Stainless steel and aluminum are common metals that we come into contact with daily. They both have their own unique properties and uses. The two metals are used in manufacturing different products and one such product is the kitchen sink.
If you have a stainless steel sink and are wondering if it is really stainless steel? Or maybe you are not even sure what kind of sink you have and want to know how to identify if what you have is an aluminum sink or a stainless steel one.
In this article, we will discuss the differences between aluminum and stainless steel sinks and help you identify which one is which. We will also take a look at the pros and cons of each type of sink so that you can make an informed decision about which one is best for your home.
What Is Stainless Steel?
Stainless steel is an alloy of iron, chromium, and other metals. It is a very strong and durable metal that is resistant to corrosion and rust. Stainless steel sinks are usually made from a single sheet of metal and they have a shiny, smooth surface.
What Is Aluminum?
Aluminum is a soft, lightweight metal. It is also resistant to corrosion but not as much as stainless steel. They often have a brushed finish which gives them a matte look. It is the most abundant metal on earth and pure aluminum doesn’t occur in nature because it easily binds with other elements.
How To Tell The Difference Between Stainless Steel And Aluminum Sinks
Though they are both made from metals, stainless steel sinks and aluminum sinks have key differences. Here are a few ways that you can tell the difference between stainless steel and aluminum sinks.
1. Surface Look
One way is to look at the surface of the sink. Stainless steel sinks will have a smooth, shiny surface. Aluminum sinks will have a brushed finish which gives them a matte look or a gray color with a dull sheen. This is one of the easiest ways to identify which sink you have. With just a quick glance, you should be able to tell which one is which. Generally, stainless steel is going to have a brighter, shinier surface.
2. Weight Of The Sink
Stainless steel sinks are also going to be much heavier than aluminum sinks. This is because stainless steel is a much denser metal than aluminum. If you pick up both types of sinks, you will definitely notice the difference in weight. The same volume of stainless steel is going to weigh about twice as much as aluminum.
This test may be a little bit difficult to do if you have a sink that is already installed. Also, it may require a little bit of experience to be able to tell the difference by weight.
3. Scratch Resistance
One of the fast and easiest ways to know whether your sink is stainless steel or aluminum is by conducting a scratch test. You can do this with a metal object such as a key or a knife. While this may not be ideal for you to do because it will leave scratch marks on your sink, I have to mention it for informational purposes. If you decide to use this method, don’t use it in the visible area of your sink. Rather, choose a hidden area such as under the sink.
Now, with your key or knife, try to scratch the surface of the sink with the same amount of pressure. If the sink is stainless steel, you will see that it will leave a scratch mark but will require quite a bit of pressure to do so. An aluminum sink on the other hand will scratch deeply with just a little effort because aluminum is a softer metal as compared to stainless steel.
4. Magnetic Attraction
This is another quick and easy test that you can do to know if your sink is aluminum or stainless steel. Take a magnet and see if it sticks to your sink. Under normal circumstances, aluminum is non-magnetic. This means that a magnet should not be able to stick to an aluminum sink. If the magnet does stick, then this is an indication that your sink is not aluminum.
On the other hand, if you have a stainless steel sink, the magnet should be able to stick to it. This is because stainless steel contains a small amount of iron which makes it magnetic.
Keep in mind that this test will only work if your sink is made from pure aluminum or your stainless sink contains iron. If you have a stainless sink that does not contain iron, then the magnet will not be attracted to it.
Now that we’ve gone over a few ways that you can tell the difference between aluminum and stainless steel sinks, let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each type of sink.
Pros Of Aluminum Sinks
1. Aluminum Sinks Are Ligh Weight
One of the biggest advantages of aluminum sinks is that they are very lightweight. This makes them easy to install and move around. If you need to replace your sink, an aluminum sink will be much easier to handle than a stainless steel sink.
2. Aluminum Sinks Are Not Very Expensive
Another advantage of aluminum sinks is that they are not very expensive. This makes them a great option if you are on a budget. Compared to stainless steel, ceramic, or porcelain sinks, aluminum sinks are definitely more affordable.
3. Aluminum Sinks Are Easy To Clean
Another great thing about aluminum sinks is that they are very easy to clean. Using normal dish soap and a soft sponge, you should be able to clean your sink without any problem.
Cons Of Aluminum Sinks
1. Aluminum Sinks Are Not Very Durable
One of the biggest disadvantages of aluminum sinks is that they are not as durable as stainless steel sinks. If you are looking for a sink that will last for many years, aluminum may not be the best option.
2. Aluminum Sinks Will Scratch Easily
Aluminum sinks are more likely to dent and scratch than stainless steel sinks. With minimum pressure, you can easily scratch an aluminum sink. They are like that because aluminum metal is soft.
Pros Of Stainless Steel Sinks
Stainless steel sinks are a great option for both indoor and outdoor kitchens. Here are some of the other benefits of stainless steel sinks.
1. Stainless Steel Sinks Are Durable
One of the biggest advantages of stainless steel sinks is that they are very durable. They can withstand a lot of wear and tear. Stainless steel is an alloy of iron, chromium, nickel, and other metals, and it is this combination of metals that makes it so strong and resistant to wear and tear. They do not chip or crack easily and are resistant to stains.
2. Stainless Steel Sinks Resist Corrosion
The composition of steel, that is, an alloy of iron, chromium, and other metals helps to resist corrosion. The chromium forms a thin layer of oxide on the surface of the steel that protects it from oxygen and moisture. This layer is self-repairing, meaning that any damage will quickly heal itself. With proper care and precaution, you can keep your sink shining at all times.
3. They Do Well With Dents And Scratches
Stainless steel is a very tough material and is resistant to dents and scratches. However, it is important to note that while it is resistant, it is not completely immune. With enough force, stainless steel can be dented or scratched.
4. Stainless Steel Sinks Are Easy To Maintain
Another great thing about stainless steel sinks is that they are very easy to maintain. As we mentioned before, the chromium oxide layer on the surface of the sink helps to resist corrosion and the smooth finish makes the sink very easy to clean. All you need is a mild detergent and a soft cloth to keep your sink looking new.
Cons Of Stainless Steel Sinks
1. Stainless Steel Can Be Noisy
If you are looking for a sink that is silent, then stainless steel may not be the best option. When washing dishes especially, it will never be a quiet moment with a stainless steel sink. The sink can produce loud sounds when it comes in contact with other hard objects. But some higher-end stainless steel sinks come with sound-deadening pads on the underside of the sink that help to reduce the noise.
2. Limited Options In Color And Finish
When it comes to stainless steel sinks, you are limited to the options in color and finish. Unlike other materials such as ceramic or porcelain, there are only a few colors and finishes that you can choose from. The color mostly will be silver.
Final Thoughts
Aluminum and stainless steel differ in looks and performance. While aluminum is less durable, it is still a great choice for sinks because of its low price and easy maintenance. Stainless steel, on the other hand, is more expensive but will last longer. It also has a modern look that can complement any kitchen design. So, which material is better for your sink? Both options have their pros and cons, so it really depends on what you are looking for in a kitchen sink. Thanks for reading.