Durability. Composite granite sinks are primarily made up of a mixture of quartz granite particles and resin, both of which are incredibly hard-wearing and durable. The result of this is that any knocks that would usually dent, chip or scratch a regular sink will not show up on a composite sink.
How long will a composite granite sink last? Composite granite sinks are quite durable and can last decades with normal use and proper care.
Durable — Owing to its mineral content, composite sinks are very hard and durable. As a result, they are unlikely to chip, dent or scratch and generally handle everyday wear-and-tear well.
Composites are non-porous – This makes them much more sanitary than granite, which can conceal bits of food and bacteria in its crevices. Composites also can withstand disinfectant products without damaging the material, unlike granite.
Yes, composite sinks can withstand boiling water. There is no issue with pouring hot water down a granite, quartz, or solid surface sink.
If your composite sink has limescale staining or hard water stains, these can show up clearly against a dark-coloured sink. For these, you do need to use a diluted vinegar to help remove them. The key is not to use straight vinegar on the sink, but to make a mixture that is 50% water and 50% vinegar.
Best for: Affordability, durability, and low maintenance. The most common option for a kitchen sink material is stainless steel. This material is well-known for its water-resistance, durability, and scratch-resistance, and is also often recognized for superior rust-resistance and antimicrobial properties.
Hard Water Mineral Deposits (Calcium, Magnesium, Lime)
Unless you wipe your sink dry after every use, water left behind will eventually evaporate. When water evaporates, minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and lime are left behind, bonding to the surface. These spots are called mineral deposits.
The materials vary by brand but most composite sinks are made of approximately 80% quartz or other similar materials that are basically designed to make the sink as stain, heat, impact and scratch proof as possible. As such, they are distinctly more durable than stainless steel or ceramic counterparts.
First, we want to make sure we do not accidentally damage the surface. Avoid using any harsh/acidic/alkaline-containing products on your sink. This means avoiding lemon juice, vinegar, bleach, window cleaner, oven cleaner, and most leading brands formulated to remove Calcium, Lime or Rust, ammonia, et cetera.
Applying a light layer of food grade mineral oil will add a protective repellent layer to your sink - simply leave the oil on the surface for 45 minutes then buff with a cloth. Repeat the process if needed. With a granite composite sink, prevention of stain and limescale build up is key.
If you are concerned about water marks being left on the surface, which are more likely to appear on composite sinks of a darker colour, then wiping your sink with a lint-free cloth to dry it off should do the trick. Drying your sink after each rinse will help prevent the build-up of water stains and limescale.
This type of sink is easy to clean
Using a non-abrasive cleaner will keep it clean. Taking care of it properly will preserve its color for many years. Keeping it clean is also important. You can use a magic eraser sponge to remove stains and a 50/50 water-bleach solution for cleaning.
Quartz tends to be more affordable, and it comes in a vast array of color choices because it's basically a manmade product. Granite composite, on the other hand, although a little pricier, is indestructible as a countertop or sink because a large percent of the product is actual stone from the earth's crust.
Several reasons could cause a crack on a granite composite. It's a normal expectation since it's made from sand/stone. So, there are natural causes of damage to these elements as well as human-made dents. Reasons for cracks may range from expansion and contraction of the seal/rod to hot pasta pans.
Black stainless steel is more resistant to smudges, fingerprints, and water spots. Black granite composite sinks are more likely to show hard water spots and limescale deposits. It's important to clean your black kitchen sink weekly to keep it tidy and prevent the need for deep cleaning.
Stubborn Stains – A solution of 50% bleach, 50% water should only be used for tough, stubborn stains. Let the solution sit in the bottom of the sink for one hour; then scrub. Rinse well. Also, the use of Bar Keepers Friend (directions included on bottle) will help remove stubborn stains.
Acrylic
This easily moldable plastic is one of the most affordable and versatile kitchen sinks you can find. It's easy to clean, strong, sound absorbent, and the nonporous surface is resistant to mildew and dirt buildup.
Stainless steel is the most popular kitchen sink material for ease of use/cleaning, installation, and to achieve a modern kitchen design. They provide a contemporary look with a sleek profile, especially when paired with composite stone, granite, or wood countertops.
Stainless steel sinks are very low maintenance; they are corrosion and rust resistant, and as long as they are cared for properly and wiped down after every use, they should not stain. Find out more about how to clean a stainless steel sink by reading our guide with handy tips and tricks from our experts.
Use soft or micro fibre cloths (eg. E-cloth). A 50% mix of water and white vinegar can be used to remove limescale deposits, ensure to rinse thoroughly after use, do not leave the vinegar in contact with the surface. A nylon scratch pad or toothbrush can be used on difficult areas.
Step 1: Run some warm water through your composite sink. Step 2: Wipe your sink with soapy water. Step 3: Apply baking soda paste to the stains. Step 4: Use a vinegar/water solution to deal with limescale or water stains.
SURFACE LUSTER
Clean, rinse and dry sink completely. To restore luster and extend the time between cleanings apply a thin, even coating of Quartz Sink Conditioner, food-safe mineral oil, or olive oil to the entire sink surface with a cloth. Remove excess with a cloth or leave overnight. Reapply as needed.