Compare Enameled Steel Sink Vs. Enameled Cast Iron Sink

Enameled Steel

• Enameled steel sinks are a lower-cost alternative to enamel cast iron sinks. They are commonly used for low-rent apartments and budget hotels and still found in many older homes. Top-mounted enamel steel sinks typically have a welded overflow edge that rests on top of the sink counter to make installation easy. However, water can seep under the edge and cause the sink to rust. Owners and users of enamel steel sinks should always wipe water on countertop surfaces to prevent it from seeping underneath the weld and avoid using abrasive cleansers, as they can scratch the enamel coating.

Enameled Cast Iron

• Enameled cast iron sinks are classic, strong and durable choices that have been around for a long time. The sinks are welded into shape out of heavy cast iron, and then the enamel coating is fired and baked onto the exterior surface of the sink. This is why enamel cast iron sinks are also referred to as porcelain enamel cast iron sinks, which is actually more correct. The firing process used to coat the cast iron creates a porcelain finish on the sink, and does not refer to conventional enamel paint.

Similarities

• Enamel cast iron and enamel steel sinks are used in kitchens and bathrooms. And they give owners something stainless steel sinks can’t provide -- color. Each comes in a wide variety of colors to blend in with kitchen and bath décor. They come in top-mount versions that drop into place and undermount versions that fit through openings from underneath countertops. They are also heavier than their stainless steel competitor, and they hide water spots and streaks better. The only exception is dark colored sinks, like black, which will show spots and streaks and consequently, need to be cleaned more frequently to keep the surface tidy.

Comparison

• Enamel steel sinks are lighter in weight than cast iron sinks. They also have a shorter life than enamel cast iron. The heavy weight of cast iron forms a tighter seal between the sink and the countertop on self-rimming models, which makes it harder for water to seep under the sink rim. This is a big problem with enamel steel sinks. As they age the welding of the enamel coating pops off, leaving a gap and exposing the steel surface. In time, the steel rusts and corrodes and the enamel coating flakes and chips. The underside of the enamel steel sink bowl will also rust and corrode, especially in the areas closest to the plumbing and drain pipes. Some newer, top-mounted enamel steel sinks have a plastic glue-on overflow material on the edges to help prevent or slow corrosion around the perimeter of the bowl to keep the sink looking better longer.

Costs

• Prices for enamel steel sinks start around $40 for bathroom sinks and $80 for kitchen sinks. Prices for enamel cast iron sinks start around $70 for bathroom sinks and $150 for kitchen sinks, at publication. Colored sinks cost more for kitchen and bath sinks of both types.