What to Know Before Buying a Farmhouse Sink

Introduction of What to Know Before Buying a Farmhouse Sink

Farmhouse sinks, sometimes called apron-front sinks, are a popular fixture in today’s kitchens. Their vintage-inspired style brings a touch of classic charm, even as their deep basins and sturdy construction make them highly functional for busy cooking spaces.

Farmhouse sinks have been around for generations, originating in rural cottages where a deep sink was essential for washing dishes and preparing fresh foods. The apron-front design allowed the sink to drop into a cabinet front, supported by legs.

Modern farmhouse sinks maintain the same aesthetic appeal and practicality. Before installing one in your kitchen, there are several factors to weigh regarding types, size, installation, accessories, and more. Take time to consider the options so you can find the perfect farmhouse sink for your needs and style.

Types of Farmhouse Sinks

Farmhouse sinks come in a variety of materials, each with their own pros, cons, and care requirements.

Stainless Steel

The most popular choice today, stainless steel offers a durable but lightweight option. It resists stains, rust, and scratches well. Stainless comes in various grades and gauges – aim for at least 16 gauge for rigidity. The surface can show water spots but cleans up easily. Stainless pairs well with most kitchen decors from traditional to modern.

Cast Iron

Cast iron sinks are very heavy but provide excellent heat retention and sound deadening. Porcelain-enamel coating creates a glossy, attractive look. Cast iron is prone to chipping and scratching of the enamel. It’s among the more expensive sink options. With proper care, a cast iron farmhouse sink can last decades.

Fireclay

Fireclay is a ceramic material fired at high temperatures. This makes for a glossy, non-porous surface that withstands heat, stains, and impact. Fireclay can be noisy but provides a classic farmhouse look. Like cast iron, fireclay is chip and scratch-prone. Lighter than cast iron, it still has substantial weight.

Composite Materials

Combining crushed stone, resins, and acrylics creates a durable but lightweight composite sink. These come in unlimited colors and designs from neutral to bold. Scratches and stains are minimized. Composite sinks have good insulation against condensation. Cost is medium to high.

Copper

Copper has a luxurious, eye-catching look as it develops a unique patina over time. This material is antimicrobial, durable, and heat-conductive. Copper is very expensive and requires frequent re-sealing and polishing. It also stains easily. Still, its natural beauty makes it desirable for some buyers.

Each material has advantages based on needs for appearance, durability, weight, ease of care, and budget. Examine samples in person to aid your sink selection.

Size Considerations

Farmhouse sinks come in a wide range of sizes to fit small or large spaces. Standard widths range from 30 to 48 inches.

For standard 36-inch cabinets, a 30- to 33-inch wide sink allows room for a side cabinet or drying area. Larger sinks can fit corner installations or custom cabinetry. Depth generally ranges from 8 to 12 inches. Deeper is better for filling large pots and containers.

Custom options like longer lengths or extra-deep basins are available, usually at an added cost. Precisely measure your base cabinet size and countertop cutout space before ordering. This will ensure a proper fit.

If you have a small kitchen, consider a compact 30- to 32-inch width. For larger kitchens, 36 to 40 inches width provides ample room for washing and food prep tasks. Think about what you need the sink capacity for – washing pets, filling stock pots, handling baking sheets, etc.

Mounting Styles

Farmhouse sinks come in several mounting configurations, each with advantages:

Undermount

The sink attaches below a solid countertop surface. This is the most modern look and allows for easy wipe-up of spills and crumbs right into the sink. It accommodates roll-up drying racks along the edge. Excellent for granite, quartz, marble, and solid surface countertops.

Top Mount

Also called drop-in, the sink rests on top of the counter opening. A rim conceals the countertop edge. Less expensive than undermount and appropriate for laminate or tile countertops. The gap between counter and sink can trap debris.

Flush Mount

The sink meets the countertop in a smooth, flat plane. A minimal reveal or lip surrounds the sink opening. Flush mount works with solid surface, stainless steel, or butcher block counters. Allows easy wipe-in of spills. No debris catch.

Raised Lip

This traditional style has a front lip that overlaps the counter edge by ~1/2 inch. Gives a true farmhouse look. The lip can catch debris and liquids. Often seen with butcher block counters.

The style of mounting you select depends heavily on the counter material. Undermount accentuates continuous counter surfaces. Top mount pairs well with discrete tile sections. Floating countertops can accommodate a flush or raised lip sink.

Design Styles

Beyond materials and mounting, choose a sink shape and aesthetic to match your decor.

Classic Apron-Front

This style replicates antique farm sinks. The the front face extends down as an apron around 1 to 3 inches underneath the cupboard face. Supported by legs or a frame. Works in traditional or cottage kitchens.

Smooth Contemporary

Focused on a clean, modern look. No apron front or detailing. Just a single basin in a smooth minimalist design. Usually minimal depth and width. Great for urban lofts and sleek spaces.

Enameled Colors

Fireclay and cast iron sinks can be coated in a range of glossy enameled colors – from basic white to dramatic hues like navy or marigold. This adds charm and character to a kitchen.

Double Bowl

Double bowl sinks allow for simultaneous washing of dishes along with vegetable prep, etc. Choose same or different depth bowls. Add grated drainboards or cutting boards between bowls.

Depth

Standard depths are 8 to 10 inches. Extra-deep farmhouse sinks measure 12 inches or more. Great for oversized pots and pitchers. May be harder to reach bottom. Consider a step stool or elevated base cabinet.

Faucets & Accessories

Sink faucets come in a wide range of styles. Here are compatible options for farmhouse models:

Faucet Types

Deck Mount: Faucet installs through the countertop behind the sink. Allows for any location without interference.

Wall Mount: Faucet attaches to the wall behind the sink. No holes required in countertop. Offers a minimal look.

Bridge: Faucet attaches to a horizontal bar behind sink. Creates a bold visual statement.

Pot Filler: Handy secondary faucet mounted on wall to allow filling of pots on stove. Frees up main sink space.

Accessories

Soap Dispenser: Convenient pump style dispenser for dish soap, often matching faucet finishes.

Cutting Board: Wood, plastic or stainless board sized to fit over sink. Adds prep space.

Drying Rack: Metal or silicone roll-up rack sits over one basin. Can be stowed away when not needed.

Wire Grid: Covers single basin to allow drying of dishes. Useful addition to deep sinks.

Basket Strainer: Catches scraps and debris when washing produce. Fits drain opening to allow water flow.

Choose faucet and accessories in finishes and styles that complement your sink selection.

Installation & Plumbing

There are several plumbing considerations for installing a farmhouse sink:

Existing countertop – Will likely need cutout or full replacement to fit sink. Measure carefully to confirm.

Cabinet modification – Front frame around sink may need removed or altered.

Plumbing lines – Flexible supplies needed to link to sink basin. Strainers attached at drain flange.

Garbage disposal – Can be added if desired. Requires switch, drain, and electric access.

Sealant – Waterproof plumber’s putty or silicone seals all edges.

While a skilled DIYer can potentially tackle the install, complex plumbing and electrical modifications make a professional install advisable. Get contractor referrals and estimates in advance. Expect costs around $200-300 for the install itself, more if cabinet or counter changes needed. Supply lines, drains, disposal, and other fixtures will add to the total cost.

Care & Maintenance

All sinks require regular cleaning and occasional maintenance:

• Wipe stainless steel with non-abrasive cloth and mild detergent. Vinegar removes hard water spots. Avoid steel wool pads.
• Use soft sponge and mild soap for cast iron. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could chip enamel finish. Re-seal yearly.
• Fireclay enamel cleans well with warm water and light all-purpose cleaner. Barkeeper’s Friend removes stains. Avoid chips by not placing heavy pans.
• Composite sinks can be cleaned with scouring powder. Avoid harsh chemicals.
• Copper requires polishing monthly with special sink cleaner and paste wax to maintain the patina. Prevent standing water.

Mineral deposits can build up in any sink. Remove these with a hydrogen peroxide-vinegar soak followed by baking soda scrub. Use drain catchers and disposals to minimize debris. Re-seal any sink yearly using silicone caulk.

Costs & Budgeting

Farmhouse sink costs range widely:

• Stainless steel – $200 to $700, with gauge, size, and extras adding cost
• Fireclay or Cast Iron – $400 to $1,200 depending on brand and material quality
• Composite – $300 to $1,000, more for stone finishes
• Copper – $700 to $2,000 due to material cost
• Installation – $200 – $500 typical if plumbing access is nearby. More for adaptors, disposal, cabinets.
• Faucets – $80 to $500 or more for high-end styles

Budget extra for accessories like soap dispensers, racks, cutting boards if desired. Consider overall kitchen decor and layout carefully before investing in a premium sink. An apron-front fireclay model pairs wonderfully with farmhouse styling but may look out of place in a sleek modern kitchen.

Top Brands to Consider

Some prominent kitchen sink brands to investigate include:

Kohler – Many classic cast iron and enamel designs. Enameled colors available. Good value and warranties.

Ruvati – Affordable stainless models. Focus on undermounts. Soundproofing features.

Farmhouse Sinkology – Specialized in handcrafted, authentic apron-front styles. Customizable sizes.

Saratoga Sinks – Variety of materials like copper, verastone composite, and fireclay. Made in USA. Stylish accessories available.

Kraus – Stainless steel and stone composite models. Minimalist designs. Good budget options.

Be sure to carefully compare warranties. These vary from lifetime assurance to 1 year on some components. Shop showrooms to see product quality firsthand. Consider sourcing from plumbing supply stores as well as big box home stores.

Conclusion

With an abundance of sizes, materials, styles and accessories available today, you’re sure to find the perfect farmhouse sink to add vintage workhorse appeal to your kitchen. Measure carefully, select a durable low-maintenance material that fits your budget, and customize with your choice of faucets and accents. A quality farmhouse sink installed properly can serve as a stylish, highly functional centerpiece for your cooking space for decades to come.

Frequently Asked Questions