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Check out the best cast iron farmhouse sink options with these quality products. They’re ideal if you’re looking for the perfect, long lasting way to transform the look of your kitchen.
As a material, cast iron is a popular addition to any kitchen. Most people know that the material is a sturdy one, that can survive just about any abuse. But it’s not as common to associate this material with sinks and other larger fixtures
However, it’s actually a great material, even for large items. It has a surprising amount of benefits, and makes for a quality purchase.
To find out all you need to know about these options, check out our guide below.
Benefits of Cast Iron:
One of the greatest benefits of cast iron is its durability. When properly cared for, a quality basin in this material can last indefinitely. It’s likely that the only reason you’ll purchase a new sink in the future, is just for an aesthetic change.
In fact, the only thing that will wear out on these options is the enamel coating. Just like porcelain, they have a coating that sits over the actual basin, in order to protect it from exposure.
However, the coating itself is still durable and convenient. Due to the type of coating, the basin on these options should be entirely smooth and non-porous. This means it’s easy to clean and care for.
With this type of surface, dirt and residue shouldn’t get set in or stuck. This also means you’ll have less issues with things like stains an odors.
Overall, these options are…
- Durable
- Easy to clean
- Long lasting
- Attractive
- Convenient
What more could you want for any fixture in your home?
Product Options
If you’re interested in trying out one of these fixtures, here are some great options. They’ve got all the benefits of this material, along with ideal farmhouse look.
To get both style and quality in your kitchen, check out these products:
Apron Front Cast Iron Sink
American Standard
This apron front option is perfect for anyone who wants something more modern.
Although it does have a slight curve along its edges, it’s still a fairly crisp shape. That makes it ideal for anyone who leans more towards modern or industrial looks.
In terms of function, it’s an equally attractive option. This one comes with all the benefits of both cast iron, and a quality enamel coating. In addition, the design of the basin has a slight slang towards the drain.
This slant makes it easier to clean up and wash away any debris. It also helps clear out any standing water that gets left after dishes or washing.
And lastly, this product is a white cast iron sink undermount option. That means when you install it, you have to do so from beneath the countertops.
This look is currently in style, making this product a well rounded option in terms of function and aesthetic.
30 Inch Cast Iron Farmhouse Sink
Kohler Whitehaven
This is another great undermount option, but it’s more suitable for traditional or country styles.
The front is rounded slightly, giving it a bit more country charm. However, it’s still got all the hallmarks of a farmhouse sink.
Like the first, it’s an apron-front option that makes installation easier. This option is even self-trimming, so you won’t have to worry about cutting into your cabinets as much. There are also versions of this option that have a shorter apron. These allow you to keep much more cabinetry than larger, deeper options.
Also, like the first, this option has a slight slant to the basin. This makes it easier for both water and debris to drain away. It’s a helpful feature that makes keeping your basin clean a simple task.
And for any eco-friendly shoppers, you’ll be happy to know that this option is made of 80% recycled materials.
What You Need to Know about Cast Iron
If you’ve never encountered this type of sink before, you may still have a lot of questions. As a material this option is not as straightforward as something like stainless steel.
If you have some lingering questions about these options, here is everything you need to know:
What is a Cast Iron Sink?
When it comes to this type of sink, things can get a little confusing. Certainly, they look nothing like the typical pans that we associate with this material. So how are they made of the same thing?
In this case, they really are made the same way as pans and pots. Molten iron is poured into a mold, and then left to harden. That gives you a fully metal object, that’s both durable, and effective at maintaining heat. That’s why this material is so popular in cooking.
For sinks, it’s not much different. Even the enamel coating is similar to what you’d see in dutch ovens made from the same material. The main difference, is that the coating isn’t optional in this case.
With all sinks of this type, they’re coated to ensure that the basin is protected. You’ll be exposing it to plenty of water, soap, and other things that can easily wear down cast iron. As such, the coating is necessary.
This coating is also what allows for different colors and finishes. That way you’re getting something that’s both durable, and aesthetically pleasing.
For more on enamel coatings, keep reading.
Enamel Coating
Enamel refers to a coating that’s commonly applied to stoneware, pottery, and cast iron. There are actually a lot of different types of enamel, but the process for applying it is generally the same.
In most cases, the enamel is made of silica and other materials, that start out in an almost liquid form. That’s what makes them easy to apply to whatever object it is that needs coating. Then, when super-heated, the silica forms glass and creates a perfectly smooth, hard coating.
Of course, hearing that enamel is commonly made of glass or porcelain doesn’t inspire a lot of confidence. However, although its basis is in delicate materials, that doesn’t mean that it’s not durable.
Because of the heat that was applied, this material is actually very sturdy. It’s going to last, so long as you can care for it properly.
However, coatings are not permanent. They can chip and crack over time, or as a result of accidents. As such, it’s likely you’ll have to replace then enamel at some point.
Luckily, it’s easy to find a service that can repair or recoat the basin in enamel. You can even do it yourself! Just make sure you’re being safe, as the materials required are not simply crafting supplies.
Just remember that an at-home coating will not be the same as one that’s been properly fired in a kiln. If you want the real deal, you’ll need to go to a professional.
General Care and Maintenance
With any fixture of this type, general care is the same. You’ll first want to make sure that you’re being gentle.
Although the coating on these options is durable, it’s not impervious. You still don’t want to drop heavy or sharp items directly into the basin. Doing so is what can lead to unnecessary chips, cracks or scratches.
As such, just use caution, and place your flatware and pans carefully inside. For added protection, you can purchase a metal grid. When placed at the bottom of the basin, these grids provide an extra barrier against things like knives and mishaps.
When cleaning, you should also be careful.
You’ll also want to avoid heavy scrubbing, or the use of very harsh chemicals. These can scratch or break down the coating.
Keep in mind that one of the benefits of enamel is how easy it is to clean. For most issues, all you’ll need to do is simply wipe the dirt or residue away with a light hand.
A Beautiful and Lasting Choice
The main downside of this material is how expensive it is. You’ll definitely be paying a premium, but you’re getting a lot in return.
The biggest benefit is that this has the potential to be a one-time purchase. This material is so durable that it should last you indefinitely, so long as you care for. All you’ll really need to worry about is the enamel coating, which can easily be replaced.
The other benefit is that the enamel coating is so convenient. There’s a reason that similar coatings are used on cookware. Not only is the coating durable, but it’s super simple to clean.
Dirt and residue don’t stick to the smooth, nonporous surface. As such, it resists stains and odors, and is easy to maintain.
Of course, price is not a minor concern. If you want this style of fixture, you can certainly get similar options for cheaper. Any fireclay or composite type sink is going to have a similar coating at a lower cost. Unfortunately, they may not be as durable overall.
Metal is your cheapest option, but there are a few downsides to this material as well. It’s not remotely as durable. It also has a greater limit on colors, with only a few options to choose from.
With the purchase of any large fixture, there’s a lot to consider. However, if you have room in your budget, the best cast iron farmhouse sink isn’t hard to find.
