Natural Stone Kitchen Sinks: Cost and Care

Costs
Durability
History
Maintenance

Materials
Pictures
Popular Kitchen Remodeling Topics
Pros and Cons

Questions and Answers
Related Articles

Like concrete sinks, natural stone sinks offer a one-of-a kind custom look. While it may be a bit on the pricy side, homeowners flock to stone for its natural beauty. Here’s what sets this material apart from the rest.

Costs

Because of their individuality and material, natural stone sinks are at the higher end of the price spectrum when it comes to kitchen sinks. They can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the type of stone and sink design. For free price quotes on minor kitchen remodels, including sinks and kitchen add-ons, click here.

Pictures

Pros

Stone sinks are very scratch-resistant.

They are naturally beautiful and can serve as a focal point for any kitchen.

Plenty of gorgeous natural stones to choose from, including soapstone, granite, marble, travertine and onyx.

Cons

Natural stone sinks can be extremely expensive.

Require regular upkeep and maintenance.

Durability

Natural stone is generally very durable and can easily withstand the wear and tear of a normal kitchen environment. Some stones are considered to be softer than others, however, so do your research before choosing a type of stone.

Maintenance

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 of water after each use and occasional cleaning with a mild soap and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaning products at all costs.

Common Questions and Answers

Why do some people say that natural stone should be sealed and some say it should not?

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 and 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.

What’s the most common style for a natural stone sink?

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