Porcelain sinks last 25 to 30 years before they'll need to be refinished, after which they can last longer. Enamel steel sinks only last about 5 to 10 years if used frequently. Stone sinks can last for several decades or much longer--just keep in mind that you'll likely need to reseal them every 6 to 12 months.
Maintenance: The polished enamel surface is nonporous, making for a stain resistant and easy-to-clean sink. They are very easy to clean and their smooth, glossy finish helps hide water spots and streaks.
Enamel resists staining and is easy to clean. Enameled cast iron has a few drawbacks. It is heavy, and you may need to reinforce your countertops and cabinets to safely support the weight. While it's also very durable, it is also susceptible to chipping or scratching if you drop something heavy into the sink.
A stainless steel sink is the most durable and low-maintenance kitchen sink as they are resistant to heat, stains, and scratches. What's more, they are also some of the most versatile sinks coming in a variety of styles and sizes meaning they fit in most kitchens easily no matter the size or style.
How Long Do Porcelain Sinks Last? Porcelain sinks have an average lifespan of 20–25 years. While all materials take on wear and tear over time, porcelain sinks can be refinished to keep them looking brand new and gorgeous for decades.
Lower-quality porcelain enamel has a thinner coating that can crack and chip easily, which significantly affects the cooking experience. Dropping porcelain enamel cookware can also crack or chip the surface.
It's recommended that people use silicone pads or a stainless steel rack to help protect it. Letting acidic substances sit and allowing foods to cake can stain the material, so ensure you give it a rinse after each use.
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.
Your sink's lifespan will depend a lot on its material. Stainless steel sinks last 15 to 30 years. Porcelain sinks last 25 to 30 years before they'll need to be refinished, after which they can last longer. Enamel steel sinks only last about 5 to 10 years if used frequently.
Quartz Composite
Best for: High durability, heat-resistance, and sound dampening. If the vulnerabilities of solid surface acrylic resin or enameled kitchen sinks are concerning, then a quartz composite kitchen sink is a great option.
Porcelain is harder than tooth enamel, so it can be damaging to the opposing natural teeth especially in patients who clench and grind habitually.
Epoxy is the best glue for porcelain and ceramic if you need to fill gaps or carry out a cracked sink repair. Though there are slight differences between porcelain and ceramic sinks, epoxy is a common material that can be used for both types. Epoxy is made up of two main ingredients: resin and hardener.
For white porcelain only, bleach can be used to remove stains; never use chlorine bleach in colored or vintage porcelain, as it can damage the finish. For both white and colored porcelain, liquid oxygen bleach (such as hydrogen peroxide) is a good alternative.
Stainless steel skillets are a better purchase than enameled cast iron skillets as they are more affordable, require little to no maintenance, and are built to last a lifetime. Stainless steel skillets are known for great distribution of heat, something enameled cast iron skillets don't offer.
Spraying the sink with an enamel-based paint will restore the luster of the finish. Avoid scrubbing the sink with any type of abrasive cleaner for at least a week.
It's helpful to know about how long you can expect your fixtures to last, so you'll know how much more time you're likely to get from repairs that you invest in now. In general, the lifespan for your bathroom plumbing fixtures is: Stainless steel sinks: 15 to 30 years. Porcelain sinks: 20 to 30 years.
THICKER GAUGES
A better quality stainless steel kitchen sink is the 18-gauge, which is 0.0500 inches. Many home improvement choices recommend 16 to 18 gauges as a good choice for a stainless steel kitchen sink. The more costly, a 16-gauge stainless sinks is often touted as a luxury sink and are 0.0625 inches thick.
Scratches and Dents
Choose a stainless steel sink with a good surface finish, such as a brushed or satin finish. It will significantly prevent scratches while using the sink. An expensive sink will also give you resistance against these dents and scratches. A cheaper one will give in to the banging a lot easier.
Both Grades 18/8 and 18/10 are ideal for kitchen sinks. Of the two, 18/8 will typically be a little more affordable than 18/10. Ideally, the ratio should be between 18:8 and 20:10.
Saltwater can be acidic, and gaggling with it every day can soften your teeth's enamel and gums. Therefore, you're not supposed to gargle salt water daily. Also, if you have special medical conditions such as high blood pressure, you should take extra precautions or look for other alternatives to use.
A warm salt water rinse after consuming acidic foods and drinks such as soda—or a bowl full of lemons—will help to balance out your mouth's pH level and protect your enamel.