Concrete sinks: Pros and cons for kitchen and bathroom (AVOID This!)

Concrete sinks are gaining popularity worldwide. One of the main reasons is that it is composed of inexpensive concrete. You can shape your concrete sink in any shape and size. If you are confident enough, you can build one on your own from scratch.

But before you make up your mind in doing so, you need to consider a few things about them. First, is the sink suitable for the indoors in your kitchen? Second, will you be able to maintain it? Along with these you also need to consider its advantages as well as disadvantages. But before that let us see the major factors of a concrete sink.

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Factors to keep in mind before you get one: pros and cons

Structure

The concrete sink can be given a structure that you like. It is generally big and bulky but will fit into the kitchen corner perfectly. This is because it is made by taking measurements of the corner. It does not pre-exist and has to be fitted.

Uniqueness

The concrete sink is generally composed of locally available materials such as gravel, sand, or rock. It is not composed of granite or sandstone which makes this sink very unique. Since you can choose the material with which the sink will be made, it is unique.

Maintenance

The cement sink is generally light-colored unless you choose dark materials. Also, cement sink requires more maintenance than granite sinks because of their structure. The sink has to be scrubbed every day.

Budget-friendly

Since the sink is not being imported from any place it is not expensive. It is composed of local rocks and gravel and not expensive rocks like granite or quartz. This makes the concrete sink budget-friendly.

Customizable

The concrete sink is greatly customizable. The length, width, color, shape, structure, and even the composition material of the concrete sink are of your desire. This is one of the best merits of a concrete sink.

Installation

The installation of the concrete sink is not a very difficult task. This is because it is made by taking exact measurements. It is bound to have a perfect fit. we can presume that concrete sinks come with an easy installation technique.

Types of concrete sink

  • Long trough concrete sink with spigots
  • Dual or Double concrete sink
  • Vessel concrete sink
  • Abstract shaped concrete sink

Color variations available

Concrete sinks can be of various colors. Though the grey concrete sink is the most opted one, there are other options as well. The white concrete sink is emerging into importance. Light pastel colors also can be used for concrete sinks. The texture of the concrete sink also differs from smooth to rough.

Where can you use concrete sinks?

The concrete sinks can be used in two main areas of your house. One is the kitchen and the other is the bathroom. Though this kind of sink is ideal for both areas, a lot of people are seen to refrain from using it in the kitchen. They prefer to install concrete sinks in bathrooms. The main reason is its texture and maintenance. Since the sink is composed of concrete, it does not provide a rock-solid structure. It can easily wear away due to friction. Also, the food stains may leave an imprint on the light-hued concrete sink. This would be undesirable. These problems will not arise if the concrete sink is placed in the bathroom. But, apart from these hindrances, many people are seen to use the concrete sink in their kitchen nevertheless.

Advantages to look for

Affordable

The concrete sink is composed of local material. If you are confident enough, you can make your concrete sink. Since you are not importing a sink from outside, nor are you using expensive rocks, this concrete sink is very affordable.

Available in all shapes and sizes

You make this sink according to your need, it does not pre-exist. Thus, you can compose it in any shape and size that you want. Hence it is available in all shapes and sizes.

Low maintenance

The concrete sink requires regular scrubbing to keep it clean. It does not demand any other type of maintenance. Thus, the concrete sinks are easy to maintain.

Strength

Concrete is very strong and this sink will not break easily. The strength of this sink is one of its significant merits.

Easy to repair

As composed of easily available concrete, repairing this sink is no big deal.

Disadvantages to be aware of concrete sinks

Variances

Since this sink is personalized, it is extremely difficult to find an exact duplicate. So, if you break your previous concrete sink and demand the same one, it is next to impossible.

Takes time to cure

After making it, you need to give the concrete sink minimum of a week to dry. Concrete needs to dry up totally. Only then can the concrete sink function properly.

Natural pores

After the concrete dries up, it forms natural pores. These are a part of its natural texture. But many people find it undesirable. It imparts a rugged texture.

Seams

The concrete sink is often supported with iron rods or rock slabs. But with time, the rods may corrode and this will result in weakening the concrete sink as a whole.

Cracking

Concrete products easily crack and concrete sinks are no different. This is a major disadvantage of the concrete sink.

How to take care of your concrete sinks?

  • It is recommended that you wax your concrete sink regularly
  • You should refrain from cleaning your concrete sink with acid-based cleaners
  • You are advised to wipe your concrete sink dry every time you use it.
  • You should clean your concrete sink with cleaners that are pH neutral
  • Do not leave hot water in your concrete sink

Bottom Line

Concrete sinks are indeed very creative items that will beautify the area of your house where they are placed. The best thing about them is that they can be customized. This helps them to perfectly fit in the corner you want, without undergoing any alterations. But along with its numerous merits, there are a few demerits to watch out for as well. With the help of this article, we hope that you will be able to carefully analyze how to care for one, and what things you should keep an eye on!