Friday 10 July 2009

Most Popular Sink - The Superior Quality Belfast Sink

The first in this series of 10 articles - Number One Sink - The Superior Quality Belfast Sink

The Superior Quality Belfast Sink is the top selling ceramic sink. This style of traditional Belfast sink has gained hugely in popularity over the past few years, and suits every kind of kitchen style, from traditional farmhouse to classic Shaker and even sleek contemporary schemes. Unfortunately for the consumer, the soaring interest in this vintage style sink has resulted in an influx of inferior quality products on the market that might seem good value but will never be as hard wearing as a quality product. With Belfast sinks, it really does hold true that you get what you pay for. The Superior Quality Belfast Sink is made from the finest quality ceramic to ensure long-lasting results and a kitchen sink that will last a lifetime. The reason this sink stands out from the crowd is because it's manufactured from superior fireclay as opposed to the standard ball clay. Using fireclay ensures the sink will be incredibly hard wearing with a beautiful finish that will stand the test of time.

People often wonder what the difference is between a Belfast sink and a Butler sink. Originally, when they first came into being in the late 17th century, both sinks were designed to go in the butler's pantry, but the models made in Belfast all had a Weir Overflow, while those manufactured in London didn't. It's always useful for the customer researching this style of classic sink to bear this in mind to avoid confusion. The Superior Quality Belfast Sink, as its name would suggest, has a Weir overflow.

This single bowl Belfast sink has the mark of quality with the manufacturer's logo embossed on the side wall of the sink, which adds to its vintage look. The ceramic sink will accommodate a 60mm basket strainer waste and can be fitted into a standard 600mm kitchen unit for a look that's perfectly in keeping with traditional country kitchens.

Although traditional fireclay sinks are very durable and easy to maintain, you can keep your Belfast sink looking in tip top condition by following a few simple guidelines. Never put a plastic washing up bowl in the sink as the dirt that accumulates on the base of the bowl can scratch the ceramic sink. Be gentle when placing pots and pans in the sink.

Being heavy handed will not only damage a ceramic sink but will result in pans becoming dented, too. Keep your vintage style sink in premium condition by cleaning with a non-abrasive cleaner such as washing up liquid, which should eliminate everyday stains like coffee and wine. For tougher stains, like the thin grey lines from aluminium saucepans, the sink manufacturers recommend the use of a specialist cleaning product like Astonish, which is especially formulated for fireclay ceramic sinks and is available to order from sinks.co.uk.

Fitting this classic Belfast sink is a straightforward process as it comes supplied with a longbolt and metal and polypropylene washers to ensure a tight fit on the waste. The Superior Quality Belfast Sink with Weir Overflow measures 595 x 455 x 255mm.