Butler sinks are very similar to Belfast sinks but are often shallower and slightly wider. Historically, Butler sinks didn't feature an overflow but you'll find that many modern variations do. However, you'll only find a weir overflow on a Belfast sink.
A Belfast sink is so named because–as you may have guessed – it was originally designed in Belfast, in the eighteenth century. Traditionally, Butler sinks were known as – or were used alongside – normal sinks, known as London sinks.
During the 1940s and 1950s, metal cabinetry and stainless steel sinks started to become more common. But enameled sinks were still very popular. The faucets in kitchens started to migrate from wall-hung toward the deck-mounted style.
In the 1920s, indoor plumbing created the need for sturdy sinks, made of manganese silicon, carbon and iron, and since World War II, porcelain. Today's bowls come in a wide range of materials from the expected porcelain to the newest kind of granite composite.
Around 1820, the type of sink that resembled what most of us think of as the kitchen sink began to take shape. Known as a “dry sink,” it consisted of a large bowl-like vessel made of metal, stone, or even wood. It was placed on a cabinet or sometimes a window sill. Sometimes these sinks were lined with lead or zinc.
Vintage style kitchen sinks come in a variety of materials, including porcelain, stainless steel, and cast iron. Each material offers its own unique benefits and drawbacks. It's important to consider your needs before making a purchase.
In the case of farmhouse sinks the most common options would be Cast Iron, Natural Stone, Bronze, Stainless Steel, Copper and Fireclay.
The dry sink was a cabinet similar to an antique washstand with a recessed area on top. More expensive dry sinks had these areas lined with copper or other waterproof materials. The recessed area kept the water from the pitcher and bowl contained while someone washed up.
After the turn of the century and prior to 1950 most kitchen sinks were standalone enameled cast iron and often included a drain board like the sink above. Between 1950 and 1980 nearly all kitchen sinks became top mounted. This is because most countertops during that period were made using plywood or particleboard.
These sinks were common in rural homes, giving them their original name of farmhouse. People took water for bathing, cleaning, as well as for washing clothes and dishes from these basins, making farmhouse sinks a central feature in the late 17th and 18th century homes throughout Europe.
There are three main types of kitchen sinks: drop-in sinks, undermount sinks and farmhouse sinks. These types describe how the sink is mounted and installed. We'll cover these mounting styles below, as well as other less common styles and configurations.
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.
If you're going about remodelling your kitchen and going for a farmhouse look, an apron sink (also known as a farmhouse sink) is the ultimate feature. Whether you're an avid chef or have a large family, the space of an apron sink can work wonders for when you need time between prepping, eating, and cleaning up.
“Apron sink,” “farm sink,” “apron-front sink,” and “farmhouse sink” are all appropriate designations.
But what actually makes a sink considered “farmhouse” style? The TLDR definition of a farmhouse sink is “a deep sink that has an exposed front-facing side.” Thesaurus may also refer to it as an “apron front” sink – which, in our opinion, is the best description as it literally acts like an apron as you wash.
Stainless steel and Composite are the most commonly used materials for kitchen sinks. Composite sinks have the added advantage of coming in many different colors. Both materials are very durable and should last a long time, with proper care and maintenance.
Belfast sinks are an adaptation of Butler sinks. Like the Butler sinks, they were primarily used by butlers but designed in Belfast. While London is further inland, Belfast is on the coast and so obtaining water was less of an issue.
As discussed above, the basic difference between a sink and a wash basin lies in their area of installation or application. The sinks are mostly used in kitchens and pantries and the basins are used in toilets and washrooms.
Answer. An antique wash basin is also called a wash hand stand.
Summary. Before homes had indoor plumbing, dry sinks gave housewives a place to wash dishes or clean vegetables. Though not connected to a water supply, dry sinks were an improvement over buckets or basins placed on a bench or the floor. Some dry sinks had soapstone or zinc linings.
The first dry sinks had a more primitive look with a recessed top panel to prevent excess water from splashing on the floor or walls. During the Victorian era, most dry sinks had a flat top and tall backsplash. More elaborate designs were topped with marble or copper and had carved wood features.
Finally, there is a difference in the style of the two sinks. Farmhouse kitchen sinks are designed to add a rustic, farmhouse-style aesthetic to the kitchen, while apron sinks are more modern and sleek. Both farmhouse sinks and apron sinks are excellent choices for any kitchen.
Also known as an apron sink, a farmhouse-style sink features a deep basin and an exposed front that sits flush with your cabinets and countertops. With a touch of country charm, this type of sink offers a number of functional benefits that make it a great choice for many kitchens.
Fireclay Sinks
These sinks are extremely popular these days and understandably so. Fireclay is made when clay and glaze are fused together at extremely high temperatures. This creates a highly durable material that is hard and resistant to chips and cracks.