Sinks and Mixer Taps

What should I look for in a new sink?

If you’re planning to remodel your kitchen, or just looking for a way to improve and maximize its functionality, it makes sense to fit a new sink and taps. As the only area in the kitchen that is used both to prepare meals and to clean up after them, the sink is one of the most used items in the room, so it needs to be functional, hard-wearing, and easy to look after.

As the focal point of the house and a place where you inevitably spend a great deal of time, your kitchen needs to look good, which is why it’s important to consider what will go well in your kitchen – for example, if your work surfaces are granite, go for a sink made from the same material; or if you have a number of chrome kitchen accessories, go for a stainless steel sink. Don’t forget about essential accessories which can come with the sink, such as inset sloping draining boards and mixer taps, as well as sinks that come with stoppers, strainers and water-traps.

What should my new sink be made from?

A kitchen sink made from durable material is an essential requirement, given how much it is used for washing, cleaning and preparing food. Stainless steel is a good option as it is lightweight (therefore easy to install); easily cleaned with soap and water; and is stain-free. Granite should also be considered for your new sink – it is not only incredibly durable and scratch-proof, but also has the added advantage of looking aesthetically pleasing, and goes well with granite kitchen work-tops.

For more on kitchen work surfaces, take a look at the range of work tops from IKEA

What type of sinks are available and how will I know which is best for me?

Kitchen sinks are available in single bowl, 1 ½ bowl, 2 bowl and 3 bowl design: take your pick from this range according to your taste, requirements, space available and budget.

For example, the standard twin bowl sink design is ideal for washing up dirty dishes in one half and preparing food in the other, if that suits your usage requirements.

When it comes to available space, measure the cabinet frame which you will be installing your new sink before you do it – it will make choosing, buying and fitting your sink much easier if you know your measurements first. Also, consider the size of the room itself: a large sink with two or three bowls will overpower a small kitchen.

What is a mixer tap and which one should I choose?

A mixer tap has separate inputs for hot and cold water, and one single output. The water inputs can be adjusted according to your required temperature and flow. When choosing one, consider its style, features finish. There are numerous styles to select from such as the single-lever mixer and the dual-control mixer.

An increasingly popular option is the single-lever mixer tap with separate pull-out handspray, which is convenient for rinsing dishes and produce, as well as the sink itself.

The taps features are important: mixer taps with high spouts are practical for washing up large pots; while if you have a multi-bowl sink, opt for a spout that can swivel at least 180 degrees – you’ll need the flexibility to reach the different bowls. Models come in finishes like chrome, which is sleek-looking, durable and hygienic; polished brass, which gives an easy-to-clean, hard surface; and nickel, which is attractive-looking, but requires more attention when it comes to cleaning.

What do I need to know before installing new taps?

When fitting a new tap or replacing an old one, one of the most important factors to consider is water pressure, because the correct pressure is needed so that the tap functions properly and that water flow is satisfactory. Usually, cold water pressure is not a problem as this should be at the pressure of the mains, but the current pressure of the hot water system must be known before choosing the desired tap – get a plumber in to do this for you if you are unsure how.

Want to know more? See the Q&A: Disposal of an old kitchen

How can I make the most of my sink area?

For effective use of space around the sink, complement the area with sink accessories: you can place a chopping board or cover plate over the sink as an extra food preparation area; or you can fit a dish drainer over the sink bowl to clear space on the work-tops and so that there is minimal excess water on the surfaces. Sloping, ridged draining boards are also good for drying dishes quickly and effectively – the sloped board means the dish water will run back into the sink without you having to clean it up.

See the BOHOLMEN range of sink accessories for more ideas