Here we are—a new year, a fresh outlook, and an opportunity for many homeowners to embark on new renovation plans (or pick up where you left off before the holidays). To help you make the most of your kitchen budget, we wanted to share some red flags that have been popping up in the sink universe. These “disturbing trends” aren’t just bad ideas—like enormous shoulderpads or platform sneakers—although they can make you regret your decision in a few years.
“Buy a countertop, get a free sink.”
That may sound like a great deal, but who made that sink? And what is it made of? There’s a reason that no-name company hasn’t made a name for itself. It seems that some manufacturers—who aren’t in it for the long haul—are flooding the market with products they’ve made on the cheap. You can’t blame the counter fabricator for trying to win your business with a freebie, but they’re not the ones who will have to live with it. You will. Every day. For a very…long…time.
“304 or 305. Whatever it takes.”
A quality stainless steel sink by a reputable manufacturer is likely to be made with grade 304 stainless steel. This means the steel is composed of a specific ratio of metals that provides strength, durability and rust resistance, so the sink will last for a lifetime. Not-so-reputable manufacturers will say they’re using 304 stainless steel, or will make claims about the steel’s thickness, but it doesn’t mean it’s true.
Unfortunately, sink shoppers aren’t in a position to analyze a sink’s composition or even measure its gauge or thickness. You can, however, stick to manufacturers that adhere to the Uniform Plumbing Code—pretty much any sink you know by name. And recognize that while a quality sink may cost a bit more, it’s not the name you’re paying for. It’s knowing that you’re getting exactly what you’ve signed up for.
In the meantime, industry leaders are doing everything to keep the codes upheld and the quality unblemished, and to provide products that affirm your decision every time you rinse a spoon.
My husband and I just spent 6 months remodeling our kitchen. It looks great and we took the time to find the materials we really wanted without settling. If there is any advice I can give it would be this: I suggest buying direct. We got our Kitchen, bar and bathroom sinks through MR Direct and the cost was surprisingly low. Everything came on time and looks great. We also got our flooring direct and love it. I think that with buying from big-name stores you aren’t getting exactly what you need. Plus, the customer service and sales people at manufacturers know the ins and outs.
Congratulations on your new kitchen! I’m glad your renovation went to plan, and under budget to boot.
I think the important thing to take away is that you should feel good about what you get for your money. With a sink or home fixture, you can’t really assess quality just by looking at the product. That’s why I always urge shoppers to make sure a manufacturer adheres to the Uniform Plumbing Code and that their products have been inspected by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials. They should also be a member of the National Kitchen and Bath Association, and it should say so on their website.
Your kitchen is the heart of the home–you don’t want it broken by poor products with unfulfilled promises of quality. A sure way to be confident about your renovation decisions is to go with an established manufacturer that adheres to these industry guidelines. Plus, these brands provide more than product guidance. They’ll help you out in a pinch. A lifetime warranty isn’t any good if the company isn’t around to back it up.
I’m not familiar with the provider you mention, so I’m not referring to them specifically, but it’s always good advice for buyers to beware.
I wish you and your husband many happy meals in your new kitchen!