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The RCFU3120 undermount model from Revere Sinks features the increasingly popular 10-in. depth in one bowl, and the consumers' choice of 8-in. depth in the other.
The RCFU3119 from Revere is a D-shaped double-bowl sink with rear center drain openings. The bowls are 8 in. deep, with one measuring wider and longer than the other. The larger bowl can be specified left or right side.
Many homeowners are looking to fabricators to assist in the selection of the sink, providing those fabricators with an opportunity to demonstrate their expertise and steer the homeowner towards the sink that best complements the countertop. Whether providing the homeowner with a solid surface or stone countertop, it's important to help them select a quality sink that is not only easy to install but will also make the countertop material "pop" and deliver years of consistent performance. In addition to contributing to visually stimulating kitchens, choosing quality sinks can help eliminate call backs, increase word-of-mouth referrals and ultimately result in higher profit margins.
One very popular choice among customers is the stainless steel sink as the finishing touch for a stone or solid surface countertop. Stainless steel offers a great match for any color or material and seems to always be in style. Because navigating through the many sink options can be a daunting task, the following tips offer a helpful guide for fabricators to select the right sink shape, style and size for each unique installation.
Superior Stainless Steel: Choose A Dependable Supplier/Manufacturer
Durability is of utmost importance with countertop installations, as customers expect their investment to literally last for years without replacement of any components. With that in mind, it is important to note that stainless steel as sink material does not crack, chip or discolor when compared to other materials, such as enameled cast iron and vitreous china. High-quality stainless steel sinks are generally constructed of 300+ Series stainless steel, which has a makeup that provides higher resistance to rust, and gives a bright and beautiful finish while minimizing corrosion.
Another key factor is the thickness of the steel. Residential sinks usually range from 18 to 22 gauge, with the lower the gauge number, the thicker the steel and sturdier the sink. Choosing a sink of thinner or low-quality stainless steel may affect the homeowner's satisfaction within the first six months, as the finish and sound will create noticeable deficiencies. To ensure satisfied customers, stainless steel sinks in 18 or 20 gauge are largely recommended for most applications.
By selecting stainless steel sinks from reputable manufacturers that offer quality products constructed of the appropriate thickness and type with consistent material and dimensional integrity, fabricators can rest assured they are delivering a quality sink paired with their quality top.
Quality Customer Service
Because choosing and installing the sink is often the last step of the project, it's important to work with manufacturers offering on-time delivery with quality customer service to ensure a smooth, efficient process without costly delays. By working with manufacturers that have a variety of sinks in stock and readily available, dedicated, domestic customer service and local service and support, fabricators can have confidence that the sink will be there when they need it. It is also wise to consider manufacturers that offer long-term warranties to ensure customer satisfaction for years to come.
Undermount Vs. Top-mount
After choosing the right manufacturer, the fabricator can help the homeowner choose between undermount and top-mount sinks. This decision should be based on the countertop material, customer preference and price. Both sink types have unique advantages, so it's important for fabricators to be able to explain the benefits of each option to the customer.
Provide the homeowner with background on each type, such as how undermount or recessed sinks are installed under a countertop to create a seamless look. Also, undermounts allow for easy cleaning as debris from the countertop can be simply brushed off the edge of the countertop and into the sink bowl without sink deck interference. In addition, as an undermount is a permanent installation, quality is key when selecting the sink as it cannot be removed, typically, without potentially damaging the countertop.
Another option to explain to customers is top-mount or drop-in sinks, which have rolled and finished edges. A key benefit to a drop-in sink style is that it can usually be replaced without dismantling or possibly destroying the original countertop, thus making remodeling easier down the road. Top-mount sinks are available in many standard sink base sizes, optimizing an existing cutout. Also, with soft countertop stone, such as marble, a top-mount sink can help protect countertop edges. Sharing tips and insights such as these helps to build the fabricator's reputation as an expert, and hopefully increase referrals and profitability from repeat customers and increased job value.
