A copper sink is a unique and chic choice for your kitchen or bathroom. Copper sinks have natural properties that make them perfect for use in the kitchen. Natural copper has antibacterial properties and is resistant to bacteria, mold and other microorganisms.
Copper sinks are an expensive choice, so it’s important to evaluate all angles to make sure they’re the best choice for your kitchen.
copper sink material
Copper is durable enough to withstand heavy use and resist damage from impacts and scratches. Copper is also heat resistant, so a copper kitchen sink can withstand damage from pots and pans. Copper kitchen sinks will not corrode over time.
Look for copper sinks made with a high content of pure copper metal. Some high-end manufacturers choose to use 100% copper. Some add a small amount of zinc as an alloying element to give the sink new properties. Mixing zinc with copper increases durability and strength. It also increases corrosion resistance.
The gauge metal you choose is another factor to consider. The gauge corresponds to the thickness of the metal. The lower the gauge, the thicker the metal. Choose a kitchen copper sink in 12, 14, or 16 gauge metal. These are the standard gauges for high quality copper kitchen sinks, but copper bathroom sinks can be as tall as 18 gauge.
Copper sink basin configuration
Industry experts refer to the shape and placement of the bowls within the sink as the basin configuration. Copper sinks are available in multiple basin arrangements and shapes.
single basin
Single-basin sinks, such as those made of copper, have become one of the most popular in home kitchen designs. These sinks have one large basin. Single vanity copper sinks give your kitchen a classic, traditional look.
double basin
The double basin sink has two separate areas. These are traditionally one of the most popular sink configurations. Some double basin copper sinks have basins of different sizes. Others have evenly divided basins. If you want separate compartments for food prep and cleanup, double vanity sinks are a good choice.
triple or multiple basins
Triple and multi-basin sinks have three or more compartments. Most of these sinks have two large basins on each side and a smaller basin in the middle. A multi-basin copper sink works well when you want a defined area for food preparation. These sinks are large and take up a lot of counter space.
copper sink finish
Manufacturers make copper sinks in a variety of finishes that help determine the aging of the sink. It’s also important to consider if the copper sink has an additional coating such as epoxy or lacquer. These coatings protect the finish from scratches and dirt and prevent the surface from coming into contact with moisture and air. This finish slows or stops the patina process.
- Nature – Natural finish copper sinks are not polished or lacquered. The lack of lacquer means the sink will develop a natural patina over time.
- Antique – Fabricators develop antique finish copper sinks by applying a chemical solution to the sink that accelerates the patina process. The aged finish gives the sink a dark and aged look.
- Satin – The Satin Finish Copper Sink has a smooth, matte finish developed by the manufacturer using a light polishing technique.
- It was struck – Hammered copper sinks have a dented look. Use a small hammer to create small divots in the copper surface. Hammered copper sinks are popular in rustic and traditional style kitchens.
- oil rubbing – Makers create an oil-rubbed finish by applying a special oil to the surface of the sink, then sanding and buffing it, resulting in a dark, smooth finish.
- polish – Polished sinks have a high shine and glossy appearance. Many designers prefer the sleek and sophisticated look of copper sinks, but he is one of the most difficult to maintain.
Copper sink mounting style
Copper sinks are a popular kitchen sink choice and work on all types of countertops. Before purchasing a particular copper sink, consider different installation methods to ensure that this method is suitable for your needs and counter/cabinet type.
copper farmhouse sink
Farmhouse copper sinks have a single basin configuration with an exposed front or apron, with a rounded or flat profile. Like other farmhouse sinks, copper farmhouse sinks are also heavy, but not as heavy as clay or cast iron farmhouse sinks. Farmhouse copper sinks require additional structural support, but are a good choice if you want a lighter option.Farmhouse copper sinks are he one of the most expensive copper sinks. Installation is also more difficult as the configuration of the cabinet in front of the sink may need to be changed to accommodate the apron’s copper sink front.
copper undermount sink
An undermount copper sink is another option that has become a popular choice in home kitchens. Manufacturers configure this type of sink to fit under counters. This leaves an exposed counter lip. Undermounted copper sinks are popular with designers creating sleek, modern kitchens. This mounting style is not suitable for wooden countertops as water can damage the exposed edges. Undermounted copper sinks also require additional support for installation, but are lighter than other sink types.
copper drop-in sink
A copper drop-in sink has a visible rim above the counter. This means that the sink receives additional support from the countertop. Drop-in copper kitchen sinks only require a rough-cut hole, not the precisely-measured opening required for an undermount sink. can be easily installed by anyone.
copperware sink
A copper sink sits above the countertop. This is not a practical sink style for kitchens, but it is a popular choice for bathrooms. This copper sink style is one of the most distinctive. A copper vessel sink doesn’t require a huge hole in your countertop.
copper integrated sink
Copper is popular as a sink, but some people also use it as a countertop. An integrated copper sink and countertop are molded together. This creates an attractive continuous line between the countertop and sink. This style is suitable for industrial style kitchens as there are no seams to trap food or debris.
maintain a copper sink
Maintaining your copper sink will preserve its finish and extend its life.
- clean regularly – Wipe the sink after each use with a soft cloth or sponge and soapy water. This prevents food particles from accumulating on the surface of the sink or getting dirty and ruining the finish.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners – Do not use cleaners containing heavy chemicals such as chlorine bleach, ammonia, or hydrogen peroxide. It may damage the finish and cause discoloration. Rough materials such as abrasives and scouring pads will scratch the surface of copper sinks.
- Use copper cleaning solution – Cleaning solutions formulated for copper sinks are available at hardware stores and home centers. These will clean copper sinks, remove dirt and restore shine.
- remove discoloration – You can remove tarnish from copper sinks with a few products around the house. Rub, rinse and dry. Do not leave ketchup in the sink as it can spoil the finish. You can also polish your sink with a paste of baking soda and water. Mix baking soda with a few drops of water. Gently rub it into the sink, rinse and dry.
- apply wax – Some sinks have a natural finish and develop a patina over time. Other copper sinks have lacquer applied at the factory by the manufacturer. If the lacquer starts to peel off, apply a wax finish. Find the wax that the manufacturer specifies for copper sinks.
copper sink cost
Copper sink costs vary by size, gauge, and style. The average price range for copper sinks is $400 to $1,000. You can find copper sinks as low as $125 and up to thousands of dollars. Smaller sinks are generally less expensive than larger sinks. Farmhouse copper sinks are the most expensive type and undermount sinks are the least expensive.
Advantages and disadvantages of copper sinks
Copper sinks are an interesting and unique type of sink, but they don’t work in every space. Here’s a quick list of pros and cons to consider before buying a copper sink.
Strong Points:
- look – gorgeous and unique material
- durability – Stain, scratch and dent resistant material
- antibacterial – Resistant to bacteria commonly found in food preparation
- Corrosion resistance – Corrosion resistant for longer sink life
- patina – Develops an attractive natural patina
- easy maintenance – Easy long-term cleaning and maintenance
- recyclable – Copper is a recyclable material
- variety – Wide variety of styles, basin configurations and price ranges
Cons:
- price – Copper sinks are expensive compared to other varieties
- ongoing maintenance – Maintenance of copper sinks is not difficult, but requires constancy and specialized products
- patina – Some people dislike the dark patina that occurs on copper sinks
- aggregation – Copper sinks are a different material than other kitchen appliances
