Americans spend four hours a month washing dishes so it’s important to get a trendy but practical sink.
Fireclay sinks are rising in popularity because of their aesthetic, durability, and low-maintenance nature. Perhaps you’re considering this type of sink but you’re unfamiliar with the benefits.
Sound like you? Well, to sway you, we’ve compiled a list of 11 reasons to install a fireclay sink. Here’s everything you need to know.
Table of Contents
What Is a Fireclay Kitchen Sink?
Before diving into the benefits of fireclay kitchen sinks, we’ll give you a background of their history. This style of sink, unsurprisingly, got its name because it was originally designed for farmhouses thanks to their large size and incredible resilience.
Fireclay sinks are a type of ceramic but instead of being carved, they’re molded at high temperatures to create the perfect shape.
Benefits of Fireclay Sinks
Whether you’re looking for fireclay bathroom sinks or kitchen sinks, they fit in with a variety of designs. Aside from being affordable, they have many other benefits. For example:
Handcrafted
A charming feature of fireclay sinks is how they’re handcrafted even though they’re mass-produced. As you browse models, you’ll notice small variations in the size or shape so the sink fits with a custom-style kitchen.
They’re special because fireclay comes from unique regions in the world including Italy, Israel, and France. After the clay has been fired at high heat, the clay and glaze fuse together to create a new, dense material that can withstand busy days of cooking.
Different Size Options
Like bathroom sinks, fireclay sinks come in an array of sizes depending on your needs. Make sure you have the right one for your kitchen by measuring the space and the base cabinet where you’ll be installing the sink. There are also several different mount options like under, top, and front apron.
A major bonus is that fireclay sinks take minimal space so if you’ve got a 42-inch base cabinet then it’ll support a 39-inch base sink.
Durable
One of the most durable sink materials is fireclay as it’s resistant to scratches, dents, and other superficial marks. Sinks are an investment so you don’t want to spend a fortune on premium material only to have it showing signs of wear and tear within months.
Not only does fireclay withstand accidents but it maintains its dazzling appearance for long periods.
Comes in a Variety of Colors
Finding the right color is key to bringing the entire room together. Make sure it complements the countertops, appliances, and wallpaper to create an inviting space for the family to gather. And because fireclay sinks are an investment, it’s important you’re happy with the choice.
Easy to Clean
Fireclay sinks are low-maintenance, great news for busy families. Simply clean the sink whenever it gets dirty and wipe it down with a dry cloth so there aren’t any water spots. If you want to deep clean the sink, apply baking soda to a damp sponge and give it a good scrub.
Resistant to High Heat Levels
Many homeowners are attracted to fireclay sinks because they have high heat resistance. This is because fireclays are a natural blend of ceramic clay and minerals so it can withstand high temperatures. As a result, homeowners don’t have to worry about hot pans burning the surface or using trivets.
Different Design Options
Fireclay sinks come in a wealth of designs whether you want one with a lip or a fluted style. You may also stumble across reversible models. This means all four sides have a different design so you can choose which one faces the front.
You Can Still Use a Garbage Disposal
Luckily, you don’t have to sacrifice your garbage disposal with a fireclay kitchen sink. But it’s important to find a model that’s compatible with it. This is because the fireclay is thick so you need specific drain inserts and faucets.
Great for High Traffic Situations
Whether you’re constantly whipping up meals with the family or honing your baking skills, you’ll need a sink that can withstand the constant use. Fireclay is the perfect candidate because of its thickness and weight compared to more fragile materials like porcelain. Although it may cost more for a professional installation, it’s worth the investment.
Nonporous
Certain materials absorb more water than others. For instance, granite has to be regularly sealed to prevent liquid or bacteria from seeping in and darkening it. Most homeowners should choose less porous options like fireclay that have been glazed in ceramic so your kitchen stays spotless.
Resistant to Acids and Alkalis
Our cabinets are packed with food that varies in acidity, whether it’s leafy greens (alkaline) or vinegar. Because of this, we must consider the impact they can have on a traditional sink.
These aren’t equipped to ward off acid or alkalis and they can corrode or chip the surface if they’re constantly exposed to them. But when you have a fireclay sink, you can enjoy your favorite meals without worrying about your sink’s appearance.
Those Are the Top Benefits of Fireclay Sinks
Now you know why you should invest in a fireclay sink.
Although they’re an investment, fireclay sinks are popular because of their durability, high heat resistance, and how easy they are to clean. Another perk is how they’re available in a wide range of designs and colors so you can find one that best complements your kitchen. Happy designing!
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