While every room in the house is important to those looking for houses and those who already have one, the kitchen has been shown to be the biggest selling point. But it isn’t all about countertops anymore.

The kitchen sink is becoming more important as more different types of kitchen sinks are being used. One of those unique types of kitchen sinks is the composite granite sink, which not many people know about.

What Is A Composite Granite Sink?

Composite granite is an engineered blend of crushed quartz, stone dust, and acrylic resins that is compacted into a solid piece. It is about 90% stone and just 10% resin. Though this ratio varies depending on the manufacturer.

It was invented as a way to create a durable and eco-friendly countertop and sink. Today, the popularity of composite granite is soaring. Both for countertops and for sinks, which is a newer addition to the composite granite family.

Pros And Cons Of A Composite Granite Sink

Everything has pros and cons, that’s simply a fact. When it comes to composite granite sinks, the list of pros and cons is easy to lay out. These are the most common pros and cons mentioned about composite granite sinks.

Pro: Stain Resistant

This is a pro that isn’t all that debatable. While some types of countertops and sinks are pretty susceptible to stains, granite composite isn’t. Because it is non-porous and tightly packed, there isn’t much room for stains to seep in.

Not to mention, there is usually a good sealer added to the top and polish that can also keep stains away. This is true for other natural stone sinks, but granite composite sinks really go above and beyond here.

Con: Less Heat Resistant

This one is debatable. While some people swear that their granite composite sinks have not and cannot burn, others say that they’ve had problems with heat. They are supposed to withstand up to 500-degree heat.

However, they may not stain, or have burn marks, but they have been known to crack if under sudden heat. For example, leaving a piping hot pan in the cold sink can cause the composite granite to crack.

Pro: Versatility

image from: Midwest Marble & Granite

Granite composite sinks come in all different colors, patterns, and styles. When it comes to granite sinks, you can only get what is found naturally. When it comes to steel or ceramic sinks, the options are few and far between.

But when it comes to composite granite sinks, things are different. Because they are made of crushed stone, they can be customized to be any color or pattern, oftentimes, creating a unique type of sink.

Con: Non-Authentic

Yes, if you want a real granite sink then perhaps this type of sink isn’t your best alternative. Saving money for a real granite sink is the only thing that will get you the look that you want. But hopefully, you’re willing to compromise.

Some people even prefer the look of the non-authentic composite granite to the real thing. Not everyone does, which makes sense because granite is highly sought after and one of the nicest sinks out there.

Pro: Uniformity

Real granite is not uniform. It is what it is. So if uniformity is important to you, then you want to use composite granite instead. It can look nice and clean rather than natural and messy. Both looks are great.

It all depends on what look you prefer. The right company can even make specific designs in the composite granite but most of the time it’s a simple and pleasing uniform grain that attracts people to it.

Con: Weight

Granite composite sinks are very heavy. Not necessarily heavier than granite but about the same, only sometimes heavier. But the point is that installing them is more difficult because of this fact. They are heavy.

This matters because they are difficult to haul around and because you will need extra load-bearing support underneath them. So you need to have a professional build a frame in the cabinet to support the sink.

Pro: Cost

Composite granite sinks usually cost less than a natural granite sink. A lot less actually. But this is just in general. Because the cheapest granite sink will be less than the most expensive composite granite sink

But overall, the “fake granite” will be cheaper than the real granite. This only makes sense. While you can’t get an exact replica of granite, you can get fairly close by using composite granite sinks, the cheaper granite.

Con: Not Forgiving

While some sinks are soft enough that you can drop something in them and have no consequences, composite granite sinks are not. If you drop something, you may pay for it with a crack in the dish.

The sinks should be fine with the impact, but there is no bounce and no cushion. The bounce is completely eliminated with the extra support needed for the heavy sink. So this is a double con with that!

How To Clean A Composite Granite Kitchen Sink

image from: designbild

This is probably the first question that people realize they have after they install a composite kitchen sink. Cleaning a granite composite sink isn’t the same as cleaning a ceramic or stainless steel sink.

But that doesn’t mean it is difficult to clean one. You just need to know how to take care of your sink and the steps you need to take when cleaning it to ensure it lasts a lifetime. Because that is very possible.

Don’t Use Chemicals

Please do not use chemicals on your composite granite sink. These sinks sometimes can handle some chemicals but it is much safer to avoid them altogether. They can break down the materials in the sink and even leave marks.

Instead, we’ve found a couple of techniques you can use to clean your sink and keep it that way. We will talk more about what substances work well and are safe to use. But first, an important note to remember.

Always Wipe Sink After Use

image from: BBG Construction

Do you notice a hazy film on your sink that randomly appears or even one that tends to stick around? That is easy to take care of simply by keeping your sink clean. This isn’t a one-time stain, this is a build-up.

Most of the time, it’s caused by soap scum or mineral deposits. Whenever you use your sink or drain it, make sure that you wash it out well and wipe down the sides, leaving no inch untouched by the scrubber.

Use Dish Soap

Dish soap is the first thing you should use to try to clean your sink. Composite granite sinks can usually be cleaned well with warm water and dish soap. This is the easiest and cheapest way to clean your sink.

Make sure you use plenty of dish soap and more importantly, make sure that you wash the dish soap out after you finish. Because even this residue can leave soap scum, so make sure that you rinse it out.

Related: How To Look For Deep Kitchen Sinks When You Remodel

Baking Soda And Vinegar

If you are having trouble with your sink staying clean, then consider a weekly cleaning with baking soda and vinegar. This pair can do just about anything and maybe the most powerful cleaning duo in your home.

The vinegar works to break down stains and minerals while the baking soda works as a scrubbing agent. The two together can clean almost any composite granite sink from almost any type of stain.

Avoid Heat For High-Resin Sinks

image from: Westheimer Plumbing & Hardware

This again is debatable, but it is believed that is because it depends on the amount of resin in the sink. Companies that use 5% resin to 95% stone don’t usually have a problem with heat. But others cannot say the same.

That’s because the sinks with 10-20% resin in their makeup will melt when exposed to heat. That resin melts and when this happens, the sink can fall apart. So call and ask the manufacturer how much resin they use.

Apply Sealers And Polish

Finally, this step is one that you should take with care because not all sealers work for composite granite and not all of them can be used in the kitchen. So make sure you use a good sealer that is for sinks and countertops.

If you don’t feel comfortable using a sealer at all, you can simply polish your sink. Polishing takes a bit of time but it can seal your granite and keep it smooth. It will need to be done on a regular basis though.

Choosing A Granite Composite Sink

Choosing a granite composite sink isn’t always easy. Who knows what is the best option for your kitchen sink? Only you. Some people fall in love with composite granite while others tend to replace it soon after.

It all depends on what you are looking for. So do your research before you buy a sink to make sure you are getting what is right for you and not for someone else. Your sink can be a selling point, but you need to sell it to yourself first.