- 6 most common problems with artificial stone sinks
- Myths or the truth?
- 10 reasons why kitchen sink is better than stainless steel
- Sinks made of artificial stone: composition, characteristics
- Sinks made of artificial stone: colors, models, surface types
- Performance characteristics of artificial stone sinks
- Sink made of artificial stone: pros and cons
- What kind of stone sink for the kitchen is better to choose?
- Rules for the care of a stone sink
The washing in the kitchen is of paramount importance. Great prestige is currently used in sinks made of artificial stone. Attractive appearance, non-demanding handling, and most importantly - low noise effect when rinsing kitchen tools, allow you to make the right choice. In this article we will try to deal with all kinds of types and varieties of such shells, pluses and minuses that give the user a sink for the kitchen of artificial stone.
to content ↑6 of the most frequent problems with artificial stone sinks
Often doubts and suspicions about the quality of a sink from an artificial stone lead to the fact that preference is given to tested and "reliable" stainless sinks. The most frequent unflattering reviews of buyers make you think about before buying this product.
The most common problems with stone washes:
- If the washbasin is light, then over time it is easy to see the stains of a dark shade from washing tea and coffee cups, glasses of wine or concentrated juice. On the dark surface of the kitchen accessories - on the contrary, the pale stains left by the hot objects are outlined.
- Using strongly hot water, a sink made of artificial stone can crack.
- A non-important piece released from the hands of a heavy object can break a stone sink.
- Surface of the shell is susceptible to very rapid contamination - for an attractive appearance, thorough cleaning is necessary.
- An artificial stone base visually looks like ordinary plastic.
- The seam that connects the sink and the table top, often bursts, although it is believed that this type of shell is seamless.
Important! All these claims relate to acrylic sinks, so you need to competently and with all responsibility go to the selection of the necessary kitchenware for washing dishes. Acrylic is not the only version of artificial stone, and many of them are really worthy of attention.
to the contents ↑Myths or the truth?
Given all the possible problems listed above, it is still necessary to clarify with what exactly it is possible to encounter, and whether these problems refer to other types of artificial stone.
So:
- The fragility of the cleaning surface, the sudden appearance of stains and stains indicates an acrylic-based kitchen appliance. This inexpensive material with a base structure is very fastidious and meticulous in use, as the manufacturing process is broken.
- Built-in granite or quartz artificial countertops are reliable and durable in use - neither heavy objects, nor numerous divorces, they are not terrible.
Important! The presence of visible flaws or emerging specks indicates a factory marriage or a defective product.
- Acrylic material is brittle and less reliable than granite. It is easy to grind and heat-treat. From it, a shell of any modification is freely made. In such forms, the scar between the surface of the kitchen sink for artificial stone and the built-in countertop is practically not noticeable. At adverse moments, such as: temperature change, a sharp rumble, the material vibrates, this boundary can be detected. These problems are explained by the violation of the technological process or by the use of low-grade glue.
When selecting sinks without seams, it is necessary to carefully select the manufacturer. A careful and cautious attitude will prolong the period of use for many years. If necessary, then to eliminate damage from heated objects, microcracks and gaps, you can easily polish surfaces. The glue can crack very quickly. - Built-in granite or quartz artificial countertops are practically not restored, but they are more advantageous during operation.
Important! Acquiring a sink, you must carefully study the instructions, learn the form of manufacture, read reviews.
to the table of contents ↑10 reasons why a stone kitchen sink is better than a stainless steel
Most often kitchen sinks are made of artificial stone or stainless steel. Due to their low price and many advantages, these types are in great demand among buyers. That is why the consumer is faced with the question of a more optimal option. In order to determine the choice, we present several advantages of a sink from an artificial stone in front of a stainless steel:
- A variety of colors and textures, besides, stone sinks give the kitchen a rich and original look, unlike steel.
- Great depth and spaciousness.
- Made of very smooth and pleasant material.
- Noiselessness during washing dishes, cutlery and food.
- Longer creates a sense of purity, because the sink is absolutely not visible drops of water, splashes and stains.
- Keeps the original beauty and purity for a long time.
- Does not fade with time.
- High resistance to all kinds of scratches, which can not be said about steel surfaces, and it is impossible to remove scratches from stainless steel.
- Does not require special and thorough care of the surface.
- You do not need to dry the sink from the artificial stone.
Can it still be stainless steel?
Of course, in some situations it is still worth choosing a stainless steel sink, because it:
- is much cheaper than stone models;
- has a lower weight;
- also perfectly blends with the mixers in the kitchen.
Important! With kitchen design in the styles of Provence, Country, Baroque or Classic, stone sink will be an ideal option, it will perfectly fit into this interior and will accurately convey the idea.
to the contents ↑Artificial stone sinks: composition, characteristics
We do not currently consider the acrylic version, we are refining the materials of a more interesting alternative. The structure of the sinks from artificial materials includes natural materials and connecting components:
- Granite or marble fillers account for 80 percent of the structure and only 20 percent of the chemical composition belongs to the resin binding resin.
- Also in the manufacture of a small number of coloring elements.
- Helmut serves as an individual coating of the surface of shells made of artificial materials.
Types
Due to this structure, the strength of the material increases, and the washing looks polished, without any flaws.
At the heart of the composition of stone washes are two components: a stone filler( crumb) and binder polymeric resins. It depends on the kind of crumb that depends on all the main characteristics of the shell( durability, strength, heat resistance).
Important! Kitchen sinks made of artificial stone are made by vibration technology. This process contributes to the design of a variety of models, different sizes, multi-complex manufacturing options.
In general, use one kind of three possible varieties of crumbs. Stone fillers are:
- granite;
- are marble;
- quartz movement.
Important! Durability and ease of maintenance determines the amount of granite. The best composition is: 80% of quartz or granite chips and only 20% of it comes from all sorts of acrylic additives. The cheaper, but less durable and heat-resistant are marble crumbs.
to content ↑Artificial stone sinks: colors, models, surface types
A variety of colors, a variety of shades, an abundance of textures are achieved using modern technological processes for making shells from artificial raw materials.
Ashtray palette
Sinks, like natural stone in texture and rough coat, are most often used in service. Along with the most preferred white, black and beige color gamut in the hypermarkets are offered blue, green, red, pink and other color solutions of the shells.
Important! Even after 7-9 years, the shade of quality stone washing does not change, despite vigorous everyday use.
There are also a small number of surfaces with a metallic effect.
Important! The most profitable solution for the kitchen will be a wash of artificial stone "in specks."It is on such surfaces that all kinds of spots and soils will be as imperceptible as possible, which can not be said for monochrome shells.
Form
Design solutions for shells from artificial cover are incredibly diverse. The most successfully implemented two-piece models have the appearance of a moth or shell - they are incredibly practical and convenient. There are in the line of different manufacturers and classic forms of shells - a square, an oval, etc.
Important! Modifications of models from artificial stone are much more diverse than from stainless metal material.
Texture
Surfaces of sinks with non-natural coating can form the impression of gloss, shagreen, antika, opacity or to give a silky matt shade.
Dimensions
Most often, buyers prefer large shells, referring to their convenience and spaciousness. However, if a dishwasher is used in the kitchen, then there is no need for a huge sink with a wing, so do not clutter the valuable kitchen space very much.
Do not forget that you need to choose deep shells to have then the opportunity to wash a large pan, pan or baking sheet.
Important! Ideal option for a small kitchen will be a corner stone sink with a trapezoid or rounded shape with one or two bowls. It will help to make a productive use of the angular space.
Number of bowls
Depending on the size of the kitchen and the needs, the most optimal number of bowls is determined:
- The classic option is a one-cup rectangular shell, as they are very simple in the installation process and are capacious enough. It is this kind of washing that will be an excellent option for those who manually cope with washing dishes.
- Two-bowl sink with a "wet table" will ideally fit into the kitchen with large dimensions. This type is very convenient to use, because it makes it possible to perform several actions simultaneously. But do not buy such a sink for a small kitchen, as it will reduce the already small working space.
Important! In order to determine the optimum number of bowls, it is enough to observe your actions in the washing area before purchasing. It is this procedure that will help you choose the right option for the most effective work in the kitchen.
Selection of accessories
In order to facilitate the washing process, it is worth paying attention to special accessories. They are able to turn any stone sink into a powerful ergonomic washing center. Firms produce identical sets of accessories for both stainlesss and stone shells. This helps to easily find the right object.
Important! It is worth to buy a special metal basket for dishes. It will help prevent damage to the stone sink and protect from breaking down cookware.
to the table of contents ↑Performance characteristics of artificial stone sinks
Kitchen sinks made of artificial granite or marble base have proven themselves in everyday life. They:
- easily withstand a significant temperature difference;
- is perfectly treated with various chemicals when contamination occurs;
- is virtually not subject to mechanical defects and flaws in operation.
The feature of the kitchen sink made of artificial stone is a slight thermal index. Thus, increasing or lowering the temperature regime in the range from -30 to +150 degrees, the washing surface of the product does not undergo any noticeable changes.
Important! Ceramic-sink sinks can not withstand strong boiling water, poured into a chilled sink, or instantly chilling water. Artificial metal products in such episodes are not predisposed to any cracks.
Also kitchen sinks made of artificial marble or granite have stability and strength in the process of using chemicals and household chemicals.
to the contents ↑Artificial stone sink: pros and cons
Due to the unique qualities of the injection molded artificial stone, these shells look very aesthetically pleasing and have excellent quality.
Disadvantages of
There are very few disadvantages of shells made of artificial materials in comparison with other similar products, but nevertheless it is possible to single out:
- The product itself is very heavy.
- Sinks are very expensive.
- The hot frying pan that has just been removed from the cooker can not be immediately put in a stone sink, as an indelible stain can remain.
- It is impossible to throw very heavy objects on the sink at a high distance - otherwise it will crack.
Advantages of
Despite minor drawbacks, the advantages of this design are much greater:
- Quite long time of using the cleaning surface. Manufacturers of these sinks guarantee a ten-year high-quality use.
Important! With the right and careful attitude washing can last much longer and 60-70 years. Sinks made of natural composite certainly exceed this gap, but in ceramic washers it is much lower.
- High hygienic ability of washing, thanks to a unique technological process, protects the development and appearance on the cleaning surface of harmful microorganisms. In this case there is no harmful odor of decay and other decomposing pathogens.
- Composite made of artificial stone does not detect increased radiation, unlike shells made from natural stone.
- Colossal strength, superior to the characteristics of concrete. Even heavy cast-iron dishes do not entail any serious damage.
- With fairly minor damages, sinks made of artificial granite or marble are very easy to repair. Sandpaper eliminates cracks and scratches, and a special glue will glue off the pieces. Such a minor repair will be completely invisible to an outside observer.
- Thanks to the use of design and creative developments, there is a wide range of modifications of shapes and sizes of models.
Which stone kitchen sink is better to choose?
When choosing a sink made of artificial stone should pay special attention to the manufacturer. The best option is to buy a sink from a well-known brand, because such firms provide a guarantee( on average two years from the date of purchase) and add a technical passport.
Important! Since the sink is purchased for a very long operating process, it is better not to save and choose the best option.
Among the most famous and reliable brands are:
- Reginox;
- Franke;
- Teka;
- Blanco;
- Marmorin.
Important! It is worthwhile to be afraid of unknown producers, since such washes for kitchen from artificial stone can be substandard and quickly come into disrepair. And one more important factor is security, which will not be guaranteed, because the composition of the material is unlikely to be known to you.
to the contents ↑Rules for cleaning the stone wash
Stone washes do not require special care, so they are very easy to use.
Important! With them, there is never a problem with getting rid of the calcareous plaque, and if you choose in favor of natural coloring, then any pollution will not rush into the eyes.
To prolong the life of the stone sink and keep its clean look longer, it is sufficient to adhere to a few simple rules of care:
- From the moment of purchase, begin to care for the sink, and not only during periods of very severe contamination.
- At the end of the work, rinse thoroughly the bottom and side walls of the kitchen sink from the artificial stone. For a better effect, you can still wipe the rinsed surface dry.
- Be sure to open the tap with cold water before pouring the boiling water into the sink. This will protect the surface from a sharp temperature drop, which will prevent the appearance of cracks. This rule is very important for low-cost models.
- Use specially designed cork or metal stand for pots or trays.
- Regularly clean the washer of stored fat with a sponge and a liquid detergent.
Important! Do not forget that the sink should serve a fairly long period, so adherence to simple rules of care will help to maintain a beautiful and clean appearance.
Now you know everything, so that it's right and easy to choose a kitchen sink for an artificial stone kitchen. We hope that the purchase did not disappoint you, and now you are even easier to cope with even a big mountain of dirty dishes after another culinary experiment.