The Best Granite Composite Kitchen Sinks
It can be hard to decide which material is right for your kitchen sink. Granite composite sinks have emerged as a popular choice that combines natural stone beauty with durability and easy maintenance. Keep reading to learn why granite composite is one of the best kitchen sink materials available.
Granite composite sinks provide the elegance and luxury of natural stone with the consistency and practicality of engineered materials. Made from a mixture of granite particles and acrylic resins or quartz composite, they offer the visual appeal of natural granite without the high price tag. The speckled patterns and depth of color rival real granite at a fraction of the cost.
Benefits of Granite Composite Kitchen Sinks
Granite composite sinks offer several advantages that make them a top choice for busy kitchens:
- Durability and stain resistance - The dense composite material resists scratches, stains, and heat up to 536degF. You don't have to worry about wine, coffee, or pasta sauce stains.
- Stylish and elegant visual appeal - The natural granite patterns and variety of colors like black, brown, gray, and white give a high-end look.
- Easy to clean and maintain - Unlike natural stone, granite composite sinks don't need yearly sealing. Just use mild soap and water for daily cleaning.
- Variety of colors to match decor - From dark Emperador shades to light Arctic White, the range of hues allows coordination with any kitchen style.
- Affordable compared to natural stone - At just 20-30% of the cost of real granite, composite sinks provide luxury on a budget.
- Quieter than stainless steel - The non-metallic material helps absorb noise and vibration for a quieter kitchen.
The natural beauty of granite coupled with resilient composite construction makes these sinks a functional and stylish choice. The colors and patterns hide small scratches, and the durable material resists chips, cracks, and dents from heavy use. With easy cleaning and no sealing required, granite composite provides elegant luxury without high maintenance.
Top Features to Look for When Choosing a Granite Composite Kitchen Sink
With different materials and features available, it's important to know what to look for when selecting a granite composite sink:
- Thickness and density - Look for at least 3/8" thickness for durability and sound absorption. Denser material is more resistant to damage.
- Undermount or top mount installation - Undermount for a seamless countertop look or top mount drop-in for easy DIY installation.
- Number of basins - Single, double, or triple bowls suit different kitchen needs.
- Depth - Standard 8" depth or deeper 10"+ for bigger dishes and cookware.
- Drain placement - Centered or offset drain provides more usable space.
- Colors and finishes - Matte or glossy and shades like black, brown, white, or gray to match decor.
- Brands and warranties - Reputable brands like Blanco, Ruvati, and Swanstone offer good quality and at least a limited lifetime warranty.
Considering your kitchen space and needs will help determine the ideal granite composite sink features. Undermount installation creates a smooth countertop transition while top mount is easy to install. Deep single bowl sinks suit larger items and busy cooks. The material thickness impacts durability and noise reduction.
The Best Granite Composite Kitchen Sink Brands
Certain brands stand out for their quality granite composite sinks across a range of styles and prices:
Blanco
Known for superior stainless steel sinks, Blanco also crafts exquisite granite composite models. Their Silgranit sinks come in on-trend colors like Cafe Brown and Cinder with a gracefully rounded Precis design. They resist scratches and heat up to 536degF. Many feature low divides and offset drains.
Ruvati
Ruvati offers granite composite sinks at budget-friendly prices but doesn't skimp on quality. Their granite sinks come in single and double bowl models with clever accessories like cutting boards and colanders. The Tuscany sink stands out with its ornate Italian design.
Kraus
This maker of kitchen and bathroom fixtures provides a selection of granite composite sinks including modern square models and sinks with ledges. Their granite material with Extra-Tight radius corners helps prevent chipping. Prices range from value to luxury.
Swanstone
Swanstone uses quartz rather than acrylic resin for their sinks resulting in a harder wearing surface. Their Rellexa sinks come in neutral tones like Biscuit and match well with their coordinating countertops.
Elkay
In addition to stainless sinks, Elkay crafts beautiful granite composite sinks like the Harmony Double Bowl model in gloss black. Their Quartz Luxe material resists stains and scratches with colors like Aurora White and Slate Gray.
Lordear
For a less expensive option, Lordear sinks provide the durability and easy cleaning of granite composite at affordable prices. Their Kraus Brand sinks come in black, white, and biscuit shades in single, double, and triple bowl configurations.
While styles and prices vary, these top brands offer quality materials and construction. Most provide sinks in on-trend finishes and colors. Consider the brand's reputation, sink features, warranty, and budget when deciding.
Choosing the Right Granite Composite Sink for Your Kitchen
Selecting the perfect granite composite sink involves factoring in your kitchen space, lifestyle needs, and style preferences:
- Consider the size of sink needed - Larger single bowls accommodate big cookware while double bowls allow multitasking.
- Match style to kitchen decor - Choose sleek modern, ornate traditional, or classic simple designs.
- Undermount vs top mount pros and cons - Undermount is seamless while top mount is DIY-friendly.
- Single vs double basin sink - Double bowls help with organization but take up more space.
- Which granite composite color complements your kitchen best - Black, white, brown, or gray shades coordinate with different color schemes.
- Features like ledges, drain grooves, accessories - Look for functional designs to suit your needs.
The right granite composite sink accommodates cooking needs, complements your decor, and fits your lifestyle. While a deep single bowl design suits avid home chefs, double basins maximize workspace for busy families.
Installing a Granite Composite Kitchen Sink
Installing a granite composite sink involves securing it properly to prevent leaks and ensure durability:
Preparing the countertop
- Make cutout following manufacturer instructions for size.
- Create support framing if needed.
- Apply sealant to cutout edges.
Securing the undermount sink
- Set sink in place and attach mounting brackets or clips.
- Tighten brackets evenly to secure sink rim against countertop.
- Check alignment and make any adjustments.
Sealing and caulking
- Apply watertight plumber's putty where sink meets countertop.
- Seal all edges with silicone caulk.
- Wipe away excess caulk for clean finish.
- Attach drain assembly and P-trap provided.
- Connect water supply lines to faucet.
- Check for leaks and correct as needed.