Are you looking for a great addition to your outdoor kitchen? Here are some reminders when choosing a sink for your patio.

Know your materials

Before you decide what your sink should be made of, consider how often you’ll be using it, where it’ll be positioned in your kitchen, and how willing you are to maintain it.

The most common material used for outdoor sinks is stainless steel. And while it’s durable and easy to clean, it does come with a few downsides. They tend to scratch easily and don’t come in wide varieties if you want a specific look. Also, if you have it in direct sunlight, there’s a good chance it could be roughly the same temperature as the sun on Texas summer afternoons. 

With its striking look, a natural stone sink could look great with your patio style. On top of their look, they also don’t absorb heat as easily and can withstand the elements for many years. However, these sinks need to be regularly maintained and may not be suitable for heavy use.

Granite sinks have become a popular choice in recent years. Both durable and visually appealing, granite could be a great fit for your outdoor kitchen.

Specialty vs. utility sinks

If you’re planning on throwing outdoor parties this summer, it might be worth investing in a bar sink. This stainless steel sink allows for a space to wash your dishes by day and store your drinks by night, with a spot to hold condiments, cut up fruits and vegetables, and open bottles. The compact size also means you’ll have more room to eat and serve meals.

If you’re wanting something heavy-duty to get the job done as effectively as possible, a large utility sink might be in your future. This no-frills sink with one large basin is made to withstand anything you can throw at it. Doing dishes? Check. Making dinner? Check. Cleaning gardening tools? Check. Just because you have it in your outdoor kitchen doesn’t mean it should exclusively be for food, right?

Consider your flooring

One thing that may not be initially obvious to anyone planning their outdoor sink is the floor that will be under it. Like your kitchen inside, it’s best to have flooring that’s non-porous and can be hosed down or swept easily. That way, you won’t have to worry about spilling liquids or food under it.

An outdoor sink can be a very convenient addition to your outdoor kitchen. Consider these factors when planning the next chapter of your patio.