Drop-on or Lay On:

Drop-on or lay-on sinks come in various lengths but the width is usually 600 mm instead of 450 – 500 mm like drop-in sinks.  So the width of the drop-on is as wide as the working surface.  It basically replaces the granite or work top completely.  These types of sinks are being replaced by the drop-in and undermount sinks.

Drop-in or Inset or self rimming:

Kitchen sinks were traditionally of the ‘drop-in’ type, that is, with the rim of the sink sitting on the work surface. Teka drop-in sinks can be mounted on virtually any worktop using Teka clip-and-bolt fasteners, which adjust to the thickness of the surface for a tight, non-slip fit. The sink is fastened to the worktop from underneath, so no screws or bolts show. The drop-in design has a small rim to stop water spilling onto the work surface. Some drop-in sinks can also be undermounted using special undermount clips.

Undermounted:

With solid counter tops of marble and granite or modern composite materials (such as CeaserStone), undermounting the sink has become a popular option. The Teka undermount sink is mounted and caulked from underneath using the special clips provided. In the case of Karran undermount sinks, the sink is attached to the work top with silicon. Undermounting gives the sink and surrounding area a much sleeker appearance. It prevents dirt from getting trapped around or below the rim and it is absolutely waterproof when installed correctly. Teka sinks come with cutting templates and easy-to-follow fitting instructions.  Always remember to order your sink first, then cut the granite to size. Undermount kitchen sinks come in square or round, double or single format.

Integrated or Flush mounted sinks:

Probably the most perfect installation system, providing a totally seamless working area which is also aesthetically pleasing. The sink and work surfaces become one solid unit, free of awkward edges and corners. Some undermounted models can also be installed this way.

Reversibility.

It refers to the possibility of being installed in either right or left versions, as the sink is totally symmetric. The presence of tap holes or pop-up system indicates the lack of reversibility.

Thickness:

It’s related to the characteristics of the raw materials. It usually varies from 1.0 mm to 0.6 mm depending on the quality of the sink and the depth of the bowls. The measurement can also vary from the drainer to the bowls due to the manufacturing process. The thinner the sink, the cheaper it becomes. Average thickness is between 0.6 – 0.8 mm. Contractor sinks are between 0.3 – 0.4 mm thick.

The finish:

There are several stainless steel finishes available, according to the customers’ needs. The mechanical characteristics of the materials remain the same, but the aesthetic differs in the polishing; glossy, matt or textured finishes are available. With modern technology acrylic sinks are available in four colours such as Karran sinks.

The overflow:

Not all sinks have overflows.  Make sure with your insurance company if they will pay out in the case of flooding your house with water from your sink. The latest trend is not to have an overflow but to have a drain in the floor of the kitchen which has a larger capacity of water flow.  This will reduce the risk of water flooding through the house and cause damage.  The same principle holds for bath tub overflow’s.  Without the overflow the sink becomes deeper and there is less wastage.

The pop-up:

This practical system takes care of drainage from a button on the drainer surface, allowing users to empty the bowl without the unpleasant contact with hot water, detergent or small food residues. The pop-up also makes it easy to close the drain or fill the bowl with water.

The packaging:

Being practical and protective, the packaging is also essential as a price key factor when delivering goods from the factories. The possibility of sending bundles or pallets reduces the overall price when individual packaging is not a selling issue.

The waste:

Standard wastes in 90 mm or 38 mm or the practical 90 mm basket waste traps the food particles left from washing up or cleaning vegetable or fruits so that they do not access the sewage system. These days most people opt for the 90 mm basket waste.  It is much more hygienic as prevents drainage blockages.

The fittings:

Teka and Karran sinks provide all the fitting elements needed to install the sink. It’s also possible to order less complete sinks as some plumbers and installers have their own suppliers for such elements.