The Complete Lowdown on Silgranit Sink Pros and Cons
Choosing a new kitchen sink can be difficult. Silgranit sinks have grown in popularity over the years as a durable and eye-catching choice, but are they right for your home?
What is Silgranit?
Silgranit is a composite granite sink made from a patented blend of 80% natural granite, along with binding agents and acrylic resins. Developed in Germany by manufacturer Blanco, it was the first sink to mimic the look and feel of real stone.
The name Silgranit comes from the combination of silicon, granite, and acrynitril styrene acrylate. Thanks to advanced production methods, the composite material achieves exceptional resistance to scratching, chipping, acids, and heat.
Key Benefits of Silgranit Kitchen Sinks
Extreme Durability and Strength
The high concentration of granite within Silgranit makes for an incredibly resilient sink able to withstand years of heavy usage. The dense stone neutralizes impacts, preventing scratches, chips or cracks over time.
In lab testing, Silgranit withstands over 10,000 cycles with a 2.2lb steel ball dropped from 20 inches without damage. For context--that's 21 years of a pot or pan being dropped in the sink twice daily!
Easy Everyday Maintenance
The non-porous surface of Silgranit does not absorb stains, odors or bacteria. Day to day cleaning is low maintenance, requiring only mild dish soap, warm water and a soft cloth.
Without pores for grime to cling to, Silgranit resists hard water spots, soap scum build up, and other gunk. Simply wiping the sink dry after each use prevents water marks or film.
Attractive and Versatile Styling
With over 30 styles and 8 colors to choose from, it's easy to find a Silgranit sink to match your dream kitchen. Crisp shapes and finishes range from modern to farmhouse classic.
Silgranit is available in undermount, drop-in, and flushmount installations. This versatility pairs beautifully with natural stone or quartz countertops, stainless steel, laminate--you name it.
Long-lasting Investment
While the upfront cost of a Silgranit sink is certainly an investment, the durable construction ensures it will last for decades without replacement. Less prone to damage than materials like ceramic or enamel, Silgranit is designed to stand the test of time.
For homeowners who prioritize durability and longevity over initial price point, Silgranit is an economical choice in the long run.
Potential Drawbacks of Silgranit Sinks
Limited Color Range
The color palette for Silgranit sinks is not as expansive as material like stainless steel or fireclay. However, the 8 tone-on-tone colors are neutral and versatile for most spaces.
It's important to note that the vibrant dye goes all the way through--chips or scratches won't reveal a different interior color underneath.
Surface Sensitivities
While Silgranit can withstand high temperatures, placing smoking hot pots and pans directly in the sink can cause minor discoloration or cloudiness on the surface.
The acrylic binding resins integrated into the material are also vulnerable to melting if exposed to extreme heat upwards of 536deg Fahrenheit.
Special Care Requirements
Silgranit requires conscientious care and prompt attention to spills to maintain its pristine condition. Harsh chemicals like bleach, tube cleaners, or chlorine can damage the glossy finish.
Additionally, as a composite surface, Silgranit is more vulnerable to scratching and chipping than natural granite. Extra caution should be taken to avoid dragging cookware across the bottom over time.
Cost Considerations of Installing Silgranit
Silgranit sinks range from $300 up to $1200 depending on the size, depth, and styling. On average, expect to invest around $700 plus professional installation fees.
Undermount installation runs cheaper than more complex alternatives like flushmount or farmhouse apron front. The specific countertop material, plumbing access, and custom millwork will also impact the total price.
Compared to stainless steel, enamel, or fireclay sinks, Silgranit sits at a premium price point. However, the unmatched performance and longevity offset the higher initial investment.
For homeowners that value resilient materials and refined design, Silgranit sinks are absolutely worth the spend. The sinks deliver exceptional durability to withstand decades of heavy use despite a higher starting cost.
Keep in mind that while Silgranit is more scratch and stain-resistant than other sink materials, it still requires dedicated care. For cooks willing to trade careful maintenance for unparalleled performance, Silgranit checks all the boxes.