Copper is a striking yet traditional sink material that turns your sink into the center of attention in the space. However, it doesn’t feel extremely trendy, so a copper sink won’t look out of date in a short while.
We’ll cover all you need to know about copper sinks in this article to assist you in making an informed choice. We’ll discuss the distinctive qualities of copper, the various styles of copper sinks that are available, and how to care for a copper sink.
Next, we’ll discuss things to consider while selecting a copper sink. Finally, we’ll explore our top five recommendations for the finest copper sinks currently available.
HOW DO COPPER SINKS WORK? The hue of a copper sink is among its main draws. Any area feels cozy because to the metallic finish and reddish brown color.
Another is the live finish that copper possesses. This is a reference to how copper’s finish evolves over time as a result of a natural patina.
A copper sink will develop a patina over time, with some portions becoming lighter and others darker, giving the sink a rustic and organic appearance.
To keep the patina more even and natural, however, it must also be well maintained. On the other side, there are steps you may do to stop a patina from forming if you want to maintain the new copper’s brilliant, shining appearance.
Whichever route you go, a copper sink will need more meticulous upkeep than many other sink materials. But copper’s advantages go beyond aesthetics. Additionally, there are some more practical goals.
For starters, copper is incredibly robust even if it needs regular upkeep. It won’t scratch or dent easily.
Care concerns relate more to the copper’s patina than to the metal itself, and if the patina is damaged, you simply need to give it some time to heal.
Copper’s inherent antibacterial properties are a significant plus. Almost all dangerous bacteria are really killed by copper within two to four hours of persistent contact.
Fortunately, a naturally antibacterial surface like copper in your kitchen or bathroom sink can help keep your family safe and healthy (of course, along with good cleaning habits).
When compared to other sink materials, copper is also quite environmentally friendly. It is infinitely recyclable.
In reality, recycling lessens the demand for mining because over half of the copper consumed in the US is recycled. Additionally, the ubiquitous availability of copper contributes to cost savings.
WHAT TYPES OF COPPER SINKS ARE THERE? Now that you are aware of the potential benefits of choosing a copper sink, let’s discuss the many models now available.
: ROOM ANDAMP; USE
Like other materials for sinks, copper can be used for both kitchen and bathroom sinks. Bathroom sinks are often shallower and larger than kitchen sinks. They also include a 3.5 inch diameter bigger drain hole.
Bathroom drains vary slightly in diameter but are typically 1.25 inches broad. Sinks in the kitchen and bathrooms are essentially the same, with the exception of some dimensional changes.
TYPES OF INSTALLATION
By the manner in which they are mounted, both types can be further divided. Sinks that are drop-in and undermount are the two main categories.
Sinks for drop-in installations, also known as top mount sinks, are simply lowered into the countertop’s hole. To hold the sink in place, a rim around the edge of the sink basin sits around the edge of the hole.
You might not need to utilize a separate deck plate for your countertop faucet because the rim may have an integrated faucet deck.
Similar to drop-in sinks, undermount sinks have a rim around the basin that lines up with the rim of the sink cutout but is attached and clipped into place beneath the counter rather than sitting on top of it.
You may select between drop-in or undermount installation with dual mount sinks since they are constructed with a rim that can either lay on top of the counter or be fastened underneath.
Farmhouse sinks, also known as apron front sinks, can be drop-in or undermount sinks. These sinks need a cut-out in the front of your cabinetry because the front side is exposed.
Additionally, they are typically broader and deeper than the typical sink. Sinks can be found in any of these installation styles, including kitchen and bathroom sinks. However, bathroom farmhouse sinks are not very prevalent. BOWL, SINGLE OR DOUBLE
Finally, the quantity of basins a sink has can be used to classify it. While kitchen sinks may feature one or two bowls or basins, bathroom sinks almost invariably have just one.
A double basin sink enables you to utilize one side of the sink to pile or soak dishes while leaving the other side available for dish and hand cleaning. A single basin sink gives you more space to wash heavy dishes and cookware.
COPPER SINKS: HOW DO THEY WORK? Let’s now discuss the patina process in greater detail, including how to preserve or stop the patina from forming on your copper sink.
Oxidation is the process by which copper acquires a patina; copper molecules react with airborne oxygen to affect the color of the metal. It will first turn red or pink before becoming dark and then black.
Without your intervention, this happens on its own.
Avoiding prolonged contact with acidic, corrosive, or greasy substances like food, personal care products, cleaning supplies, and even skin oil is important for maintaining the patina.
Of course, food will get into the kitchen sink and toiletries will get into the bathroom sink. After all, I assume you’re going to use your sink.
Just make an effort to get rid of them as soon as you can.
Additionally, you should avoid even brief contact with abrasive materials. They avoid causing any damage to the sink by removing the patina by scratching it off.
Try to remove anything abrasive from the inside of the sink as soon as possible by giving it a good rinse. The act of wiping an abrasive substance out of the sink will only make it easier for it to scratch the surface.
Clean your sink thoroughly after each usage to keep the patina. Clean the surface gently by wiping it down with a soft cloth or sponge dipped in warm water and mild soap. You can also use the cleaning supplies or kits that are sold by several manufacturers of copper sinks. Always remember to adhere to the manufacturer’s directions.
Never use steel wool or other corrosive or abrasive cleaning materials or instruments. Use 3 What Are The Different Types Of Copper Sinks? 3 made of silicone or similar soft, non-scratching substance if you accidentally spill something on your sink that need additional washing to remove.
Dry your sink thoroughly after cleaning it since water can contain minerals that harm the patina. This is particularly crucial if your water is harsh.
But even if something were to happen to remove the patina, it wouldn’t be the end of the world. Within a few days, the newly exposed copper will quickly start to rust and match the rest of your sink.
Apply 3 What Are The Different Types Of Copper Sinks? 4 to help protect the surface once you’re satisfied with your patina. Regular waxing adds a step to upkeep, but it also goes a long way toward preventing damage to the patina, so it can end up saving you work over time.
Or, waxing before a patina forms, followed by routine waxing, can help if you don’t want one in the first place. A patina can still form over time, though. A 3 What Are The Different Types Of Copper Sinks? 5 can be used to remove an existing patina.
However, you should only use it once or twice a year because frequent use can harm the copper itself.
As an alternative, some manufacturers cover the sinks in protective lacquer before selling them, either to stop a patina from forming or to stop a patina that has already formed. These might also be a fantastic option as long as you adhere to the manufacturer’s care guidelines to keep the lacquer from flaking off.
WHAT ARE THE KEY FEATURES OF THE BEST COPPER SINK?
There are a few qualities to look for when selecting a premium copper sink, regardless of whether you prefer a rustic patina or that coppery brilliance.
We covered the many varieties of copper sinks above, so we won’t go over it all again here. Just be sure to keep those things in mind as well to aid in your selection of a copper sink that is suitable for your house, household, and way of life.
Let’s discuss about some new topics instead. First, think about how pure the copper is. Particularly in thinner sheets, copper is bendable. Small amounts of other metals, such as zinc, can be added to the sink to assist make it stronger and less prone to bending.
Durability is also influenced by the copper’s thickness. Sinks frequently use 18 gauge copper, however this gauge is weaker than a lower gauge, which denotes thicker copper.
As an alternative, some sinks are also constructed with a coating of copper over a stronger, harder material, giving the sink the appearance and patina of copper with the durability of the stronger material underneath.
But considerations go beyond just functionality. Despite being a ubiquitous material, copper sinks come in a wide range of styles.
For instance, copper is available in several finishes. The gleaming, brand-new-looking copper is known as “naked copper,” but there are other sinks that have already begun to develop a natural patina or that have a finish that mimics a natural patina.
You should also think about the bowl’s quality and design. For instance, a hammered finish is common on copper sinks to offer some texture and intrigue, but smooth sinks are also available.
To provide an even more decorative touch, some even have a pattern imprinted on the surface. REVIEW OF THE BEST COPPER SINKS After clearing up the basic information, let’s discuss some of our favorite copper sinks. (Our top pick) 1. SINKOLOGY ORWELL UNDERMOUNT SINGLE BOWL COPPER SINK
A simple copper undermount sink serves as our initial sink. With its 28 x 16 x 8-inch basin and huge single bowl design, the Sinkology Orwell has enough of space for washing large kitchenware.
The sink is composed of hand-hammered 16 gauge copper that has an antique finish already applied to it. It has a lifetime warranty, just like every sink from Sinkology.
PROS can be purchased with a matching drain flange or strainer drain as well as a bottom grid that helps keep damaging chemicals away from your sink’s surface. Pre-applied finish with a modern undermount design that will eventually develop a patina CONS Some buyers mention problems with quality control. Bottom may not drain entirely, leaving some water that has accumulated 3 What Are The Different Types Of Copper Sinks? 6
SISLEY PRO COPPER BAR AND PREP SINK BY SINKOLOGY (BEST BUDGET)
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Our following sink has a 14.5 x 16.5 x 9-inch basin that can be utilized as a prep or bar sink. The Sinkology Sisley Pro, however, is also effective at making the most of counter space in compact kitchens.
The Sisley Pro is an undermount sink with a hand-hammered antique copper finish that is built of 16 gauge pure solid copper, just like the Orwell.
The Sinkology Sisley Pro blends flawlessly with other Sinkology copper sinks with the antique finish, such as the Orwell and our next sink, the Rockwell, if you wish to utilize it as a bar or prep sink.
PROS Permanent warranty develops a natural patina and coordinates with other Sinkology antique copper sinks. can purchase a matching disposal flange or strainer drain or just the sink. inexpensive price CONS less substantial than standard kitchen sinks The bottom might not completely drain. 3 What Are The Different Types Of Copper Sinks? 7
3. ROCKWELL APRON FRONT COPPER FARMHOUSE SINK (SINKOLOGY) (BEST HIGH END)
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As you might have guessed by this time, Sinkology is essentially the market leader for copper sinks and provides sinks at a variety of price points.
Due to its bigger size and farmhouse design, the Sinkology Rockwell is a more expensive option. The kitchen sink has two bowls, each measuring 14.5 x 19 x 9.
It is built of 16 gauge pure solid copper with an antique copper finish, just like the other Sinkology sinks. However, you can install this copper kitchen sink as a drop-in or undermount sink.
PROS Permanent warranty A cleaning kit, a drain strainer and a trash disposal flange, or both the drains and a bottom grid are available for purchase. pre-applied coating that will eventually acquire a patina CONS Some buyers mention problems with quality control. Installation is more difficult due to the apron front design. Expensive 3 What Are The Different Types Of Copper Sinks? 8
4. ROTUNDA DUAL MOUNT BATHROOM SINK IN PURE COPPER, HAND HAMMered by MONARCH
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We had to include at least one bathroom sink on this list since, of course, copper sinks aren’t just for the kitchen.
Round bathroom sink with a 14.5″ bowl diameter and a 5.65″ bowl depth, the Monarch Abode Rotunda. It features a hand-hammered polish and is composed of pure copper.
Since the sink has two mounting options, you can select the one that best suits your bathroom’s requirements.
PROS Dual-mount construction Simple, lovely design with a hand-hammered appearance inexpensive price CONS 18 gauge copper is not as sturdy as we would want 3 What Are The Different Types Of Copper Sinks? 9
5. 30-INCH APRON-FRONT FARMHOUSE KITCHEN SINK BY RUVATI TERRAZA
3 Want a copper sink’s look but don’t want to deal with preventing or maintaining a patina?
The Ruvati Terraza features a copper toned PVD coating even though it is actually composed of stainless steel. As a result, the sink is more durable than copper and less susceptible to wear, dents, corrosion, tarnish, and fingerprints.
And none of that requires the meticulous upkeep that copper sinks do.
Additionally, it has a matte, sandblasted appearance that is difficult to find in copper sinks. The Ruvati Terraza is offered in 33-inch and 36-inch broad sinks in addition to the 30 inch wide variant.
PROS Much simpler to maintain than actual copper substantial single basin sink Noise-dampening materials include NoiseDefend cushioning and SoundGuard undercoating. includes a basket strainer drain assembly and a rinse grid ( Room andamp; Use 0 ) CONS Real copper has no living finish like it. Room andamp; Use 1
PERSONAL FINAL VIEWS OF COPPER SINKS That concludes our discussion of the top copper sinks.
There are no bad choices among the sinks on our list; they are all great choices for your home. You should now have no trouble selecting the ideal copper sink for your home if you keep in mind the variables that we have covered here.
However, both Room andamp; Use 2 and Room andamp; Use 3 provide a wide range of additional possibilities if you’d like more to think about. Even Room andamp; Use 4 from Sinkology is compatible with your preferred bathroom sink!
And if you need assistance maintaining your new copper sink once it is installed in your house, Sinkology’s Room andamp; Use 5 and Room andamp; Use 6 are both great options.
