Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM MARCH 2016 62 B uying a quality sink may not be top of mind when outfitting a kitchen, but designers can tell you that there's nothing worse than cutting into a beautiful, expensive countertop to fit a sink that will cause disappointment down the road. That's why we've come up with this insider's list of details to look for when buying or specifying a kitchen sink – so you can buy with confidence for the long run. So when purchasing a kitchen sink, consider these five insider tips! 1. Why not a 16 gauge? One may assume that a 16 gauge sink is a better value simply because it is thicker and slightly less expensive than 18 gauge. The truth is, gauge does not represent quality or value. Among insiders, 16 gauge stainless steel is considered inferior, made of thick steel used most often to hide manufacturing imperfections within the sink. 18 gauge stainless, used for high quality sinks, is only .5% thinner than 16 gauge and is the premium steel needed to make a quality and durable sink. A quality 18 gauge sink is going to withstand anything that you are going to put into the sink. It's going to be more powerful than the countertop or even the cabinets that are supporting it. 2. Peace and quiet: A quality sink will possess sound deadening pads, which help to alleviate noise from splashing water and garbage disposals. 3. Radius: A sink is one of the hardest working fixtures in the kitchen and the bottom is where you do most of your cleaning, prepping, etc. Did you know that some sinks are smaller on the bottom than at the top? Two 30" sinks may have the same width on top – but different widths at the bottom – where you need usable space the most! 4. Brushed finish vs. Smooth finish: A typical, lower-end sink often contains a brushed finish causing a rough feel that's not very pleasing to the touch and can become a breeding ground for bacteria. A rough finish introduces food, and food protein, providing a perfect environment for bacteria to grow. These bacteria can form a bio-film making it extremely difficult for bleach and other cleaning products to actively wash it away. Look for a satin polished finish with surgical grade steel that is not only smooth but also hygienic – taking away the brushed grooves where bacteria can grow. 5. Smooth – easy to clean corners: The design of the sink is not only important to the aesthetic quality but also the cleanability. Quality sinks are crafted with smooth, easy to clean corners that are either precisely square or perfectly curved allowing an easy and quick clean eliminating dirt build up anvd the potential for bacteria to grow. The easy way to tell if it's a quality sink? Run your finger up the corner to test the smoothness. FIVE INSIDER SECRETS TO TELL IF YOU HAVE A QUALITY SINK Eric Gundersen Plumbing Trends Eric Gundersen, Product Manager for BLANCO RO

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