Best Copper Sinks 2022 – The Classy Material for Sinks

Uncle Paul’s Choice:

Adams Farmhouse Apron Front Handmade Copper Kitchen Sink 33 in. Single Bowl in Antique Copper
114 Reviews
Adams Farmhouse Apron Front Handmade Copper Kitchen Sink 33 in. Single Bowl in Antique Copper
  • Commercial Grade - 16 Gauge Pure Solid Copper .063 - .068 thickness

Last updated on 2022-07-02 at 08:04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Copper is one of the traditional construction materials used in the kitchen; it is commonly used for cookware and kitchen sinks. This indicates that copper sink reviews are very well agreed upon. Although an ancient metal, a copper sink is a modern twist on any kitchen.

This pretty metal makes a stylish statement when used for kitchen sinks and reflects a distinct finish over time because of its reactive quality. It is truly a readily available metal of excellence, quality, and class.

Today, copper kitchen sinks are available in a variety of sizes, styles, and shapes, enabling themselves to deliver a uniquely traditional but pretty touch to a kitchen of any style. They come with several benefits that any other materials really cannot offer.

ModelInstallationDimensionPrice

Adams Sink
Farmhouse / Apron Front33 x 22 x 9 inches$$$ Check Price on Amazon

Rockwell Sink
Farmhouse / Apron Front33 x 22 x 9 inches$$$ Check Price on Amazon

SK202-30AC
Undermount30 x 18 x 8 inches$$ Check Price on Amazon

MR Direct 911
Farmhouse / Apron Front33.2 x 22.2 x 9.9 inches$$$$ Check Price on Amazon

 

Copper Kitchen Sink Reviews 2022

Sinkology Adams Handmade Single Bowl Kitchen Sink 

Pros:

  • Has big dimensions and offers a lot of space
  • The sink installation process is simple
  • Handmade
  • Comes with a lifetime warranty
  • Perfect for small and big kitchens.

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • The design may look too old to some people
  • It’s heavy
  • Hard to make it fit perfectly

>> Read owner reviews on Amazon

 

Sinkology Rockwell Handmade Double Bowl Kitchen Sink

Pros:

  • Offers more space than similar models
  • It is easy to install. It lasts about 30 minutes
  • Hand hammered
  • Comes with a limited lifetime warranty
  • Looks vintage
  • Resistant to corrosion and it won’t turn green, no matter how often you use it

Cons:

  • Hard to match dimensions

>> Read owner reviews on Amazon

 

Sinkology SK202-30AC Transitional Orwell Kitchen Sink

Pros:

  • The quality is as good as it can get for a copper sink at this price point
  • Made using commercial grade copper that makes the sink extremely durable
  • The sink looks great and boasts a luxurious feel
  • It’s easy to install and wouldn’t involve any challenges

Cons:

  • Would demand a bit more care and maintenance
  • It’s not very deep so large utensils can be a bit difficult to wash

>> Read owner reviews on Amazon

 

MR Direct 911 Offset Double Bowl Sink

Pros:

  • Made of 99% copper
  • Resistant to corrosion and damages
  • Double-bowl format increases the practicality
  • Pads for noise reduction
  • A lifetime warranty (limited)
  • Installation takes 30 minutes
  • It won’t turn green after long use
  • Easy to clean

Cons:

  • Heavy
  • Hard to match with kitchen décor

>> Read owner reviews on Amazon

 

Copper Sink Pros and Cons

copper sink reviewsApart from that distinctly radiating look and rich feel, copper comes with many more advantages. Of all, the most astonishing one is its contrastingly boosting look with age. It shows up with an increase in quality with its passing age due to which it is more likely to look better after some years of installation, instead of losing the good look.

Did you know that copper is a natural anti-bacterial agent? Yes, it fights against bacteria. It is also resistant to stains as well as discoloration. When used in sinks, it easily aids in keeping it clean and healthy while those glasses and plates are vulnerable to growing bacteria in the sinks. This means the metal protects from the risk factors that form within the sinks, which is a raving benefit.

Another great benefit is sustainability. Copper is completely recyclable – it can be shaped, forged, and melted several times. The premium scrap copper is available at just 5% less rate than the actual price of mined one. This means you can always alter the shape of the existing sinks and make it look new even after a few years without buying a new one.

It is believed that up to 90% of all the copper ever mined since the ancient time is in use even today. Contrary to what is commonly believed, no structural difference exists between mined and recycled copper. This is because it is recyclable without losing any chemical or physical properties.

Although strong, copper is easy to shape. This gives rise to a variety of sinks including the big and deep ones. Depending on the thickness or gauge, this metal can survive for several years. As a rule of thumb, the thicker the sink, the more durable the sink is.

Otherwise, thinner sinks shall dent, warp, and scratch with time. As it’s malleable and not as tough as natural stones, delicate dishes do not break easily if put into a copper sink.

However, the finish and natural patina of copper are highly susceptible to abrasive cleaners, hot crockery, and acidic liquids. Even the maintenance it demands is a bit more than stainless steel kitchen sinks or other sinks. What’s more, you have to scrub it a bit more frequently than other sinks.

Another limitation is that a copper kitchen sink is costly, which means it’s not for all. The prices can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, which means you should be ready to put so many dollars into buying the best copper sinks. However, this does not mean that you are forced to buy a cheaper one while sacrificing quality. It’s not worthy to hold back on quality; as a cheaper one can lose its strength and shine with time.

Buying Factors

Kitchens with copper sinks do not look appealing just because you chose shining models. There’s a lot more to consider for it, such as functionality, durability, quality, sink type, and finish or patina type. These are perhaps the factors that help you take a quick but right buying decision. So, let’s explore them now!

Quality

best copper sinksIt’s a fact that quality tends to vary between two items designed in a single store. So, for measuring quality, a grading system is usually implemented for those items. This is also applicable for copper, which sorts them as per the quality grade. The grading system includes three primary factors that help in distinguishing the quality of various models, which are purity, gauge, and construction technique. These factors help in analyzing the quality of sinks.

Purity

Copper is amongst the rare elements that are naturally available in pure form. Copper kitchen sinks are usually composed of 99% pure copper and 1% zinc included for integrity as well as potency, hence making them an alloy. Lead might also be included in the sinks, which is often the case in China, India, and the Middle East. Lead has similar qualities and is more economical, but it is risky for humans due to which it should not be used.

Gauge

what gauge copper sink is bestThe metal’s thickness while designing copper sinks differs significantly between brands. It’s soft by nature but its thickness tends to affect the wear and tear over time quite significantly. This is a vital aspect for those sinks that are under a regular barrage of cleaning products and pots.

Gauge is measured as the weight per square foot. The thicker the gauge, the lower is the weight. The majority of kitchen sinks are in the range of 14 to 18 gauge, with 14 indicating the thickest and 20 indicating the thinnest gauge.

Although a thicker gauge sink is costlier but is worthy of that much money for the level of durability it offers. A lighter gauge sink tends to emit a sharper sound when water from the faucet falls on its surface. This is why lower quality models are insulated with foam blocks for diminishing that sound. Such thin and light models also dent more easily.

Construction Technique: Smooth versus Hammered

copper kitchen sink reviewsSmooth sinks are usually produced in bulk with a press on the machine. This is why they have a perfect shape. On the other hand, hand hammered sinks are created one by one and come with a textured surface that a specific hammering technique produces by hand.

Well-made sinks are always shaped properly. Although hand hammered sinks are not perfectly shaped, they certainly should not have out-of-round or out-of-square corners. The hammered texture boosts both beauty and character as well as strengthens the surface to mask those small marks due to daily use. The American fabricators have focused significantly on big, smooth kitchen sinks rather than the hammered ones.

To choose between the two, you should consider your lifestyle and preference for style for an existing decor. Lifestyle wise, you should consider whether the sink is for heavy use by cooks or just by occasional users such as kids.

Smooth sinks are a bit tough to sustain in a busy area and are likely to show scratches and dings. This has no significance in a commercial kitchen because the functionality is everything here. However, in a home kitchen, appearance is significant due to which more sustainable hammered copper kitchen sink can be a better choice. Hammering has a hardening impact on the metal, which is responsible for a more durable surface.

In terms of style, a smooth sink comes with modern style appeal, while a hammered one renders a warm appeal that suits well to traditional, eclectic, rustic, and contemporary décor.

Construction also considers the welding technique, ease of installation, and suitable dimensions. While considering models with welded seams, ensure that they are TIG welded or else the seams shall leak. Similarly, ensure that the sink you choose has proper sink drain hole such that it does not create any unwanted gap.

Usually, the copper sinks are formed by welding separate elements together instead of from a single sheet. Just ensure that the quality of these parts is good, which means that they are smooth and possess good contact with each other. Do also check the quality of interior corners and edges of copper kitchens sinks to make sure that they do not have any rough regions and burs.

Installation or Mounting Style

Usually, there are four primary types, namely drop-in, undermount, vessel, and apron. Just like sinks constructed using other materials, those with copper come with a variety of mounting or installation styles. While a few coincide between a kitchen and a bath, some are distinct to a specific room. Here are the mounting styles to consider.

Drop-in

A drop-in sink simply drops into a precut hole such that the protruding area at its edge or the rim sits atop the counter. Such a model is ideal for DIYs or Do-It-Yourselfers because it’s a swift and effortless way to upgrade the kitchen sink on a budget. The rim keeps the sink in proper position and averts it from going through the cutout. This is why the rims are a bit beveled or rounded.

Undermount

An undermount kitchen sink resides beneath the countertop’s surface. Flexible and edgeless, this style of mounting gives an upscale appearance and ensures easier cleaning. Undermount copper sink comes with a flat rim that allows the sink to flush beneath the countertop’s surface, leaving no gaps in between. They are usually preferred for solid countertops, such as those of quartz and granite.

Vessel

A copper vessel sink resides totally above the countertop without the need for any countertop cutouts except for a hole for water drainage. It’s also known as copper bowl sink, as it boasts a bowl-like shape. Copper vessel sinks offer a modern look while retaining the traditional charm.

Farmhouse / Apron Front

copper farmhouse sink reviewsA copper apron sink features a big copper front to remove the countertop between the sink and you, which means reduced straining and leaning. There is also reduced splash back as you work. The sink’s front part features an ornamental apron panel exposed and residing in front of the countertop edge, while the rest part of the sink is either dropped in or under mounted. This is why the countertop and cabinetry should be particularly fabricated for inviting a copper apron sink. Such sinks have a stunningly vintage feel with a modern build and ergonomic design. They are also called farmhouse sinks, as they were widely used in old farmhouse kitchens. Apron sinks have both functionality and aesthetic appeal. They are quite deep and wide enough to allow washing even small dogs and big stock pots. You can easily maintain them and they get more beautiful as they age.

Patina and Finish

It’s vital to comprehend the concept of patina while selecting a copper kitchen sink. Most of us do not expect the natural coloration shifts to take place due to patina, which can put them off.

Copper tends to change constantly as per the environment to which it is exposed to. In the case of exposure to oxygen, it develops oxidation or patina, which is a natural phenomenon that results in the development of a protective coating for the metal.

It is generally deep and warm brown that seems to darken with time, starting with caramel hues. In case the metal is exposed to acids or salt, it turns green. If you properly clean and care for the sink, green oxidation shall never take place.

However, a few acidic or harsh ingredients shall remove the patina and restore a bright shine. Nevertheless, it will continue to heal on its own through the process of re-patina with time, rendering itself as a rich coppery mix of light and dark tones.

Therefore, when patina stripping occurs, consider it as a completely normal process. Sit back and relax until the process is over. Before you buy the sink, make sure you understand how it can react to different harsh substances outside, so that you do not feel bad for what you selected.

Copper is also available in different finishes, ranging right from bright shiny to the espresso color (developed as patina). While the finish you select is based on personal taste and kitchen décor, a darker patina prevents the necessary upkeep linked to shiny copper.

Just keep in mind that the metal’s finish is an active one that keeps changing its color. Further, the change in patina in terms of rich undertones and highlights is going to be visible in sinks that are exposed regularly to acidic or salty foods.

The most surprising thing to know is that even patina can lighten when a few chemicals, acidic foods, and highly salty water sit on the sink’s surface. However, this does not ruin it at all but that lighten patina will tend to darken again.

If you do not want the patina to get lightened, you need to apply a protective coating of appropriate wax regularly, which protects the finish of your sink by offering a hurdle between the environment and the metal.

It is also important to know what leads to darker patinas to judge the quality factor. In a few nations, caustic, harmful chemicals are common ingredients. In the US and Mexico, heat is used with safe, reactive agents for the same results.

Some nations also use lacquer for protecting the sink and keep natural patina formation at bay. Usually, many people go for a non-lacquered sink, as it allows the patina to occur naturally as well as evenly. The lacquer finish is not recommended, as it will swiftly scratch-off in the case of heavy use.

While patina is a natural shift occurring with time, there are some other finishes to consider for your sink:

  • Aged: This finish involves a coat of warm and vibrant aged copper all over the patina. It ensures a more consistent look, less upkeep, as well as durability.
  • Naked: This is the finest and rawest finish that allows selecting upkeep: let it have patina for minimal upkeep, or retain is polished to retain the luster.
  • Antique: This finish is a medium to light antique copper tone for long-term care. It gives a classic look and is ideal for kitchen and prep sinks.
  • Verde: This is exclusive finish bringing vintage beauty to your kitchen and is applied to a bare interior.
ModelInstallationDimensionPrice

Adams Sink
Farmhouse / Apron Front33 x 22 x 9 inches$$$ Check Price on Amazon

Rockwell Sink
Farmhouse / Apron Front33 x 22 x 9 inches$$$ Check Price on Amazon

SK202-30AC
Undermount30 x 18 x 8 inches$$ Check Price on Amazon

MR Direct 911
Farmhouse / Apron Front33.2 x 22.2 x 9.9 inches$$$$ Check Price on Amazon

Conclusion

Copper kitchen sinks are perfect for traditional as well as contemporary homes wherein introducing an old world beauty is preferred with a fresh twist. This metal has versatile ability to gel with other construction materials such as stone and wood for forming a naturally welcoming space. Regardless of the kind of sink you end up selecting, just ensure that you do not compromise looks and functionality by going for a cheaper sink. If you bring in such a sink, you are certainly assured of more shine to the kitchen, which you and your guests are bound to adore.

Can’t make up your mind yet? Read our reviews of various kitchen sink materials and types before you proceed with your purchase:

You should also check out our individual reviews of kitchen sinks: