Farmhouse Sinks

⭐ Farmhouse Sinks (Apron Front Sinks) — Modern Farmhouse Style, Deep Capacity & Superior Durability

Farmhouse sinks—also known as apron-front sinks—bring a blend of rustic charm and modern performance to today’s kitchens. Their deep basin, exposed front panel, and ergonomic design make them one of the most popular choices for family kitchens and high-use cooking environments.

Whether you're upgrading to a 33-inch farmhouse sink, choosing a double bowl 50/50 apron sink, or looking for a scratch-resistant stainless steel model, DHKSINK offers a selection built for durability, easy cleaning, and long-term kitchen performance.

• CUPC: Your plumber won't reject our sinks—guaranteed code compliance
• BSCI: Workers are paid fairly, work reasonable hours—ethical supply chain
• ISO 9001: Every sink meets the same spec as the one we shipped to Kraus
• 304 Steel: Lifetime rust resistance, food-safe, 100% recyclable

Size & Configuration Matrix - Find Your Perfect Fit

• Smooth Flat Front → Modern, minimalist kitchens
• Creased/Ribbed Front → Traditional, farmhouse aesthetic
• Workstation Ledge → Functional, professional kitchens

Why Homeowners Choose a Farmhouse Sink?

A Statement Piece for Modern Kitchens

The exposed apron front instantly becomes the visual centerpiece of the kitchen—perfect for modern farmhouse, industrial, and transitional design styles.

Deep Basins for Serious Cooking

Farmhouse sinks typically offer much deeper capacity than regular sinks, making it easier to wash:

• Large pots

• Baking trays

• Oversized cookware

• Woks & pans

33-inch double bowl farmhouse sinks are especially popular for families who need extra working space.

Ergonomic & Comfortable

The forward-facing apron reduces the need to lean over the countertop, giving better comfort during long dishwashing sessions.

Durable Stainless Steel Construction

DHKSINK farmhouse sinks are made from SUS304 stainless steel, available in 16-gauge thickness for improved:

• Dent resistance

• Sound insulation

• Water stains reduction

• Long-term surface stability

The Material Showdown - Fireclay vs. Stainless Steel Farmhouse Sinks

Our Verdict: For active kitchens with kids and heavy cookware, stainless steel delivers 90% of the farmhouse look at 60% of the cost and 1/3 the installation complexity.

Farmhouse Sink vs Traditional Kitchen Sink (Comparison Table)

What to Consider Before Choosing a Farmhouse Sink?

1. Sink Size (Most Popular: 33-Inch)

Choose based on your cabinet base and usage:

• 30 inch → small to medium kitchens

• 33 inch → most common & balanced

• 36 inch → large kitchens with high cooking volume

2. Single vs Double Bowl

• Single Bowl: best for large cookware & baking trays

• Double Bowl (50/50 or 60/40): multitasking (wash & prep at same time)

3. Material & Finish

Why stainless steel farmhouse sinks are trending：

• Industrial modern look

• Lightweight compared to fireclay

• Scratch-resistant with brushed finish

• Easy installation & replacement

• Greater durability for busy kitchens

4. Countertop Compatibility

Farmhouse sinks are compatible with:

• Quartz

• Granite

• Composite stone

• Butcher block

• Solid surface

Featured Product: 33-Inch Double Bowl Stainless Steel Farmhouse Sink

How to Install a Farmhouse Sink (Step-by-Step Overview)

1. Measure cabinet base and sink width

2. Prepare apron-front support frame

3. Cut the countertop to match apron dimensions

4. Place sink into the opening

5. Connect drain & plumbing

6. Apply silicone for sealing

7. Install accessories (grids, strainers, etc.)

How to Clean & Maintain a Stainless Steel Farmhouse Sink?

• Rinse after each use to prevent water marks

• Use soft cloth and mild cleaning agents

• Avoid steel wool to maintain brushed finish

• Use sink grids to protect the bottom

• Dry after cleaning to reduce mineral spots

How to Choose the Right Farmhouse Sink for Your Kitchen Layout?

1. Confirm cabinet compatibility

2. Decide between single bowl or double bowl

3. Choose gauge thickness（16 gauge recommended）

4. Match sink finish with kitchen appliances

5. Consider accessories:

• Stainless steel sink grids

• Drain strainers

• Cutting boards for workstation sinks

From Coil to Kitchen: The DHK Farmhouse Sink Manufacturing Journey

Stage 1: Material Selection & Laser Cutting

Raw Material Arrival

Every morning, 18-gauge SUS304 stainless steel coils arrive at our 10,000m² facility. Before acceptance, our QC team verifies:

• Composition: 18% chromium, 8% nickel (certified 304-grade)
• Thickness: 1.2mm minimum (prevents denting under heavy loads)
• Gauge consistency: ±0.05mm tolerance across 2-ton coils

• Apron front panels: Zero-radius corners for modern aesthetics
• Basin templates: Optimized to maximize usable space
• Drain openings: Precisely centered to 3.5" standard for universal disposal fit
• Tolerance: ±0.5mm accuracy—critical for seamless apron-to-counter alignment

Capacity: 500 sink components cut per 8-hour shift

Stage 2: Hand-Welding & Seam Fusion

Master Craftsmen at Work

Our 50+ welders average 4 years of DHK experience. Each farmhouse sink requires:

• 6 major welds: Apron-to-basin, basin corners, drain collar
• TIG welding process: Argon gas shield prevents oxidation, ensuring food-safe seams
• Penetration depth: 2.5mm minimum—exceeds industry standard by 20%
• Visual inspection: Each weld is mirror-finished; no pits, gaps, or burn-through

• Adjust heat input for material variations
• Reinforce high-stress points (apron corners) with extra passes
• Create true zero-radius corners—not possible with mass stamping

Daily output: 200-250 sinks welded per line (400 total)

Stage 3: Surface Finishing & Nano-Coating

• 180-grit abrasive belts: Create uniform satin grain that hides scratches
• Directional consistency: All strokes follow apron vertical axis for visual flow
• Edge softening: All sharp edges radiused to R0.5mm (prevents cut hands)

• Application: Electrochemical bonding at 60°C
• Thickness: 5-8 microns—invisible to eye but repels water
• Hardness: 9H pencil hardness rating (resists most scratches)
• Testing: Survives 10,000+ scrub cycles with Brillo pad

Stage 4: Sound-Dampening & Insulation

• 3mm rubber pads: Applied to basin bottom and all four sides
• Coverage: 95% surface area (highest in industry)
• Decibel reduction: 40% quieter than uncoated sinks (tested at 72dB → 43dB)
• Thermal benefit: Reduces condensation on cabinet interiors

Comparison: Fireclay sinks amplify noise due to their dense, rigid structure. Our steel + rubber combination absorbs vibrations.

Stage 5: Quality Control - 23-Point Inspection

• Material certifications
• Weld cross-section photos
• Coating thickness measurements
• Sound level test reports

Pass rate: 94% ship directly; 6% go to rework station

Stage 6: Certification & Compliance

• CUPC testing: Samples sent to IAPMO for plumbing code verification (4-week cycle)
• BSCI audit: Annual social compliance review—ethical labor verified
• ISO 9001: Quarterly internal audits, annual external certification
• Material certs: Mill test reports trace every coil to its source

Why this matters: Your plumber won't reject our sinks. They're pre-approved for all North American installations.

Stage 7: Packaging & Shipping

• Inner layer: PE foam (3mm) wraps entire sink
• Corner protection: Reinforced cardboard braces at all 8 corners
• Outer carton: 5-ply corrugated, 44 ECT rating
• Palletization: For orders >10 units, stretch-wrapped to pallet

• Damage rate: <0.5% (industry average: 2-3%)
• Fulfillment time: In-stock items ship within 48 hours
• Capacity: 10,000 sinks/month = 333 units/day

Direct-to-consumer: We ship from factory to your door, eliminating retail handling damage.

FAQ

What is the drawback of a farmhouse sink?

The main drawbacks of farmhouse sinks are installation complexity and cost. Unlike drop-in sinks that simply rest on the countertop, farmhouse sinks require custom cabinet modifications, including removal of the false drawer front and installation of a support frame to bear the 80-150 lb weight. This adds $300-800 in installation costs compared to standard sinks. Additionally, the exposed apron front can be prone to scratching from belt buckles or chair backs in tight kitchens, and the deep basin (9-10") may be uncomfortable for shorter users who must lean further to reach the bottom. However, DHK's 18-gauge stainless steel models weigh 45-65 lbs—significantly lighter than fireclay—making them more DIY-friendly and requiring less cabinet reinforcement.

What to know before buying a farmhouse sink?

Before purchasing, verify three critical factors: 

First, cabinet structure—measure your base cabinet interior width and ensure it can support 100+ lbs (most standard cabinets need reinforcement). 

Second, apron protrusion—farmhouse sinks extend 2-3" beyond the cabinet face; confirm this won't interfere with drawers, appliances, or traffic flow. 

Third, material choice—fireclay offers a traditional look but chips and requires gentle cleaners; stainless steel (like DHK's 304-grade) provides superior durability, scratch resistance, and maintenance ease. 

Also consider bowl depth: 9" is standard, but DHK's workstation models offer integrated ledges that effectively reduce reach distance while adding functionality.

Are farmhouse sinks still in style in 2025?

Yes, farmhouse sinks remain a top kitchen trend in 2025, but with modern interpretations. While classic white fireclay apron-fronts still dominate traditional designs, the market has shifted toward stainless steel farmhouse sinks with minimalist, flat aprons for contemporary spaces. Mixed finishes (black apron with brass hardware) and workstation farmhouse sinks (integrated cutting boards, colanders) are the fastest-growing segments. A 2025 NKBA report shows farmhouse sinks in 34% of kitchen renovations, up from 28% in 2023. The key is selecting a model that balances rustic charm with modern functionality—DHK's smooth-front stainless designs bridge this gap perfectly.

Is farmhouse decor out of style in 2025?

Farmhouse decor has evolved, not disappeared. The "modern farmhouse" aesthetic—characterized by clean lines, mixed materials (wood + metal), and neutral palettes—remains strong in 2025. What is fading is the overly rustic, distressed look. Today's farmhouse sinks complement this evolution: stainless steel apron-fronts pair beautifully with walnut cabinetry and quartz countertops, offering warmth without kitsch. The trend is toward "refined farmhouse" where the sink serves as a functional focal point rather than a purely decorative element. DHK's OEM background with major brands ensures our designs align with where the market is heading, not where it's been.

What is the best material for a farmhouse sink?

For most homeowners in 2025, 18-gauge 304 stainless steel is the optimal farmhouse sink material. It combines durability (resists chipping, cracking, and thermal shock), low maintenance (clean with soap and water), and cost-effectiveness ($450-750 vs. $800-1,500 for fireclay). While fireclay offers classic aesthetics, it can crack if a heavy pot is dropped and requires non-abrasive cleaners to preserve the glaze. Composite granite is scratch-resistant but shows water spots and can be damaged by boiling water. DHK manufactures exclusively in stainless steel because our 8 years of OEM experience with Kraus and Moen proved it delivers 90% customer satisfaction over 10+ years—far exceeding other materials.

What is the downside of a fireclay sink?

Fireclay's primary downside is its brittleness and weight. Despite being marketed as durable, fireclay can chip or crack if you drop a heavy cast iron pan, and the glazed surface may develop "crazing" (fine cracks) over time. At 85-150 lbs, fireclay requires significant cabinet reinforcement and professional installation, adding $500-900 to your project cost. The glaze also limits cleaning options—abrasive powders or harsh chemicals like bleach will dull the finish. In contrast, DHK's stainless steel farmhouse sinks weigh 45-65 lbs, install in 2-3 hours, and handle any cleaner you throw at them. Our OEM clients shifted toward stainless precisely because fireclay's failure rate in shipping and installation was 3x higher.

Which is better, 18 gauge or 20 gauge stainless steel?

18 gauge is significantly better for farmhouse sinks. The difference is 1.2mm vs. 0.9mm thickness—25% more steel—which translates to dent resistance, sound dampening, and structural integrity. A 20-gauge sink will flex when you run the garbage disposal, creating noise and vibration. It also dents more easily from dropped cutlery or heavy pots. DHK uses 18-gauge 304 stainless steel exclusively because our OEM contracts with Kraus and Moen demanded it for warranty compliance. The upgrade from 20 to 18 gauge costs manufacturers only $15-20 per sink but doubles the perceived quality. For a farmhouse sink where the apron is a focal point, the rigidity of 18-gauge steel ensures the front stays perfectly flat and true for decades.

Do apron sinks require special cabinets?

1. Front removal: The false drawer front and support stile must be cut out to create the apron opening
2. Support frame: Two 2x4 horizontal supports installed at the sink's base height to bear the weight
3. Reinforced sides: Additional blocking may be needed for 100+ lb fireclay models

DHK's stainless steel farmhouse sinks (45-65 lbs) can often be installed in standard 30-36" base cabinets with minimal reinforcement. We provide a cutting template and video guide that lets DIYers modify existing cabinets in 2-3 hours. For new builds, simply specify "farmhouse sink cabinet" to your cabinet maker—they'll integrate the support into the carcass. The key is accurate measurement: the sink should sit 0.5-1" back from the cabinet face to protect the apron edge.

Can I put a farmhouse sink in existing cabinets?

• Removing the false drawer front and any center stile
• Cutting the cabinet face frame to create the apron opening (using our provided template)
• Installing 2x4 support braces at the correct height
• Sealing cut edges with polyurethane to prevent moisture damage

DHK's 25" and 28" stainless steel models are specifically designed for retrofit projects—they fit standard 27-30" base cabinets without requiring countertop replacement. The entire modification takes 2-4 hours with a jigsaw and drill. However, laminate countertops must be replaced (they can't be cut cleanly for the apron reveal), while stone/quartz countertops can be trimmed in-place. Our live install support team has guided 2,000+ customers through this process with a 98% success rate.

Can I put a garbage disposal in a farmhouse sink?

• Support: The disposal adds 15-20 lbs—ensure your cabinet support frame is robust
• Depth: Our 9-10" basins provide clearance even for large 1 HP units
• Sound: Pair with an 18-gauge sink (like DHK's) to minimize vibration noise
• Septic systems: Use a disposal designed for septic (e.g., InSinkErator Evolution Septic Assist)

Installation tip: Mount the disposal before lowering the sink into the cabinet. Our workstation models include a removable rubber seal that accommodates the disposal flange perfectly. Over 60% of our customers install disposals, and we provide a pre-drilled knockout for the air switch button in the apron front.

What is the most low maintenance kitchen sink?

• Daily: Rinse with hot water, wipe with microfiber cloth
• Weekly: Clean with dish soap and soft sponge
• Monthly: Remove mineral deposits with white vinegar if needed

DHK's nano-coating finish adds hydrophobic properties, making water and oil bead off and reducing cleaning frequency by 40%. The non-porous surface prevents bacterial growth, and unlike fireclay, you can use any cleaner—including Bar Keepers Friend for stubborn stains. Our OEM clients (Kraus, Moen) chose stainless steel over fireclay specifically because customer service calls about maintenance issues dropped by 70%. For busy families, stainless steel farmhouse sinks offer the beauty of an apron front with "wipe-and-go" convenience.

What type of sink is most scratch resistant?

DHK's 18-gauge stainless steel with nano-coating offers the best real-world scratch resistance. While a hard impact can create a fine scratch, our brushed finish makes them invisible (they blend with the grain). The nano-coating adds 9H pencil hardness, resisting 90% of daily wear. In our 8 years of OEM production, returns for "scratches" on stainless steel are 0.3% vs. 2.1% for fireclay (chips) and 1.7% for composite (permanent dullness). For actual durability under heavy use, stainless steel wins.

How far out should an apron sink sit?

DHK provides a protrusion gauge with every sink to ensure perfect positioning. For islands, a 2" reveal is ideal to avoid knee bumps. For perimeter cabinets, 2.5-3" creates better visual balance. The critical measurement is ensuring the apron clears any drawers or appliances—our 33" sink in a 36" cabinet yields a perfect 2.5" reveal that aligns with standard dishwasher depths.

What is the best countertop material for a farmhouse sink?

• Quartz: Non-porous, no sealing needed, fabricators can cut clean apron openings
• Granite: Extremely strong, handles 150+ lb fireclay loads, requires periodic sealing
• Solid surface (Corian): Seamless integration, can be thermoformed around apron
• Butcher block: Beautiful with stainless steel, but requires rigorous sealing to prevent rot
• Laminate: Not recommended—cannot be cut cleanly for apron reveal; will delaminate

DHK's stainless steel sinks pair beautifully with all stone materials. We've supplied 50,000+ units for quartz installations with zero compatibility issues. For budget projects, our 25" compact model works with laminate if you replace just the sink section with a stone remnant.

What is the difference between an apron sink and a farmhouse sink?

DHK perspective: After manufacturing 800,000+ units for clients like Kraus and Moen, we've learned that 90% of customers search for "farmhouse sink," so we use both terms for SEO. Our designs bridge the gap: smooth-front apron sinks suit modern kitchens, while ribbed-front models serve traditional farmhouse styles. The key is the exposed apron, which reduces reach distance and creates a focal point—regardless of design language.

Why does everyone want a farmhouse sink?

1. Nostalgia: The apron front evokes memories of grandmother's kitchen, creating emotional connection and perceived warmth—Zillow data shows homes with farmhouse sinks get 15% more inquiries

1. .
2. Functionality: The 9-10" basin depth and forward positioning reduce back strain when washing large pots. Our OEM clients report this is the #1 reason for repeat purchases.
3. Status signaling: In 2025, farmhouse sinks signal "serious kitchen" to buyers, similar to how granite countertops did in 2010. They're a visual shorthand for quality renovation.

DHK advantage: We deliver this emotional and functional value at 40-60% below retail by eliminating middlemen.

Why are Franke sinks so expensive?

• Swiss brand heritage: 100+ year history and perceived luxury
• European manufacturing: Higher labor and material costs than Asian production
• Specialty materials: Fragranite composite and fireclay command premiums
• Distribution: Multi-tier markup through showrooms and retailers

Value perspective: Franke's 18-gauge stainless steel sinks are excellent but use the same SUS304 material as DHK's $595 models. The 3x price difference reflects brand positioning, not 3x quality. 

What are the three types of sinks?

1. Topmount/Drop-in: Rim rests on countertop; easiest install, works with any counter material
2. Undermount: Mounted below counter; seamless look, requires solid-surface counters
3. Farmhouse/Apron-front: Exposed front panel; requires cabinet modification, combines deep basin with aesthetic focal point

• Workstation: Integrated ledges for accessories (boards, colanders)
• Flushmount: Sits nearly level with countertop (requires precise fabrication)
• Integrated: Molded into solid-surface countertop (Corian, quartz)