Get ready to delve into the depths of your kitchen sink. There is a lot of confusion revolving around the question “What is sink gauge?” But the questions of how gauge works and why a lower gauge is a good investment aren’t tough to crack. For your next big remodel, look into finding a stainless steel sink with a gauge no higher than 18. The lower the gauge, the less likely the steel will dent or make loud noises when in use.
To help clear things up further: “gauge” is how many times a stainless steel sheet is thinned. Though it’s typically done with industrial rollers rather than a hammer and anvil, you can think of it like a blacksmith hammering a sword. Each time the steel is re-rolled, it becomes thinner. Therefore, a lower gauge steel will be thicker and have more strength against the elements. People pay as much as a hundred to a grand more just for the more popular brand name; but the gauge of the sink is actually far more important than who made it. That said, most of the too-good-to-be-true deals you see on Ebay probably are. Unreliable manufacturers may not deliver a sink up to their promised standards. If you want top notch at a reasonable price, Ruvati has an amazing selection.
How big a difference does the gauge of a stainless steel sink really make? That’s the real source of debate. The thinner the sink, the noisier it will be; everything that hits the sink (from running water to a dropped fork) is that much louder. Thinner sinks are also easier to dent or damage, while thicker sinks hold up better against wear and tear. That said, while 16 gauge sinks are the ideal, 18 gauge sinks arguably have the best value. You can still get a wonderful product and save money, but it pays to be aware of other features the sink might have. For example, sound dampening padding underneath the sink can help keep a sink of any gauge a little quieter.
This Gravena 16 Gauge Sink would be great for high-end apartment installations. If you do a lot of dishes in the sink, you might want the one with a double basin. But a large single basin sink is a good compromise for a smaller kitchen. It all depends on your personal style and needs.
Shop Single Bowl Steel Sinks:
Sinks with two equal-sized bowls are nice for those who tend to let dishes build up. I hate when dishes block the sink faucet. I go crazy if I can’t fit the water filter pitcher in the sink. Having two large basins allows you to fill one side with dirty dishes while still having an empty, usable, and good-sized basin to use even if you’re putting off doing the dishes.
Another fantastic brand is Anzzi. Anzzi is a reliable manufacturer that produces high quality sinks which tend to be a tad more expensive, but have an upscale feel and often come paired with designer faucets. Ruvati puts more emphasis on add-on accessories (like colanders, cutting boards, and wire racks designed to fit your sink), while Anzzi focuses on a sleek contemporary aesthetic.
Shop Double Bowl Steel Sinks:
Anzzi specializes in apron sinks, but not just of the typical farmhouse variety. Combining that iconic, traditional sink style with a sleek, brushed steel finish makes for a perfectly updated workhorse for a busy contemporary kitchen. You can find stainless steel apron sinks from other manufacturers (Ruvati included!). But Anzzi can’t be beat in terms of variety of sizes, configurations, and add-ons.
That said, if you’re more interested in fun kitchen gadgets, Ruvati is probably a better brand for you. Both manufacturers offer 16 gauge stainless steel sinks made of the same quality and composition of metal (T-304 stainless steel to be specific). But Ruvati’s sinks accommodate add-on features, regardless of the size and style of the sink. This is especially nice for small kitchens, as these accessories let you use your sink as supplemental counter space, so you can spread out a little even if you have limited workspace in your kitchen.
Regardless of the gauge you end up choosing, it’s important to do regular maintenance on your stainless steel sink. Using Bar Keeper’s Friend and a scrubby pad to clean your sink every other day will keep it looking absolutely flawless for years and years. Has anyone found other good ways to keep a sink in tip top shape? I heard something about using sandpaper, but I’m too squeamish to try it. I’d love to learn more. I hope these deals help you with your remodel. If you have any questions, leave a comment and I’ll get an answer to you as soon as possible.
I really like the Artisan Single Round Basin. Thanks for sharing this.
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We use Bon Ami with highly satisfactory results. Since it’s a feldspar-based scouring powder, it doesn’t scratch the surface on which it’s used. However, I haven’t found any stain or such that can withstand it.
That’s awesome, David. I’ll look into that one. Thanks!