A farmhouse sink is identifiable because they have a large basin with an exposed front panel. Most farmhouse sinks have a single basin, though there are also double basin options. The most common material used to make farmhouse sinks are porcelain and stainless steel, though many modern kitchens use concrete farmhouse sinks as these have a more industrial aesthetic style. There are also other materials to consider including granite composites, cast iron, and fireclay.
Farmhouse sinks do need a large opening on the face of the cabinets that make this style prohibitive for some people as it requires custom cabinetry.
With the innovations that exist today, manufacturers craft farmhouse sinks for kitchens of varied materials. Each has a different look, level of durability, and cost that will help determine if a certain style is right for your home.
Fireclay
Fireclay sinks are crafted of clay that has been heated to a high degree. This makes the sink durable, resistant to chips and scratches. This is a heavy type of farm sink, so your cabinet will need reinforcement to withstand the weight.
Fireclay farmhouse sinks have an elegant and timeless style. Many people use this as an alternative to cast iron farmhouse kitchen sinks as they are more durable and have a similar look.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel farmhouse sinks are durable and easy-care. They are a more modern style of farmhouse sink and used in contemporary kitchen designs. Stainless steel farm sinks are one of the best farmhouse sink options if you have a tight budget as these are one of the most affordable choices.
Stainless steel is more susceptible to hard water stains and scratching, but they can take a high amount of abuse. Find a stainless steel sink option that is at least 16 to 18 gauge stainless steel as these are the most durable.
Cast Iron
Cast iron is one of the oldest types of sink materials available. This features a heavy iron base with an enamel coating. These are beautiful sinks that retain a vintage look and feel.
While they do have a durable finish, the finish can scratch and fade over time. This is one of the heaviest kitchen farmhouse sink options available. You will need a reinforced cabinet to carry the weight of these sinks.
Porcelain
Porcelain farmhouse sinks have a similar look to fireclay farmhouse sinks though are less expensive. They are also less durable as they tend to scratch and stain easier. They are also more prone to chipping so these would not be the best choice in a kitchen that endures constant wear and activity.
Natural Stone and Wood
Natural materials such as travertine, granite, limestone, soapstone, marble, and even petrified wood make beautiful farmhouse sinks. Many of these sinks are crafted from a single block of stone which makes them one of a kind.
A well-sealed sink is easy to keep clean and stands up to heavy wear. These are one of the most expensive choices for a farm sink. Natural stone mixed with composites are another option that is less expensive.
Copper
Copper farmhouse sinks are crafted by heating copper ore and pouring it into a mold to form a sink. These sinks are distinctive and develop an attractive patina over time. Copper has natural antibacterial qualities that make it a good choice for kitchens. Copper will not rust or corrode, but it does need polishing to keep it looking its best.
Farmhouse Sink Size Options
Farmhouse sinks are larger than average kitchen sinks, so they will take up more space in your kitchen. In general, farmhouse sinks are between 20-60 inches long (side to side), width around 16-20 inches wide (front to back), and depth around 9-10 inches high (bottom to top).
Small farmhouse sinks range between 20-24 inches long, medium farmhouse sinks from 30-40 inches long, and large sinks are considered anything beyond this.
Farmhouse Sink Mounting Options
There are three common mount options for farmhouse sinks: undermount, flush mount, and drop-in styles.
- Undermount Farmhouse Sinks – Undermount sinks are mounted below the counter level. This means that the counter edge is exposed on three sides: the right, back, and left side with the front side or apron exposed. This is one of the most expensive mounting options as the hole in the counter needs to be exact. This also leaves an exposed edge, so the counter material must be durable.
- Flush Mount Farmhouse Sinks – Flush mounted sinks sit right at or above counter level. The hole in the counter must be accurate for this style to create a tight seal between the sink and counter.
- Drop-in Farmhouse Sinks – Drop-in farmhouse sinks are also called top mounted sinks. These sinks are one of the easiest to install because they are mounted above the counter and the hole does not have to be exact. This style mount is best for delicate counters that might chip with an exposed edge like marble.
Cost of Farmhouse Sinks
Farmhouse sinks range in style, configuration, materials, and size. This means that they also range in price. Stainless steel sinks are the least expensive options. You can find stainless steel sinks beginning from $350. Petrified wood farmhouse sinks are one of the most expensive varieties ranging up to $7,000. Average prices range from around $600-$1,500.
