What Type of Sink Is Best With Black Cast Iron Pans?

Stainless Steel

• Stainless steel sinks are among the most widely used sinks in modern kitchens. They offer excellent durability and won’t crack or chip like other products. The material is steel that has been combined with additional elements -- particularly nickel and chromium -- to increase its durability and make it resist staining and rusting. The gauge of the metal is an essential element in the amount of durability a sink will have. Common gauges range from 16, which is the thickest to 22 which is the thinnest. Scratching is the only serious problem associated with stainless steel.

Enameled Cast Iron

• An enameled cast iron sink is a cast iron sink that has been coated with a porcelain enamel. This combination is an extremely durable option and one of the most eco-friendly sink options for the home since much of the iron is reclaimed from other products. Cast iron doesn’t crack or dent as some solid surfaces do and has among the longest life spans on the market. It is resistant to staining and water spots and is easy to clean. If knocked hard enough, the enamel has the potential to chip, and scuffing from heavy pots and pans is sometimes problematic, though both are repairable.

Integral Solid Surface

• There are a number of solid surface sinks to choose from, each of which are man-made, non-porous and highly durable. Two of the most common material choices are DuPont’s Corian and Corinthian; both are available from most home improvement stores. These products are colored all the way through, meaning scratches are less visible than with other materials and require just a little buffing to be removed. They are fairly lightweight, affordable and resistant to heat damage. Cleaning tends to be a bit more difficult than with other materials, and some require specially made cleaners.

Other Options

• There are more than a dozen options when it comes to sink materials; some will withstand the weight and scratching commonly associated with cast-iron pots and pans. Acrylic sinks are usually the most affordable sink but lack the durability of costlier options. The sink will resemble an enameled cast iron sink but has only a fraction of the durability. Copper and concrete are among the most durable options on the market, and both have a long life span but a fairly high price tag. China, glass and stone are perhaps too fragile for homes with cast iron pots and pans. These materials are prone to scratching, chipping and cracking if struck too hard, meaning their aesthetic appeal and life span are significantly reduced.