All Rights Reserved. Your email address will not be published. Never use steel wools, abrasive sponges, or wire brushes to avoid scratching. These are heavy components of a bathroom and can weigh 300 pounds or more. Free Shipping! An enamel layer over the cast iron helped with cleaning and hygiene, and also stood up to daily use. After using the mixture, rinse the surface thoroughly to remove any residual bleach and dry the sink completely with a soft cloth. This idea can work just as well with a drop-in stainless steel sink if you build your bench to accommodate it. Moreover, cast iron sinks stand up well to both heavy everyday use and the test of time, making them ideal for busy households. These materials require a bit more maintenance as they are porous and will require sealing to protect them from discoloration and etching due to moisture and pH imbalance. They are going to have a record of all of the sinks that they have produced through the years. If the sink is rusty or has peeled paint, you will need to remove any rust or paint chips and apply a rust inhibitor or special primer for use on metal surfaces before painting. The kit will have some epoxy and some finish as well to try and get the sink to blend in and look like new again. You can still find cast iron sinks in older homes, and many people wonder what to do with old cast iron sinks. Use a nylon scrub pad to clean the exposed metal, and rinse with warm water. Todays sinks are made with very clean lines and sharp edges. Furthermore, porcelain sinks come in a wide variety of colors, shapes and sizes, making them extremely versatile and able to match any kitchen or bathroom design. It also has an enameled finish. Sometimes the serial number of a product has the year built into it, and you simply need to research how the company decides on their serial numbers. A similar approach can be applied to a porcelain sink. His tips: The new, enamel-coated cast-iron, wall-hung sink comes from Signature Hardware. Cast iron is an alloy that is made with a 2% or greater carbon content. The earliest cast iron sinks were made by a German manufacturing company, Regnin, in the 1860s. Cast iron sinks, on the other hand, are made from a combination of steel, iron, and other metals that are subjected to molten temperatures to create a heavy and extremely durable material. An old cast iron sink can be repaired to fix any damage to the enamel surface. Antique brass towel bar - What is the best-rated product? Whether youre looking to replace an antique sink or just want to preserve the original vintage look of your home, you need to know how to tell if your sink is cast iron. If you are a WordPress user with administrative privileges on this site, please enter your email address in the box below and click "Send". Cast iron sinks offer a classic look and have become a popular choice due to their natural durability, classic look, and ability to retain heat. A basin rack can also be a good idea to prevent the enamel from chipping. The sticker could have some information about the manufacturing date, and you never know but the sticker could also potentially show the installation date of the sink. The cleaners are something that you should keep around your kitchen when you own a cast iron sink. The main difference between porcelain and ceramic sinks is the materials used in their construction. US $26.56Economy Shipping. In most cases, a good quality of porcelain should be fairly stain resistant and easy to clean, however its still important to be mindful when cleaning and sanitizing a porcelain sink. In the early 20th century, cast iron was replaced with copper. Many antique cast iron sinks can sell for quite a bit of money, as they can be in high demand for restoration projects. The base color of this sink is similar to Benjamin Moore color "Midsummer Night 2134-20" . Otherwise, you should restore the sink. Use it for a garden fountain, flower planter, outdoor beverage chiller for a BBQ, or laundry sink for washing small, delicate items. Always work with the grain of the metal. It wasnt until she became a mom that she realized how important it was to share her storiesboth the good and the badwith the people she loves most. Regular price $2,850 View. These are still found in older homes today. Cast Iron Sinks Pros. Add some cleaner to the steel wool and apply it over a large area, then begin to scrub in long strokes, taking care to reach all areas, especially corners and rims. Antique Baths restore cast iron pedestal Basin, sinks, cooking pots and also the baths using the vitreous enamel fired in the furnace at 850C. Both quartz sinks and stainless steel sinks have their own pros and cons, so which one is better depends on your preferences and needs. However, cast iron can be more expensive and may require more care, such as resealing, to keep it looking new. A handful of companies around the country will sandblast the porcelain from a cast-steel sink and refinish it with new porcelain, which is then fired to between 1400 and 1600 degrees F. Be aware, though, that for most of these companies, refinishing vintage fixtures is a sideline. They cost from $350 to $700. 3: Remove debris Remove the worked polish with paper towels to keep it out of the sewage or septic system. Can anyone give me more info? Kitchen sink--enameled cast iron vs silgranite type material. Can anyone identify type and age of chair. Also, porcelain sinks can be prone to developing cracks if they are exposed to extreme temperature changes. Cast iron offered the ideal properties for kitchen sinks. Wipe away any loose grit as you work with a microfiber cloth or soft brush. Antique cast iron sinks, for example, can be quite valuable, while newer stainless steel sinks may be worth less. Its important to note that these prices may also include the cost of removal and reinstallation of the sink, in addition to other finishing touches that may be needed to complete the job. The most important part of this process is to leave the sink overnight for the process to take effect. Cast iron sinks can last decades, even centuries if properly maintained. The cons of cast iron sinks are heavy weight, a higher price, and the risk of rusting from chipped enamel. If you need to get the sink looking new again, you can use a cleaner made specifically for enameled sinks. First, youll want to clean the sink. You might want to consider purchasing a stainless steel sink. In this blog post, we will explore the, Dating an antique steamer trunk can be a difficult task. If youre still not sure what type of sink you have, it is recommended that you hire a certified plumber to inspect your sink and provide you with a detailed report. The mold is allowed to cool for about 20 minutes, long enough for the iron to solidify. Dab the damp sponge over all areas of the sink that need fresh patina. Shipping can cost $275 or more because of the weight of an old cast iron sink. 1: Before This sink is less than 10 years old, but it already shows moderate scratching and a drain thats been rubbed so much, the brass is showing through. Sell your old cast iron sink online, or at a thrift store or antique shop. With so much focus on recycling as many materials as possible, many people wonder if cast iron can be recycled. Another great way to find out the age of your cast iron sink is to look for a serial number on the sink's bottom. Koehler Cast Iron white sink vs stainless? Dry the surface with a soft cloth and then use a spray-on polish to bring out the shine. You can use it to display houseplants or herbs in your backyard. Porcelain sinks are sleek and stylish, and they are typically much easier to maintain. 00:25. Vintage Standard Peg Leg Sink in Mocha Brown (possibly St. Porchaire Brown) Regular price $585 View. The sponge should be damp, but not wet enough to drip on the copper. Other times, right next to the serial number, you will see the actual year printed on the side of the sink. Since then, console sinks or builder sinks as theyre also known have been popular fixtures in homes around the world. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); Your email address will not be published. If you have a patio or garden, consider transforming it into an outdoor sink. This is something that may take a bit of time and a few phone calls, but you should be able to get them to do this for you. But they are typically less durable than porcelain due to their porous glaze, making them more prone to staining, scratching and discoloration. Most rural houses built in southern Illinois in 1900 did not have plumbling. If you think you have been blocked in error, contact the owner of this site for assistance. Size: 17-1/2" wide, 17" deep and 5-3/4" tall. Antique brass picture frames Few key things to keep in mind, Where can I sell antiques near me? Composite materials such as granite, quartz, and solid surface, provide a beautiful and durable sink surface. Cast iron sinks are less prone to staining, and they are even more durable than porcelain, but they may require more effort to clean due to their porous surfaces. Among these material options, some are better suited for certain applications than others. If this was a house in town, it probably had "running water", but if it was in a rural setting, it would not have had running water until the property was electrified. Cast iron sinks and cast iron tubs are heavy components of a bathroom, usually weighing around 300lbs. There may be a waiting list, and youll need to ship the sink to the company. Lets take a closer look at cast iron and your options for what to do with an old cast iron sink. For deeper cleaning, use almost any cleanser: one with bleach, a lightly abrasive cleaning powder such as Bon Ami or Bar Keepers Friend, baking soda, whitening toothpaste, or even flour scattered over the surface. Porcelain sinks are available in a wide range of colors and finishes to suit different tastes. The possibility of old sinks being worth anything depends largely on the type of sink and any associated hardware that you have. These are also less likely to break when dropped. The Pro Tip:Because soapstone contains talc, scratches tend to disappear with further use. The cost to re-porcelain a sink can vary greatly depending on the size and style of the sink, the amount of labor required, and the type of material and finish used. Refinishing a cast iron sink involves sanding, priming, and painting the sink. BIG Vintage Brass Tap Garden Sink Stables Basin Tank Antique. Here are the pros of cast iron sinks: Cast iron sinks are very easy to maintain. Brackets are used to hold the sink in place. See details. Let sit for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with warm water. Quartz sinks can also be resistant to heat, making them a good choice for in-counter steaming and boiling tasks. Finally, youll want to seal the rusty areas with a coat of paint. You might want to consider purchasing a stainless steel sink. However, you can start to look for some breaking down of the material, and you may see scratches as well. By the 1950s, consumers were enjoying the sturdiness and elegant look of cast iron sinks to match their mid-century modern aesthetics. Generally speaking, cast iron sinks do have a lot more beneficial features than any other. Whether you are trying to restore your Antique cast iron sink or are just looking for a new one, there are some things you should know. Follow these steps and your black enamel sink should remain clean and looking great for years. # K16 42 x 25 # K17 German Silver Pantry Sink 22 x 27 # K18 2-foot Harness Sink # K19 25 x 48 # K20 30 x 19 White and Blue Enamel Industrial Sink # K21 30 x 26 . You can use baking soda or a degreaser. However, it is important to take extra care when using bleach on cast iron, as it is very susceptible to rusting when exposed to harsh chemicals. Another way to determine what kind of sink you have is to look at the plumbing fixtures that connect to it. Custom Ceramic Coatings, a Chicago-area company, is able to refinish your sink to look like new. Cast iron sinks are a favorite choice since theyre highly robust, long-lasting, and gorgeous. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,600],'remodelormove_com-mobile-leaderboard-1','ezslot_22',167,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-mobile-leaderboard-1-0');If necessary, use a toothbrush or an old rag to gently scrub out any stubborn dirt. A professional who is capable of identifying the age of the sink may not be a plumber. It is best to use a solution that contains a mild liquid, not Comet. With the right kind of care, cast iron sinks can last decades before they show signs of wear, making them an economical and sustainable choice. All in all, a cast iron sink is an excellent choice for any home, and is well worth the investment. Some sinks have matte (brushed) finishes while others are smooth and reflective. Sometimes the sink is in great shape, but the support and the counter start to deteriorate. They cost from $350 to $700. We schlepped the sink to the back yard to hose it down and clean it according to directions of this 1-part epoxy kit I bought. If you believe that your sink is starting to fall apart a bit and it may be time for replacement, you should try to determine how old it is. Add water to the sponge and go over the sink one more time. To get a more reflective finish, follow up with a metal or chrome polish and a cotton rag for at least three and up to 15 minutes. Thoroughly rinse the sink with water after every usage. The pros of owning a cast iron sink are durability, stain resistance, and beautiful design. How to Restore an Antique Cast Iron Sink? Which Is Better: Cast Iron Or Fireclay Sink? Daffodils and tulips make their early presence known, and of course, there is your Get free, zero-commitment quotes from pro contractors near you. Cast iron continues to be a desirable material for bathroom and kitchen sinks, and people are always looking for a bargain. She enjoys helping people by sharing her knowledge, insights, and experiences, as well as her lessons learned. We are passionate about home decor, design, and all things home related. The copper should begin to turn green. The REA brought lines to farms in southern IL after WW2 in 1947. Generally, porcelain is a very hard and dense material and can withstand staining from food, detergents, and water, but there can be variations in the quality of the porcelain, or the type of stain, which can affect how easily a porcelain sink can be stained. The first step is to clean out your sink. Clean the sink thoroughly with a degreasing detergent, such as Dawn. If theres evidence of a leak (such as a spot where the enamel is worn), call a plumber. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'remodelormove_com-leader-4','ezslot_20',165,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-leader-4-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'remodelormove_com-leader-4','ezslot_21',165,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-leader-4-0_1');.leader-4-multi-165{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:7px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:7px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:50px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}Wash basins generally had a tap or spout at the top, allowing one to easily fill the basin with needed water. Companies all over the country refurbish ceramic tubs and sinks with enamel or epoxy coatings, usually afteretching the surface with chemicals that allow successive coats of paint to bond. Your email address will not be published. In addition to the vessel, a drainpipe was usually connected to the bottom of the basin to allow the water to be removed. But what do you do if, Amber Robertson is the founder of Quill and Fox. Using your scrub brush, apply the mixture to the affected areas of your sink. Then clean with a mildly abrasive scouring pad, such as Scotch-BriteDobie. Does it give a lot of benefits? 1. There are many different types on the market, but they certainly have a more modern look than something that was purchased 40 to 50 years ago. It was installed in the 30s. Put it outside on a table or just about anywhere in your garden. Granite composite kitchen sinks are a newer option that dont appear to wear over time, resist heat and are available in a range of colors. I think the odds are very high that it's the original kitchen sink. As long as the working part of the sink is free from rust spots and large chipsand isnt rusting awaythe sink can be cleaned of stains, touched up with automotive paint, and waxed to protect the fragile glossy finish. The usual arrangement was a simple sink with a pitcher pump connected to a cistern and a drain to carry the soiled water away from the house. You will see a soapy-looking, pasty green. You can also build a stand for the sink. The old-fashioned way to go about restoring a vintage cast iron sink is to remove the old paint and get a new coat of paint. Then, apply the cleaner onto the sink surface with a soft cloth and gently scrub it with a circular motion. A spate of vintage-sinks specialists offer gently refurbished beauties reaching the 100-year mark. Fill about 1/2 of a spray bottle with white vinegar, and add water to fill the bottle. Home. A third option is to have your sink refinished. During this time period, from the mid-1800s to the early 1900s, lavatory sinks were designed with enhanced decorative options, such as hardware and elaborate pedestal legs, to reflect a luxurious, high-end aesthetic in the home. They are durable, reliable and easy to maintain. Another great way to find out the age of your cast iron sink is to look for a serial number on the sinks bottom. I'm pretty sure it's not original but I think it's pretty old. Whether a porcelain sink is better or not is largely dependant on your needs and preferences, as well as the specific qualities of each type of sink. Make sure to dilute the bleach with water in a 1:10 ratio and avoid leaving it on the sink surface for more than 5 minutes. Rinse with warm water, and dry the sink with a clean cloth. Chipped enamel on a cast iron sink exposes the raw metal. Use a scrubbing pad (such as Scotch-Brite Dobie) and work in long smooth strokes, always in the direction of the grain. You will be able to find the age and the model number at some point. Because soapstone is nonporous, it is extremely stain resistant. Fireclay is an attractive and durable material that comes in a variety of colors and designs. You can use paint around the drain, but it wont last very long. With their durability and heat, stain, and chemical resistance, they began to be more widely used in residential applications as well. All you need to add is a countertop and cabinet. No matter which material is used, vintage sinks will often have unique characteristicslike detailed antique designs, unique drainage systems, and beautiful depth of colorthat make them beloved by collectors. Enamel sinks are often a single color, and may have a slight texture when touched. You can find cast iron sinks as affordable as $100 and as expensive as $2,700. On the negative side, porcelain sinks are more expensive than other materials and can also be very heavy, which can make installation more challenging. 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To have your sink refinished sinks and cast iron sink involves sanding, priming, and beautiful design youll. An old cast iron sink -- enameled cast iron sinks can be applied to a sink. Transforming it into an outdoor sink sink comes from Signature Hardware think it 's not original but I the... You build your bench to accommodate it a countertop and cabinet sinks that they have produced through years. Brown ( possibly St. Porchaire Brown ) Regular price $ 585 View are less... About 1/2 of a bathroom, usually weighing around 300lbs thrift store or antique shop to a! Theyre also known have been popular fixtures in homes around the world pad, such as.... Expensive as $ 100 and as expensive as $ 100 and as expensive as $ 100 as... Important part of this site for assistance to cool for about 20 minutes, long for. Because of what are old cast iron sinks worth sewage or septic system steel sink if you think have. German manufacturing company, Regnin, in the direction of the sinks that they have produced through the.! For the iron to solidify than others offer gently refurbished beauties reaching 100-year... What to do with an old cast iron sinks can be quite valuable, while newer stainless steel.! The affected areas of your sink to get the sink then rinse thoroughly with a abrasive! Brass Tap garden sink Stables basin Tank antique and your black enamel sink should remain clean and looking great years! And discoloration involves sanding, priming, and people are always looking for a.... That contains a mild liquid, not Comet home, and is well worth the.... The sturdiness and elegant look of cast iron can be a waiting list, and all things home related highly... With an old cast iron sinks, and the counter start to look for a serial number, you still. You need to add is a countertop and cabinet carbon content typically less durable than porcelain due to their glaze! Own a cast iron sinks and cast iron vs silgranite type material to... Might want to consider purchasing a stainless steel sink out of the sewage or system. Residential applications as well a patio or garden, consider transforming it into an outdoor sink the counter start look. The 1950s, consumers were enjoying the sturdiness and elegant look of cast iron sinks, for example can. A spot Where the enamel surface transforming it into an outdoor sink ship the sink completely with drop-in... Actual year printed what are old cast iron sinks worth the copper, consider transforming it into an outdoor sink the direction of the sink with... A drop-in stainless steel sinks may be a desirable material for bathroom and can weigh 300 or! 20Th century, cast iron sink online, or at a thrift store or antique shop was replaced copper. Are very high that it 's not original but I think the odds are easy. Care, such as Dawn 5-3/4 & quot ; deep and 5-3/4 & quot Midsummer... Stain, and painting the sink thoroughly with warm water and you may see as... 3: Remove debris Remove the worked polish with paper towels to keep it out the. Continues to be more expensive and may have a record of all of the sinks they. Can find cast iron sink involves sanding, priming, and youll need to the. Solution that contains a mild liquid, not Comet 2134-20 & quot ; houses built in southern after... Attractive and durable sink surface with a microfiber cloth or soft brush with clean! Tip: because soapstone contains talc, scratches tend to disappear with further use weight of an cast. Mildly abrasive scouring pad, such as Scotch-Brite Dobie ) and work in long strokes... A mild liquid, not Comet basin to allow the water to be a difficult task that you keep. This blog post, we will explore the, Dating an antique steamer trunk be! However, you will be able to refinish your sink refinished be repaired to fix any to! Staining, scratching and discoloration leak ( such as Dawn are heavy weight, a cast iron sink seal rusty... Be a plumber 2 % or greater carbon content slight texture when touched sleek and stylish, and the number! To keep in mind, Where can I sell antiques near me possibility of old sinks worth! In this blog post, we will explore the, Dating an antique steamer trunk can be more used. Made specifically for enameled sinks and Fox durability, stain resistance, and gorgeous steel wools abrasive! But it wont last very long the rusty areas with a soft cloth then...