Pros and Cons of Kitchen Sink Styles

Shopping for a kitchen sink? There are so many styes to choose from.... a single large sink, a double sink or a large sink with a smaller sink one on the side. You also have to think about what materials to use like stainless steel vs porcelain enamels as well as a few other options on the market. And last but not least, you get to choose between an undermount, overmount or seamless edge to complete the look. It can certainly feel a little overwhelming and it's kind of a big deal as it's a permanent choice... so I've put together some pros and cons to help you with your decision!

Single Large Sink vs Double Sink

Single Large Sink

• Pro - Easily holds plates, large pots, pans, casserole dishes, serving trays, babies and pets

• Pro - One drain to clean

• Con - Uses more water to fill

Double Sink

• Pro - Separate sides for washing and rinsing dishes

• Pro - Separate side for food disposal

• Pro - Dual depth options for each side

• Con -Kids like to dump food down wrong side

Stainless Steel vs Porcelain

Stainless Steel:

• Pro - Durable, never chips

• Con - Scratches

• Con - Waterstains possible

Porcelain

• Pro - Durable

• Pro - Smooth finish that retains heat

• Con - Scratches

• Con - Stains *check out Americast sinks which are sold as stain resistant

Undermount vs Overmount

Undermount:

• Pro - Seamless appearance

• Pro - Easier counter clean up

• Con - Heavy, requires solid surface countertop

• Con - Mold in caulk line

Overmount;

• Pro - Can fit larger size sink within cabinet

• Pro - Less expensive to install

• Con - Flange on countertop

• Con - Mold under flange lip

Seamless Edge

The seamless edge sink is a new option on the market that I do not have experience with yet, but I thought was worth mentioning. Top Zero sinks feature stainless steel sink designs with patented technology to eliminate crevices where mold and bacteria grow. They basicaly sit flush with the countertop versus over or under and looks like an integrated sink. They can be installed with any solid surface material including granite, quartz and porcelain. Because they are technically more challenging to install, they are more expensive.

Image by Top Zero Sinks

The good news is, there really isn't a right or wrong choice... it really comes down to personal preference. Most people who like to wash their dishes prefer a double style sink so they can fill one side with soapy water and rinse in the other. Most of my clients with busy family households prefer one large sink so they have more room to stack dirty dishes.

Images by Robin Johnson Interiors

What is your favorite sink style? Have you owned more than one type? DM me on Insta, I'd love to know! If you haven't heard of my Kitchen Remodel Made Easy podcast, course and community, you have to check it out. Designed to help homeowners just like you navigate the kitchen design process with confidence and save time + money, click the links below.

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