One of the best additions that you can have in the kitchen sink area is a soap dispenser.  How many times have you gone to the sink to do something, only to remember that you need to wash your hands first?  With the swine flu, bird flu, H1N1, and a host of other illnesses floating around, washing your hands has become more important than ever.  Although many kitchens just have a bar of soap sitting on the sink, this causes a messy pool of gooey stuff to form under it, since it is always getting wet.  I know some people just use a squirt of dishwashing soap to wash their hands, but it isn’t the same.  Dish soap is made for dishes, and hand soap has extra things in it that are meant to kill the bacteria that cause problems.  The best solution to this problem is to get a soap dispenser that fits right onto your sink.  This way you can wash your hands the right way easily and cleanly anytime you want.

Due to the fact that the vast majority of kitchen sinks in the world are made of stainless steel, it makes sense that the most common style of soap dispenser if also made of this material.  A stainless steel soap dispenser looks great on any sink, and many of them have either tops or bottoms that are a different color to add a bit of style.  One of the best things about kitchen soap dispensers is that they are very cheap.  Let’s take a look at a great example of how nice a dispenser you can get for a small price

The Oxo Stainless Steel Soap Dispenser
The Oxo Good Grips model is a perfect example of the type of quality you can expect from an inexpensive soap dispenser.  It is designed with both a nonstick base and a nonstick top, so it won’t slip around when you press it.  Another great thing about unit is that it has a little window on one side from top to bottom so that you can see how much soap is left and can refill accordingly.  At a price of just $14.99, this is a great deal, as stainless steel soap dispensers go.

In Sink Stainless Steel Soap Dispensers
Although many people have the simple soap dispensers that sit right on the sink, they are never as good as ones that actually become part of the sink.  The advantage of an in sink stainless steel soap dispenser is that it is locked in place and won’t move around when you use it. Grohe makes some great in sink units, so let’s take a quick look at them.  Most models of the Grohe stainless steel soap dispenser look pretty similar.  They are tall and round, with thin spouts.  These are top of the line soap dispensers, and they have a great style to them, but they have a higher price tag to match.

Hands Free Soap Dispensers
By far the most exciting innovation to hit kitchens recently has been hands free models.  You can get a stainless steel hands free soap and lotion dispenser that work without any need to push on the top.  An automatic sensor knows when your hand is under it and sends out some soap or lotion by itself.  Now you might be thinking that it would cost an arm and a leg to get one of these, but you should be pretty surprised by the price tag.  In fact, most of these units are cheaper than the in sink soap dispensers.  Here is the most common automatic dispenser:

The iTouchless Stainless Steel Automatic Sensor Soap Dispenser
This is a great example of a hands-free dispenser.  It is powered by four normal batteries that last up to 10,000 dispenses before they run out.  The good thing about these touch-free dispensers is that they don’t spread germs from the top.  For features like this, a price tag of under $50 is a great deal in my opinion.

Tags: Bathrooms, Faucets, Sinks by Jeffrey
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If you are in the process of choosing a kitchen sink, I’m sure you are well aware of the abundance of options.  Sometimes it can be a bit daunting considering how many different sinks there are to choose from.  A good way to begin is to decide which material you would like your sink made from.  The vast majority of homes have stainless steel sinks, but that doesn’t mean that this is your only option.  Some people like to choose items for their kitchens that stand out a bit and attract positive attention.  A good way to do this is to choose a sink that is made from a material other than stainless steel, which nearly everyone else has.  While you have a few choices, which include fireclay ceramic sinks and composite sinks, another great choice is a sink made of granite.  Granite is a beautiful, natural rock that is ideal for use in kitchens.  It is waterproof, great looking, and versatile.  Another great thing about granite kitchen sinks is that they come in a few different colors and styles, so that you can choose one that fits well with your countertop.  Let’s take a look at some of the granite sinks that are available.

Types of Granite Kitchen Sinks

As far as colors go, the vast majority of granite sinks come in the following three colors:  black, white, and biscuit.  If you are wondering what color biscuit is, think of a creamy, yellowish color.  In terms of layouts, these sinks come in the usual patterns.  You can get a large single bowl sink, or the more common double bowl variety.  Some double bowl granite kitchen sinks are evenly sized, and others have one larger bowl and one smaller one.
Most kitchens these days have larger, double bowl sinks, but some small apartments only have room for a single bowl one.  Pegasus makes the Astracast granite single bowl sink in 2 different colors, black and tan.  Pegasus is a brand name that is owned and sold by The Home Depot, so buying a Pegasus granite kitchen sink is as easy and convenient as heading over to the store or looking online here.
The good thing about these sinks is that they can be installed as either drop-in or undermount sinks.  See below for more information on undermount sinks.
One other thing to look for when shopping for granite sinks is that some of them come with grooves on the base of the bowls.  They do this so that it makes it easier to wash vegetables, fruit, or other things without them sliding around to much.

Undermount Granite Kitchen Sinks

An undermount sink, as its name suggests, is mounted under the countertop, instead of above it.  Most sinks are known as drop-in sinks, because they are simply dropped into the hole, and the lip of the sink rests on the countertop to support the sink.  Undermount sinks, on the other hand are fastened from below to the countertop, so there is no sink lip protruding onto the countertop.  The good thing about this style of sink is that you can simply take your kitchen towel and sweep crumbs right off the countertop and into the sink.  Before you get one of these granite undermount kitchen sinks, you should know that you need to have solid countertop to support it.  The sink is bolted onto the counter from below, so make sure you countertop is rated to support this weight.  In addition, granite is heavier than stainless steel.  The sink itself can weigh 25 pounds or more, and when they are filled with water and heavy dishes, this can be a substantial pull on the counter.  If you are unsure about whether or not your counter can handle this weight, simply contact whoever installed or sold you the counter and ask them.

Brands of Granite Kitchen Sinks

Most of the big sink manufacturing companies make granite sinks as well.  While there won’t be as many choices as stainless steel, you will find some choices in layout and style.  There is a type of Franke granite sink for example, that has a natural stone finish.  What this means is that you can actually see the natural stone pattern in the sink.  Most other sinks have a solid coating over them so you see a smooth finish.  If you like the look of the latter type of black granite kitchen sink, one with a smooth finish, most sinks have this look.
If a black sink just wouldn’t match the layout of your kitchen, most companies have white or off-white versions as well.  You can get a beautiful Blanco granite kitchen sink that comes in a color called “biscuit”.  Their granite sinks are made of what they call Blancodiamond Silgranit, which is 80% granite and 20% composite material.  The result is a sink that is chip and scratch resistant, highly durable, and with the look and feel of real stone.

Granite Kitchen Sink Prices

While it is highly unlikely that you will be able to find the sort of ultra-cheap sinks like those made out of stainless steel, you will probably be surprised to know that there are some very affordable granite sinks as well.  The cheapest models that I’ve come across are made by a company named Swanstone.  You can get a low-end Swanstone granite kitchen sink for as little as $170.  This is a great budget choice, as it is great looking, durable, and can be mounted either as a drop-in or an undermount.
If you want to go a step up, there are a lot of granite sinks that are in the $200 – $300 range. This includes most of the better known brands like Pegasus, Blanco, and Elkay.  Of course, these companies also offer high end sinks that are priced quite a bit higher as well.  For a real luxury, consider the Elkay E-Granite double bowl sink. This sink has two bowls that are offset, and come in three different colors:  bisque, black, or mocha.  If you are looking for a unique colored sink, this is a good bet.  Take a look here for more information.

Tags: Counters, Sinks by Jeffrey
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With so many options available for kitchen sinks, you might wonder how you are going to be able to make a choice.  One of the simplest ways to narrow down the choices is by deciding on what material you want your kitchen faucet to be made from.  One of these materials is copper.  A copper kitchen faucet can come in any number of styles, so if you like the finished look of this beautiful metal, you are almost sure to find something you like.  If you don’t know what color a copper faucet is, just think of a penny.  When you look at a new penny (which is made of copper), it has a brilliant gold-like shine to it.  Using a copper faucet in your kitchen will give your sink a wonderful look as well.

Types of Copper Kitchen Faucets

Due to the fact that copper was widely used decades ago for plumbing fixtures, most copper kitchen sink faucets today are designed to look like they are old fashioned or antique.  Old fashioned kitchen faucets are often beautifully designed, with high arcing necks, elegant handles, and subtle curves.  Don’t let the old fashioned looks fool you though.  A copper kitchen sink faucet these days is made with all of the features that their more modern looking counterparts have.  Some of them come equipped with pull out sprayers, which offer great convenience.
You can also get a wall mount copper kitchen faucet.  If you are replacing another wall mount faucet, it is almost always very easy to install another one.  Wall mount faucets have the same great looks as sink mounted versions as well.
If all of this old fashioned and antique stuff just isn’t your cup of tea, there are modern kitchen faucets made out of copper that are available as well.  Smooth and sleek modern copper faucets can really make your kitchen sink stand out.  This type of faucet will look great with either a stainless steel, but it will really shine when mounted on a ceramic sink or one of a different material.
As for the prices of these copper faucets, it really depends on which model you choose.  There are very inexpensive copper kitchen faucets that can be had for about $50 and there are also models that will cost upwards of $500.  It all depends on the manufacturer and the style you want.  In general, simple modern designs are usually a bit cheaper than fancy old fashioned looking antique copper kitchen faucet.

Tags: Faucets, Sinks by Jeffrey
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You have probably seen oil rubbed bronze faucets before, but might not know their name. They are the dark, old fashioned looking faucets.  This type of faucet is commonly seen in fancy restaurants and hotels, but lately they have become increasingly available for homes as well.  They are a great choice if what you are looking for is different and special.  Apart from their looks though, one of the best things about an oil rubbed bronze faucet is that they don’t have to cost a lot of money.  Let’s take a look at the cheapest faucets made of this material available today.

Inexpensive Oil Rubbed Bronze Kitchen Faucets

Price Pfister makes one of the best value bronze faucets that I’ve come across.  Their Marielle faucet has a decorative arc spout, includes a kitchen sprayer on the side, and best of all costs less than $50.  It is pretty hard to find any decent kitchen faucet with a sprayer for this price, and Price Pfister faucets have a lifetime guarantee as well, so you really can’t lose on this one.

Another cheapie is from Sky Enterprise.  They sell a high arcing, pull down oil rubbed bronze kitchen faucet for only $80.  This company offers a number of great looking faucets at deep discount prices, including the great looking bamboo waterfall faucet.

Inexpensive Oil Rubbed Bronze Bathroom Faucets

There are some great deals on this type of bathroom faucet.  Bathroom faucets tend to be cheaper than kitchen ones anyway, so you can easily find one for a great price.  A company called Euro Modern makes some great looking oil rubbed bronze lavatory faucets in distinctive styles for low prices.  One of them is a single handle waterfall faucet, which spreads the water out in a wide arc.  Another one they make is a tall vessel sink faucet that costs only $49.  This company tends to focus on contemporary designs, while others feature faucets with the old fashioned look.
Another great deal is a Danze oil rubbed bronze faucet. Danze is a pretty reputable company that produces some outstanding products.  Their faucets tend to be on the expensive side, but the Danze Sheridan line of lavatory faucets is priced starting at only $40.  One of them has a basic design with long, thin handles, a small spout, and is center-set.  Another Sheridan model has a higher arching neck with the same handles for a few bucks more.
You can also get very inexpensive oil rubbed bronze bath faucets, bar faucets, and shower combination fixtures.  Many large manufacturers have each type of product available in any number of materials.  These include chrome, stainless steel, brushed nickel, and oil rubbed bronze.

Tags: Bathrooms, Faucets, Sinks by Jeffrey
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Whether you are looking for a faucet for your kitchen sink, bathroom sink, or tub, you might want to consider one made out oil rubbed bronze.  If you want something different than the same old shiny silver chrome faucets that are in nearly every house, these are a good choice.  A variety of manufacturers produce these dark colored faucets and they are made in different styles.  Many of them have an old fashioned look to them, but some of them have great features as well.  Let’s take a look at some of the best oil rubbed bronze faucets available.

Oil Rubbed Bronze Kitchen Faucet

Though most of these bronze faucets are made specifically for bathrooms, there are some nice ones that fit on kitchen sinks as well.  Premier makes one that has a very high neck – 13 ½ inches high, has a single handle mounted on the side, and even has a side sprayer.  What makes this faucet different than others like it is that it is a lighter color.  While an oil rubbed bronze faucet is usually a very dark brown color, the ones made by Premier are a lighter color. This one is quite a good deal for $129.
Moen makes some nice looking oil rubbed bronze kitchen faucets as well.  The Camerist single handle kitchen faucet with pull out spout will look great on any kitchen sink and has some nifty features as well.  One of them is a spout that pulls out to become a sprayer.  This is always a good thing to have on a sink, and with a pull-out, you don’t need to clutter up your sink space with a side mounted version.  Another unique feature this faucet offers is a pause button.  I guess pause buttons aren’t just for remote controls anymore.  This faucet has one on it for when you just want to stop the flow for a second, but keep the temperature and water flow the same.

Oil Rubbed Bronze Bathroom Faucet

There are many of oil rubbed bronze lavatory faucets to choose from, and they come in a dazzling array of styles.  You can easily get one that has the styles of most other bathroom sink faucets, or you can get an original one.  One of the most unique ones is the Danze Opulence single handle faucet.  It has a beautiful, old fashioned look all its own, a single handle on top, and mounts onto the sink with a single hole.  The Danze Opulence line comes in different materials as well, including chrome, brushed nickel, black satin, and antique copper.  The oil rubbed bronze version is the cheapest as well, costing only around $89.
Another great looking oil rubbed bronze lavatory faucet is the Schon single post mount faucet.  This faucet has a heavy, square look to it that rises out of a single hole in the sink with a German influenced design.  The spout is open on top, which makes it a “waterfall faucet”.  If you like the style but not the color, they also come in Satin Nickel (shiny silver) and chrome.

Oil Rubbed Bronze Shower Faucet

If you want a darker color in your tub, one of the best ways to achieve that is by getting an oil rubbed bronze bath faucet set.  Depending on the model, they can come with a shower head, drain lever, levers (either single handle or hot and cold separately), and a tub faucet.  You can get other oil rubbed bronze accessories individually as well, such as a tub strainer drain, a bathtub overflow, or a toilet flush lever.

Tags: Bathrooms, Faucets, Sinks by Jeffrey
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When designing your kitchen, you want it to be special.  It always feels great to have guests comment on things in your kitchen.  While some people spend a fortune turning their kitchens into showpieces, there are a few simple things you can do to make it stand out a little more.  One of those ways is by getting an oil rubbed bronze kitchen faucet.  These dark and smooth looking faucets are almost guaranteed to draw compliments, simply because they are something different from what everyone else has in their kitchen.  The best thing about them is that they don’t cost a whole lot.  In fact, some of them are very inexpensive, making them the same price as the chrome kitchen faucets everyone else buys.  Here is a guide to some great looking bronze faucets.

In my opinion, one of the best deals in the whole kitchen is a Price Pfister oil rubbed bronze kitchen faucet.  Their Marielle single handle faucet with side sprayer looks absolutely wonderful. It has an old fashioned, elegant style with a dark finish, and costs just $89.  In addition, it has a ceramic disk valve, which stops it from dripping when it isn’t supposed to. The sprayer is also made out of the same material.  The advantage of buying a faucet from a company like Price Pfister is that they have a lifetime warranty on their products.
Another cheapie is made by Plumb USA.  They produce a simple goose neck kitchen faucet with a high arching neck.  They even include a sprayer, all for around $70.  This is about as cheap of a price as you can find for this material.

Oil Rubbed Bronze Pull Out Kitchen Faucet

One of the best types of oil rubbed bronze kitchen faucets is the pull out version.  A relatively new innovation in kitchen sink technology, they combine the faucet and a sprayer in one.  Most models do a great job of hiding the fact that their faucet comes apart when pulled, which is a good thing.  Though this type of kitchen faucet comes in different styles, the Danze produces some of the most unique faucets that I’ve come across.  You can get an oil rubbed bronze pull down kitchen faucet made by a company that makes pull downs their specialty. Their product lines comes in a few styles, from the compact to high necked versions.  Some of their pull downs have high arching goose necks and others have distinct, straighter necks.  Pull down faucets usually cost a bit more than those without this feature, but there are a few little-known companies that make them for cheap prices as well.  If you want one from a company like Delta, Danze, or Price Pfister, expect to pay between $100 and $300.

Tags: Faucets, Sinks by Jeffrey
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Whether you are remodeling your bathroom or designing a new one, you will have to choose a bathroom faucet.  There are literally thousands of them to choose from, which can seem a little intimidating.  I like to narrow down the choices according to the color of the faucet.  You basically have two main choices:  Shiny or dark.  The shiny ones are made of stainless steel, chrome, or brushed nickel.  The dark ones are usually made of what is called oil rubbed bronze.  Most people go with the shiny chrome faucets, but if you want to have a lavatory that looks different and special, I recommend getting an oil rubbed bronze bathroom faucet. Here are some of the main styles that are available to choose from:

There are some modern looking styles available, but most of the oil rubbed bronze bathroom faucets tend to have an old fashioned look to them.  Instead of the normal fat round knobs, they tend to have long and thin handles.  One of the most unique models that I’ve come across is called the bamboo vessel faucet.  The faucet rises out of a single hole in the sink, has ridges like a piece of bamboo, and the water pours out of the spout like a vessel faucet.  You can get one of these that is made of brushed nickel chrome if you prefer a shiny one.

Oil Rubbed Bronze Widespread Bathroom Faucet

When referring to a faucet, the term “widespread” means that the neck and the levers come out of separate holes in the sink from each other and from the top appear to be separate.  Most bathroom sinks are center set, which means that the spout and the levers are all located together as a unit on a single base.  As the widespread style appears more distinct, many people prefer it to the center set style.  Many of the oil rubbed bronze faucets are widespread, since this style highlights their unique style.
Another stand out oil rubbed bronze bathroom sink faucet is part of the Danze Opulence line.  This faucet has a high neck with a spout that comes out perpendicular to it, and has a little curve at the end.  In a world where the majority of bathroom sinks have small and low faucets, this one is sure to grab attention.

You may be thinking that you will have to dish out big bucks for these bronze faucets.  The truth is, some of them have very inexpensive prices for the style they offer.  Others cost a bit more, but that is true for a bathroom faucet made of any material.  By the way, you should know that an oil rubbed bronze kitchen faucet is great as well.  They stand out even more in the kitchen, since the sink is made of stainless steel.

Tags: Bathrooms, Faucets, Sinks by Jeffrey
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While most kitchen sinks tend to be constructed out of stainless steel, there are other choices as well.  One of your alternatives is a ceramic kitchen sink.  If you want to buy one of these clay sinks, there are a couple things you should know.  First, there aren’t a whole lot of ceramic kitchen sinks available compared with stainless ones.  While they are very common in the bathroom, they aren’t used as frequently in kitchens these days.  Having said that, you can still get one, and they are often wonderful looking sinks.
The second point about ceramic kitchen sinks is that they often cost more than their stainless steel counterparts.  While it is possible to find cheaper sinks made of clay, most of them tend to be on the expensive side of the price spectrum.

Fireclay Kitchen Sinks

Sink manufacturers often refer to ceramic kitchen sinks as fireclay sinks.  They are the same thing.  All clay sinks need to be fired, which means they are heated in an oven called a kiln at a very high temperature.  This makes them stronger and resistant to chipping.  In addition, ceramic sinks are coated with a special glaze, which gives them their color and further protects them from damage.  Though theoretically ceramic sinks can be made in any color, the vast majority of fireclay kitchen sinks are white. A white ceramic kitchen sink is the most popular, so these are the most commonly available.  You can also easily find one in a color called bisque, which is a beige color.  If you are looking for a black ceramic kitchen sink, you will have a hard time finding one.  American Standard produces a line of black sinks, but they aren’t really ceramic.  They are made from cast iron and other layers of strong materials, and then they are given a porcelain glaze.  Due to the porcelain glaze, I guess this makes them partially ceramic.

Apron Front Ceramic Kitchen Sinks

One of the most common styles for ceramic kitchen sinks is what is called the apron front sink style.  What makes these sinks different is that the front of the sink sticks out a little past the end of the countertop.  While apron front ceramic kitchen sinks were once very common in homes, they nearly disappeared in recent times. In recent however, apron front ceramic sinks have been making a comeback because people want different and unique products for their kitchens.  If you purchase one of these apron front style sinks, make sure your countertop is able to accommodate it.

Undermount Ceramic Kitchen Sinks

If you are looking for an undermount ceramic sink, you are in luck.  The majority of these sinks are designed to be an undermount sink, which means that they are installed underneath the countertop.  The benefits of this setup are that you can wipe crumbs right into the sink without it getting caught on the sink lip.  If you are going to install an undermount ceramic kitchen sink, make sure you do so carefully.  Most manufacturers state that ceramic sinks size can vary as much as 2%, so it is wise to use the actual sink to cut out the hole in the countertop.

Tags: Sinks by Jeffrey
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While ceramic sinks were at one time very common in kitchens all over the world, they all but disappeared once the mass-produced stainless steel sinks became available.  It is a lot harder to produce ceramic kitchen sinks than other types of sinks, and for this reason they are almost always more expensive.  That said, there are stainless steel sinks that cost just as much or even more as ceramic sinks.  Another name for ceramic kitchen sinks is “fireclay sinks”.   The name derives from the procedure that heats the ceramic sink at an extremely high temperature, otherwise known as firing. There are some great benefits of these clay sinks, which we’ll look at a bit closer here.

Why Choose Ceramic Kitchen Sinks?

One of the main reasons people choose ceramic sinks is that they are white.  The truth is with the vast majority of kitchens using stainless steel sinks, a certain number of people want something different.  They don’t want shiny silver sinks, and a white ceramic kitchen sink is something different.  Ceramic sinks are white because that is the color they are glazed.  While it is possible to make a ceramic sink any color you want, there just isn’t enough consumer demand for manufacturers to make them.  If you want a different color, some of them are made in the color bisque, which is a buttery beige.

The other main reason why ceramic kitchen sinks are making a comeback is because of their design.  Many of these are apron front sinks, which is also a throwback to a bygone era.  Apron front sinks stick out a little farther in front of the countertops, and the front side of the sink is visible.  An apron front sink was traditionally made out of clay, and they continue to be mainly constructed out of this material today.  If you install an apron front ceramic kitchen sink, you will surely have something that will draw attention and become a conversation starter.

Tags: Sinks by Jeffrey
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Although it isn’t quite as well known as Delta, Moen, or Price Pfister, Pegasus produces a wide range of faucets for many uses.  There are Pegasus faucets for the kitchen and bathroom sinks, the bathtub, and even the bar.  The good thing about Pegasus is that their products aren’t too expensive.  They range from the simple and very inexpensive to fancy models that cost a few hundred dollars.  If you are looking for a Pegasus faucet, these are some of the types that they make:

Pegasus Kitchen Faucets

This company makes lots of great kitchen faucets.  One of the great things about their kitchen faucets is that a lot of them are “pull down” models.  This means that the end of the faucet pulls off to become a kitchen sprayer.  While other companies like Danze charge a lot of money for their pull down faucets, you can find a Pegasus pull down for a reasonable price.  They start at around $150 for the cheaper models.
One unique kitchen faucet that they make is the Pegasus Bridge Style faucet in Brushed Nickel.  It has a shiny and elegant design with a hint of luxury, and costs just over $100.  While you can get cheaper faucets than this, a Pegasus kitchen faucet is a great deal for the style that they offer.  If you are looking for something with an old fashioned look, an oil rubbed bronze kitchen faucet should do the trick pretty well.  Take a look at the picture for an idea of what they look like.

Pegasus Bathroom Faucets

Pegasus really has a diverse selection of bathroom faucets.  Whether you are looking for one that is shiny, dark, unique, or luxurious, they have something to offer.  One Pegasus bath faucet is shaped like a stick of bamboo.  This vessel style has one handle and comes out of a single hole in the sink.  Vessel faucets are meant to be used in conjunction with vessel sinks, which are round bowls made of glass or another material.  You can get them in either shiny brushed nickel or dark heritage bronze.
Another Pegasus bathroom faucet is the high profile Abigail.  This bath faucet has a taller neck than other bath faucets, which sets it apart.  It has a brushed nickel finish and comes with two handles

Pegasus Bath Faucets

If you are looking for a stand-out bath and shower faucet, Pegasus makes some good looking models.  Some Pegasus shower faucets have a curved neck that is not commonly seen. They make them in both oil rubbed bronze and brushed nickel, so you can choose the finish you like.

Pegasus Faucet Parts

Eventually, even the best faucets may start to leak.  When this happens, you can often repair them easily yourself.  Fortunately, Pegasus faucet repair is easier because you can buy the parts online.  You can get an extra gasket that should stop a leaking bathtub faucet.  If you want to spruce up your lavatory faucet, you can get a trim kit that includes new handles and everything else you need to install them.

Tags: Bathrooms, Faucets, Sinks by Jeffrey
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When it comes to choosing a faucet, you have an abundance of choices.  Why go with a normal one when you can get a faucet that stands out and becomes a conversation piece?  A vessel sink faucet is great for anyone wanting to add a special touch to their kitchen.  Here is a guide to the different types of vessel sink faucets that you can buy.  They come in a variety of styles, and can be made out of a few different materials.

What is a Vessel Sink Faucet?

Vessel sink faucets are designed to be used with vessel sinks.  Vessel sinks are those round sinks commonly used in bathrooms.  They are most often made out of glass, clay, or a stone like granite.  This type of faucet looks good with vessel sinks, hence its name.  Some vessel sink faucets are called “waterfall faucets” because the water spreads out and pours from them like a waterfall.

Can you use a Vessel Sink Faucet on a Normal Sink?

Sure.  While this type of faucet is normally associated with vessel sinks, it is perfectly fine to use them on normal sinks as well.  They add a special touch to any sink.  One thing to remember is that faucets for vessel sinks normally have only one hole, so you need to be sure your sink is set up for it.  If your sink is pre-drilled with 3 holes, you will end up with 2 empty holes in it, but you can purchase sink hole covers that fit right over these holes.  Vessel sinks and faucets can be installed either on bathroom vanities or on pedestal sinks.  If your bathroom has room for it, a vanity works great.  If you have a tiny bathroom, you can use a space saving pedestal type sink.

Kitchen Vessel Sink Faucets

Vessel faucets are normally used in bathrooms, because that is where vessel sinks are located.  Bathroom sink faucets don’t normally work in the kitchen for a few reasons.  First, they are too small and low to accomplish what most kitchen faucets need to do.  Second, they are stationary, and kitchen sink faucets really need to be able to move around.  That said, there are a few that are designed for use in the kitchen.  Their design is a little different, and they are able to swing around.

Bathroom Vessel Sink Faucets

There are many different types of faucets made for bathroom vessel sinks.  They have a unique look with a tall neck with water pouring out of the spout like a small waterfall.  Some models have an open top that truly looks like a waterfall.  Others have the water coming out of a tube.  One of the most popular styles is shaped to look like a piece of bamboo.  Depending on your budget, there are models that will please anyone.  Cheap vessel sink faucets can be bought for just over $30, while those made by designer manufacturers can cost hundreds of dollars.  Prices of a faucet for vessel sinks will depend somewhat on the material it is made from.  Chrome will be the cheapest, and stainless steel or bronze will cost a bit more usually.  That said, it is possible to find great deals on faucets made from any of these materials.

Wall Mount Vessel Sink Faucets

Wall mount versions are available as well, but I personally don’t think they look as good as their sink-mount counterparts.  The reason is that the wall mount faucets need to come out of the wall horizontally, which loses the tall waterfall look.

Waterfall Vessel Sink Faucets

One very great looking type of vessel faucet is the waterfall style.  Water comes out of the neck and is released onto a glass disk, which makes the water spread out and flow into the sink like a waterfall.  These faucets are used in conjunction with vessel sinks in many high class hotels and restaurants around the world, and people are now realizing that they can install them easily in their own homes.

Tags: Bathrooms, Faucets, Sinks by Jeffrey
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If you are going to have a bar, you need a sink to wash glasses and dishes.  While you have a choice of sinks, by far the best kind to use for this purpose is an undermount bar sink.  The reason why you want to use an undermount sink is because it is the best way to ensure water and moisture don’t get under your countertop and hurt it.  Here is a guide to the kinds of undermount bar sinks that you can get.

What is an Undermount Bar Sink?

An undermount bar sink is essentially the same as any other type of undermount sink.  The difference between this kind and a standard sink is that it is mounted underneath the countertop.  The big advantage of doing it this way is that you can take a bar rag or sponge and just wipe water, crumbs, or anything else right into the sink without having it get caught in the lip.  If you are going to use an undermount sink, make sure that you have a solid countertop, such as granite, marble, stainless steel, or a solid composite like Corian.  It is not advisable to install one of these on a porous countertop because moisture will inevitably seep into it and cause it to delaminate or puff up.

Types of Undermount Bar Sinks

Bar sinks are a bit different than most kitchen sinks.  Most bar sinks are smaller and are designed to accommodate lots of glasses rather than the pots and pans of the kitchen.  For this reason, bar sinks are normally round, oval, or square in shape.  If you are buying one for a commercial bar, you will probably want a large, full sized bar sink, but for most home bars, a smaller should do just fine.
By far the most common type is the stainless steel undermount bar sink. The reason for this is that stainless steel is renowned for its ability to be easily cleaned and kept sanitary.  A few quick swipes with a sponge is all you need to do to keep it clean.  While you can find cheap stainless steel bar sinks, the more reputable sink companies usually charge a bit more for their high quality products.  A Kohler undermount bar sink is guaranteed to be made of high quality stainless steel.  They make sinks that range from very inexpensive to deluxe.
If you want something other than stainless steel, Kohler and other companies also make undermount bar sinks that are made of different materials.  You can get a Kohler round undermount bar sink that is made of virtually indestructible cast iron that can be glazed with a color that matches your bar.  If you are looking for something different, try a copper undermount bar sink.  These can be either shiny or darkened, depending on how the manufacturer finishes it.  A beautiful example is the Elkay undermount bar sink made of 18 gauge copper.  It has what is called a hammered mirror finish, which means that it is shiny copper, but it is purposely knicked and hammered to give it the worn out look.

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If you are looking for a stainless steel undermount sink, you have a few choices to make.  The sink you buy will depend on a few factors.  One of these is where you will be using it.  There are stainless steel undermount sinks designed for the kitchen, the bar, the bathroom, and the laundry room.  In addition, there are different layouts to choose from.  This is a guide to the different types of stainless undermount sinks available.

Stainless Steel Undermount Kitchen Sinks

The most common place that you see this type of sink is in the kitchen.  The reason is because stainless steel works great in the kitchen due to the sanitary properties of stainless steel.  A stainless steel undermount kitchen sink adds convenience by allowing you to simply wipe crumbs or liquids directly into the sink.  Unlike other kitchen sinks, there is no sink lip.  These undermount sinks are mounted under the countertop, giving it a smoother look.  Different layouts are available for these kitchen sinks.  Most people these days go with double bowl undermount sinks, but single bowl models are available as well.  In addition, you can get offset kitchen sinks, which have one large bowl and one smaller one.  Prices of stainless undermount kitchen sinks range from under $100 for low end models to over $300 for designer sinks.

Stainless Steel Undermount Bar Sink

The kitchen isn’t the only place where people use these sinks.  For many of the same reasons people like this type of sink in kitchens, stainless steel undermount bar sinks are very common as well.  Bars need to be kept sanitary and clean, and these sinks are definitely very easy to keep sanitary.  The difference is that most bar sinks are different than kitchen sinks.  They tend to be smaller and shaped differently.  Some are round, others are oval, and still others are long and rectangular, designed to hold many glasses.  Undermount sinks are so popular in bars because bar counters tend to be wet.  Having an undermount sink ensures that water doesn’t seep into the crack between the sink and the countertop.  Instead, it just flows into the sink.  Prices for stainless undermount bar sinks start at around $60 for small ones and get up to a couple hundred dollars for larger fancier models.

Other Types of Stainless Steel Undermount Sinks

There are a few other places where you can have a sink like this. Although not very common, a stainless steel undermount bathroom sink exists.  Most people choose ceramic bath sinks, but once in a while someone will want a stainless one.  I have also come across a stainless steel undermount laundry sink before.  This type of laundry sink isn’t so common, mostly because laundry rooms seldom have counters.  Most laundry rooms have free standing sinks, hey, if you want one, by all means go for it.

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What is a Vessel Faucet?

In short, a vessel faucet is usually designed to look like an old-fashioned water pump, with a tall neck and a spout.  Vessel faucets are getting more popular today because people are looking for ways to customize their homes in unique and different ways.  While it is possible to install one of these faucets on your kitchen sink, the vast majority of people use them in the bathroom.  The reason is because they are stationary, and kitchen sinks generally work better with faucets that can move around, especially with double bowl sinks.  A vessel sink faucet in the bathroom works great, since bathroom sinks are nearly always stationary anyway.  There are many different styles of vessel sink faucets, and they can be made out of different materials as well.  Here are some of the most popular ones:

Bronze Vessel Faucet

One of the leading faucet companies that produces this type of faucet is Price Pfister.  They make an Ashfield Vessel Faucet made out of Tuscan Bronze.  It is a wonderful looking piece, with its waterfall spout design and pump-style lever.  It is also one of the more affordable bronze faucets at $279. Bathroom vessel faucets made of bronze are good because they are so durable.  As long as the lever is properly designed, it shouldn’t ever break.
If you are looking for a darker color, Danze makes an oil rubbed bronze vessel faucet with a deep bronze color. This faucet differs from most vessel faucets in that it has a curved neck, which makes it look a little more conventional.  It has a single lever attached halfway up the side of the neck, giving it a unique appearance.  An oil rubbed bronze kitchen faucet looks great as well.  It kind of gives the room an old fashioned feel.  This Danze Fairmont faucet also comes in nickel, brushed nickel, and chrome variations.

Wall Mount Vessel Faucet

While a bathroom vessel faucet is usually mounted either on the sink or the counter, you can also get one that mounts onto the wall.  These generally aren’t any more expensive than sink mount faucets, but they can involve more work when installing them.  In addition, while a tall vessel faucet is the norm for those mounted on sinks, wall mounted versions protrude horizontally from the wall.  Some of them curve, which adds some shape.

Bamboo Vessel Faucet

One of the most popular and unique designs to recently hit the shelves are bamboo faucets.  They are created to look like a piece of bamboo, which has long symbolized water throughout Asia.  Believe it or not, you can get them online here for less then $50, which is a steal in my opinion.  They are made of brass with a brushed nickel exterior, or you can get a chrome vessel faucet for even less.  If you are looking for a beautiful addition for your bathroom without spending so much, this is a great deal.  You can also get bamboo faucets for vessel sinks that are made by more established companies.

Tags: Bathrooms, Faucets, Sinks by Jeffrey
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What is a Waterfall Faucet?

As their name suggests, waterfall faucets are designed to let the water flow off them like a waterfall.  Some of them are beautiful pieces of art, similar to those you see at 5 star hotel washrooms.  Many of these waterfall faucets are designed to have the water flow onto a piece of glass, which makes it spread out and flow like natural falling water.
There are two types of waterfall faucets:  Those made for the bathroom and the ones for the kitchen.  I know this is a kitchen site, but I’ll talk about the bathroom waterfall bath faucet as well.

Waterfall Bathroom Faucet

These bathroom faucets are the ones that live up to their names.  They can really help give your bathroom a special look.  You can get one for the sink and the bathtub.  Installing a waterfall bathtub faucet can go a long way towards transforming your bathroom into your private, personal spa.  If you like to enjoy relaxing soaks in the tub, one of these will be a nice touch. Installing one in the bathroom sink is great as well.  Every time I go somewhere and wash my hands in one of these waterfall sinks, I get a good impression of the home, restaurant, or wherever I happen to be.

Waterfall Kitchen Faucet

Unlike the waterfall bath faucets, those in the kitchen are usually a bit different.  The reason is that bath faucets are stationary, kitchen sink faucets need to be mobile.  Flowing waterfalls don’t seem to move around very well.  That said, you can easily find a waterfall sink faucet designed for the kitchen.  These faucets have a high, arcing neck, and this is what gives it its name.

Delta Waterfall Faucet

Delta has a whole line of kitchen faucets bearing the waterfall name. They all have the high and curved necks and sleek stainless steel construction associated with waterfall faucets.  Nearly each Delta waterfall kitchen faucet comes in three variations:  chrome, brilliance stainless steel, and white.  The price of each faucet depends on which material it is made out of.  The chrome ones are the least expensive, followed by the white faucets, and the stainless steel versions are the most expensive.  Prices for Delta’s waterfall line of kitchen faucets ranges from under $100 to over $400.  You can choose single handle or double handle faucets.  Additionally, some of the waterfall faucet sets come with soap dispensers and kitchen sprayers.

Tags: Faucets, Kitchen Accessories, Sinks by Jeffrey
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If you are looking to buy a kitchen sink tap, there are many, many to choose from.  Kitchen sink taps range from the cheap to the expensive, the simple to the luxurious.  There are various colors to choose from as well.  Here is a guide to the most popular sink taps available.

Brands of Kitchen Sink Taps

There are a few companies that seem to dominate the kitchen sink market.  Some of them focus on inexpensive models, others concentrate on high end sinks and taps, and some have huge product lines covering all types and prices of kitchen sinks and taps.  The most well known brands are Kohler, Moen, Price Pfister, Grohe, Delta, and Danze.

Kitchen Sink Mixer Taps

A kitchen sink mixer tap is a great innovation.  These faucets automatically mix air with the water.  The result is a stronger spray that uses less water than conventional kitchen taps.  If you are looking for something environmentally friendly that conserves water, these mixer faucets work great.  In addition, they save energy as well, because they use less hot water, which means your hot water heater doesn’t have to work as hard.

Kohler Kitchen Sink Taps

Kohler produces literally hundreds of sink taps, in all shapes and sizes.  They can be made out of chrome, stainless steel, brushed nickel, or bronze, and have many layouts.  Cheap Kohler sink taps start at around $50 for simple single handle models.  More expensive versions can reach into the hundreds of dollars or more for fancier types of taps.  Their most luxurious line seems to be the Kohler Karbon kitchen faucets.  These come in deck mount (on the sink) and wall mount versions.  What makes these sink taps unique is that they are fully articulating, meaning that they have 4 hinges that allow you to position the tap where you need it most.  It can go as low as 2 inches and as high as 13 inches above the sink.

Moen Kitchen Sink Taps

Moen is another company that covers the whole range of sink taps.  Their inexpensive taps are simple affairs with single handles.  You can actually get a Moen kitchen sink tap with an attached sprayer for only $34.95.  For a little bit more, you can get fantastic looking taps at bargain prices.  A good example of this is the Moen wide spread kitchen faucet, which features a 12 inch high cathedral spout, which arcs similar to waterfall kitchen faucets.  It has two handles that let you control water temperature better as well, and is a great deal at only $53.  If you are looking for cheap kitchen sink taps, Moen is great because they offer a warranty that will repair or replace your faucet if it leaks or drips.  This is good for as long as you own your home, or 5 years for businesses and commercial applications.
At the upper end of the price spectrum, Moen produces some great bronze kitchen sink taps as well.  The Moen Showhouse line of kitchen sink taps is truly innovative.  They have old-fashioned models made of bronze or wrought iron that look like what you would expect to see 100 years ago.  The Showhouse line also features creative new designs like pull-out faucets.  The tip of these taps pulls off and becomes a sprayer.

Tags: Kitchen Accessories, Sinks by Jeffrey
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It is no secret that Franke produces some of the highest quality sinks on the market today.  An undermount sink is mounted under the countertop, and is fastened to it securely.  This differs from the much more common top mount sinks, or “drop in” models.  Due to the fact that undermount sinks must be very securely fastened to the countertop above them, they should only be used in conjunction with solid counters such as granite, marble, or a solid composite material like those made by Corian.  Franke makes a lot of sinks, so let’s take a look at some of the most popular Franke undermount sinks.

Franke Undermount Stainless Steel Sink

The most popular type of sink is made of stainless steel.  Franke makes this type of sink, and they range from inexpensive to luxurious.  On the cheaper end of the spectrum is the Franke Nobel stainless steel sink model.  This is a single bowl sink, which works great in smaller sized kitchens.  It is made of durable 20 gauge stainless steel, which makes it strong enough to be used in a commercial kitchen.  With a price tag of $189, this is a good deal for a sink made by a reputable company.
Another Franke undermount stainless sink is the double bowl variety.  The Franke Prestige stainless steel series is definitely a notch higher than the sink mentioned above.  It has a double bowl, with an offset layout.  This means that it has one large bowl and one smaller one.  You can get one with the smaller bowl either on the left side or the right.  This undermount sink is suitable for most people’s needs due to its large size.

Franke Fireclay Undermount Sinks

While stainless steel remains the most popular choice for sinks, it is by no means the only one.  If you are looking for a color other than silver, a fireclay sink is a good choice.  The word fireclay means that the sink is made out of clay and “fired”, which is the process of heating clay at an extremely high temperature, making it a lot more durable.  Franke fires its sinks at a temperature of 2,200 degrees Fahrenheit and uses a glaze that makes its finished products extraordinarily durable and scratchproof.  The main reason why people buy this type of Franke undermount kitchen sink is that they can get one in the color white.  Some people just don’t want a stainless sink, and a white or bisque colored sink can look a lot better with some countertops.

Installing Franke Undermount Sinks

Besides needing a solid countertop, there are a couple guidelines that should be noted when buying one of these undermount sinks.  First, make sure you cabinets and countertop are deep enough for the sink you want to purchase.  You need to have a few inches extra both in the back and the front, and any reputable store will tell you how big your counter needs to be.  Second, you should wait until you have the sink on hand before you cut the hole out of the countertop for the sink.  While stainless steel sinks are generally very uniform in size, fireclay or granite sinks can be off by as much as 2% in size.  Drop in sinks don’t require as much precision when cutting out the hole as undermount sinks.  Fortunately, most Franke sinks come with a template that makes it easier to cut out the hole.

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What is an Apron Front Kitchen Sink?

In the old days, an apron front kitchen sink was common in most farmhouses.  With the decline of family farms however, these sinks have become rarer and rarer.  That is until recently, when they are becoming popular again.  People are choosing to install apron front kitchen sinks in their homes and apartments in order to give them a unique, country-style feel.

Apron front sinks were originally designed for farmhouses long ago.  The front of these sinks protrudes out a little bit further than the surrounding countertop.  The reason for this is because counters used to be made primarily of wood.  When the water in the sink invariably splashed out, it would just drip onto the floor instead of soaking the wooden counter.  In addition, a front apron kitchen sink is usually deeper than today’s sinks to allow them to hold lots of pots and pans and dishes.  You should note that a kitchen apron front sink can often be installed either on top of the counter or as an undermount sink.

Stainless Steel Apron Front Sinks

Like other types of sinks, the most common and popular style is the stainless steel apron front kitchen sink.  These sinks are so popular because they are easy to keep clean and sanitary.  While cheaper stainless sinks are thin, a more expensive stainless apron front kitchen sink will have a thickness of 16 or 18 gauge.  Thin inexpensive sinks have are made of 22 gauge stainless steel.  The thicker material means that it will be far more durable and stand up to heavy use without denting.

Copper Apron Front Kitchen Sink

If you want a stunning kitchen piece that is bound to draw attention, you should take a look at those made of copper.  These are generally top-notch quality, designer sinks, and have a price tag to match.  The price for copper apron front kitchen sinks ranges between $1,000 and $2,000.

Fireclay Apron Front Kitchen Sink

Fireclay sinks are a great choice if you want a sink that really has that old-fashioned look.  They are made of clay and fired with an extremely durable glaze that makes them resistant to chipping and scratching.  One great benefit of getting this type of sink is that you can get one in a different color.  If you want a black apron front kitchen sink, you can get a fireclay glazed in black.  They also come in bisque and a few other colors.  One point that you should be aware of is that fireclay sinks can vary a little bit because they can shrink during the firing process.  Sizes can be off by as much as 2%, and for this reason it is recommended that you wait until you have the sink on hand to cut the hole for it.  Use the sink as a guide for cutting the hole.

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While most people have a standard kitchen layout that places the sink in the middle of the counter, there are other options.  Some kitchens are designed so strangely that the only place that a sink will fit is in the corner.  Putting your kitchen sink in a corner can give your kitchen a unique look.

Traditionally, sinks were placed under the window in the kitchen because that is the one place cabinets can’t go.  Times have changed though, and these days many kitchens don’t even have a window.  This allows you to be a bit more creative in the kitchen planning process and put your kitchen sink in a place that it normally wouldn’t fit.  Here is a review of some of the most common types of corner kitchen sinks available:

Double Bowl Corner Kitchen Sinks

Nearly all corner kitchen sinks available are of the double bowl variety.  It is pretty tough to find a single bowl kitchen sink that can be placed in the corner.  This is because the general consensus these days is that double bowl sinks are better.  When buying a double bowl sink, you have 2 options.  You can either get one that has two bowls of equal size or you can get one that has one big bowl and one smaller one.  This type is called an offset corner kitchen sink, and the majority of these have a ratio of 60% and 40%.

Stainless Steel Corner Kitchen Sinks

Like other types of kitchen sinks, stainless steel is the most widely used.  Besides being the most common, they are also inexpensive (some of them) and easy to keep clean.  You can pick up an inexpensive stainless corner sink for a couple hundred dollars, and those made by designer kitchen suppliers like Franke can cost up to $1,000.

Other Types of Corner Kitchen Sinks

You can also get a corner sink made of a different material, such as ceramic fireclay or granite.  People like these options because they allow you to have a white or black sink instead of the more common silver one.  A granite corner kitchen sink is usually pretty close to the color black, and fireclay sinks usually come in either white or bisque.  Be aware that your choices will be a lot more limited when choosing corner sinks.  Regular kitchen sinks come in all kinds of shapes, materials, and colors, but corner sinks are limited because there isn’t a whole lot of demand.  If you look a bit here online or at your local kitchen supply store you should be able to find something you like.

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You might be wondering what in the world an undermount sink is.  This is a type of sink that is installed under the countertop.  Most sinks have a lip that goes over the counter, but undermount sinks have their lip under it.  The main reason people want this type of sink is because it makes it easier to clean the counter.  All you have to do is take a sponge or kitchen towel and wipe things into the sink.  Since there is no lip for food to get caught in, it just goes right into the sink.
Before you go out and buy a new undermounted sink however, make sure you have the right kind of countertop.  You can only use this type of sink with a solid countertop.  Granite, Marble, or a solid composite countertop will work fine.  Some counters are made of glued-together particle board, and these will get moisture in them and swell up.  In addition, undermounted sinks are fastened to the countertop, which needs to be solid and strong enough to support the weight of a large sink full of water.

This type of sink can be made using a few different materials.  By far the most common is a stainless steel undermount kitchen sink.  They are lightweight, simple to sanitize and keep clean, and are inexpensive.  If you don’t want a stainless one however, they come made from granite, cast iron, ceramic, or composite materials as well.  While stainless steel undermount sinks are always silver, those made from one of the other materials can be a different color.  Most of them are either white or black, although it is possible to find other colors as well.

Undermount Kitchen Sinks

The most common location for this type of sink is in the kitchen.  Solid rock and composite counters are very common these days so many people are opting for an undermount kitchen sink.  Although there are a few different types, the stainless steel undermount kitchen sink is the most common because most people like the convenience of cleaning the counter into the sink.

Undermount Bathroom Sinks

The kitchen isn’t the only place where this type of sink is used.  Many people prefer the look of an undermount bathroom sink to the normal kind.  While an undermount stainless steel sink may be great for the kitchen, they are normally not used in the bathroom.  Most people prefer ceramic, cast iron, or composite sinks in their bathrooms.  These can be glazed with a white finish, making them look great for bathrooms.

Undermount Sink Prices

There is a lot of price variation in sinks.  At the low end of the spectrum, you can find a cheap stainless undermount sink for under $100.  These sinks will work fine for most households, if you are satisfied with the basic style they offer.  On the other end, there are some very luxuriously priced models.  One example of this is a Franke undermount sink, which can cost hundreds of dollars for some models, and even climb over $1,000 for their most prestigious lines.  Some people want only the best for their kitchens or bathrooms, and designer brands fill that need.

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