What is a sink

It turns out that the concept of “sink” is too broad and includes several different types of devices. Therefore, to explain your needs, the sales assistant in the plumbing store will need to more specifically describe what exactly you want.

Sink: what is it, types

By the usual word “sink” we call a device for collecting water. That is, in fact, it can be any structure with this functional feature located in the bathroom or kitchen. In total, there are three types of different systems.

Washing

Most often, this type of sink can be found in the kitchen. The sink is intended for washing dishes, food, and quickly rinsing hands (for example, during cooking). This bowl is usually made from durable and hard-wearing materials such as metal. As a rule, it is quite spacious so that water does not splash during operation and necessarily contains a mixer with hot and cold water in its design.

Washbasin (washbasin)

This model is intended for washing parts of the human body. Thus, it is usually installed in the bathroom of the apartment. It is to the washbasin that we go in the morning and evening to brush our teeth or wash our face, and periodically throughout the day to wash our hands.

It is noteworthy that the first such devices were, rather, washbasins and did not even have a bowl itself. A similar structure hung on the wall and had a reservoir that was filled with consumable water and a tap. Only later in manor houses they began to use special trays as a set, and the liquid from them had to be periodically drained. By the way, in many villages (or even small gardens) such washstands are still used, because for use they can even be hung on a tree.

Bath

Of course, everyone is familiar with this type of shell. A bathtub is a volumetric container that completely accommodates the human body and allows you to lie down and relax after a hard day.

What is a sink made of?

The range of materials on the modern market is extremely diverse. Fortunately, today everyone can choose the right model to suit their taste and budget. But first it’s better to understand the features of each of them:

1. Ceramics. Most often used for the production of washbasins. Moreover, this is the most common, even already classic option for your bathroom. Ceramics will not create a hole in your budget when purchased and installed; it will be a good addition to the design and, with careful care, will last for decades. A distinction is made between porcelain and earthenware products. All you need to know about these compositions is that the first is more smooth and wear-resistant, while the second has a greater guarantee and, of course, will cause less inconvenience such as darkening or high porosity over time.
2. Natural or artificial stone. Constructions made from this material are among the most expensive.At the same time, they definitely will not need replacement for an extremely long time, as they are characterized by increased strength. At the same time, it is worth considering that the stone bowl is very heavy, so the installation process must be approached with great responsibility. This solution looks very stylish and expensive, and therefore if you can afford it, it’s definitely worth it. Of course, with all this, the stone requires careful care, because without proper cleaning, harmful microorganisms can easily grow on it.
3. Glass. Recently introduced sinks are in demand among great connoisseurs of high-tech style. This kind of interior solution is often proposed by designers when planning a renovation of a room. Of course, the glass used for washbasins is impact-resistant, which allows you to not constantly worry about the formation of cracks or chips. However, such devices still require caution. The difficulty here will rather lie in something else: these products are very easily soiled. You will be forced to wipe the surface after each use and constantly take care of any stains that appear.
4. Tree. Another interesting option for lovers of unusual things. Of course, with the advent of such a sink, the style of your kitchen or bathroom will noticeably change. But you will have to pay dearly for this pleasure. Firstly, these models are usually cut from a single piece of wood, which means they won’t be cheap on their own. Secondly, they require preventive maintenance, which consists not only of cleaning, but also of regular impregnation with water-repellent agents.

Criteria for choosing a sink for the kitchen and bathroom

Of course, no one except you will decide exactly what structure needs to be installed in a particular room.But to make the decision easier, we suggest you familiarize yourself with the installation methods used most often.

As a kitchen sink, structures built into furniture are usually installed. The bowl looks like it is lying on a cabinet. This makes it possible to hide the pipes and use the cabinet capacity to place additional accessories.

In the bathroom, you are limited only by a flight of fancy. Both models built into the bedside table or installed above the washing machine (“water lilies”), as well as floor-mounted “tulips” or even hanging systems, would be appropriate here.

You only need to pay attention to the dimensions of the room. Thus, wall-mounted and built-in washbasins will take up less space and will allow you to wipe the floor underneath them without unnecessary difficulties. But devices standing on one leg will look the most sophisticated and elegant.