Ceramic sink for the kitchen

Not so often you can see a ceramic sink in the kitchen. As a rule, this is due to the widespread belief that ceramics is a very unreliable, fragile and unstable material. But if it were so, then why do many brand manufacturers continue to produce porcelain and faience sanitary ware?

Choosing a sink for the kitchen, you should focus on many factors. In addition to price and quality, the combination of a sink with a common interior is also taken into account.

It is important to understand that washing, as a workplace, must not only be resistant to damage, but also practical and promising for future use. Before putting an end to the idea of ​​acquiring a ceramic sink in the kitchen, it is worthwhile to get a closer look at all of its drawbacks and advantages.

There is some truth in the fact that ceramic interior elements are not suitable for kitchen conditions. But that is why a ceramic kitchen sink is usually made from a special type of material.The so-called "porcelain" is a conglomerate of standard ceramics and granite chips, which provides a fairly reliable stability. Such a shell shows good resistance to physical damage such as bumps and scratches, as well as temperature changes.

Of course, granite elements are far from the only “additive” to standard ceramics. There are others that give habitual material more plasticity. This approach allows you to create custom shapes and options for washing, which is ideal for even the most daring design decisions. Other advantages of the ceramic sink for the kitchen should be mentioned:

• Ceramics as a material is a “classic” material that creates a special atmosphere and can have a variety of design elements of decor, for example, hand-painted;

• Even with the condition of adding granite chips, or any other material, the ceramic sink is a very ecological interior detail;

• Unlike many other materials, ceramics is quiet.Recently popular version of the stainless steel sink, which attracts with its accessibility, does not stand up to such competition. This may seem a trifle, but it is from such trifles that comfort is formed;

• Products made from this material are very easy to launder and they have good resistance to many substances and household chemicals.

At the same time, there are few real disadvantages:

• Great weight. Even if you can effortlessly raise such a sink yourself, do not try to install it yourself! It is best to entrust this work to specialists, even if you have experience in working with sinks from other materials;

• Relatively high price. The issue of accessibility is the main reason why such car washes are not very popular. However, those who decided on such a purchase could appreciate the superiority of ceramics over the budget "stainless steel."

The quality of the shells differs in many ways depending on the production technique and the materials used. Currently, as a rule, manufacturers stop at two proven options, from which they have to choose:

• Porcelain sink will cost much more. However, the technology of their production allows to achieve a higher density of the material. Due to this, such a sink is better, because it is more resistant to external damage;

• Faience sinks have slightly different qualities. Sometimes they are called the "budget" version of ceramics. Faience has a porous structure, easily absorbs moisture and fat, which, of course, makes it a very poor-quality material. To eliminate this disadvantage, manufacturers cover the faience base with special glaze. As soon as the outer layer of the glaze is damaged, such a shell is likely to become useless immediately. In addition, the glaze over time loses its presentable appearance, being covered with a kind of "cobweb" and even small cracks. This does not affect the functionality of the sink, but is still a disadvantage, which is compensated by the lower price of the sink;

Of course, the quality of washing also depends on the integrity of the manufacturer. Therefore, when choosing such a serious interior detail, it is better to go to professional stores and salons.

Do not focus on high prices of foreign brands. Currently, there are a lot of Russian manufacturers who can also boast the quality of their products, which are much more affordable. At the same time, too low prices should be avoided. Saving on quality can turn into a serious disappointment, because for any really reliable plumber you will have to pay the appropriate money.

The specificity of ceramics and the addition of other materials to it make it possible to achieve a wide variety of shell shapes. Some people like a regular round sink, while others are more likely to be square or even double. Here the choice always depends on personal preferences and wishes.

It is necessary to take into account the fact that the kitchen sink is a complete workplace. That is why shells with various additional equipment, for example, a built-in cutting board, compartments for washing vegetables and fruits, and a device for shredding waste, are very popular. If you have a lot of work in the kitchen - you should consider the functionality.

Focusing on the size and shape of the sink, as well as suggestions regarding the style of the interior, you can choose the appropriate type of installation:

• Mortise sink is considered the most interesting choice in terms of design. With this method of installation, the sink itself "sinks" onto the countertop, and its edges do not rise. It is worth taking into account the combination of countertops and sinks, but the possibilities of their combination will greatly simplify this task. For example, if you like a black sink, you can choose a countertop made of artificial stone with imitation of marble;

• Integrated sinks are very similar to the mortise. The only difference is that their edges stand out above the table top, so they are processed more carefully;

• The simplest and most budgetary option is a false kitchen sink. It is simply installed on the cabinet, which eliminates unnecessary expenses and work.The disadvantage is only a small "pallor" in terms of design.

It is not enough to decide on the type of ceramic washing and its installation. In order to organize a practical place in the kitchen, you need to correctly position all the components of the interior. Someone prefers a large free space, but it is more convenient for someone if everything is close by. In the case of a sink, the following options are possible:

• Wall kitchen sink - this is the option that occurs most often. It is quite convenient, and its main advantage is simplicity and practicality. Such an arrangement can be called universal;

• Corner sink allows you to save space. It is ergonomic and compact, and its practicality can be provided with a double sink or additional equipment. This type is most suitable for a small kitchen or studio apartment;

• The so-called island car wash is a kind of arrangement that is not for everyone. It is not as practical as the previous ones, because it takes quite a lot of space, although it can look spectacular.Very often, such a sink is used only as an extra.

One of the advantages of ceramic sanitary ware, which will please any housewife in the kitchen, is the simplicity in cleaning. A porcelain or faience washbasin is always covered with a special glaze. This outer layer does not allow liquids or other substances to penetrate into the thickness of the base material, and can also protect against surface damage. Also, the glaze has repulsive properties, so the ceramic wash does not absorb smells and most chemicals.

• Care for high-quality ceramics, despite all its stability, should be regular. As a rule, manufacturers recommend cleaning at least once a week;

• When choosing a cleaning agent, you should avoid those that contain any abrasive material. Small granules and crystals can damage the glaze. On the other hand, it is resistant to various acids, therefore it is possible to use any liquid acid-containing agent;

• If you notice a metal mark on the surface of the sink, or any fresh stain, it can be removed with a simple damp sponge;

• Some variants of ceramic sinks tend to have yellow spots. If they are not removed with the usual detergent that you use on a daily basis, use a detergent powder. It should be applied to the stain, gently rub and leave for about 15 minutes, then remove with a damp sponge.

Despite the fact that ceramic shells are not very popular, they can not be considered a bad acquisition. Those who decide to make a choice in favor of such a wash, usually leave only positive feedback.

The properties of ceramics as a material allow implementing the most courageous design decisions. A variety of forms is complemented by a large gradation of colors, hand-painted, patterns. In addition to the design, the kitchen sink of ceramics is not inferior in functionality and practicality to other types of sinks. It can also be equipped with various optional equipment.

As for stability and durability, it is worth noting here that high-quality earthenware or porcelain is quite strong materials. The only question is how well you will get a quality sink.Given this nuance, as well as the fact that the ceramic sink is relatively expensive, you should be very careful when choosing. It is highly recommended to apply for purchase to professional salons or shops, which can not only provide a large selection of plumbing, but also have certificates and can guarantee the compliance of product quality with all accepted standards.