Plumbing Phase|Step 19 of 33

Upgrade Kitchen Sink

Your sink is the most-used fixture in the kitchen. A deeper, bigger sink makes cooking and cleaning dramatically easier.

Time Required

2-4 hours

Cost

$200-$800

Difficulty

Moderate

Sink Types Compared

$200-$600

Mounts below countertop for seamless look. Easy to wipe crumbs directly into sink. Requires solid surface countertop (granite, quartz).

$400-$1,500

Deep basin with exposed front. Statement piece. Requires cabinet modification. Available in fireclay, stainless, or cast iron.

$100-$400

Easiest DIY install. Rim sits on counter. Works with any countertop material. Most budget-friendly option.

$400-$1,200

Built-in accessories: cutting boards, colanders, drying racks. Maximizes prep space. Popular trend with good functionality.

Stainless steel: Most popular. Durable, affordable, matches appliances. 16-18 gauge is best.
Composite/Granite: Modern look, quieter, resists scratches. Many color options.
Fireclay: Classic farmhouse look. Heavy and durable. Can chip if you drop heavy pans.
Cast iron: Extremely durable with enamel coating. Heavy—needs cabinet reinforcement.
Copper: Antimicrobial, unique patina over time. Requires maintenance. Premium price.

Single vs. double bowl: Single bowls fit large pots easier. Double bowls separate tasks.
Depth matters: 9-10 inches is ideal. Shallow sinks splash more.
Measure cabinet base: Sink can't be wider than base cabinet minus 3 inches.
Drain location: Rear drains give more under-sink storage.
Consider a large single: Trend is moving toward big single bowls for versatility.

•Buy sink before countertop: Fabricator needs exact sink dimensions for cutout.
•Don't cheap out: You use your sink 20+ times a day. A good one lasts decades.
•Consider noise: Stainless can be loud. Look for sound-deadening pads or thicker gauge.
•Plan faucet holes: Undermount sinks need faucet holes drilled in countertop. Decide faucet first.