Types and Prices of Kitchen Sinks

When remodeling or replacing your kitchen sink, there are a variety of choices for every style, color and budget.  Since the kitchen sink is one of the most used areas of your home, you should take the time to decide what type of sink you want to get.  You want it to look good and provide a lifetime of durability and strength.  Compare sinks on the market in order to find the best sink for your kitchen and budget.

Self-Rimming Kitchen Sink

This type of sink has a rolled or finished edge.  It is installed on the top of the kitchen counter and one of the easiest sinks to install.  Replacement of this type of sink can be done without damaging your countertop.  American Standard, Elkay and Blanco manufacture self-rimming sinks.  The price of these sinks range from $300 to $1,000 depending on the style and size of the sink.

Undermount Kitchen Sink

Also known as a recessed sink, the undermount sink is installed under a countertop.  It only works with concrete or other solid countertops.  Laminate countertops will not work because condensation can build up under the countertop and cause the laminate to bubble.  The undermount kitchen sink is popular because of its beautiful, seamless visual appeal.  The price of these sinks manufactured by Elkay and Blanco, without installation, range from $300 to $3,400 depending on the size and style of the sink.

Single Bowl Kitchen Sink

This type of sink has one large basin.  It is commonly seen as a second sink or a bar sink.  This style allows you to wash larger items like pots and pans in one area.  Blanco and Elday manufacture these types of sinks.  They range in price from $300 to $2,200.

Double Bowl Kitchen Sink

This is the most common type of sink in kitchens today.  Most bowls are the same size; however, there is a new trend to have one small bowl with a second larger bowl.  These sinks allow more than one person to work or multi-task at the sink.  Many homeowners have a garbage disposal installed on one side of this sink.  American Standard, Elkay and Blanco manufacture these sinks and price them from $700 to $1,000.

Triple Bowl Kitchen Sink

For larger kitchen, a triple bowl sink may be a nice option.  These sinks have two larger sinks on the outside with a small sink, usually used as a garbage disposal, in the center.  Since these sinks are so large, two or three people can work at the same time.  Although these sinks are becoming more popular, Blanco is one of the only manufactures who sell this style.  It ranges in price from $900 to $1,500.

Apron Front Kitchen Sink

This type of sink has one or two large bowls with an exposed front panel.  This type of sink is also known as a farmhouse kitchen sink.  Because of its unique design, custom made cabinets may be required.  American Standard manufactures this type of sink and sells them for $1,100 to $2,200.

Bar, Entertainment or Prep Kitchen Sink

These sinks are much smaller than traditional styled sinks.  They are designed to fit into small spaces without taking up much space.  They are not big enough to wash pots and pans; however, the area is perfect to use when entertaining or cleaning glassware and small plates.  Blanco is the popular manufacturer of these types of sinks and they sell for $300 to $900.

Gourmet Kitchen Sink

Previously only available through European manufacturers, this type of kitchen sink is starting to become much more popular in the United States.  It is an easy way to update your kitchen with a sink that includes a large bowl, a small bowl (usually for a garbage disposal) and a space for food preparation.  Elkay makes some of the finest gourmet sinks ranging from $2,000 to $3,000.