Stainless Steel Sinks, the Contemporary Choice

Costs
Durability
History
Maintenance

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Popular Kitchen Remodeling Topics
Pros and Cons
Questions and Answers

References
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Praised for its sleek look and extreme durability, stainless steel is considered to be the most popular contemporary kitchen sink. Here is some more information to help you decide if a stainless steel sink is the right choice for your kitchen.

Costs

The cost of a stainless steel kitchen sink can vary greatly depending on the size and quality of materials used. On average, stainless steel runs anywhere from $40-$450, although a designer stainless steel sink can be as much as $2,500. Get in touch with a local installer for price quotes and more information.

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Pros

Stainless steel sinks are chip- and stain-resistant.

They are more affordable than other kitchen sink options.

Stainless steel sinks are easy to clean and maintain.

Cons

Stainless steel sinks can be noisy when struck with dishes, pots, and pans.

They are not immune to scratching.

Stainless steel can show water spots and mineral deposits if not regularly wiped down.

Durability

Stainless steel is considered to be one of the most durable kitchen sink materials available. With the proper maintenance, your stainless steel sink should look like new for decades to come.

Maintenance

While stainless steel may not be the greatest at hiding fingerprints, it is generally very easy to clean. For everyday cleaning, simply wipe the sink down with a damp cloth in the direction of the polish marks. To remove tougher stains, vinegar can do the trick, and for those pesky fingerprints use any household glass cleaner.

Common Questions and Answers

Is there a way to muffle the sound produced by stainless steel sinks?

Many suppliers suggest using a lower gauge, and therefore a thicker sink to counteract the noise. However, according to Consumer Reports, the gauge of the metal has a negligible effect on noise reduction.