When selecting a kitchen sink, keep in mind the level of durability it really needs. Kitchen sinks must handle dishes hitting them, constant moisture, and plenty of heat. Both cast iron and granite are effective materials to use as sinks. While both have different advantages, both are very strong and provide a unique look to your kitchen.
Durability
Both granite and cast iron are very tough and are unlikely to suffer any damage from dropped dishes, extreme heat, or kitchen humidity. Granite composite sinks won’t even scratch if you cut vegetables directly on the surface. Granite can sometimes chip at the edges, although this is fairly rare. If there is any damage, the granite can be resealed. Cast iron sinks are covered with an enamel surface that crumbles from time to time, but the structure of the sink will not be easily damaged.
Aesthetics
The enamel surface of a cast iron sink is versatile in terms of appearance. You can choose any color or design for your cast iron sink. Granite is somewhat limited because it looks exactly like the natural stone it comes from. Granite and cast iron are naturally cool to the touch, but cast iron sinks can retain the heat of hot water. Both are hard, so the dish is likely to crack or break if dropped directly on the material.
Cost Factor
A standard white cast iron sink is much cheaper than a granite composite sink, but if you want a custom color or design, the price goes up. Granite composite sink and cast iron sink bring more value to a home than other kitchen sinks, such as stainless steel. Because these materials are thick and heavy, installation is not a one-person job. You may also need to reinforce the counters underneath them so their weight doesn’t cause them to collapse.
Maintainence
Stay away from strong or abrasive cleaners as they can scratch and damage cast iron and granite. Tea, juices, and other dark-colored liquids can stain the enamel coating of cast iron, so they must be rinsed off promptly. The best way to clean granite and cast iron sinks are to use a soft cloth and water. Rubber sink protectors are a good insurance policy for any kind of sink.
