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Sink made of granite or artificial stone compare. Sinks from quartz for kitchen - distinctive features of sinks from an artificial stone. Sinks made of artificial stone: colors, models, surface types

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Artificial stone sink for the kitchen: how to choose, installation, surface care, features

It takes ~7 minutes to read

Any kitchen should correspond to its purpose, that is, to be comfortable, beautiful and functional. To create a comfortable interior, not every user is ready to spend a lot of money on the purchase of equipment and furniture. A sink made of natural stone will cost the property owner a significant amount of money. The way out of this situation will be an artificial stone sink in the kitchen. In the article, we will get acquainted with the nuances of choice, as well as the pros and cons of using such a product.

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Material Features

The composition of the material under consideration contains several components:

• Marble crumb, particles of quartz or granite.
• polymer binder.
• Pigment dye of the desired color. Its presence in the composition allows you to give the sink shades of natural stone.

In this composition, there are granules of real stone, which gives reason to talk about the naturalness of products. An acrylic sink is considered completely artificial, because it contains aluminum hydroxide, acrylic resins, as well as polymethyl meracrylate. The strength of the entire structure depends on the proportion of the last element in the basic composition. Some users write reviews that the bottom of acrylic sinks falls off after a few years of operation. This suggests that the manufacturer added the minimum amount of the most expensive component of polymethyl meracrylate to the composition.

To protect against external aggressive environment, the stone sink to the kitchen is covered with a special protective solution called gelcoat. This substance closes the pores in which dirt, moisture and unpleasant odors can accumulate. On the surface of some models of sinks, special antibacterial preparations are applied. Such a layer protects the product from pathogens throughout the entire operational period.

Advantages and disadvantages

Before buying a stone sink for the kitchen, you need to familiarize yourself with its strengths and weaknesses. Let's start with the advantages of the material:

• Good resistance to aggressive environments. The surface of the products withstands contact with chemical solutions, but is afraid of abrasive substances (this does not apply to all models).
• Sufficient moisture resistance. Thanks to the protective layer, the material does not absorb water into the pores.
• Water from the tap, when it hits the stone, does not create the noise inherent in stainless steel products.
• On a sink spots from the crude liquid are not formed.
• The material can withstand temperatures in the range of 180-280 degrees.
• No unpleasant odors.
• A huge number of color models.
• Possibility of production of sinks according to the given overall dimensions.
• Long period of operation.
• Ability to repair minor surface damage.

The main disadvantages of a kitchen sink made of artificial stone are the high price, as well as a significant mass of products. The price of analogues made of stainless steel is an order of magnitude lower. The disadvantages also include the instability of some models to sudden temperature fluctuations, the possibility of cracks on the surface of monolithic products that are combined with the countertop.

Embedded models are considered a more promising option than combined designs, so many users prefer the first products. If there is a need to combine the countertop with the sink, then they must be made from the same materials, but the details must be independent. If there are chips and cracks on one part, there is no need to replace the second one.

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How to choose the right sink

In order for the sink to last as long as possible, you need to learn how to choose and operate it correctly. In this case, the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe kitchen room, the number of dishes that will be washed are taken into account. Another important criterion is the cost of the model.

What is artificial stone made of?

The strength of the sink, its stability and other technical characteristics will depend on the composition of the material. The best proportions of stone chips and polymer binders are 80:20. Maximum strength is observed in shells made of granite chips. There are no traces left on the surface of such products after exposure to abrasives. Models made of quartz have similar properties to granite details. At the same time, marble sinks are quite capricious, they are afraid of scratches, with small mechanical impacts, chips form on the surface.

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Shape and size

Sizes of kitchen sinks made of artificial stone can be different. A large sink is convenience, functionality and luxury, but such a product is suitable for spacious rooms. When installing a sink in a small kitchen, it is recommended to select narrow, shallow round or square products. To save space in a small room, you can install a corner sink.

The main parameters of the products do not matter if they are installed in a spacious kitchen. In most models, the bowl is made in the shape of a circle, other popular options are rectangle and oval. Some materials for the corner parts of the room are made in the shape of a trapezoid. In spacious rooms, sinks with wings can be installed, here you can put dishes for drying. If two bowls are used, then a small container can be used to put various products for defrosting or vegetables for washing.

If a special machine is provided for washing dishes, then the sink is used only for rinsing cutlery, cups and bowls. When hand washing dishes with 3 or more occupants, choose a wide and deep sink. In such a container, a sufficient number of cutlery will fit.

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Number of bowls

Large sinks can be divided into two or three bowls. The choice of such a model is justified only if the hostess cooks a lot. In this case, one bowl will be used for folding dishes, another for preparing and cleaning food, and another for defrosting. Such options are relevant for restaurants and cafes, as well as apartments where many residents live.

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Color

Most models of sinks in the kitchen are matte, but there are products with a surface that imitates metal. The color of the kitchen sink should be as close as possible to natural stone. The range of such products includes 8-12 shades, but some manufacturers reduce the palette to 4-6 colors.

The most popular shades are:

• anthocyanin, chocolate color;
• white and beige shades;
• grey colour.

When buying a sanitary ware, make sure that the color of the product is combined with the overall interior of the room.

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Price

The price of shells is in the range of 3-8 thousand rubles. It all depends on the composition and overall dimensions. Foreign models have a wide range of prices from 5 to 100 thousand. The most expensive are large, complex shells consisting of several bowls.

The best option for an apartment would be a product worth 12-20 thousand rubles. Models cheaper than the specified price range are available from unscrupulous manufacturers. Such firms save on binder components that provide the strength of the product. Improper handling will cause cracks and chips on the surface of the material. In addition, ugly stains can form on poor-quality sinks. They form when surfaces come into contact with hot objects.

Accessories

To extend the period of operation of the sink, it is necessary to purchase special accessories that will protect the stone from mechanical damage. Such protection is especially needed for cheap models with reduced technical characteristics.

To prevent cracks and chips, a basket is installed in the sink. Such a detail will prevent the destruction of the surface from an accidentally dropped object. The basket can be used for washing fruits and vegetables. To prevent the appearance of age spots will allow special coasters for hot dishes.

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Manufacturer

The most popular brands of kitchen sinks are:

• The German manufacturer Blanco, which supplies models from silgranite to the market.
• Schock (Germany) manufactures shells from crystallite.
• The Franke company (Germany) uses fragranite as the main raw material.
• The French manufacturer Benthor Corporation uses Novoquartz or Cermat for the manufacture of sinks.

All these raw materials (tegranite, crystallite, silgranite and fragranite) differ little from each other. The composition of the main components in the products remains unchanged, 80% is stone chips, the remaining 20% ​​is binders.

The main difference between the products of various foreign companies is their own patented production technology. Distinctive features are present in materials such as Novoquartz and Cermat. The composition of the raw materials here includes binders, acrylic, rubber, and fiberglass. It must be understood that a high-quality sink will have an appropriate cost, so when choosing a sink, give preference to well-known manufacturers who have been able to collect positive consumer reviews.

Installation nuances

The installation of artificial stone sinks must be carried out by specially trained personnel. This is due to the fact that the products must be installed in a countertop made of the same material, and this causes certain difficulties. Unlike the average user, experts will do the job so that the gap between the work surface and the sink remains masked. With self-assembly, this is unlikely to be achieved.

Installing a stone sink in a regular countertop can be done independently, but the master must follow the requirements of the instructions. At the initial stage of work, it is necessary to cut a hole for the dimensions of the sink. Standard overhead sinks have a size of 60 * 60 centimeters. In this case, the user must draw the outline of the model on cardboard and transfer it to the table top. In a wooden kitchen board, 4 holes are made along the contour, then a piece of material is cut out with a jigsaw. To prevent the extra part of the countertop from damaging the floor, during the work it is necessary to fix the position of the part with screws.

At the next stage of work, the edge is cleaned with sandpaper and treated with a sealant. For the same purpose, you can use sealing tape, which can be bought at a specialized store. Next, carefully lift and install the sink into the countertop, to fix it, special bolts are used to secure the product in the lower part.

After installing the sink, proceed to install the mixer. This sanitary ware is fixed on the sink. Then it is connected to the pipeline for hot and cold water. The sink drain is connected to the siphon, and the sealant that has come out at the junctions is also eliminated.

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Nuances of care

Numerous reviews from consumers who have already installed a stone sink in their kitchens indicate that such a product does not need special care, but you still need to know some of the nuances. The surface of the material can suffer from various mechanical stresses, for example, the fall of a heavy object causes chips and cracks. Such defects are difficult to repair, in some cases it is necessary to change the shell.

It is undesirable to install hot objects on stone products. A kettle of water heated to 80 degrees can cause stains. Clean the surface with soft sponges without abrasive substances, because such particles can cause scratches on the product. A solution of concentrated acid and bleach are considered detrimental to the stone. Do not break the tightness of the joints during operation, this causes mold to appear at the joints and can lead to damage to the wooden countertop.

To decide on the choice of a sink, you need to study the characteristics of the options on the market. This fixture is an important part of the kitchen set. The sink is often used for its intended purpose, which means that it must have a high level of stability and good functionality.

Often the choice fluctuates between two options - it is stainless steel or artificial stone. Each of the materials has its own characteristics and disadvantages. To understand which washing option is best for a person, you need to consider in detail the advantages of both varieties.

Stainless steel

Stainless steel has rapidly gained momentum among consumers. Stainless steel products have a number of advantages that significantly increase the demand for stainless steel sinks. Firstly, a stainless steel sink has an affordable cost. The product has strength, wear resistance and universal design.

Consider some of the advantages of stainless steel:

• The product is suitable for any practical design solution;
• Hygiene, during operation the product does not accumulate harmful bacteria, therefore it is absolutely safe;
• Resistance to damage and temperature extremes;
• Does not require the use of additional products for proper care of the product;
• Affordable price range.

Stainless steel has a high level of strength and is great for home use. Thin metal is quite ductile, which provides additional protection against heavy loads.

A stainless steel sink also has its drawbacks, which are revealed by the hostess during the operation of the sink:

• Coarse abrasive substances contribute to the appearance of small scratches on the surface, which not only spoil the integrity of the product and its appearance, but also affect the safety of use. Dirt can clog into these small scratches, which is then quite difficult to remove - this contributes to the development of microbes on the surface;
• Stainless steel will have to be rubbed periodically, as traces of limescale in the form of drops may remain on the metal - this spoils the appearance of the product. In order for it to retain its luster, and the spots do not eat into the surface, it is required to wipe it periodically and remove the carefully formed plaque;
• Metal is notable for its noisiness, when water contacts metal or dishes with such a sink, noise occurs, since there is no sound-absorbing substrate.

When choosing, you should carefully consider the quality of the material. On the modern market there is a wide variety of models of such sinks. The surface can be of two types - it is smooth and corrugated. A distinctive feature of the second type is the difficulty of the process of cleaning the surface.

The production technology allows to distribute all products into two varieties:

• Welded option;
• Stamped item.

The ease of installation of equipment depends on the type of model. The sink from the overhead group is much easier to install than the mortise version. Stainless steel sink fits perfectly into any interior.

Technology for the production of shells made of artificial stone

Artificial stone is gaining great popularity today, it is also used for the production of shells. Such products differ from the above models in a more aesthetic appearance, the surface is pleasant to the touch, it is easy to care for it. They are significantly different from the metal options.

The basis of the material is a composite, which is combined with additional fillers and binding elements. Usually an artificial stone is required in the form of crumbs of granite or marble. They are held together using polymer resins. Dyes may be added to give a distinctive appearance.

After shaping the product, its surface must be completely treated with a special tool - gelcoat. It is required to provide the stone with additional protection, the tool fills the existing pores, which allows you to get a perfectly smooth surface. Thanks to this treatment, the stone sink is easy to care for and resistant to external influences.

The sinks of this variety are produced mainly cast, thanks to the active development of the modern world, technology allows you to create unique design products. The artificial stone used for the manufacture of sinks has its own distinctive characteristics that bring products to a good level.

It is reliable due to its homogeneous structure. It is resistant to chemicals.

The capabilities of modern manufacturers allow you to create unique options for shells made of artificial stone. You can see a wide variety of models that differ not only in shape and size, but also in color.

According to the reviews of the hostesses of such shells of bright colors, the product retains its appearance and brightness of the range for ten years, of course, provided that the shell is properly used.

The buyer has the opportunity to pick up a matte or glossy version, it all depends on the personal preferences of the consumer.

Positive characteristics of stone products

In the process of use, stone sinks show their positive qualities that you need to know when choosing a sink:

• Resistance to external mechanical influences significantly increases the service life of the product. It should be remembered that the glossy surface is the most vulnerable. If it is not properly cared for, scratches can form that spoil the appearance of the product and its integrity;
• The sink is quite resistant to temperature extremes, it easily withstands the regime from -30 degrees to 150. This allows you to use it as efficiently as possible, without fear that it will be damaged;
• Contaminants do not eat into the surface, they are easily removed, the main thing is to wipe the sink from tea or coffee in time to avoid darkening of the surface;
• Sharp changes are easily tolerated by the stone, which eliminates the possible occurrence of cracks from a sharp temperature drop.

Analyzing the advantages of artificial stone, many consumers highlight the main advantages over other shell options. In appearance, they are distinguished by their sophistication and aesthetics. The design of the sink with the help of artificial stone will help to add solidity to the overall interior of the kitchen, to give effect.

On the other hand, the owners of such a product highlight the following positive characteristics:

• The durability of the working surface allows you not to think about changing the sink for several years. The composite version is distinguished by a high level of strength and reliability, therefore it can last at least ten years, with proper care of the sink, the service life increases several times;
• The product is absolutely safe in terms of hygiene. The manufacturing technology makes it possible to exclude the possibility of accumulation of microorganisms on the surface. This eliminates the possibility of an unpleasant odor or the release of harmful substances;
• The composite is an artificial stone, so it does not emit radioactive substances that can harm the health of the body;
• The strength of the product is several times higher than that of the natural version. The product from it is approximately three times more durable. Damage to the product can only appear under very heavy load on it;
• Repair can be carried out at home, if a scratch appears, it can be removed using sandpaper. The chip is easily repaired, this will require acrylic glue, which will securely connect the chipped pieces, while the seam will not be visible.

The advantages of a stone sink allow you to make a choice in favor of this option, but the product cannot be ideal. Therefore, the disadvantages of sinks made of this type of material should also be considered. It is required to remember about the correct use of the sink.

It does not tolerate exposure to the surface with abrasive substances or metal sponges. This provokes the appearance of small damages, especially on the glossy surface of the stone.

Despite the high level of resistance to external influences, it should be avoided that too hot dishes that have just been removed from the fire get on the surface. This can cause spots on the surface, which then will be impossible to remove.

Avoid dropping items that are too heavy on the surface from a great height. If these requirements are not observed and inaccurate use, a crack may appear. Products of this variety have a rather high price. It should be noted here that the sink made of artificial stone has a long service life, so the cost of the product easily pays off.

After a comparative analysis of the two sink options, we can conclude that each of the varieties has its own positive and negative characteristics. The main thing to understand when choosing what performance characteristics are required from the product.

Installation conditions for stone and stainless steel sinks

A distinctive feature of each of the options is their installation. Stainless steel is much lighter than stone, so installation does not require special skills.

To install an artificial stone product, you must first make a template from thick cardboard, which will fully correspond to the size of the stone sink. This will allow you to freely measure the required space for washing.

A heavy stone can be dropped during the measurement, which will result in losses. The sink can be damaged or scratched. Measuring the required space for a sink using a template will help keep the sink intact, and installation work will be carried out quickly and easily.

Video: installing a sink in the kitchen

Conclusion

The question of which sink is better: stainless steel or artificial stone is solved very simply. When choosing, you should pay attention to performance characteristics. The buyer must know exactly what he needs from the sink. For some consumers, aesthetic appearance and original design are important, then you can choose a sink made of artificial stone.

For some consumers, the price category is important, so they purchase a stainless steel sink. The hostess should understand that after purchasing any of the options, it is required to strictly follow the recommendations for caring for the product so that the surface retains its original appearance for a long period of time.

There are many types of sinks on the plumbing market. Actively gaining popularity options with two bowls. It should be borne in mind that they are only suitable for a strict style. If a functional bowl is required, then a deep sink should be purchased, which will prevent a drop from falling onto the surface around the sink.

An artificial stone sink is a stylish and practical solution. In a short period of time, this species has occupied a worthy niche in the building materials market and in the list of consumer favorites. Along with the magnificent appearance of the product, there are a number of undeniable advantages.

Artificial stone sink - pros and cons

The unique properties of artificial stone are predetermined by the composition and correctly derived proportions. Quality materials consist of stone chips (80%) - granite, quartz and polymer binder resins (20%). Worthy of praise and acrylic sinks. General indicators for such products are:

1. Durability. With proper care, an artificial stone sink will last at least 10 years. This indicator is several times higher than that of or.
2. Hygiene. The special composition of the material is not suitable as a breeding ground for bacteria, fungus, mold. Therefore, such a wash over time will not exhaust the unpleasant odor, and plaque will not appear on the surface. Unlike natural stone, the composite does not pose a threat of increased background radiation, therefore it is safe for human health.
3. Strength. A sink made of artificial stone will not “suffer” from falling kitchen utensils or utensils into it. Since the composite surpasses natural stone and concrete in terms of mechanical strength.
4. Ease of maintenance. Traces from drops of water, splashes and spots are not visible on a surface from an artificial stone. It is cleaned with ordinary detergent and a soft sponge. It is not necessary to wipe dry such a sink after washing. Products differ in excellent noise absorption.
5. Resistant to chemically aggressive substances.

The disadvantages of washing made of artificial stone make themselves felt during careless operation or when choosing low-quality products:

1. Cookware that has just been removed from the fire may leave marks on the composite surface.
2. A crack or chip in the sink can appear if a very heavy object is dropped there.
3. Scratches often spoil the appearance of a glossy surface.

Integrated sink made of artificial stone

According to the installation method, sinks can be classified into: mortise, overhead and integrated. The choice is determined by the features of the layout, furniture, financial capabilities and personal preferences of the owners. Particularly popular among consumers are integrated models that are installed flush with the countertop. They are glued and cast, can be installed flush with the countertop, above it and below it. The requirements for such products are much higher - these are exceptionally smooth edges and high-quality materials.

The advantages of integrated sinks are predetermined by their design features, flush installation:

• prevents the formation of water puddles and leakage;
• allows you to easily clean the work surface, keep it clean and dry;
• does not hide the beauty of the cross-sections of many of the materials from which countertops are made.

Mortise sinks for the kitchen made of artificial stone are mounted in a hole in the countertop. Its sides are flush with the surface of the cabinet. This is one of the best low cost options that is easy to install and fits any kitchen set. Such a sink can be installed in a countertop of different thicknesses and from different materials: wood, artificial stone, laminated chipboard, plastic.

Surface-mounted sink made of artificial stone

Such sinks are installed directly on one of the cabinets of the kitchen set. They are easy to install - do not require special skills and tools. The disadvantage of the model is the high probability of water getting into the gaps between the furniture elements, inconvenience during operation. Overhead models attract consumers with their low cost and ease of installation. Assessing the performance and answering the question of which artificial stone sink is better, professionals note that mortise models lose integrated and overhead.

Which artificial stone sink to choose?

There are several criteria by which you need to choose a sink made of artificial stone:

1. Room dimensions. The sink, refrigerator and stove make up a working triangle, which should not take up all the space. Therefore, the dimensions of each element must be selected in accordance with the total area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room.
2. Spaciousness. Those who like to spend another hour cooking gourmet dishes should not be limited to a low-capacity sink with one compartment. The dimensions of the sink are selected depending on the frequency of use. For small kitchens, medium depth corner models are ideal.
3. Number of sections. A very convenient sink option with two sections of different capacity. But such a solution is not always acceptable, for small kitchens or in homes where they rarely cook.
4. Mounting type. The installation method is an opportunity to save money. Mortise and overhead sinks are mounted without problems, integrated ones require professional skills. When choosing a suitable model, you need to focus on your budget, the desired performance characteristics, and the features of the kitchen set.
5. Practicality. Glossy composite surfaces in dark shades look stylish and beautiful, but this option is not always acceptable for large families where the sink is used frequently and for its intended purpose. On shells of light shades - white, beige, light brown, stains, small scratches and stains from water are less visible.
6. Quality. Before choosing a sink made of artificial stone, you need to make sure that there are no dents that are not provided for by the hole mounting technology, color uniformity and geometric correctness of the product.
7. Color and shape. These characteristics are determined by personal preferences, style and overall color scheme of the kitchen interior.

Square sink - artificial stone

Composite materials can be used to make a product of any shape, size and color. The best sinks made of artificial stone, familiar to the layman, are square-shaped products with sides of 50 or 60 cm. Such models are roomy and comfortable for washing dishes. In the assortment you can find sinks of different designs and colors. Among the shortcomings, one can single out the inconvenience when removing dirt in the corners, this does not apply to products with rounded edges.

Rectangular sinks made of artificial stone

The perfect solution for small kitchens and narrow worktops. When every centimeter counts, rectangular sinks and sinks made of artificial stone will serve you well. Products can be of different sizes, among the most popular ratios are: 55x50, 50x80, 50x100, 50x125 cm. Like square, rectangular bowls are problematic in terms of cleaning. They present difficulties in the operation of products located with the long side across.

Round sink made of artificial stone

Products of this form are capacious, easy to clean, fit perfectly into the interior, suitable for both small and large rooms. However, before choosing a round-shaped artificial stone kitchen sink, you should take into account that some materials can change color on bends, especially dark shades and composites with large inclusions.

Double sink made of artificial stone

To defrost meat and wash vegetables at the same time will allow a model of a sink with two bowls of different capacity. This practical solution is ideal for large kitchens and families where they often cook and wash dishes by hand. Built-in sinks made of artificial stone can have a wide variety of shapes that predetermine the installation location - along the wall or in the corner.

Drainer sink - artificial stone

The model is suitable for those who do not have a place for drying dishes in the kitchen set and the latter is washed by hand. Such a sink makes the working area functional and practical, and washing dishes is comfortable. In addition to their intended purpose, the wings on the mortise sink made of artificial stone protect the countertop and prevent moisture from entering the headset.

Sink made of artificial stone - colors

An independent design element or its harmonious addition - a sink made of artificial stone will cope with any role assigned to it. A variety of shapes and shades will help her with this. In any color, with an imitation of any texture and any shape, you can make a sink from acrylic. If we talk about quartz artificial stone, it is not so plastic, so the variability of forms is limited. But this applies only to intricate shapes, a corner sink made of artificial quartz stone or a trapezoid one are considered standard. The color range of the material is also varied.

Rating of kitchen sinks made of artificial stone

The products of the following brands have proven themselves with excellent performance characteristics:

1. blanco. The German company produces quality products at the right price. The product line of the company is rich in products of different shapes and colors.
2. tolero. The products of this brand are rapidly gaining popularity due to the optimal ratio of price and quality. In its assortment there are about 20 models.
3. Franke. A striking example of European design and high quality. The products of this company are diverse, it occupies a high price segment.
4. Florentine. Domestic brand that produces products of decent quality. The company is distinguished by a laconic and refined style.
5. GranFest. The rating of sinks made of artificial stone will be continued by the products of this domestic company. Products are not distinguished by a high degree of impact resistance, but are very attractive in price.

The sink is perhaps one of the most important elements in every kitchen. It is used much more often than other kitchen appliances - microwave ovens, ovens, hoods, etc. Artificial stone sinks today are in higher demand than their metal counterparts. They are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also pleasant to the touch, unpretentious to care for and, most importantly, do not make loud noise and rumble while washing dishes.

Should I buy a sink made of artificial stone? If yes, which one to choose? Before making a decision and proceeding directly to the choice, you should familiarize yourself with their characteristics and varieties in more detail.

Sink made of artificial stone: composition and main characteristics

Artificial stone for sinks is a composite consisting of a filler and binding elements. Natural minerals serve as a filler, and binder polymers (resins) are used for connection. The composition is usually: 80% natural stone (crushed marble, granite) and 20% polymer binders . In addition, dyes are also introduced. Modern sinks made of artificial stone are coated with a gelcoat - a special compound that increases the resistance of the surface. This is a protective layer that makes the sink smooth, devoid of pores. Such a coating allows you to keep its magnificent appearance for a long time.

Sinks from an artificial stone are cast products. The material from which they are made is also called "cast stone". Vibrocasting technology allows you to cast sinks of any size, shape and degree of complexity.

The artificial stone from which kitchen sinks are made has specific properties and special characteristics. It is characterized by high reliability, uniform structure, and resistance to various chemicals.

Sinks made of artificial stone: colors, models, surface types

Modern technologies used in the manufacture of artificial stone sinks allow you to get a huge number of different variations of colors, shades and textures. White, black and beige sinks, similar to natural stone with their pattern and rough surface, are in particular demand. However, the choice is much wider: on sale you can find products in green, pink, red, blue and other colors. The color of the sink is preserved even after 8-10 years of active use of the product.

When painting sinks made of artificial stone, various effects can be created: antique, shagreen, gloss, matte, silky matte, etc. Many models of such products are made with a structural surface.

The design of sinks made of artificial stone is extremely diverse. After all, this is a molded product, which means that absolutely any shape can be given to it. Two-bowl sinks in the form of a shell or a butterfly are most in demand. In general, the range of sinks made of composite is wider than that of stainless steel.

Performance characteristics of sinks made of artificial stone

Kitchen sinks, made on the basis of artificial stone, are distinguished by excellent performance. They do not require frequent maintenance, are practically not amenable to mechanical damage (with the exception of glossy surfaces, which can be scratched if not handled properly - for example, due to sharp objects), they tolerate critical temperatures perfectly (from -30 to +150 degrees), and are also easily cleaned from all kinds of contaminants.

An important feature of artificial stone is the extremely low coefficient of thermal expansion. This means that even with an instantaneous increase or decrease in temperature by several tens (or even hundreds) of degrees, the surface of the sink will not crack or deteriorate. For comparison: ceramic analogues can deteriorate during sudden heating or cooling - for example, when boiling water is poured into a cold sink. Metal products in such cases do not crack, but they can make a loud crack, which resembles a muffled blow on an iron surface.

Kitchen sinks made of artificial stone are resistant to the negative effects of chemically aggressive substances. Numerous studies have shown that their condition and appearance do not deteriorate even after interaction with such household reagents as hydrochloric, phosphoric and perchloric acid, ammonia, hydrogen peroxide, iodine solution, silver nitrate and lead acetate. Only acetone and concentrated nitric acid can cause small marks on sanded surfaces.

Artificial stone sink: pros and cons

Artificial stone has a number of unique properties that give products from it not only an aesthetic appearance, but also excellent performance. In particular, this material has the following advantages:

• Work surface durability As a rule, the service life of kitchen sinks made of artificial stone is at least 10 years. In this parameter, this material is slightly inferior to natural stone, but, at the same time, surpasses ceramics. Manufacturers of composite sinks take the liberty of asserting that with proper operation, the product can, if desired, bequeathed to grandchildren.
• Hygienic safety. Artificial stone, thanks to a special manufacturing technology, prevents the occurrence of harmful bacteria and microorganisms on the sink. Accordingly, there is no bad smell from the sink. An unpleasant slimy coating does not appear on its surface. The composite is not a source of increased background radiation, which is often the case with natural stone products.
• Huge margin of safety. According to various estimates, artificial stone surpasses natural stone in its mechanical strength by 2-3 times. Interestingly, in this physical parameter, even concrete is inferior to it. Thanks to this, kitchen sinks made of artificial stone are not damaged after rather heavy objects (iron utensils, kitchen appliances, etc.) fall on them.
• Possibility of complete restoration of geometry and surface when defects appear. In order to return the sink to its original appearance and clean it from scratches, potholes, etc., you just need to wipe the desired place with sandpaper and polish it. And accidentally broken pieces of artificial stone can be easily glued back with acrylic glue - and even a seam from the adhesive composition will not remain in that place.

However, like any other material, artificial stone is not without some drawbacks. Do not place excessively heated metal utensils (pots, pans, etc.) on its surface - for this you need to use special stands. Hot dishes that have just been removed from the fire can leave a noticeable mark on the sink.

If you drop something really heavy on the sink, a crack or chip may appear. However, this happens extremely rarely and depends, among other things, on the quality of the wash.

More complaints come to monolithic countertop sinks. This is a relatively new product in our kitchen accessories market. is cast entirely together with the sink. It looks nice, of course. The advantage is the absence of "seams". However, there is a significant minus: if the sink breaks, the entire structure will have to be changed. Ironically or because of the peculiarities of the technology, it is monolithic sinks that are damaged more often than independent ones.

Sink made of artificial stone or stainless steel?

Artificial stone and stainless steel- this is perhaps the most popular materials for the manufacture of kitchen sinks. The relatively low price, as well as many advantages, make them the best choice for customers who cannot afford to buy natural stone products.

Stainless steel sinks in most cases have a lower cost than their artificial stone counterparts. Stainless steel products are perfectly combined with mixers and demonstrate good indicators of strength and durability. However, unlike artificial stone sinks, they have poor sound absorption, as a result of which they can make a loud noise under the pressure of water. In addition, the stainless steel surface is less resistant to scratches, which, moreover, cannot be removed. Very quickly, a new stainless steel sink loses its original luster: many micro-scratches and plaque from the minerals contained in the water make it dull and not very clean in appearance.

Which is better: a sink made of artificial stone or stainless steel?

A stainless steel sink requires more care than an artificial stone sink. Stainless steel should be wiped dry after washing, otherwise unaesthetic stains remain. This is not the case with composite sinks.

The advantage of a composite sink over a stainless steel product is in the variability of colors. All stainless steel sinks have only one color - steel. This solution is not suitable for every kitchen. Among sinks made of artificial stone, there is a suitable option for any interior.

In some cases, a stainless steel sink will be preferable - for example, in a situation where the weight of the product is important. A sink made of artificial stone weighs much more.

Artificial stone sink: how to choose

First of all, pay attention to the shape of the sink. Rectangular options with one bowl - a classic. Such products are easy to install and usually have a capacious bowl. This is a great choice for those who wash dishes by hand.

For a large kitchen, a sink with two bowls and a “wet table” is perfect - its length should be at least 1 m. Two-bowl sinks are very convenient: you can defrost meat and wash dirty vegetables at the same time. Or wash dishes in one bowl, and soak vegetables and fruits in the other before washing.

If you need to install additional mixers, it is not necessary to look for a product with holes for it. Sinks made of artificial stone are perfectly drilled. To do this, you need to use a diamond-coated drill.

If you are afraid of plaque and stains from water, choose a sink not plain, but with a pattern of stone, crumbs. The speckled product is easier to care for. Pollution and deposits are simply invisible.

The most important: buy a sink from a reputable manufacturer. Take your time. See who made the sink you like and look for the company's website on the Internet (all major plumbing manufacturers have their own websites). Reliable manufacturers mark their products, supplying them with a technical passport and providing a guarantee (usually 2 years from the date of purchase). The composition of an artificial stone sink from a well-known brand on the market will correspond to that stated in the passport. Optimal composition: 80% filler and 20% binder polymers.

If you purchase a cheaper analogue from an unknown manufacturer, unpleasant surprises may await you soon after the start of operation, including sink distortion, deep chips, and even the bowl bottom tearing off.

Thanks to technological progress, housewives have a lot of kitchen assistants, one of them is a dishwasher. But the “good old” kitchen sink does not give up its position, remaining an indispensable attribute of the kitchen.

Stone sink is more expensive than metal

For a long time, this part was metal, but recently they have been popular for the kitchen. Despite the fact that stainless steel sinks are practical and reliable, they still do not fit into everyone. Granite sinks can be the basis for the design of this room. They are beautiful, functional, high quality, durable, comfortable and stylish.

A granite or marble sink is a versatile item in the kitchen that has taken on quite a few responsibilities. Any housewife spends 60 percent of all “kitchen time” near the sink. Dishes are washed in it, food is defrosted, it is also used for cleaning the kitchen. Another option for using the product is washing vegetables and fruits.

Recently, the demand for has increased several times. This is justified: stone is a strong and durable material, it looks spectacular, fits into almost any kitchen interior, its care is simple, and the price is affordable. In addition, this material is environmentally friendly and does not absorb dirt or grease.

It is easy to care for a granite sink - just wipe it with a napkin or cloth. It does not leave stains, streaks and other contaminants. When it comes to practicality and durability, a granite kitchen sink will serve you for a long time.

Is it difficult to care for a stone sink? What to apply?

Traces of tea, coffee and other food are removed from the walls of the sink with vinegar or lemon. Often, hard water from the tap leaves a coating on stone sinks, against which a descaler or conventional dishwashing compounds in dishwashers are used. To do this, dilute the product in warm water, fill, leave for 15-30 minutes, then rinse with warm water.

manufacturers claim that a metal sink will not be able to last such a long time

Granite sinksis the embodiment of durability, presentability and environmental safety. Therefore, it is best to clean them with environmentally friendly detergents. You can prepare such a tool yourself. To do this, you will need hydrogen peroxide and powdered chalk, which is in the hardware store. A mixture of these components will "pull out" the dirt directly from the structure of the granite.

To clean the sink, you need to apply the paste to the contaminated area and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Under the film, the paste will dry slowly and at the same time absorb dirt. After a while, the cleaning agent must be removed with water and a soft cloth.

Do not use products containing formic acid or pipe cleaners to clean granite-coated sinks. They contain aggressive components that change the structure of granite and deprive the sink of attractiveness and practicality. The use of metal scrapers is also not recommended.

The ideal material for cleaning stone sinks is a soft sponge, towel or microfiber cloths. Sponges are best used in combination with conventional detergents - this is enough to make the sink look like new. It is recommended for prevention to thoroughly clean the granite sink at least once a month.

What is the beauty of stone sinks?

Modern manufacturers offer the following material for kitchen sinks: faience, metal, stone. But a large niche in these products is occupied by sinks made of composite materials. The finished product consists of two or more components.

Sinks made of composites are characterized by mechanical strength, surface hardness, resistance to organic solvents and heat resistance. The water-repellent additives included in the composites help the sink surface to be clean, even with minimal exposure to water and a soft sponge.

Advantages of marble chips sinks:

1. Warm surface (due to the low thermal conductivity of the material);
2. Resistant to point and conventional impacts (due to the mechanical strength of the material);
3. High hygienic safety (possible due to the bactericidal and natural eco-friendly properties of the material);
4. Easy to keep clean (almost all household detergents are available for cleaning);
5. Long service life;
6. Noise absorption (during operation does not vibrate and does not rattle).

A stone sink is a more expensive option.

Which company do you prefer?

It is quite difficult for consumers to understand the variety of sinks for the kitchen the first time. After all, everyone wants to make the right choice so that the product serves for a long time and reliably.

There are many companies that produce quality quartz kitchen sinks. We invite you to get acquainted with them and their products:

• kitchen sinks ulgran. The composition of the shells includes: marble chips, pigments and acrylic resin. Signature stone sinks are scratch resistant and easy to clean. The material from which the granite kitchen sink is made does not fade, does not deteriorate from exposure to chemicals and withstands temperatures of 180 0 C. ulgran sinks absorb noise. This means that the noise of running water will be kept to a minimum. The company's products have a completely loyal price, which does not differ in the quality of the goods.
• kitchen sink lava. The composition of the sinks includes: quartz sand, granite chips and polyester resins. lava products meet high quality standards and look very elegant. Granite kitchen sink lava is resistant to sudden and large temperature changes, safe in direct contact with food, resistant to acids and alkalis. The structure of the shells from the lava collection is non-porous and this fact makes them dirt-repellent.
• kitchen sink florentina. The main products of the company are sinks made of composite materials - impact-resistant, hygienically safe, noise-absorbing, durable sinks. The stylish appearance of the products does not affect their functionality: the products are comfortable, have a durable, beautiful finish and are affordable. Installation of Florentina sinks will not take much time, even a non-specialist can handle it.
• . This manufacturer specializes in the production of artificial stone products. The polygon material from which the shells are made is the development of the company's engineers. It is durable, environmentally friendly and easy to maintain. A stone sink for the kitchen of the polygran company, made of artificial stone, does not differ in strength from products made of natural stone. And no wonder, because the composition of these sinks contains 80% natural stone and 20% polymers. Polygran products are resistant to high temperatures and mechanical damage. Stone polingan sinks do not have to be rigidly attached to the countertop, it is enough to “plant” them on glue. For the installation of such sinks, granite countertops, wooden or stone countertops can be used. But it is worth remembering that the weight of each sink varies from 8 to 20 kg.
• fotos kitchen sinks. fotos products are chemical resistant, food safe and UV resistant. Even if you do not handle these shells very carefully, they will not suffer much, because they are impact-resistant, and dirt does not eat into the surface. In addition, they are pleasant to the touch and visually beautiful.

Be sure to take into account the design of the kitchen when choosing

How to choose the right new sink

When choosing a sink, pay attention to the functionality and physical characteristics of the material from which it is made. Modern decorative and fashion trends involve the installation of a sink made of granite chips in the kitchen. Such sinks are not only beautiful and relevant, but also practical. They do not collect dirt, they are easily washed from grease and are durable. Almost all granite kitchen sinks are works of art.

Be sure to consider the design of the kitchen when choosing. For example, a light sink on a dark countertop looks contrasting and harmonious, and this combination of shades is pleasing to the eye.

When buying a sink, consider:

1. Depth and size of the bowl. The optimal parameter is 16-20 cm, which is enough to perform basic kitchen manipulations, and a sink with such a depth does not take up much space.
2. The color of the sink in the overall color scheme of the kitchen.
3. Accessories that match the product.
4. Mixer location.
5. The number of bowls and their location.
6. Availability of an emergency hole for draining excess water.
7. Does the sink have a dish drainer?
8. Is there a hole for installing a separate faucet for filtered drinking water?

Properly selected colors and shapes will bring aesthetic pleasure to the owners, and the use of granite in the interior is an indicator of taste, because granite is a noble stone.