How to Buy a Stainless Steel Sink

If you are in the market for a stainless steel sink, follow these easy guidelines to make sure the sink fits in the area you have planned and is the right sink for your kitchen. You will also learn to protect yourself from additional time and expense if the sink you purchase has been damaged before installation.

Instructions

1

Measure the area for the sink. If you already have a sink, measure the area from underneath the existing sink. This will ensure that the sink you choose will fit in the existing opening which will save you the time and expense of having to increase the size of the opening for a new sink. If you are choosing a sink for a new countertop, measure the overall size of the area you have planned for the new sink.

2

Choose from the many different styles of stainless steel sinks. Some are single bowl, double-bowl, and even sinks with three different bowls. If you are the type to keep everything out of the sink and keep the dishwasher loaded, a less-expensive single bowl sink would work well for you. A double bowl sink is perfect for family use because it allows a clean side and a dirty side. The clean side is always ready for food preparation, such as rinsing fruits and vegetables. The dirty side holds dishes until they are put in the dishwasher. If you are going to have a garbage disposal installed, make sure the sink has the right sized drain opening for the garbage disposal you plan on installing. Consider the number of openings needed for sprayer attachments or a dish soap dispenser. Check the measurements of the sink you chose and make sure the sink fits into the area you measured in step 1.

3

Compare prices for the sink you have chosen. Check the price in local home improvement stores as well as online retail outlets. If you choose to purchase online and have it shipped, add in the cost of shipping when you compare prices. If you purchase the stainless steel sink online and have it shipped, make sure the company you purchase the sink from covers return shipping in case the sink gets damaged during shipping.

4

Inspect the sink. If there are any marks, dents or other damage, immediately call the store where you purchased the sink and inform them of the damage. Request a replacement.