Choosing a right kitchen sink is not so easy as what you think. Even the simplest sink are available in different types, styles and colors. Here's a simple guide to help you choose a sink.
1. Make sure it fits
2. Material
3. Installation Type
4. Number of Bowls
5. Faucet Holes
6. Features Available
7. Summary

1. Make sure it fits
Your sink choice is restricted by the size of your cabinet and counter top. All kitchen sinks require a minimum cabinet size. You can find out the size of your cabinet by measuring under the existing sink or where the new sink will go. Be sure to measure from left to right and from outside edge to outside edge. The measurement you obtain is the cabinet size. You should allow at least 2-3 inches on both sides for mounting hardware. Keep in mind that this will reduce the size of the sink that you can use. (Example: a 36" cabinet measurement would accommodate a 30" - 32" sink).

Most kitchen cabinets are standard 24" measurement front to back. The width (front to back measurement) of the sink that can be used is determined by this measurement and whether or not the counter top has a back splash. If the counter top has no back splash and the cabinet is of standard size, a sink that measures up to 22" width (front to back) will fit. If the counter top has a back splash, measure the thickness of the backsplash and deduct it from the cabinet width. This will allow maximum sink size and allow spacing for sink installation.

It is likely, but not certain, that sinks with front to back width of up to 20-1/2" will fit. The ebay RemodelCenter store has a huge selection of sink sizes.

2. Material
Kitchen sinks are manufactured using many different materials. Just to name a few, stainless steel, copper, cast iron, vitreous china, enameled steel, fireclay, and granitecan all be found in today’s modern kitchens. Despite this wide variety of options, stainless steel has emerged to become the most popular choice for new installations. Moreover, cast iron remains the material of choice for consumers seeking a colored finished. Below are descriptions of various materials.

Stainless Steel: As noted, stainless steel has emerged to become the most popular choice of materials for new sink installations. This is due to its low cost, lightweight, and almost unbreakable construction. It is important to note that various qualities of stainless steel exist. The gauge of the stainless steel is the thickness of the stainless steel sink. The most common gauges are 18 and 20. The higher the number gauge, the thinner the steel. Eighteen (18) is the most recommended gauge for sinks. For example, light-gauge stainless steel that is higher in number (20-gauge, etc) is more susceptible to denting and scratching. Stainless steel is also available in a mirrored finish. This gives it a shinier appearance, but also increases the likelihood that visible scratches will occur. Brushed-stainless (also called “satin”) finishes are the newest trend because scratches are less visible. Also popular are satin bowls with mirrored rims.

Copper: Copper starts out in sheets of various thicknesses or “gauge”. The thickness of the metal can also be referred to by the weight per square foot. The thicker the gauge copper, the lower the number. Most bath sinks are made from 20 gauge (the thinnest) to 16 gauge (the thickest) and most kitchen sinks range from 18 gauge to 14 gauge. When shopping for copper sinks, always ask about the gauge and be aware that a thicker gauge sink will cost more – and in many cases is worth it! A lightweight gauge metal can result in a “tinny” sound when running the faucet.

Cast Iron: Enameled cast iron is the optimal choice if you desire a fashionable, colored sink. The material itself is comprised of a solid cast iron base that is layered with a deep enamel surface. This makes for an extremely heavy construction that is resistant to almost any type of structural damage. Consequently, enameled cast iron is more difficult to install and tends to cost more than porcelain or stainless steel. Nevertheless, it will save you money in the long run because it should last forever.

Enameled Steel: This material is made by combining an embossed steel casing with a layer of a specially glazed clay. This creates a smooth and appealing surface that will remain strong if the sink is used normally. It is relatively lightweight, and cheaper than many other materials. If a large object is dropped into the sink, and subsequently causes a big impact, the sink may damage. This type of sink tends to produce a good amount of operating noise.

Fireclay: This material became very popular in the 1800s. Sometimes called ceramic, it has a composition very similar to vitreous china offering a smooth, non-porous surface that won’t rust, fade or discolor. Fireclay or ceramic sinks can be plain, sculpted, or hand-painted to create a variety of different designs and styles.

Granite: Extremely high price tags are attached to these types of sinks, which are the most scratch resilient sinks that can be purchased today. This durability can be attributed to the compactness of rock particles that coat the surface. This material is not available in a shiny finish.

Vitreous China: A ceramic-based material, vitreous china is best recognized for its smooth and glossy finish. The material is very durable and is available in almost any color, including hand-painted and sculptured designs. Unfortunately, boiling water or heavy objects that fall into the sink can damage the surface.

3. Installation Type

The installation of the sink can make a substantial difference in the overall look and functionality of it. Below are descriptions of the most popular installation types available today.

Self-rimming, drop-in: These sinks have traditionally been the most common in the kitchen. They are mounted from above the counter and have a built-in visible rim on which the faucet sits. These sinks work well with any countertop material but have a raised lip that may, depending on the sink material you choose, interfere with cleaning.

Undermount, recessed: These sinks are the most popular for their glamorous appeal and superior functionality. They are installed from underneath the counter and do not have a rim, so food and debris can be wiped directly into the sink. Any solid surface countertop of manmade material, natural stone or concrete will allow for an under-mounted sink installation.

Tile-in, tile-edge: These sinks have a “tile-in” edge. They are designed to mount flush with a tiled surface and offer a built-in, grouted sink edge.

Apron or farmhouse sinks: These sinks are becoming increasingly popular as many homeowners are going for a traditional farmhouse look in their kitchen. They have exposed decorative face panels and must be planned for early in your kitchen design because they have special cabinet requirements. See your cabinet fabricator before purchasing an apron or farmhouse sink.

4. Bowls
Kitchen sinks are available in one bowl, two bowl, or three bowl models. The bowls can be deep or shallow, and have straight or sloped sidewalls. When deciding on the number and type of bowls you will need, think of how you are planning to use your sink. Single bowl sinks are basic, but can be purchased with a depth of up to 10” or 12”. If you plan on using your sink primarily for rinsing dishes to prepare them for the dishwasher, then a single-bowl sink will probably meet your needs. Two and three bowl sinks allow for multi-tasking. You can rinse or store dishes in the large bowl, and use the small bowl for a garbage disposal or to rinse vegetables.

Bowls are available in different depths. Extra-deep bowls are great for soaking larger pots and roasters, but reduce the amount of space under your counter and may be troublesome for your back on a daily basis. Shallower bowls are great for rinsing vegetables or supporting garbage disposals. Bowl depths range from 5” to 12”.

The placement of the drain in bowls varies. The most common is a center-drain. Some bowls are available with a rear-positioned drain. offers more usable bowl space, and since the plumbing underneath is set further back, it also adds the benefit of additional under-counter cabinet storage.

5. Faucet holes
If you are installing a self-rimming (drop-in) sink then you will have an option for the number of holes you would like the sink to come with. The number of holes you should choose depends on the type of faucet and accessories you are planning to install. You can purchase a faucet that requires one hole (single-handle), or three holes (separate hot and cold handle). However, if you are planning on purchasing an accessory as well, such as a side spray (vegetable spray), soap dispenser, or hot water dispenser keep; in mind they require a hole as well. Below is a chart of hole options and their purpose.

One hole: Allows for a faucet with a single lever handle (no separate hot and cold handles).

Two hole: Allows for a faucet with a single lever handle (no separate hot and cold handles) and an option of a side spray, soap dispenser, hot water dispenser, or chilled water dispenser.

Three holes: Allows for a faucet with separate hot and cold handles OR a single lever handle faucet with an option of two of the following accessories, side spray, soap dispenser, hot water dispenser, or chilled water dispenser.

Four holes: Allows for a faucet with separate hot and cold handles and an option of a side spray, soap dispenser, hot water dispenser, or chilled water dispenser.

Five holes: Allows for a faucet with separate hot and cold handles with an option of two of the following accessories, side spray, soap dispenser, hot water dispenser, or chilled water dispenser.

6. Features Available
There are a variety of features available for your kitchen sink. Not all manufacturers offer these features but the ones that do, assure you that you are purchasing a quality sink that will have long-lasting benefits.

Spillway: A spillway feature is available for 2 and 3 bowl sinks. Since it is lower than the sides of the sinks, any overflowing water will go from one bowl to the other, without getting water onto the floor.

Clamps: Clamps are sometimes provided to attach to the bowl before your sink goes into the countertop. This ensures a secure, trouble - free installation.

Rear Drains: Rear drains provide more storage space in the cabinet below the sink since the pipes are further back.

Rim Seal: A rim seal will seat your sink to your countertop to prevent water from infiltrating beneath. No caulking is needed.

Deep Bowl: Deep bowls give you more flexibility and room when washing your biggest roasting pans, stock pots and cookie sheets.

Sound Deadening Pad: The last thing you want is for your sink to ring like a gong every time you drop a pot or pan, so sound deadening pads dampen all reverberations.

Undercoating: The underside of your sink is sprayed with a protective undercoating to eliminate bothersome condensation and to retain the heat of your dishwater longer.