Introduction
Traditional Farmhouse Sinks originate from a time where there was no running water and their depth and breadth ensured the most amount possible could be contained in one go, after all who wants to make several trips to the lake or well, just to do the dishes. Although this reasoning has long since dissipated, this often overlooked kitchen feature is a prime opportunity to make a statement in even the most modern of kitchens. Farmhouse sinks have a certain elegance and charm about them, inherited from a bygone age, that you just don’t get with a regular top or under mount sink.
Its not just for their visual appeal that the Farmhouse sink is highly desirable, but it also has important ergonomic benefits too. Designed in a time where women spent long hours washing everything from clothes, dishes to small children in it, the apron fronts forward orientation eliminated the need for a countertop that often would require bending or stretching. This design innovation originated in butlers pantries in England around the late 17th century and soon caught on amongst homes of the wealthy
So enough history - here are 5 Things to consider before you purchase a Farmhouse Sink
Single or double basin
A key consideration is do you opt for a single or a double bowl sink. This is all down to personal preference and really should be determined by how you plan on using the sink. If you do a lot of food preparation in your sink or you often have very large pots and pans to wash, a single basin may be the best choice. If you like to do food prep and wash dishes at the same time, a double bowl could be the better option.
Decide on a material
Farmhouse sinks come in many different materials, from more traditional Porcelain or Fireclay to the more industrial Concrete or Stainless steel. Here’s a little secret: they’re not just for Farmhouse Kitchens!
Depending on the look you’re going for, there is a material that will fit your needs. Fireclay is the most popular choice because its extremely hard and durable having been baked at temperatures in excess of 2000 degree centigrade, this makes it impervious to chips and stains and its high gloss finish makes it easy to clean. Stainless steel sync’s more with modern design features whereas more unusual materials such as Copper offer a more rustic feel, whilst materials like Stone or concrete could be more industrial in style. Just be aware there will be nuances around how to maintain and clean them.
Size
Apron Front Sinks can range in size from 20 inches wide on the small end to 36 inches plus. A lot will depend on the size of your kitchen and how you intend to integrate it into the layout, most likely you will need to cut your countertops and cabinets given Farmhouse sinks are wider and deeper than most regular sinks. Also factor in the weight difference to ensure you account for any additional support or reinforcement that needs to be built in. Using a qualified contractor to plan and do the install is highly recommended, as they will know what’s required to ensure there are no unpleasant surprises when integrating it.
Protect your dishes
It’s true that with a larger sink, comes a greater chance delicate items such as wine glasses and china will break more easily. You can however, take extra precautions like a sink grid or a silicone sink mat rubber dish protector which will cushion and save those fragile pieces.
Shop around
Farmhouse Sinks can get pricey so make sure you shop around to get the best deal. With the plethora of different buying options available its difficult to know where to go for the best deal. More often than not the best prices can be found online by doing simple google searches, just make sure the retailer you choose offers free shipping and a guarantee that should you find a better price online, they will refund the difference. It is definitely an investment, but one worth making given this is a real statement piece and focal point of any kitchen
