Granite Sinks: Everything You Need to Know

Granite may no longer be kitchen trend aficionados’ go-to choice for kitchen countertops, but granite sinks are nowhere near obsolete! These sinks are composed of a carefully curated blend of natural stone and resin to stand up to heavy use and look fabulous doing it.

Granite and granite composite kitchen sinks are incredibly hardwearing and sturdy, a must in the kitchen fixture that is used most often.

What is a granite sink?

A beautiful, durable, and reasonably priced sink option – and one that complements most countertop materials – is granite composite (often known by brand name Silgranit, a durable patented composite by Blanco). Granite composite, typically made of 80% granite mixed with 20% acrylic resin, looks and feels like natural stone (except more uniform) at a much more affordable cost.

Granite composite is available in dozens of shapes, sizes, configurations, colors, and matte finishes to enhance every kitchen imaginable.

Pure natural granite sinks are rare and correspondingly expensive; you’ll typically have to choose a sink just like you choose a slab for counters. There are very few commercially-produced pure granite sinks; the vast majority of granite sinks marketed are actually granite composite or quartz composite (which is essentially the same material). There are some exceptions – including natural granite sinks by Barclay, each of which is unique – but most of the time, sinks referred to as “granite sinks” are composite rather than natural.

Pros and cons of natural granite sinks

Pros

• Durable, long-lasting, and hardwearing
• Every piece is unique
• Resistant to heat, scratching, and stains (when sealed properly)
• May be made of counter material for a seamless appearance
• May be chiseled, carved, sculpted, or smooth

Cons

• May be expensive, depending on stone
• Very heavy; requires extra installation costs and support systems
• May chip
• Requires annual sealing (a simple process)

Pros and cons of granite composite

Like every sink material (and virtually everything in life!), granite composite has its pros and cons.

Pros of granite composite sinks

• Heat resistant; will not fade or discolor when exposed to high heat
• Resists scratching, acid, chipping, water spots, and staining
• Abundant matte color options (brown is especially popular and difficult to find in other materials)
• Long life
• Look and durability of natural stone at a fraction of the price

Cons of granite composite sinks

• May require extra support for installation
• Require regular (but simple) maintenance
• Lighter colors may stain; finish will dull from waterborne minerals if not regularly cleaned

Granite composite vs. quartz composite

Granite composite sinks are essentially identical to quartz composite sinks; both consist of a natural stone (granite or quartz) ground and mixed with acrylic resin.

Granite sink vs. stainless steel sink

Granite sinks and stainless steel sinks are about as different from each other as you can get. Each has its distinct advantages and disadvantages. Granite is less prone to damage and makes less noise than stainless steel; stainless steel is easier to maintain and less expensive than granite, but doesn’t offer the color options or durability of stone.

Configuration and installation options

Granite composite sinks are available in virtually every standard configuration. Some feature a distinctly curved shape for visual interest, while others are the standard rectangular, square, round, or D-bowl.

For a cleaner, seamless appearance, pick a granite undermount sink (though some actually prefer a drop-in or apron-front sink as it displays more of the sink material). Try a granite apron sink to make a statement (and have an easier time reaching the dishes); a granite bar sink adds flair and beauty to any bar or prep area.

Single bowl granite sinks are an excellent option for the avid cook or baker; a double bowl sink may be better for those who prefer separate prep and dishwashing areas. Some sinks feature a low divider, combining the advantages of both double and single sinks; some have an integrated drainboard for extra convenience and practicality.

Granite composite sink care and maintenance

Though it’s hardwearing and largely damage-resistant, a granite composite sink requires regular maintenance. Dark sinks are generally lower-maintenance, but they may show a white film; light sinks may stain.

• Wash the sink daily with a nylon brush and gentle soap (dishwashing soap is fine)
• Rinse the sink thoroughly and wipe it with a soft cloth after use (or at least daily) to prevent stains and deposits
• Do not use abrasive cleaning tools or solutions
• Use a special cleaning product like Barkeeper’s Friend or natural cleansers like vinegar on a regular basis
• Wipe down with a small amount of cooking oil for shine after cleaning
• For quick cleanups, use Mr. Clean Magic Eraser

Granite composite sink costs

Granite composite and quartz composite are affordable alternatives to natural stone and some other sink materials due to its resin content.

Granite sink brands

Quality varies considerably by brand. At QualityBath, we highly recommend Barclay natural granite sinks (chiseled, carved, polished, rough, and otherwise beautiful) and granite composite sinks by Blanco (in rock-hard Silgranit; we’re especially fond of the Ikon), Elkay, and Franke, among others on our site.