Why Stainless Steel Sinks Are the Best for Your Kitchen

When you’re in the market for a new kitchen sink, you might wonder if a stainless steel sink is the right choice for you. Stainless steel sinks are the best for your kitchen because they are durable, easy to clean and look great. Even after you’ve learned why stainless steel sinks are the best for your kitchen, you’ll still need help deciding which one to buy since there are a few different gauges and colors to choose from.

Read on to learn about stainless steel, its many benefits and the best gauge and color for your new stainless steel kitchen sink.

What is Stainless Steel?

Stainless steel is made primarily from carbon and iron, but what makes it different from all other types of steel is the addition of chromium and other alloy elements such as nickel. Chromium oxidation occurs when chromium is mixed with steel, creating a protective surface that stops moisture and air from causing rust. Nickel improves the flexibility of steel, but stainless steel is still stronger than regular steel.

The Benefits of Stainless Steel

While the main benefit of stainless steel is its corrosion resistance, there are several more advantages to stainless steel over other types of metal, especially when used in a kitchen sink. Stainless steel sinks are also:

• Durable and strong while lightweight
• Easy to maintain and clean
• Attractive and desired by home-buyers
• Low and high-temperature resistant
• Prevents product contamination
• Resistant to oxidation
• Easily fabricated
• Flexible with excellent formability
• Readily available
• Recyclable and environmentally friendly

The Best Stainless Steel Sinks

When choosing a stainless steel sink for your home, it’s important to know that they are measured by gauge. A lower gauge number indicates thicker stainless steel, while a higher gauge indicates thinner stainless steel. For example, a 16 gauge stainless steel sink is thicker and therefore more durable than a sink that is 22 gauge.

The best gauge for your stainless steel sinks is 16 gauge, as besides being thicker and more durable, this gauge also offers longer wear and tear. In contrast, a thinner 22 gauge sink is more prone to denting and rattling, and since they are weaker, they are less able to handle a garbage disposer. High-gauge drop-in sinks can even be too thin around the edges to support a quality faucet’s heavier weight.

When you’re in the market for a new kitchen sink, take advantage of the opportunity to add a visual impact to your kitchen by choosing a 16 gauge black stainless steel sink with a black faucet. This versatile choice will add a contemporary and elegant touch to your design and goes with any color and material you choose for your counters and cabinets.

Whether you’re ready to buy or need some helpful advice, contact Torva today to discuss your stainless steel kitchen sink options.