When planning your kitchen remodel, choosing the right sink is as important as picking the perfect countertops. One common issue we see is with 19-inch workstation sinks. While they may look great on paper, there are some special considerations to be had. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Countertop Depth
Most kitchen cabinets are designed to fit sinks that are 18 inches front to back. A 19-inch sink takes up more space, leaving little or no room for a backsplash. This can lead to design and functionality issues.
2. Backsplash Problems
Stone Backsplash: With a 19-inch sink, there’s not enough space for a standard stone/quartz backsplash. This leaves the wall behind the sink exposed or forces you to find another solution (i.e. tile or thinner stone/quartz material if available).
Tile Backsplash: Tile is thinner than stone, so while it generally works, it still leaves less than the ideal amount of space for a faucet. Even then, it can make using the faucet less convenient.
3. Faucet Functionality
Because a 19-inch sink takes up so much space, the faucet often can’t be installed in its normal position with the handle on the side. Instead, you might need to move the handle to the front, which isn’t ideal for most people and can make the faucet harder to use. It also reduces the amount of space behind the faucet, making cleaning more difficult.
4. Why an 18-Inch Sink Is Better
An 18-inch workstation sink is the standard size and works much better with most countertops. It:
- Fits perfectly with standard countertop depths.
- Leaves enough space for both stone and tile backsplashes.
- Keeps the faucet handle in the normal side position.
- Still gives you plenty of room to get your kitchen tasks done.
In Summary
A 19-inch workstation sink might sound like a good idea, but it usually creates more problems than it solves. For most kitchens, an 18-inch workstation sink is the better choice. It looks great, works well, and fits with most countertop designs.
If you’re not sure which sink is right for your project, we’re here to help. Contact us, and we’ll guide you through the process!
