There are a lot of choices when designing and building your custom home. Getting the right materials to suit your needs and your tastes is important. Some materials are better-suited to some environments than others, and the same is true for sink materials. All sink materials should be waterproof and durable, but what you choose for your bathroom may not be what you want in a kitchen sink. Here are some sink materials to consider for your custom home to inspire you and help you decide:
- Stainless steel
- Cast iron
- Fireclay
- Granite composite
- Quartz composite
- Porcelain
- Copper
- Bronze
- Natural stone
- Concrete
- Solid surface
- Glass
- Bamboo
1. Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a classic kitchen sink material, which is also why it is one of the most common sink materials overall. Stainless steel is known for its resistance to heat, rust, and stains. These traits, paired with a sleek, modern look, are why it is a popular material for kitchen sinks and why other stainless steel appliances are popular.
Although it could be a material choice for a bathroom sink, it’s not one of the more common bathroom sink materials. Usually, there are other durable sink materials that suit bathroom designs better, especially since a lot of bathroom sinks tend to be integrated sinks or other types of sinks that are better-suited to other materials. However, a stainless steel sink could fit seamlessly in a bathroom design that was right for it.
2. Cast Iron
Cast iron is an enamel-coated metal sink that is another popular option for kitchens and bathrooms. These sinks offer a classic, elegant look while providing durability. The porcelain enamel coating makes cast iron sinks non-porous, easy to clean, and resistant to scratches, dents, and stains.
Although they can become chipped over time if heavy or sharp objects are dropped on them, they are also repairable when chips occur. Should the enamel on a cast iron sink become chipped, it’s important to repair it. Otherwise, the exposed metal underneath can rust.
Cast iron sinks are also heavier sinks, so they need strong support. Provided there is enough support for them, they can be a good option for pedestal sinks in bathrooms as well as various types of vanities.
3. Fireclay
Fireclay is another common sink material that is particularly popular for kitchen sinks, especially farmhouse sinks. Fireclay sinks can be porcelain or enamel. Because these sinks are fired at extreme temperatures, they are extremely durable and also have an elegant, glossy look. These sinks are scratch-resistant, which makes them a great choice for sinks in busy rooms, like kitchens and bathrooms.
4. Granite Composite
Granite composite sinks are made from crushed granite and resin. Like granite countertops, granite composite sinks are durable and resistant to heat, scratches, and chips. They also offer a modern look.
Although they can become dull if they are not cleaned or maintained properly, this is a relatively low-maintenance sink material. It is a heavier sink material, though, so it will need some extra support, especially if it will be used for a larger sink.
5. Quartz Composite
Quartz composite sinks are similar to granite composite sinks and are made from crushed quartz and resin. Similar to granite sinks, there are pros and cons of quartz sinks as well. Quartz composite sinks are durable, non-porous, and resistant to scratches, cracks, heat, and stains.
These sinks, too, are on the heavier end of the spectrum for sink materials, so they will need good support around and underneath them. Because they are durable, they are also hard on breakables. If you’re getting ready in the bathroom and drop things, the sink isn’t likely to dent, but whatever you drop might.
6. Porcelain
Porcelain, specifically vitreous china, is a common sink material for bathrooms. The smooth, glossy, and non-porous finish and resistance to stains fit well in a bathroom. However, vitreous china is less durable for heavy use and can chip or crack more easily than other sink materials, like fireclay or cast iron.
7. Copper
Copper sinks and copper countertops are becoming more popular. With a unique look and often manufactured to enhance the antimicrobial properties, copper makes a good sink material, especially for kitchens. Because it is softer than other materials, it can dent and scratch, and it does require specific care to prevent tarnishing.
The patina that copper develops over time is one of its desirable traits, which is also why copper decor has become more popular over the years. However, if copper isn’t maintained properly, especially when it is used in sinks, countertops, or backsplashes, it can tarnish unattractively instead.
8. Bronze
As copper gained traction as a sink material, so did other metals, like bronze. While copper tends to offer a bright and warm tone, bronze sinks offer a rich, dark tone. Like copper, bronze also has some natural antimicrobial properties that can be enhanced when it is used as a sink material.
Similar to copper, it can be a higher-maintenance material in that it requires specific care to prevent tarnishing. It also develops a patina over time. Whether this is a pro or a con for you depends on the style and look you want. If the patina of aged metal isn’t a look you like, it’s better to avoid bronze or copper and choose a different material for the sinks in your home design.
9. Natural Stone
Natural stone is another common sink material. Although sinks can be made from a variety of natural stones, marble and soapstone tend to be the most common. Prized for the unique veining, these natural stones give a sink a luxurious look and feel. This is also why soapstone and marble countertops are popular.
Both marble and soapstone are resistant to heat. However, they are porous materials that can stain or become scratched over time, especially if they are not cleaned or cared for properly. They also tend to carry a higher price point than other materials. This is something to consider when evaluating marble or soapstone countertops or sinks.
10. Concrete
From walls and floors to countertops, tubs, and more, there are many ways to incorporate concrete into your custom home design. Although concrete may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about sink materials, concrete sinks are an option, too.
Not only is concrete customizable and can be molded to shape whatever you need, but it also provides a unique texture and a modern look. Interior concrete needs to be sealed properly, especially when used as a sink material. It’s also a very heavy material, so you will need to plan in plenty of support if you choose it for your sinks. That being said, it can even be used for vessel sinks, so concrete can work well with more sink styles than you may think.
11. Solid Surface
Solid surface countertops and sinks are acrylic or polyester-based, or a combination of both, and are manufactured with resin as the bonding element. This creates a highly customizable and durable material that is non-porous and easy to clean.
Although they are durable, solid surface sinks can become discolored from heat and can be scratched. However, they are also easier to repair than some other materials. If a solid surface sink is the right choice for you, a wide color range makes it easy to find the sink that fits seamlessly into the rest of your design.
12. Glass
Although glass is not as common in the kitchen, it is a common sink material for bathrooms, especially for vessel sinks. Glass is easy to clean and offers a sleek, modern, and stylish look. It’s also a customizable material that comes in a wide variety of colors and designs.
It’s also a lightweight sink material, which is one of the reasons it’s so popular for delicate-looking, but still durable, vessel sinks. Compared to heavier sink materials, glass can be more prone to chips and scratches and can break.
13. Bamboo
Although not as common as other materials, bamboo can be used as a sink material, especially in bathrooms. Bamboo can be a good option for vessel sinks. It can also work as an apron-front or double-basin sink in the kitchen.
In addition to being an eco-friendly design trend, bamboo continues to gain traction in interior design. Beautiful and sustainable, bamboo offers a warm tone and organic texture. It’s also durable and strong. When treated for water resistance as a sink, it is resistant to dents and cracks and can withstand daily wear. It’s also easy to clean and maintain.
Design and Build Your Custom Home With CHG
When choosing the perfect kitchen sink, bathroom sink, or other sink for your home design, the material is just one consideration. These are a few common sink materials to consider for the sinks in your custom home design. Whether you know exactly what you want or you’re still evaluating options, an experienced custom home builder with an in-house design/build process is a valuable resource.
Not only will they help you narrow down and choose options that work best for you, but they will also ensure the home you end up with suits your needs and your wants. If you’re ready to get started on your own custom home in Central Pennsylvania or Northeastern Maryland, contact Custom Home Group at 717-284-4090.
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