The sink is one of the most important aspects of a kitchen. Yet few homeowners pay attention to it until the time comes to replace it. One shopping trip for a new kitchen sink will uncover dozens of possibilities. Here is a brief overview of some of the styles, materials and designs you might come across.

Kitchen sinks come in many styles. Some of the most common include the single bowl, double bowl and farmhouse. Single-bowl sinks have just one basin, making them ideal for tight spaces. The basin may be fairly deep, allowing for the washing of large pots and pans. Double bowl-sinks have two basins. Configuration varies from two basins of the same depth to one shallow basin and one deep basin. The costliest option of the three, farmhouse sinks take up a large section of the counter and may feature one or two basins. They work well for country kitchens.

Kitchen sinks come in a variety of materials. Stainless steel is one of the most common. The higher the gauge of the stainless steel, the lighter the sink will be. Most household stainless steel sinks come in the 1822-gauge range. Stainless steel sinks are durable, resistant to stains and heat, but can be noisy. Cast iron is another popular choice. Cast iron sinks are fairly heavy, making them difficult to install. The bright, glossy enamel finish, however, is very durable and resistant to stains and scratches.

Composite sinks are typically made of granite or quartz combined with a resin filler. They are very durable and resistant to stains and scratches. Fireclay sinks are made from ceramic clay and feature a tough porcelain enamel. They are one of the most durable sinks on the market but can be expensive, running $500 and up. Kitchen sinks come in many other materials, including glass, granite, marble and copper.

Sinks generally come in two designs: top mount and undermount. Top-mount sinks are set into a hole in the countertop, making them fairly easy to install. The rim around the sink helps hold it in place. Undermount sinks are mounted under the counter, making for a costlier, more difficult installation but easier cleaning.

An undermount sink has no rim, allowing homeowners to swipe debris into it with ease. Because they have no rim, undermount sinks must be glued underneath or supported with braces. Holes must also be made in the countertop for faucets.

With so many options available, choosing a kitchen sink can be difficult. Take your time, do your homework and you are sure to choose the right one for your kitchen.