In the market for a new kitchen? Copper sinks are the newest rage in interior kitchen design. If you’re looking for some real eye appeal, a copper sink will definitely do the trick. They are not only beautiful but incredibly durable and long lasting. One of the main questions asked regarding a copper sink is will it change color? That is a good question. We all know the Statue of Liberty is no longer a bright copper color, but a more of green color as it has aged. The color change people refer to is called patina. That is where copper or bronze can turn green over time or just a darker bronze than it started with.
Although your sink will never turn green since it is indoors and will not be exposed to elements such as salt water and extreme weather conditions. So, people who may be interested in a copper sink want to know if these changes will happen to their copper sink years after installation. A copper sink is on the higher end of the market and doesn’t come with a cheap price tag. It is important to select a copper sink with the correct finish that suits your tastes. There are three main finishes available and depending on which one you select will determine how long it lasts.
Natural Finish- Raw Copper
This type of undermount sink has no finish applied. People who like the natural progression of the patina select this type of sink and allow it to change color naturally over time and use. There is no sealant applied. Think of an old penny and the darker color it gets as it ages; the same will occur in this case.
Finish 2- Sealed Copper
Being that the sink will be constantly exposed to elements such as water, preventing progression of the patina is difficult. For those who prefer a particular color of their sink, Sealer is applied once a certain degree of patina is obtained. This helps to keep the color retained over time.
Finish 3- Recycled Copper, Fire & Oil
This finish has a very rustic appearance. These sinks are forged from recycled copper and hand-hammered to get the desired look. This will also hide scratches and dents much better. Then a coat of natural oils is applied to bring out the colors within the copper. Finally, heat is applied to get the perfect color and look.
Aside from the finishes you also want to be aware of the materials used to make the sink. A high-quality copper sink should consist of 99% copper and only 1% zinc. A lower end copper sink may contain lead or mercury. Just like stainless steel, the thickness of the copper is referred to as the “gauge” and the lower this number is, the better the quality. A copper sink in between 14-16-guage are of the best quality. Another thing to look for is the seams. You should look for a copper sink that has been welded, not soldered for the most durability.
A copper sink comes is many color variations from a bright copper like a shiny penny, to a darker bronze color. There are also many different surface appearances from a hammered rustic look, to smooth clean metallic lines. There is sure to be a color and style that will suite your tastes and make your copper sink the focal point of your entire kitchen.