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.
Heat-Resistance—while composite sinks are heat-resistant, they aren't heat-proof. It's important to note the acrylic resin binders found in composite sinks can warp or melt when exposed to extreme heat. An example of this is when a hot pot or pan is placed directly in the 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.
Composite sinks really don't require super harsh cleaning products to keep them looking clean. Whilst they are generally more durable and resistant to scratches, it's also best to avoid particularly abrasive cleaning products or methods.
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.
It is essential you avoid extreme variations in temperatures coming into contact with your sink – such as pouring out a pan of boiling water followed by ice cold water. This can cause thermal shock in composite sinks and will result in hairline cracks appearing.
Team the clean modern lines of a contemporary kettle tap with a stainless-steel sink, composite kitchen sink or a modern ceramic sink and fuss-free cabinetry. If your kitchen has country or period style, or a Belfast-look sink, classic boiling water taps have an elegant detail that will pull the look together.
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.
On a lighter-coloured sink, you can use bleach diluted with water (50/50) to scrub the stains with a nylon brush. Rinse with clean water after cleaning. Most of the time, you will find that a quick rinse after use is enough to keep your composite sink clean.
Mineral deposits can lead to discolouration, which you can remove with proper care and attention. It is important to note the following when cleaning your granite composite sink: Do not use full strength bleach or cleaners with ammonia. Do not use chemical drain openers.
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.
Composite quartz sinks are some of the most solid and robust sinks available with a superior resistance to heat and scratches. Combining their hardwearing build with a stylish design, they offer fantastic value for money and superior resistance.
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.
'The easiest kitchen sink material to maintain is going to be one made of stainless steel, copper, cast iron or enamel because they will not support microbial growth as they are not cellulose material,' says Darren Hudema, director of training and technical services at PuroClean.
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.
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.
Instead, it recommends bleach, Soft Scrub and a Scotch-Brite pad and warns not to leave the cleaners on the surface for more than 15 minutes. "There are certain acidic compounds such as coffee and spaghetti sauce, etc.
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.
If you notice stains on your white composite sink, simply make up a mixture of dish soap and water, and wipe the sink down with a lint-free cloth or non-abrasive sponge. For the really difficult stains that just won't budge, try a mixture of vinegar and water and scrub the area with a soft bristle brush.
Use Soft Scrub with Bleach Cleanser or Soft Scrub with Bleach Cleaner Gel to free your sink of soap scum, dirt, and stains. Marble and Granite: Tough on stains, yet gentle on your most delicate surfaces, Soft Scrub's Multi-Surface Gel is a rinse-free gel that cleans and polishes marble and granite sinks.
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.
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.
Clean the heck out of the sink, then clean it again with rubbing alcohol. Soak/dip the cups in hot water to make them more pliable, then apply a little petrol jelly around the cup.
Because quartz composite sinks are not the same as solid quartz stone sinks, they don't deliver the same variation in pattern, shine (available in matte finish only), and color as natural stone sinks. Additionally, quartz sinks can be hard on dropped dishes, so be careful when you wash your fragile glasses or china!
Once your granite composite sink is cleaned, you can restore its shine using mineral oil. Apply a tablespoon of mineral oil to a soft cloth and buff using a circular motion. Wait 1 minute, wipe away and enjoy the luster.