Integral sinks are a popular kitchen trend for contemporary, minimalist home designs. Integral sinks are sleek and lean, ideal for this type of home, but there are other great reasons to choose an integral sink. These sinks come in a variety of materials and sink shapes, so perfectionists everywhere can love any home style.
One of the biggest reasons to choose an integral sink is that you can avoid the nasty lip between the counter and sink that collects dirt and grime in an undermount sink.
What is an integral sink?
An integral sink is a sink made of the same material as the surrounding countertop. This often means that the sink and countertop are in one piece. That’s why this style is also called integrated sink.
Most one-piece sinks are made from materials that are flexible enough to be molded into different shapes. Although there are also integral sinks made of natural stone glued to the countertop so that there is no visible break between the countertop of the integrated sink and the sink itself.
Materials used for integral sinks
Integral sinks are a special kind of sink that must create the illusion of being integral or integral with the counter. Certain materials are better suited for this than others. Most all-in-one sinks can be customized to work in a variety of kitchen sizes, or can be integrated with specific features, such as a slanted area, to create a slatted sink.
stainless steel
Stainless steel sinks are the best sinks in terms of durability and price. It is long lasting, antibacterial, low maintenance and less expensive than other materials. The stainless steel one-piece kitchen sink option is he one of the most popular in this kind of industrial kitchen due to its ability to withstand high levels of activity.
For stainless steel one-piece sinks, the sink is welded to the counter and then brushed for a seamless look. Most builders he uses 16-18 gauge stainless steel for the most durable finish.
quartz
Quartz is a variety of man-made stones made by mixing and bonding ground quartz particles and resin. Quartz is a more cost-effective and durable material than natural stones such as granite and marble.
Quartz is not only durable but also non-porous, and is available in a variety of colors and vein patterns that work in a variety of home styles, making it an ideal one-piece sink material. Popular as both an integrated bathroom sink or kitchen sink. Look for popular quartz integrated sink brands such as Silestone and Corian integrated sink options.
granite
Granite or granite composites are one of the most common materials for integral sinks. Granite composite sinks are durable and beautiful. These one-piece sinks are a blend and bond of natural stone and resin. Contrary to its luxurious style and design, the granite one-piece sink is one of the most affordable options.
Granite is heavy, so stone sink options integrated with granite should be reinforced with structural support. Granite is also a porous material. Both countertops and sinks should be sealed regularly to keep them in top condition.
acrylic
Acrylic is a durable plastic material that manufacturers have molded into a top option for integrated sink vanities that are popular in bathroom settings. Because acrylic is non-porous, it resists stains and chips, making it ideal for high-wear areas such as children’s bathrooms.
This is a lightweight material and easy to install. It also comes in a variety of color and size options. Acrylic does not work well in the kitchen because it is not heat resistant.
marble
Marble is a popular natural stone as an option for both sinks and countertops. Integrated sinks and countertops are not manufactured together. Rather, they are made from the same material and blended together for a seamless look.
Marble is a beautiful and hard natural stone, but it can chip, stain and scratch more than harder materials like quartz or granite. It’s also one of the most expensive varieties of integrated sinks and countertops.
If you like this look but don’t like the subtlety or expense, consider a cultured marble vanity with an integral sink. . This gives you the look of marble without the same cost. Using this material, manufacturers can mold sinks into countertops to create integrated sink vanities.
concrete
Integral sink concrete is a recent trend that combines the industrial look of concrete with a more customized interior design style. The great thing about concrete integrated sinks is that they are a flexible material, so they can be customized into almost any shape, color and size.
Some concrete monolithic sinks are reinforced with fiberglass to create a more durable finish, but the finish is not as durable as man-made stone such as granite or quartz. A porous material that must be periodically sealed to maintain its integrity and resistance to moisture and dirt.
copper
If you’re interested in a unique vanity with an integrated sink, consider copper. Copper is also an option for the kitchen area. Copper is a classic material that develops a patina over time. Copper is durable, antibacterial, and easy to maintain with just soap and water. Investing in quality copper sheeting is the best way to ensure that your sink and countertops can withstand scratches and dents over time.
Copper tarnishes when exposed to certain types of foods. This can be easily handled by scrubbing the dirt off with olive oil and a wax polish.
tempered glass
Tempered glass vanities with integrated sink options are becoming a popular option for bathroom areas. Tempered glass is resistant to scratches and chips and is heat resistant. The tempered glass countertop has smooth edges and a molded shape with a seamless edge between the sink and the countertop.
Tempered glass sinks are more difficult to keep clean and fingerprint-free due to their clear texture.
Integral sink cost
Integral sinks cost between $100 and $300 per sink. However, this increases with customization and materials. Generally, the budget for a one-piece sink and countertop is around $100-150 per square foot, with installation costs varying by installer.
integral sink Strong Points and cons
One-piece sinks, like all types of sinks, have pros and cons that you should consider before investing in this style for your kitchen or bathroom.
Strong Points
- Plenty of Options – Integrated sinks are a popular option, so there are many options. This means that you can choose sinks integrated into almost any kind of home design.
- Customizable – Fabricators can create sinks and countertops of almost any size and design using materials such as copper, stainless steel, or concrete that can be molded into specific designs.
- style – The integrated sink has a sleek spare style that gives your home a custom, sophisticated look.
- maintenance – There is no seam between the integrated sink and the countertop where food and dirt can collect like in an undermount sink.
Cons
- price – Integral sinks cost more than single sink forms.
- repair – The sink and counter are connected, so if one breaks, both must be replaced. If you don’t have the budget to replace your sink and countertop, you’ll have to live with both until you can afford them both.
Integral sink in home design
Many places in the home have integrated sinks, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. Use different materials to accentuate the unique look of these spaces.
Quartz integral sink and countertop
Quartz countertops don’t have to look cold and sterile. Pair it with warm wood cabinetry to create a contrast and textured look.
stainless steel integrated kitchen sink
People have the mistaken notion that stainless steel sinks and countertops will always create an industrial and utilitarian look. A stainless steel countertop with slabs combined with an integrated sink gave the kitchen a warm sense of style.
Custom vanity with integrated copper sink
Post 31 Interiors used copper to create a custom vanity with integrated sink. This copper has a matte finish that goes well with the rustic and relaxed style of your bathroom.
Contemporary marble integrated sink and vanity
Integrate the look of the sink and countertop by using the same material for the walls and floor. With this high-contrast marble, this bathroom has a classic and trendy style.
Concrete vanity and integral sink
Concrete has industrial advantages that work well in contemporary style homes. Combine a concrete vanity with luxury textiles to create a textured, contrasting look.
copper kitchen sink and counter top
Copper is a good kitchen choice for countertops and integrated sinks. For this Chelsea loft, the designer used copper to give the kitchen a warm, industrial edge. It contrasts with the gray cabinets, which are a mixture of warm and cool colors.
