Things To Consider Before You Buy An Outdoor Kitchen Sink

The truth is, an outdoor kitchen sink is more than just a fancy add-on. When entertaining in the backyard, you don't want your guests to endure the inconvenience of going inside to wash their hands — probably untying their shoes in the process — every time they need to. Plus, it's not just for your guests. As the host, an outdoor kitchen sink can make your workload much easier. You can rinse your fruits and vegetables or even wash that dirty spatula without continuously shuffling back and forth. The added fixture is practical, creating the type of outdoor kitchen you'll want in your backyard. But don't dash to the nearest hardware store just yet. There are crucial things to consider, like design and cost, before buying an outdoor kitchen sink.  

For starters, your outdoor sink will face the elements, meaning twigs will hit it, the sun will scorch it, and salt air will want to corrode it. So the first thing to consider is whether the sink's material is durable. In the home fixtures market, you'll find kitchen sinks made out of cast iron, copper, enamel, ceramic, fireclay, porcelain, and even stone, which is durable but quite heavy and expensive. Then there's stainless steel, which is used for the majority of kitchen sinks. It is particularly resistant to rust and corrosion, making it a great choice for the outdoors. But there are more things to consider than just durability.

With all the cool ideas for an outdoor sink, you want to ensure that the one you get will be easy to clean. Remember, the ease of maintenance can depend on the sink's color and shape — not just its material. For example, some people find that square-cornered sinks require extra work to keep clean. You may need a toothbrush or cotton swap, especially in the corners. And if your outdoor sink is made of copper, you'll need to use a cleaner specifically made for the metal. Also, check on the safety of the material. If you're installing a grill nearby, your sink should be able to withstand temperatures of up to 572 degrees Fahrenheit. Granite composite sinks are a great choice because of their heat resistance. Of course, size also comes into play when thinking of the sink's functionality. Often, the trick is to ensure your basin doesn't take up all your countertop space. For more work room, you may want to opt for single-bowl sinks instead of double-bowl ones.

Further, make sure all plumbing is according to your local code; otherwise, you'll face some hurdles if you ever want to sell your property. So maybe don't attempt this plumbing project unless you're a professional. Outdoor sinks are typically configured as either drop-ins (where the rims cover the openings) or undermounts (those fixed from below the counter). The latter look cool but are often more expensive. Of course, it's best to install what's in your budget, making cost a significant factor.