justified.
If you study reviews from users of quartz sinks, you will see that the pros outweigh the cons. Housewives like that during operation there are no unnecessary sounds. The stone muffles the sound of falling water, and the noise from the dishes will be significantly lower than when using the standard metal option.
Ceramic kitchen sinks: types
Ceramic bowls can be made from several materials. Each of them has its own characteristics and characteristics.
1. Earthenware. The material is porous because its base is clay. Earthenware products quickly absorb liquid. For this reason, their surface quickly becomes covered with a network of small cracks, which is confirmed by numerous reviews. This product is of low quality and price.
2. Porcelain. The finished product is obtained by mixing clay, spar, quartz and other ingredients. This composition increases the strength of the sink and gives its surface a glossy and smooth appearance. The quality of a product also increases its value.
3. Porcelain stoneware. This category includes natural material and composite. The top layer of the bowl is most often covered with a fixing surface. It gives the product smoothness and strength. This category of materials, judging by the reviews, is the most popular among buyers and sellers.
Is there a place for quartz in the kitchen?
This design option causes skepticism among some housewives. But having familiarized yourself with the advantages of the product, we can conclude that you can easily place quartz on the kitchen area without spoiling the interior. The material has a high level of strength, and therefore it is reliable and practical.
After reading negative reviews, many refuse to purchase because they think that such a surface is more difficult to care for. But to avoid troubles, you just need to use such a sink correctly. Follow the recommendations, and the sink will last at least 10 years.
How not to make a mistake with your choice
A ceramic kitchen sink, reviews of which are mostly positive, requires special attention when choosing. In order to choose a product that is right for you and your kitchen, you should pay attention to several factors:
1. Type and material of the sink. This factor will affect the cost and service life of the product.
2. Installation option: mortise or overhead. The mortise bowl is installed on built-in fittings. It is made to specific sizes to order. This product is more expensive, but its appearance compares favorably with other options. The built-in sink is mounted on a separate cabinet.
3. Location: corner or frontal. The corner model allows you to save work space and is most often installed in small rooms. The front sink has a brighter look and can decorate any set.
4. Shape and color of the bowl. Today, stores can provide different types of sinks. On store shelves you can find round, oval, square, rectangular, triangular and other shapes. The most popular are round bowls in beige and black colors.
5. Number of compartments. The large workspace of the kitchen unit allows you to use it as efficiently as possible. Installing a sink with several compartments is a solution for practical housewives. This model will make the process of canning, washing dishes, etc. convenient.
6. Diameter and depth. The average depth of a ceramic bowl is 15-16 cm, but if you wish, you can order another model that will meet your requirements and the needs of your family.
7. Manufacturer. Pay attention to products from trusted companies. Otherwise, there is a possibility of purchasing a low-quality product that does not meet all the requirements. Ask the seller to provide the relevant certificates.
Additional tip: To determine the quality of a ceramic sink, you need to resort to the method used when selecting porcelain dishes. Just tap it with a pencil. The sound should be loud and clear. A dull sound may indicate the presence of voids and cracks.
Installation and connection methods
Surface-mounted sink
According to the installation option, sinks made of artificial stone are divided into several types:
- Invoices. This is the classic and simplest solution. You can carry out the installation yourself, without the involvement of specialists. An opening is pre-cut that corresponds to the size of the sink on the inside. 5 mm is added to each side for margin.
- Mortise. These models are usually equipped with a seal and fasteners. During the installation process, it is important to ensure that the fastening points are in the correct position so that the latches align with the latches. Where the sink rises above the countertop, a seal is placed. If all manipulations were done correctly, when you press on the sink, the latches will close.
- Under-table installation. Sinks are installed below the countertop. This method looks more attractive due to the reduction in the number of joints. Relevant for expensive models made of unusual materials. Stone sinks are fixed using brackets and screws. Fastening is carried out with self-tapping screws. A suitable opening is cut out with a jigsaw, the edges are sanded, and a moisture-proof film is applied.
Even a non-professional can handle the installation of conventional sinks. But installation of quartz and marble models requires special skills and experience.
Additional features of kitchen sinks
A ceramic kitchen sink, reviews of which can be heard from many housewives, can be equipped with additional functionality. The most popular food waste shredder, which has a lot of advantages:
1. No need to clean pipes. The product is specifically designed to prevent pipes from clogging.
2. Possibility of installing an electric model.
3. The absence of noise during use makes the accessory more practical and allows it to be turned on at any time of the day.
Types of models
Ceramic kitchen sinks vary in appearance. Ceramics can have one functional compartment, two, and there are also ceramic products with a “wet table” (“with a wing”) - this is a special surface where washed dishes are placed for drying.
The choice of variety is primarily dictated by the dimensions of the kitchen, how much space can allow for a sink with one compartment, or a “wet table”.
Reference ! Depending on the orientation of the sink, they can be straight or angular. The choice of sink depends on where in the kitchen the sink will be placed, whether it is convenient to connect communications and to use the sink in the future.
Ceramic kitchen sink: reviews, price
Prices for ceramic sinks vary depending on the material and manufacturing method. The initial cost of the bowl is 5000-7000 rubles. A product of higher quality and durability can be purchased for 10,000 - 40,000 rubles.
The ceramic sink receives mostly positive reviews. Housewives note the durability and fashionable appearance of the bowls. A wide selection of models and colors allows you to choose the right sink for any kitchen set. Despite the abundance of laudatory reviews, there are also negative characteristics of such products.
What is it that consumers are not satisfied with about ceramic kitchen sinks? Negative reviews are usually associated with the inconvenience of installing the bowl. Due to its heavy weight, it is difficult to transport, and self-installation of the product becomes much more difficult. Some housewives note the ability of light models to quickly absorb the color of dark liquids that fall on the surface. This causes the formation of unsightly stains on the surface that require special attention and care.
Varieties of design
Manufacturers make sinks from stone in various shapes and sizes. In most cases, sinks are made cast, which affects the reliability and strength of the entire structure. There are many interesting models on the market that differ in design features, shape and color. The consumer will be able to choose the appropriate option for a specific kitchen area.
Before purchasing the product, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with the functionality:
- A deep sink protects nearby surfaces from splashes.
- The rectangular shape will fit into almost any design and add rigor.
- The round sink is easy to clean - just wipe it with a damp cloth and all dirt will go away. But this cannot be said about a rectangular structure, since dirt will accumulate in the corners.
Sink designs are divided according to the number of bowls installed. The most popular are samples with two containers. If you decide to purchase such a model, take care to replace the conventional faucet with a pull-out version. This will make using a double sink easier.
If apartment owners prefer to diversify the standard interior with unusual details, it will not be difficult for them to choose extraordinary shapes and shades of the sink. Products with a matte or glossy effect are available for sale.
Important! Glossy surfaces are not as protected from mechanical stress as matte ones. If you use it carelessly, scuffs and scratches will appear on the sink.
Review of models and manufacturers
Many manufacturing companies present their products on the Russian market. We will tell you about the most popular of them, and also compare the available models.
Kraus
The glass sinks of this American company are distinguished by their ultra-durable material and exquisite designer design. The company offers an ideal symbiosis of price and product quality.
- GV-101-14
- tinted glass
Glass thickness – 12 mm
- Diameter – 356 mm
- Height – 140 mm
- Price – RUB 13,642
- Overlay, mounted on a tabletop or furniture
- "Autumn forest"
Glass thickness – 15 mm
Frap
This Chinese company is the undoubted leader in terms of quality and price. Frap glass sinks are strong and durable; Available in both classic and original designs.
- F159-33
- beige
Glass thickness – 12 mm
- Diameter – 420 mm
- Depth to wall – 420 mm
- Price – 9,560 rub.
- Floor-hung, chrome siphon, table top, glass shelves, towel holder
- black
Glass thickness – 12 mm
- green
Glass thickness – 12 mm
- black
Glass thickness – 12 mm
Ledeme
The largest Chinese corporation has rightfully won the respect and trust of Russian consumers with the excellent quality of its products, as well as the variety, elegance of models and affordable prices.
- L115-1
- dark transparent
Glass thickness – 12 mm
- Diameter – 420 mm
- Depth to wall – 500 mm
- Price – RUR 7,340
- Hanging, semi-pedestal
- red-black
Glass thickness – 12 mm
Senli
The plumbing fixtures of this company are distinguished by high quality, interesting design solutions and fairly high prices. But the purchased cast glass sink on the cabinet will become a real decoration of the bathroom.
- T900C
- transparent, with a pattern on the cabinet doors
- Width – 900 mm
- Depth to wall – 530 mm
- Price – RUB 35,760
- Floor-standing, semi-automatic valve, chrome-plated towel holders, cabinet on legs with shelves
Glass thickness – 19 mm
Lamxon
A Chinese manufacturer produces good glass sinks. The elegant design of the models will interest connoisseurs of beauty, but the price is a bit high for the average consumer, although it is somewhat justified by the originality and durability of the products.
- Lyell 57
- red
- Width – 570 mm
- Depth to wall – 480 mm
- Height – 195 mm
- Price – 10,900 rub.
- Wall-hung, chrome siphon with bottom valve, swivel towel holder
Glass thickness – 15 mm
In conclusion of the review, we can conclude that if you are not strapped for money and would like to get maximum quality, a good choice would be glass sinks from American or Italian manufacturers, for example, Kraus, whose main production facilities are located in the USA.
A good choice, quite balanced in terms of price-quality ratio, would be Frap sinks. The models produced by this company are varied and accessible to most buyers. In the Frap company product catalog you can choose a glass sink for a bathroom of any size, for any interior.
But this is our opinion, and it’s up to you to decide which model or company you prefer.
Which sink to choose...
Ikibu
What should be the official equipment of AXIA 6 S.
The Blanco AXIA 6S sink kit includes:
- tempered glass cutting board;
- Stainless steel colander with high quality plastic handles;
- automatic valve for the main bowl;
- all drain fittings (except siphon - connecting element)
If you take a regular composite without PuraDur, I hope, or rather, I’m almost sure that it can be cleaned normally? )
It cleans normally, but PuraDur creates additional comfort in convenience, especially for a black sink. (If you do not have main filters in your apartment and the water is bad, there may be slightly noticeable stains from lime drops if you do not wipe the sink after washing the dishes.)
What composition is there in reality? Especially binders. It is clear that there should be 80x20.
Blanco is one of the leading suppliers of sinks in the world. The company was founded in 1925 and has been producing sinks for over 80 years.
The material from which Blanco granite sinks are made is called. The sink consists of 80% granite chips and 20% acrylic resin. No dyes are added to the wash, unlike other manufacturers. The color of the sink is determined on a computer during the production process, that is, pre-painted granite is mixed with a special acrylic resin, which the company produces itself using its own technology, and does not buy from third-party manufacturers.
This whole mixture is poured into an autoclave with a sink mold. The front side is turned upside down, as a result the granite particles sink to the very bottom (that is, to the front side of the sink). This gives the sink surface special strength. If you look at the sink from the back, its appearance will be, let’s say, not entirely presentable.
The Anthracite color of Blanco is richly dark. Somewhat reminiscent of anthracite coal. Blanco's black material is homogeneous and if you look closely in the light, you will see silvery particles in the granite. This allows a slight "play" in the light, a kind of light metallic, although Blanco does not have a metallic color.
I'm going to install an additional tap from a clean water filter.
I wouldn't do this, but rather install a dispenser. For the reason that those cheap faucets that are sold together with filters look somewhat unaesthetic compared to the expensive faucet standing next to them. (Although this is a matter of taste, they somehow don’t look good on the same site. IMHO)
If you cut directly on the “wing” with a knife, will there be any marks left on the composite?
The material is quite durable, but this is not worth doing. It is better to cut on the board that comes with the kit, especially since it can move freely across the surface of the sink.
Reviews about use
Many domestic buyers have already replaced their old sinks with glass ones. It is worth noting that everyone was happy. There are no comments about the quality. All devices work perfectly. The only thing that the owners of glass sinks paid attention to was the remains of drops. If the water is hard, then it is recommended to wipe them off immediately, since the traces are so ingrained into the surface that even the newest detergents cannot be removed. In those models in which the siphon is chrome-plated, corrosion often occurs. Many buyers changed this part after two years of operation.
Advantages and disadvantages of glass sinks
Before choosing a washbasin, you need to know what is bad and what is good. Like any thing, it has its positive and negative qualities. But we must pay tribute to the manufacturers - this device has almost none of them.
Advantages
- Strength
The products are made of tempered, impact and heat-resistant glass, heat-treated using special technology. This material is not afraid of temperature changes, scratches, or exposure to chemicals.
- Edge finishing quality
Excellent grinding of the sides and technical holes completely eliminates the risk of cutting yourself during operation.
- Aesthetic appearance
The variety of shapes, colors, and methods of decorating glass allows you to choose a glass sink to suit the interior of any style.
Flaws
It’s even difficult to decide what should be considered the disadvantages of glass sinks:
- Transparency that allows you to see everything under the sink?
But this problem can be solved by purchasing a washbasin made of colored or frosted glass or a built-in sink with a cabinet.
- Difficulty in care?
This factor frightens and worries buyers the most. In fact, cleaning a glass sink is no more difficult than a ceramic or earthenware one, especially with the use of modern products. Despite its transparency, with proper and timely cleaning there will be no traces of water, no traces of grease or dirt.
- Fragility?
It was said above that glass for sinks is not afraid of mechanical damage, except perhaps a direct blow from a heavy object, but not a single sink made of earthenware can withstand this.
Perhaps that's all!
How to properly place a bathtub and toilet in a combined bathroom in Khrushchev can be found in our article.
Is it possible to replace a bathtub with a shower? The answer is in our article.
How to save your bathtub using an acrylic liner - https://flaterra.ru/vannaya/i-vanna/akrilovyjj-vkladysh-nalivnaya.html.
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Types of glass sinks
Currently, a wide range of glass sinks is available. They differ not only in shape and design, but also in the type of fastening.
- Wall hung glass sink. The cantilever design is ideal for small bathrooms. It doesn't take up much space. The space under the sink remains empty and can be used at the discretion of the owners. The range of mounted models includes corner structures that allow you to use hard-to-reach places.
- Overhead sinks. The most common type. It is practical and easy to install. Designers for such models have developed special glass cabinets that are not only a beautiful, but also a functional addition.
- Mounting on supports. Nowadays you can buy glass sinks for the bathroom, which fit perfectly into modern interior design. An example is models on supports. In terms of design, they are similar to ceramic sinks (“tulip”). But thanks to the original approach of the designers, in such models it was possible to completely abandon traditional solutions. They look completely new.