Most farmhouse sinks are durable but they can also become chipped, scratched, or stained if not taken care of.
After some sink research, I decided on a fireclay apron front, undermount sink. Fireclay is known for its durability, and for its resistance to chips and scratches. It also looks almost identical to enameled cast iron, so it was the perfect choice for our family.
What are the Disadvantages of a Farmhouse Sink? Because the farm-style sink can be so large, it can take up valuable counter space and cabinet space to accommodate the width and depth of the sink.
Fireclay
Manufactured from clay fired at an extremely high temperature, fireclay sinks are highly resistant to scratches, staining and chipping. Cleanup is easy — just dish soap on a sponge, or use a mild abrasive cleanser for tougher marks.
Available in two versions, a scouring powder and a scrubbing cream, Bar Keeper's Friend can work wonders for scratches that can't be repaired by bleach. All you'll need is a pair of rubber gloves, a sponge or soft scrubbing pad, and whichever version of Bar Keeper's Friend you prefer.
A silicone sink mat not only prevents scratches but also helps maintain a cleaner sink. These mats are designed with drainage holes that allow water to flow freely, preventing stagnant water from accumulating at the bottom of the sink.
White farmhouse sinks are prone to cracking themselves. To protect your white sink from scratches and cracks, never drop heavy pots or pans in the sink.
The downside is that the fireclay material can show surface scratches, especially if an object creates a hard impact.
How to get your sink sparkling again. To give a white sink a deep clean, it's best to remove limescale with a vinegar- or lemon-based cleaner at regular intervals. Both standard cleaning products work very well indeed and break down naturally.
Farmhouse sinks offer a traditional, rustic charm with a prominent aesthetic, while apron sinks provide a similar look with greater adaptability for modern and compact spaces. Both options are available in durable materials like fireclay, porcelain, and stainless steel, ensuring functionality and long-term use.
Fireclay is named for the earthen material's ability to withstand incredibly high heat. The heat transforms the clay into the solid material that is incredibly durable and ideal for kitchen sinks, and fireclay is often seen in the popular farmhouse style sink.
Farmhouse sinks are known for its durability. They come in a variety of materials such as stainless steel, fireclay, granite/quartz composite, copper and stone that will last for decades. They are easy to clean and maintain.
Higher Price Tag: With all their benefits, farmhouse sinks do come at a cost. Because they are a large sink, they are typically pricier than traditional sinks, especially if you opt for materials like copper. Installation can also be more complex, adding to the overall expense.
It's no surprise that due to its functional design and timeless and elegant appeal that the fireclay farmhouse sink has made a resurgence among homeowners in America too. Thanks to Joanna Gaines, the fireclay farmhouse sink has gained added popularity and has become a favorite feature in new home kitchens today.
If you frequently wash larger items, such as pots and pans, a single basin sink may be the better option. However, if you prefer to keep your dishes organized and separate, a double basin sink may be the better choice.
Porcelain may look similar to fireclay (and almost always comes at a lower price), but it's less durable as the simpler clay is heated at a lower temperature during the manufacturing process; it's more prone to chips, scratches, and discoloration than fireclay.
Placing hot pots or pans directly into the sink could cause damage to the sink. and nicks in the sink from daily use. Avoid pouring boiling water into sink. Run cold water if hot liquids are poured into sink.
These scratches are usually easily removed with a mildly abrasive cleanser or scrubber and some elbow grease. If the scratches are indeed scratches and remain visible and touchable after thorough cleaning, an effective method recommended by our experts is to buff out the scratch using a fire brick, available on Amazon.
Use a sink grid to protect the bottom to prevent any scratches from heavy pots & pans. Use a non-abrasive cleaner and microfiber cloth to buff out any small nicks in the sink. Clean the sink regularly with mild soap to prevent any stains and discoloration.
Porcelain sinks are also stain, heat, and scratch-resistant.
When the material is new, it is more sensitive to scratches because of the protective coating applied by our manufacturer. So although you may see scratches in your new stainless steel sink, they will also disappear over time as the material gets more used and takes on a more matte nuance.
A stainless steel scratch repair kit can be an effective solution. These kits often contain various products, including abrasive pads, cleaning solutions, and polishes.