Did you visit a friend’s home and fall in love with their new granite kitchen worktop with a sink that practically matched the stone? That was likely a composite sink. But what exactly are they made of and are they any good? Take a moment to learn all about the composite kitchen sink.

In this post, I’ll explain what a composite sink is, its pros and cons as well as answer some popular questions around the topic.

Let’s get into it!

You May Also Like:
Kitchen Sink Buying Guide: Everything You Need To Know

What Is A Composite Sink?

A composite sink is a single moulded piece crafted out of a blend of granite and quartz dust, resins, and acrylic.

Heat and pressure are used to create an incredibly dense and durable material ready to last for years. Composite sinks are a popular option as they often have a similar appearance to natural granite or quartz worktops. You can order one in a colour that closely matches the stone or laminate of your counters for a modern and seamless appearance.

The composite will look and feel like stone. Most of these sinks are buffed to a matte finish, so you do not have to worry about maintaining a polished surface. It can be designed as a traditional drop-in or undermount sink. Your goal will be to design a flawless stretch of worktop that is uninterrupted by stainless steel or ceramic.

Different sink manufacturers may call composite sinks by their own particular names. For instance, BLANCO calls them Silgranit, while FRANKE calls them Fragranite.

You May Also Like:
Kitchen Sink Tap Hole Sizes (UK) – Everything Explained

Sink Style

Are you loving that new industrial decor look found in urban flats and lofts? You could order a custom stone sink to perfectly match the soapstone worktop for the new kitchen, but a composite sink will save you thousands while delivering a similar appearance.

You can order your composite sink with one, one and a half, or two bowls, as an apron front, or even with a built-in drainboard. They are available in a range of colours to help match your countertop. Or If you are into contrasts, you can opt for one in the opposite colour of the stone counter but matches the designer hues of your appliances.

Maintenance

What about care? The composite material is as hard or harder than many natural stones like marble and even granite. It will resist scratches but will develop a foggy patina over the next fifty years as the stone reacts with the oils in food and your hands. Daily cleaning with dish soap and a soft sponge or cloth is all it needs to maintain its good look.

Since composite is made out of stone dust, it is slightly porous. It is not as susceptible to staining as raw stone, but if you mash blueberries into its surface, it can stain. Wipe up spills as you go, and you won’t have any problems.

It is resistant to heat. You can leave a hot pot on the surface, and it won’t crack, but extended exposure can leave a slight discolouration.

Cost

This is a newer application of technology and materials, so composite sinks are often a bit pricier than ceramic or stainless steel options. However, as they continue to grow in popularity you will see the cost continue to drop. Right now manufacturers are limiting the available colours, but they generally complement popular hues found in today’s home design centres. Unless you are dreaming of a lime green sink, you will find one that will fit in with your kitchen decor.

Expect to spend between £200 for a small sink up to £1200 for a custom piece designed for a chef-style kitchen.

You May Also Like:
Sink In Kitchen Island – Pros, Cons & Everything You Need To Know

Pros Of A Composite Sink

• Similar material to your worktop for a clean and contemporary appearance
• Extremely durable material that resists stains and scratches
• Requires no special cleaners – easy to maintain
• Heat resistant
• Less expensive than solid granite sinks

Cons Of A Composite Sink

• Limited range of colours
• Colour may date as trends change
• Although cheaper than solid granite, they are usually more expensive than stainless steel
• Heavy – may need supports installing inside the sink cabinet
• Harsh chemicals and tough scrubbers may dull the finish
• Newer technology means limited options on the market

You May Also Like:
What Is A Pot Filler Tap? (And Do You Need One?)

Do Composite Sinks Stain?

It is very difficult to permanently stain a composite sink, that’s one of their main benefits.

However, as with many surfaces, some oils and acidic foods may seep down into the surface and cause a stain. Especially if the surface of the sink has been damaged. If you wipe up a spill as soon as possible, it is unlikely that the stain will become permanent.

Composite resists stains better than ceramic, but not as well as stainless steel.

Do Composite Sinks Crack?

Every mountain will crumble eventually. Yes, it is possible to crack a composite sink, but it is very hard to get it done.

Once installed, the only thing to cause your sink to crack will be dropping something very heavy into the basin or hitting it with a hammer.

But will you crack it by dropping a cereal bowl or even tonight’s frozen chicken? Extremely unlikely. Best of all, if it does crack, it is possible to repair the crack with a kit from the manufacturer.

You May Also Like:
7 Best Boiling Water Taps – Instant Hot Water!

Are Composite Sinks Hard To Keep Clean?

They require nearly the same care that stainless steel or ceramic sinks need. Grab a soft cloth and mild washing up soap to wipe up any spills or stains at the end of the day.

Although uncommon, some manufacturers may suggest using a stone sealant once or twice a year to help maintain its original appearance and resist ageing. If you skip the sealant, the composite may develop a patina over time–which in some Old World neighbourhoods is a sign of a well-loved kitchen.

Final Thoughts…

There you have it! Everything you need to know about composite sinks.

A strong and durable sink material available in a range of colours to complement or contrast with your kitchen countertop, composite sinks are becoming increasingly popular.

So, will you go for a composite sink in your new kitchen project?

DISCOVER MORE