Natural Stone Kitchen Sinks: Cost and Care

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A natural stone sink, like a concrete sink, offers a one-of-a-kind custom look. Stones used for kitchen sinks include soapstone, granite, marble, travertine, and onyx. Single- or double-bowl varieties are available, with double-bowl sinks costing a bit more. Natural stone sinks are heavy and usually under-mounted for support. They are very scratch resistant.

Many stone kitchen sinks are of the apron variety because homeowners and manufacturers want to show off the unique beauty of the stone. The apron, or frontside, of these sinks is often carved with decorative designs to add charm and style to the sink and kitchen as a whole. Stone sinks can quickly become the centerpiece of kitchen design.

Because of their individuality and material, natural stone sinks are certainly at the higher end of kitchen sinks, ranging from several hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the type of stone and sink design. They are often hand crafted from a single stone block and carved to your custom specifications.

In terms of care, stone sinks require a roughly semi-annual application of a protective sealer. The sealer is susceptible to prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals or cleaners. Manufacturers recommend a quick rinse with water after each use and occasional cleaning with mild soap and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaning products at all costs.

There is a school of natural stone proponents that argue against sealing natural stone sinks. They claim that the stone is naturally durable, as any inspection of centuries-old stone buildings will prove. Furthermore, they claim that sealers trap in unknown elements that can cause permanent discoloration of the stone. They will also point out that sealants take away from the authenticity of the stone sink. The pro-sealant argument involves today's harsh chemicals that will penetrate and compromise the stone without some sort of protection.

Most suppliers recommend using some sort of sealant, although the ultimate choice is up to the homeowner. You know it is time to reseal your stone kitchen sink when water fails to bead up on the sink surface.

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