Where to find more kichen sinks:
http://alphaoutlets.com/kitchen
http://imgshowcase.com/kitchen_
http://sheffieldsinks.com
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Monday, January 19, 2009
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Different Types of Kitchen Sinks
The sink is the most important spot in any kitchen and it also one of the most frequently visited spot in the home. It is considered that at any given day, the morning work starts at a kitchen sink and the night work finishes at the kitchen sink. So, it is absolutely essential for the homeowner to select on the best type of kitchen sinks that will perfectly compliment the look as well as the entire set up of the kitchen area. It is also imperative that the homeowner should select the right sink that will be easy to maintain apart from being highly durable. Nowadays, markets all over the world are flooded with a wide array of shapes, sizes and designs of kitchen sinks that are made from various types of materials. There are so much of models available in the market, that the homeowner will not be finding it difficult to choose the right kitchen sink that suits the need and the décor of his or her kitchen.
The different mounting types are surface mount, wherein the sinks rim is visible on the top of the counter and the under- counter mount, where the sink mounts under the counter and the rim is not visible. The newest and trendy look that the sinks have these days, go well with the latest and contemporary designs of the modern kitchen. The looks of the kitchen sinks range from the normal domestic look to the more commercial or professional look to the contemporary old world styling look. Once the desired look is arrive at, it becomes relatively easy for the homeowner to choose the sinks made of materials like stainless steel, porcelain, marble, granite, copper or brass.
Stainless steel kitchen sinks are the most popular and common type of sinks seen all over the world. They bring out the professional look to the entire kitchen and will be a perfect compliment to any modern designed modular kitchens. The reason for their popularity is that they are highly durable and are very easy to maintain and will last a lifetime if little care is meted out to them.
Another kitchen sinks that are slowly gaining popularity all over the world is the granite kitchen sink. They are also the most durable type of sinks whose surfaces are resistant to scratching, chipping and staining apart from being heat resistant. The granite kitchens are slightly on the expensive side, but are highly durable and also resist the rigors of everyday life and needs least attention or care.
If one desires to add a touch of class and antiqueness to the kitchen, then going for the copper or the brass kitchen sinks will be the best option. Copper sinks provide the most contemporary and elegant look not only to the kitchen but also the entire home. They are made from heavy, solid weathered copper or dark brown copper sheets with visible hand hammered prints by artisans on them. The extra thick casting provided on the copper sinks will easily help it last for a lifetime and also help them in absorbing noise. They are highly resistant to stains and discoloration and become more elegant as it ages. Copper kitchen sinks are usually under mounted and are very expensive and fall in the luxury category of kitchen sinks. Kitchen sinks, generally are available as a single or double sink and also come in round, rectangular, square and oval shapes.
http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Different-Types-of-Kitchen-Sinks&id=583860
Please Note: Although a kitchen sink may photograph well, it is not an ornament; it is used for work and must be resistant to damage. Appearance loss is something to consider when making your choice i.e. shiny surfaces show scratches, porous surfaces are the hardest to clean, and so on. The sink is a usable space so it needs to be big enough to hold large pots, pans, dishes, etc.
The different mounting types are surface mount, wherein the sinks rim is visible on the top of the counter and the under- counter mount, where the sink mounts under the counter and the rim is not visible. The newest and trendy look that the sinks have these days, go well with the latest and contemporary designs of the modern kitchen. The looks of the kitchen sinks range from the normal domestic look to the more commercial or professional look to the contemporary old world styling look. Once the desired look is arrive at, it becomes relatively easy for the homeowner to choose the sinks made of materials like stainless steel, porcelain, marble, granite, copper or brass.
Stainless steel kitchen sinks are the most popular and common type of sinks seen all over the world. They bring out the professional look to the entire kitchen and will be a perfect compliment to any modern designed modular kitchens. The reason for their popularity is that they are highly durable and are very easy to maintain and will last a lifetime if little care is meted out to them.
Another kitchen sinks that are slowly gaining popularity all over the world is the granite kitchen sink. They are also the most durable type of sinks whose surfaces are resistant to scratching, chipping and staining apart from being heat resistant. The granite kitchens are slightly on the expensive side, but are highly durable and also resist the rigors of everyday life and needs least attention or care.
If one desires to add a touch of class and antiqueness to the kitchen, then going for the copper or the brass kitchen sinks will be the best option. Copper sinks provide the most contemporary and elegant look not only to the kitchen but also the entire home. They are made from heavy, solid weathered copper or dark brown copper sheets with visible hand hammered prints by artisans on them. The extra thick casting provided on the copper sinks will easily help it last for a lifetime and also help them in absorbing noise. They are highly resistant to stains and discoloration and become more elegant as it ages. Copper kitchen sinks are usually under mounted and are very expensive and fall in the luxury category of kitchen sinks. Kitchen sinks, generally are available as a single or double sink and also come in round, rectangular, square and oval shapes.
http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Different-Types-of-Kitchen-Sinks&id=583860
Please Note: Although a kitchen sink may photograph well, it is not an ornament; it is used for work and must be resistant to damage. Appearance loss is something to consider when making your choice i.e. shiny surfaces show scratches, porous surfaces are the hardest to clean, and so on. The sink is a usable space so it needs to be big enough to hold large pots, pans, dishes, etc.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Undermount Kitchen Sinks
By Tim Carter
Years ago I felt the same way you did about undermount kitchen sinks. It was the plumber in me that made me a Doubting Thomas. After all, a standard double-bowl sink that has a disposer on one side and is completely filled with water weighs well over 100 pounds. I think it is reasonable for a person to wonder how in the world the sink will stay permanently attached to the countertop with this kind of weight regularly trying to pull the sink down into the base cabinet.
The granite countertop fabricator had to cut a special-shaped hole in the stone top to create the hole for your undermount sink. Once the cut is made, the fabricator has to polish the rough stone edge. The water that is used during the polishing process gets very small pieces of stone in it, and this slurry can roll to the underside of the countertop. Once the water component of the slurry evaporates, the stone grit or dust is left behind.
Most undermount sinks come with very clear written installation instructions. Every set of instruction I have seen calls for a bead of clear silicone caulk to be placed around the flat lip of the undermount sink. This continuous bead of caulk acts as the waterproof seal between the sink and the countertop once the undermount sink is pressed permanently against the stone countertop.
Once the installer knows the underside of the stone top is dust-free, he applies the silicone caulk to the sink lip. The sink is then pushed up against the underside of the stone top and centered under the polished cutout. The 2x4 is then placed on top of the countertop spanning across the sink. One end of the bar clamp goes through the large drain hole in the sink and the other end goes on top of the 2x4. A double-bowled sink needs two clamps, one for each drain hole.
The clamps are partially tightened and the reveal of the sink is checked to make sure it is even around the entire cutout of the granite. The clamps are then fully tightened. It is now time to mix the two-part epoxy and apply it to the small bolt posts that are glued next to the lip of the undermount sink. The installers are on their backs in the sink base looking up when they do this.
The epoxy sets rapidly, usually in ten minutes or so. After this wait period, the rest of the hardware that clamps the sink to the bolt posts is installed. It is good to wait at least one day before the plumber arrives to connect any drain piping or a heavy disposer to the undermount sink.
Before the drain piping is attached to the sink, it is wise to tighten the nuts that hold the clamps in place. Do not over tighten. Simply make sure they are snug. The adhesive properties of the silicone caulk in conjunction with the epoxy hold the sink permanently in place.
The biggest mistake you or an installer can make is trying to rush the job. All too often an aggressive plumber, remodler or homeowner will try to finish the entire job the same day. They will wait six or seven hours thinking the epoxy is plenty hard, only to discover that the weight of a heavy disposer pulls the sink away from the countertop.
Summary: Undermount kitchen sinks are sleek and gorgeous. Kitchen sinks that undermount below the countertop are perfect for granite, marble, solid surface or engineered stone countertops. A granite undermount kitchen sink is what I have in my own home.
DEAR TIM: Are undermount kitchen sinks a good idea? I have never had one, and am worried about leakage where the undermount sink contacts the underside of the countertop. I want a granite undermount kitchen sink, but am worried the sink will pull away from the granite countertop. This would be a nightmare, especially if the sink was filled with water. What undermount sink installation tips can you share that will allow me to buy one with complete confidence? Christy F., Flemington, NJ
DEAR CHRISTY: The first thing I can tell you is an undermount kitchen sink will give you a lifetime of leak-free performance if it is installed correctly. I have several undermount sinks in my own home, and they simply do not leak where the sink touches up against my granite countertops.
Years ago I felt the same way you did about undermount kitchen sinks. It was the plumber in me that made me a Doubting Thomas. After all, a standard double-bowl sink that has a disposer on one side and is completely filled with water weighs well over 100 pounds. I think it is reasonable for a person to wonder how in the world the sink will stay permanently attached to the countertop with this kind of weight regularly trying to pull the sink down into the base cabinet.
High-strength epoxies
and silicone caulk are the simple answer. The undermount sinks are held in place with metal anchors that are glued to the underside of the stone with a two-part epoxy that cures rapidly and has incredible tensile strength once cured. Furthermore, a bead of silicone caulk helps bond the sink to the stone.
and silicone caulk are the simple answer. The undermount sinks are held in place with metal anchors that are glued to the underside of the stone with a two-part epoxy that cures rapidly and has incredible tensile strength once cured. Furthermore, a bead of silicone caulk helps bond the sink to the stone.
One installation tip is to make sure the underside of the stone countertop is dust-free. Dust will cause the epoxy bond to fail. Any installer worth his salt will take a brush to remove stone dust from underneath the countertop. Dust in this location is a strong possibility because of the cut made to create the hole for your sink.
The granite countertop fabricator had to cut a special-shaped hole in the stone top to create the hole for your undermount sink. Once the cut is made, the fabricator has to polish the rough stone edge. The water that is used during the polishing process gets very small pieces of stone in it, and this slurry can roll to the underside of the countertop. Once the water component of the slurry evaporates, the stone grit or dust is left behind.
Most undermount sinks come with very clear written installation instructions. Every set of instruction I have seen calls for a bead of clear silicone caulk to be placed around the flat lip of the undermount sink. This continuous bead of caulk acts as the waterproof seal between the sink and the countertop once the undermount sink is pressed permanently against the stone countertop.
Most professional installers can install an undermount kitchen sink in 30 minutes or less. The tools required are a 2x4 longer than the sink cutout is wide, one or two bar clamps, the special two-part epoxy and the caulk and caulk gun.
Once the installer knows the underside of the stone top is dust-free, he applies the silicone caulk to the sink lip. The sink is then pushed up against the underside of the stone top and centered under the polished cutout. The 2x4 is then placed on top of the countertop spanning across the sink. One end of the bar clamp goes through the large drain hole in the sink and the other end goes on top of the 2x4. A double-bowled sink needs two clamps, one for each drain hole.
The clamps are partially tightened and the reveal of the sink is checked to make sure it is even around the entire cutout of the granite. The clamps are then fully tightened. It is now time to mix the two-part epoxy and apply it to the small bolt posts that are glued next to the lip of the undermount sink. The installers are on their backs in the sink base looking up when they do this.
The epoxy sets rapidly, usually in ten minutes or so. After this wait period, the rest of the hardware that clamps the sink to the bolt posts is installed. It is good to wait at least one day before the plumber arrives to connect any drain piping or a heavy disposer to the undermount sink.
Before the drain piping is attached to the sink, it is wise to tighten the nuts that hold the clamps in place. Do not over tighten. Simply make sure they are snug. The adhesive properties of the silicone caulk in conjunction with the epoxy hold the sink permanently in place.
The biggest mistake you or an installer can make is trying to rush the job. All too often an aggressive plumber, remodler or homeowner will try to finish the entire job the same day. They will wait six or seven hours thinking the epoxy is plenty hard, only to discover that the weight of a heavy disposer pulls the sink away from the countertop.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Stainless Steel Sinks 101
What to Look for in a Stainless Steel Sink
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 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.
Whether you're building, remodeling, or just sprucing up your kitchen, choosing a sink that suits your needs is crucial. These guidelines are designed to help you make the best choice for your kitchen - for years of optimal performance and high quality appearance.
Are there different types of stainless steel for sinks? Yes. In fact, some steel sinks look br
ight 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.
ight 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.
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.
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.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Eliminate a sink-ful of germs
By Ed Biado
Did you know that your kitchen sink is probably very dirty? Microbiologists know something that most of us don’t. They are aware that millions of bacteria and germs live a
nd multiply endlessly in every part of the house. And the sink is one of their most favorite breeding grounds. To get you started, remember that the number one rule is to clean with a fresh clean cloth and/or sponge. If what you’re using to clean ain’t clean, it ain’t gonna do no cleanin’! While you think about that, here are 10 more tips:
1. Clean your sink daily to avoid acids from damaging its finish. A soapy solution is enough for your sink’s daily wash-down. A cloth soaked in vinegar will help you remove spots and mineral residue. Running the damp cloth over the entire sink should do the trick.
2. For stains, cut a lemon in half and sprinkle baking soda on the cut ends. Scrub sink stains with the lemon half. Reapply baking soda to the lemon as needed. If you can’t remove it using this simple solution, look for commercially available cleaners that are specifically formulated for stubborn stains.
3. An alternative is to mix a small amount of baking soda, about two teaspoons, with a cup of warm water. Allow the baking soda to dilute. Dip a wet sponge in the solution and clean the sink using small circular motions. Dry the sink with paper towels. If there are still stains, wetting the entire surface of the sink and liberally sprinkling baking soda onto the sink’s surface will help you deal with them stubborn ones.
4. You should also sanitize the drainage system. Pour one cup of baking soda solution followed by one cup of vinegar down the drain to get rid of odors and clogs. Allow the water to run for about a minute. Cool tap water is fine, but warm water will help eliminate more germs.
5. Never neglect your sink’s faucet and faucet handles. Fill a spray bottle with one part vinegar and one part water. Spray the faucet—and handles—to disinfect them. Wipe them dry and buff them to a shine with a dry paper towel.
6. Disinfect every week. Fill it with warm water and add a capful of bleach. Slosh some water into the overflow and scrub around it and the plug with an old toothbrush. Stubborn mineral residue can be dealt with by lining the entire sink with paper towels soaked in vinegar. Allow the vinegar to work its magic for about 30 minutes, undisturbed.
7. The cleaning doesn’t stop there. It should also extend to the countertops, especially the one adjacent to the sink as it pretty much has the same germ content.
8. Clean with anti-bacterial sponges. Sponges are the helipad of germs in any house because bacteria actually grow in them. Anti-bacterial sponges won’t kill the germs, but will prevent their growth. A good option in the stores is the Scotch-Brite Anti-Bac Scrub Sponge.
9. It’s best if you have different sponges to clean your dishes and sink with. It’s even better if you have one specifically for the sink, one for knives and cutting board for meat, one for knives and cutting board for vegetables, one for glasses and one for used dishes. Replace the sponges before they get tattered.
10. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive sponges and other solutions and products that are not made to be used on your sink. Different kinds of sinks (stainless steel, ceramic, etc.) have different thresholds on substances. Some cleaners might damage the surface of your sink.
Did you know that your kitchen sink is probably very dirty? Microbiologists know something that most of us don’t. They are aware that millions of bacteria and germs live a
nd multiply endlessly in every part of the house. And the sink is one of their most favorite breeding grounds. To get you started, remember that the number one rule is to clean with a fresh clean cloth and/or sponge. If what you’re using to clean ain’t clean, it ain’t gonna do no cleanin’! While you think about that, here are 10 more tips: 1. Clean your sink daily to avoid acids from damaging its finish. A soapy solution is enough for your sink’s daily wash-down. A cloth soaked in vinegar will help you remove spots and mineral residue. Running the damp cloth over the entire sink should do the trick.
2. For stains, cut a lemon in half and sprinkle baking soda on the cut ends. Scrub sink stains with the lemon half. Reapply baking soda to the lemon as needed. If you can’t remove it using this simple solution, look for commercially available cleaners that are specifically formulated for stubborn stains.
3. An alternative is to mix a small amount of baking soda, about two teaspoons, with a cup of warm water. Allow the baking soda to dilute. Dip a wet sponge in the solution and clean the sink using small circular motions. Dry the sink with paper towels. If there are still stains, wetting the entire surface of the sink and liberally sprinkling baking soda onto the sink’s surface will help you deal with them stubborn ones.
4. You should also sanitize the drainage system. Pour one cup of baking soda solution followed by one cup of vinegar down the drain to get rid of odors and clogs. Allow the water to run for about a minute. Cool tap water is fine, but warm water will help eliminate more germs.
5. Never neglect your sink’s faucet and faucet handles. Fill a spray bottle with one part vinegar and one part water. Spray the faucet—and handles—to disinfect them. Wipe them dry and buff them to a shine with a dry paper towel.
6. Disinfect every week. Fill it with warm water and add a capful of bleach. Slosh some water into the overflow and scrub around it and the plug with an old toothbrush. Stubborn mineral residue can be dealt with by lining the entire sink with paper towels soaked in vinegar. Allow the vinegar to work its magic for about 30 minutes, undisturbed.
7. The cleaning doesn’t stop there. It should also extend to the countertops, especially the one adjacent to the sink as it pretty much has the same germ content.
8. Clean with anti-bacterial sponges. Sponges are the helipad of germs in any house because bacteria actually grow in them. Anti-bacterial sponges won’t kill the germs, but will prevent their growth. A good option in the stores is the Scotch-Brite Anti-Bac Scrub Sponge.
9. It’s best if you have different sponges to clean your dishes and sink with. It’s even better if you have one specifically for the sink, one for knives and cutting board for meat, one for knives and cutting board for vegetables, one for glasses and one for used dishes. Replace the sponges before they get tattered.
10. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive sponges and other solutions and products that are not made to be used on your sink. Different kinds of sinks (stainless steel, ceramic, etc.) have different thresholds on substances. Some cleaners might damage the surface of your sink.
Introduction to Stainless Steel for Your Kitchen Sink
Stainless steel kitchen sinks possess great qualities that make them a good choice for any kitchen. Their look is timeless and complements stainless appliances. They can be rugged and durable but quality construction is important in obtaining longevity and long term good looks.
Before running out to buy any stainless sink, there are points to consider about the type of steel used, it's thickness and whether or not it's insulated.
Other considerations include the type of finish, since there are several to choose from, and the style and configuration. Finally, you'll want to understand what it will take to clean stainless steel sinks. They can look beautiful in the showroom but like any other product for your home that you want to keep looking nice, they'll need some maintenance too.
http://www.home-style-choices.com/stainless-steel-kitchen-sinks.html
Before running out to buy any stainless sink, there are points to consider about the type of steel used, it's thickness and whether or not it's insulated.
Other considerations include the type of finish, since there are several to choose from, and the style and configuration. Finally, you'll want to understand what it will take to clean stainless steel sinks. They can look beautiful in the showroom but like any other product for your home that you want to keep looking nice, they'll need some maintenance too.
http://www.home-style-choices.com/stainless-steel-kitchen-sinks.html
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