are there different types of stainless steel for sinks? Yes. In fact, some steel sinks look bright and shiny at first, but rust or corrode in time. Therefore, we select premium-grade steel for our high-end residential sinks, stainless steel Type 302. It has the best combination of chromium and nickel for superior corrosion resistance and durability. Also, this alloy "gives" a little, reducing the chance of dish breakage. Lastly, this steel allows for the sinks to have elegant designs.   how important is the steel's thickness? Very. The thicker the steel, the less susceptible it is to denting, bowing and noise transmission from pots and pans hitting the metal surface. The thickness, called "gauge", can be determined by its number. The lower the number, the thicker the steel. Most sinks come in 18 or 20 gauge steel. The 18 gauge is the thicker of the two-more than ample thickness for residential sinks.

what about the finish of the steel? Look for a rich, deep, satin-smooth finish rather than a surface gloss. The luster comes from machine and hand-finishing operations, which enable the sink to keep its beauty for years - without cracks, chips, rust or stains. Many feel that the look actually improves with age, taking on a soft patina glow.   how do I decide on the size and number of bowls? Consider your lifestyle. Do you: -have a big family -prepare most meals at home -entertain often -or do extensive food preparation, in which case, you may need a big deep sink Also consider a sink with a built-in work surface. For simply stacking pots and pans, your sink should just be deep enough with at least one large bowl for washing.

how do I compare sink size and capacity? Bowl depth, taper and radius are the three basic sink measurements for comparing sink sizes. Depth, of course, is the distance from the top of the rim to the bottom of the sink next to the drain. Bowl taper is the inward slope of each side of the sink from rim to bottom. Radius is the measure of the bowl's corners & bottoms where the sides and bottom meet. The point to remember is this: the deeper the bowl, the straighter the slope, the smaller the radius, the more useful the sink capacity.

how do I measure sink depth? Lay a straight edge across the top surface of the sink rim. Then use a ruler to measure the distance between the bottom edge of the straight edge and bowl bottom, as close to the drain as possible.

how are sinks installed? That depends on the brand and style of sink, and your countertop. Most top mount sinks can be mounted on virtually any countertop using our unique clip-and-bolt fasteners that adjust to the countertop thickness for a tight, non-slip mount. They fasten the sink and countertop from the bottom, with no need to screw any hardware into the countertop itself. Some undermount sinks, on the other hand, are mounted and caulked from underneath to a solid surface countertop. The result for both sinks is a solid fit and an attractive, finished look that's absolutely waterproof when properly installed.   top mount or undermount sink? This is completely a matter of personal preference. Do you like the "finished" look of the raised rim of a top mount sink? Our top mount design helps keep water off the countertop. Or you may prefer the trim, clean, uncluttered look of an undermount sink. You'll generally have many choices in both sink styles.   how important is the undercoating? It's extremely important because it absorbs sound, protects against condensation and helps maintain sink water temperature. Some sinks are spray-coated with our exclusive nontoxic, latex-based undercoating.