Metal Sink Materials

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Metal is the most durable material you can use for you sink including Stainless Steel and Copper. Stainless Steel is indestructible to normal wear and tear; it will not chip, nick, crack, rust, stain or fade. It is inexpensive, and is also commonly used for wet bars. It is recommended to use 18-20 gauge steel. The lower the gauge the heavier and more durable this material is. The thicker the gauge the more it is able to maintain water temperature and sound deadening. And cleaning this kind of sink is easy. Often cleaning it with a scotch bright pad and Bon Ami or just a steel cleaner will do the job.

Copper doesn't handle the heat really well. You don't want to put hot pots or pans in this type of sink because it will cause distortion. Copper also oxidizes and will obtain patina; this causes the metal to change color. It is a soft metal, therefore not as durable as steel. Cleaning this type of sink is just as easy though. You use a soft cloth to clean with, and if it gets scratched you can polish or sand it out.

Cast Iron and Brass are also metal materials for sinks. Brass, found in the 13th century, is soft, as it can get scratched, scuffed and dented easy, but overall it is durable. Use a mild detergent and soft cloth to clean this material.

Cast Iron is extremely heavy and the most durable option for sink and bathtub fixtures. The thicker the material the more resistant it is to acids and it provides protection against chipping, scratches, and dents. This material can last a lifetime if taken care of properly. You can use finishes like polished finish, which makes the metal shiny and smooth, or satin, which creates a brushed appearance. Satin Polish is resistant to water stains and calcium deposits, and Antique polish wears away at an uneven rate. Steel sinks can be plated with nine different finishes, some of which are, Satin Brass, Polished nickel, Antique pewter, Polished gold, or bronze.

Double Bowl / Metal Sinks / Apron Sinks / Stainless Steel / Copper / Glass / Concrete / Porcelain / Natural Stone