Apron Vs Farmhouse Sink

Are you looking to add a vintage or stylish yet functional flair to your kitchen? Investing in a kitchen sink can help you do just that.

Apron sinks provide a modern twist on the traditional, while farmhouse sinks add a cozy atmosphere to any home. Read on to decide whether an apron vs. farmhouse sink is suitable for you.

What is a Farmhouse Sink?

A more traditional sink style, the farmhouse sink is a deep and sturdy sink designed to hold a lot of water. Farmhouse sinks are remnants of an age where you could move from washing large pots to bathing a child in moments.

These deep sinks held water from wells before plumbing made life easier. In the past, farmhouse sinks were made of porcelain or fireclay and often had a seamless draining board and backsplash; modern ones are designed like drop-in sinks for easier installation.

What is an Apron Sink?

A similar but more modern take on the farmhouse, the apron sink is usually installed under the countertop. It can be made of modern materials like stainless steel. Apron sinks have a finished front lip that sticks out from the countertop, making washing more manageable and ergonomic.

These contemporary sinks can be bought as one large sink or split into two smaller ones for your convenience. Unlike farmhouse sinks, apron sinks work well with different aesthetics and have a wide variety of materials.

Apron Sink vs. Farmhouse Sink: What’s the Difference?

In terms of the apron sink vs. farmhouse sink debate, it can feel as though you are splitting hairs. Both sinks are descended from the Belfast and London style sinks of the 18^th and 19^th centuries. They feature broad, deep basins and an overhanging front lip. However, farmhouse sinks are usually one basin models that are installed on top of the counter. 

You can find apron sinks in various materials, are often split into two separate basins for your convenience, and are typically installed under the countertop. Both come with a different aesthetic connotation which may or may not be suitable for your home and budget.

Cost Comparison – Which Is Cheaper?

In terms of cost, farmhouse sinks are often easier to install and work with different countertops. Because of this, the cost of installation is usually lower, and you do not need to rearrange your kitchen cabinets to fit one. However, fire clay or porcelain models can be hard to get hold of and present a higher upfront cost.

Apron sinks have various modern and more affordable materials to choose from but require a solid or stone style counter and supportive cabinet setup to avoid sagging or damage. This harder-to-install style and specialized needs, present a potentially large set of bills moving forward with your remodel. We recommend talking to a professional to decide which type is best for you.

Is a Farmhouse or An Apron Sink Still Practical?

These vintage sinks are beautiful but are they functional in the modern era? Let’s examine the pros and cons of each style:

People also Ask (FAQs)

Do farmhouse sinks chip easily?

Porcelain and fire clay farmhouse sinks can chip or scratch easily if not handled carefully. It is easy to drop or knock glassware into it and cause damage to the surface.

Do you install farmhouse sink before countertop?

No, as it is a drop-in style of sink, you need to install the countertop and then add the sink. We recommend consulting a professional if you are unsure.

Do farmhouse sinks have garbage disposals?

They do not necessarily come with garbage disposals, but you can install one later on. Suppose you do want to add a garbage disposal system to your farmhouse sink. In that case, you may need stainless steel drain attachments and an extended flange, depending on the model.

Conclusion

Knowing whether a farmhouse vs. apron front sink is best for your home involves considering your cooking habits and lifestyle as well as your aesthetic and budget.

Getting an apron or farmhouse sink can make dishwashing and whipping up meals an enjoyable task no matter how big your family is. The differences between the two may seem small, but they can make a massive difference to your quality of life and property’s value.