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When selecting a sink for your kitchen remodel, should you opt for an acrylic sink? Made of tough plastic, acrylic is a popular and durable type of material that is popular for kitchen and bathroom sinks. While it has many advantages, its disadvantages might make you opt for a different material. Pros and Cons of Acrylic Sinks An extremely moldable material, polycarbonate plastic or acrylic, comes in numerous stock shapes, which makes the product widely available. Since it is light, it is easier to add to an initial installation or replacement project than steel, composite, or enamel sinks. Once in place, acrylic does not show minor imperfections as the material is a solid color all the way through. By buffing the sink, tiny scratches will disappear. It is stain resistant and easy to clean, so long as you use nonabrasive cleaners. Because the material is reinforced with resin, it is light; because the surface is soft, it muffles noise. If the acrylic begins to look dingy, outdated, or faded before it is time to replace the sink, you can paint the sink with acrylic paint. If you have properly prepared the surface and cleaned it of all grease, mildew, and soap scum, you should have a good bond after applying acrylic paint that you let cure for 24 to 48 hours. On the downside, acrylic can scratch easily with normal usage. Since it is plastic, it will burn if you put a hot pan right in the sink. If you wash out a brush used for oil-based paint or pour drain cleaner down the pipes, the material will disintegrate before your eyes. Should Price be Your Biggest Determinant when Selecting a Sink? Many people select acrylic sinks because of their low price, ease of installation, and variety. Because of their disadvantages, you should think carefully about whether to take a chance on acrylic or go for a more stain resistant stainless steel or other product. Inexpensive 22 gauge stainless sinks with a shiny finish cost about the same as an acrylic sink. They also scratch more easily and sound loud from the rattling of the dishwasher or from dropping items in the sink. However, stainless steel sinks are more resistant to certain types of damage from heat and chemicals. If you are looking for the cheapest sink you can find, either product may offer equal choice. However, if you consider that a kitchen remodel incorporates changes that you will have to live with for years, spending more on your sink can offer a positive ROI in a short amount of time. You can acquire a slightly more expensive, lower gauge, stainless sink that will not break the bank. Considering that you plan to use the sink for many years to come, spending a few dollars more on this vital piece of equipment can be well worth it. When you are planning a kitchen remodel project, contact a local dealer that specializes in cabinets, counters and sinks, and who can guide you in selecting a sink for your needs and your budget.
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