The cleaners are something that you should keep around your kitchen when you own a cast iron sink. If the majority of the sink is covered with enamel and free from rust, it is safe to use. The sponge should be damp, but not wet enough to drip on the copper. 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. Follow with 220-grit paper. 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. By Brittany Olizarowicz February 28, 2021. You can use baking soda or a degreaser. Stainless steel is an extremely durable material and is more resistant to scratches compared to other options such as ceramic and porcelain. Antique cast iron sinks, for example, can be quite valuable, while newer stainless steel sinks may be worth less. KITCHEN SINKS. Required fields are marked *. Is Antique cast iron sink worth anything? Like all things that are in our kitchen, the sink has a specific style to it. With the weight of a cast iron sink, it is very important to have something in place that helps to hold the sink up. Enamel sinks are often a single color, and may have a slight texture when touched. Porcelain sinks are available in a wide range of colors and finishes to suit different tastes. When you are cleaning an old cast iron sink, the goal is to remove the rust, grime, and bacteria from the metal. To even out the appearance of the sink, try this method, recommended by Dino Rachiele of Rachiele Sinks. Some can be more prone to staining, while others are less likely to retain stains or can be easily cleaned. Once the paint is dry, apply a sealer or clear coat to seal the paint. Item #: RMS33 . Consider the pros and cons of each material and your individual preferences to make the best decision. Another way to determine the age of a cast iron basin is to look for the model number. But demand is high (theres usually a waiting list measured in years rather than months); the heavy sink must be shipped to and from the factory; and the refinishing cost is comparable to the cost of a vintage or new cast-iron sink. These finishes are often glossy and colorful, so if the sink looks dull, its probably not cast iron. The possibility of old sinks being worth anything depends largely on the type of sink and any associated hardware that you have. Sink, vintage cast iron sink, enamel bathroom sink, soviet farmhouse sink, farm kitchen antique sink,rustic bathroom vanity with sink. First, the sink will need to be thoroughly scrubbed and cleaned to remove any residual dirt, dust, or debris. Its really worth it if there's some cool design on the top side and you can maintain the house's old character. An undermount sink attaches to the underside of your countertop. This 5-wide drainboard sink with legs is modeled closely on a 1920s original. You can find cast iron sinks as affordable as $100 and as expensive as $2,700. If you drop a dish in a stainless-steel sink, it is less likely to break than if it was dropped in a cast iron sink. However, cast iron sinks offer superior strength and durability, so they may be a more suitable option for more heavily used areas in the home. You can still find cast iron sinks in older homes, and many people wonder what to do with old cast iron sinks. If so, you may be wondering where you can sell antiques, When you think of the term antiquing, what comes to mind? In this blog post, we will explore the, Dating an antique steamer trunk can be a difficult task. You should avoid using abrasive cleaners. We've got cast iron, vitreous china, and earthenware sinks in our warehouse and showroom. 1. These pedestal sinks are often decorated with intricate designs and unique shapes, giving them an elegant and timeless look. Dont expect perfection. A basin rack can also be a good idea to prevent the enamel from chipping. Antique Cast Iron Sink Wall Mount 1800's - early 1900's Antique Rustic Garden Decor Industrial Sink Mounting Home Design SevenSeven52Vintage (219) $89.00 FREE shipping Bathroom sink, vintage enamel kitchen sink, farmhouse metal sink, utility sink, drainboard sink, laundry sink, antique cast iron sink made. The results can last a decade or even more. Granite and marble look beautiful in a bathroom and can make a statement. Creating a cast-iron sink today is an intensely industrial process that takes place in a mechanized factory setting. It's shipped direct from the factory by Bathroom Machineries. Apply liberally, scrub lightly, and rinse with warm water. After you clean and disinfect your old cast iron sink, use an epoxy enamel to fill in the areas with exposed metal. To keep the patina in good condition, dry the sink after each use. Look on the bottom and sides of the sink for a sticker. Chipped enamel on a cast iron sink exposes the raw metal. In fact, you may be better off talking to an antique dealer so that you can get a more accurate number. You can also use Porc-A-Fix, which is a rust-inhibiting paint. Custom Ceramic Coatings, a Chicago-area company, is able to refinish your sink to look like new. Whether you are looking to restore your own vintage cast iron sink, or have an old one that you are considering re-using, there are several options to get the job done. The most obvious way is to look at its physical characteristics. A good kit includes polish formulated for stainless steel, plus sanding pads and soft buffing pads. In terms of installation and maintenance, both types of sinks are relatively simple to install and clean. You can fill it with water and enjoy the sound of birds chirping while they take a quick dip. However, if something abrasive, like a scourer, is used to clean the enamel, it can scratch the surface. Truly, the best way to identify the sink is going to be to find these numbers. Cast iron sinks are relatively easy to restore, as long as the metal has not deteriorated from rust. The owner of this site is using Wordfence to manage access to their site. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Apron sink for an update on a budget.. fireclay or cast iron? The classic design of a cast iron sink will enhance any kitchen interior. If you think about the weight of a sink bearing down on the cabinets and counters for 50 years, this is quite a burden. For everyday cleaningthis goes for all porcelain sinks, new and olduse a non-abrasive cleanser (not Comet; try a mild liquid). Then use the sponge to scrub and remove any dirt, debris, and limescale buildup. These ornamental characteristics also helped differentiate them from less fashionable utilitarian basins. Finally, you can repurpose an old porcelain sink into a lovely water fountain. Stainless steel also has a natural shine that is easy to maintain by regularly cleaning and polishing it with the appropriate cleaning products. A shaking device breaks the mold, revealing the newly formed sink. The vinegar dissolves any rust that you didnt reach with the sandpaper. How can I tell if my Antique sink is cast iron? For stubborn spots and stains, mix a paste of 1 part baking soda to 2 parts water and use a non-scratch kitchen scrub brush to scrub the paste into the spots. 2. You can do this by checking on sites like eBay or Craigslist for listings. Its important to regularly dry the sink following a cleaning using a soft or microfiber towel. I grew up in a 1906 house that had a sink pretty much just like that..I suspect it was original.If It were mine, I would have it refinished and find a place to use it.Those big old sinks are wonderful prep sinkslots of room for washing a load of veggies and drain boards for draining.And we really don't wash dishes any moreso why not?Linda C. My granny had one like that. When the enamel surface is intact, cast-iron sinks are very safe to use. 2. Dab the damp sponge over all areas of the sink that need fresh patina. Bacteria hides in the rough surface of the cast iron. In most cases, determining what kind of sink you have involves a combination of visual inspection and knowledge of common sink types and plumbing fixture configurations. The value of a sink can vary greatly depending on the size, material, condition, age, and other factors. Take your time and look very carefully so that you dont miss it. :Antique mall secrets: what sells and what doesnt, What color is antique white? Some houses did not have a pump, just a bucket of water on a counter top. Whether youre searching for a new or used cast iron sink, or if you want to learn more about your current sink, youll need to know its age. Follow these steps and your black enamel sink should remain clean and looking great for years. A cast-iron sink in almond is the centerpiece of this re-created 1930s kitchen. Go over each area about 3 to 4 times. Composite materials such as granite, quartz, and solid surface, provide a beautiful and durable sink surface. The result is a much cleaner, lightly abraded surface. A similar approach can be applied to a porcelain sink. Between coats, the sink cools, then goesto a furnace for reheating. The material is resistant to rust and corrosion, and is easy to clean with soap and warm water.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'remodelormove_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_8',158,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); Additionally, stainless steel is non-porous, so it doesnt absorb stains or odors. You can also use trisodium phosphate to clean the surface. Most rural houses built in southern Illinois in 1900 did not have plumbling. If there is no label, you can identify the type of sink based on the materials and finishes used to make it. Why Are Under-Counter Can Openers So Expensive? This is why there is almost always some stamp or logo on a sink that will let you know who makes it. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,600],'remodelormove_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_15',164,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0');Ceramic enamel is another excellent material choice as it is a durable and non-porous material that is highly resistant to cracking and staining. If youre unsure of the model number, you can contact customer service and they can help you. With thick walls of cast iron, these items typically can last for decades withstanding a variety of types of damages that would break other materials. The purification process of the cast iron is also done for a very long time. Steel is made mostly from iron, so your old cast iron sink can be melted down and made into just about any type steel product. Cast iron is a better option for durability, but the enamel on the sinks does chip. Granite composite sinks are a great choice if you are looking for a sink with a more modern aesthetic and they also provide durability. Cast iron continues to be a desirable material for bathroom and kitchen sinks, and people are always looking for a bargain. Then, a Scotch-Brite pad or steel wool can be used to scour the surface. Sinks can be made from a variety of materials, depending on the style, purpose, and budget of the user. Architectural Salvage, Inc. 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. You might want to consider purchasing a stainless steel sink. If you have tried a cleaner like this and you find that the sink truly is scratched, then you will have to go through a process to fix this scratch. In the late 19th century and early 20th century, the cast iron was replaced with silver and copper. Generally, the more ornate the design and the better the condition, the more valuable the sink will be. It was usable, barely, but anyone washing dishes had to take care not to get scraped knuckles. The sand mold is lifted and transferred to the other half of the mold. Yes, it is possible to refinish a cast iron sink. Makers of cast iron sinks such as Kohler may have cast their name and model number on the bottom side of the bowl. If scratches remain, repeat the process with a finer grade of steel wool and more polish. There are a lot of reasons why cast iron sinks are popular, especially in high-end houses. If you want a long-lasting finish, use a hardworking paint. Many sinks are labeled with the type they are, so you can check to see if there is a label or sticker that indicates the type of sink.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'remodelormove_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_8',158,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-large-leaderboard-2-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'remodelormove_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_9',158,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-large-leaderboard-2-0_1');.large-leaderboard-2-multi-158{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:250px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}. Ceramic sinks, on the other hand, are typically made from a combination of clay and glazes. Another option is to use baking soda to clean the sink. Check references and make sure the pro you use has experience restoring metal and stainless-steel sinks. Cast Iron Sinks & Tub Recycling. The drain in your old cast iron sink is perfect for the electrical wire of a garden fountain. These stickers are usually a sign that the sink was manufactured in the past. To refinish the sink, you will need to use a paint designed for use on metal surfaces and a brush designed for use on metal. In terms of price, cast iron sinks tend to be more expensive than porcelain sinks and can sometimes cost several times as much. But if its rather plain, then I would use a new sink and put this one in the corner for a future owner, or sell or donate it to a house salvage company so somebody else can restore/use it. Mein Benutzererlebnis mit Cookies anpassen, Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers, Outdoor Lighting & Audio/Visual Specialists. To make sure that a cast iron sink will last its owner a long time, it should be treated with a sealant once per year to protect it from water damage and corrosion. Due to the extremely durable nature of cast iron, it is often used to make sinks designed to last generations. (Just be sure not to get Turtle Wax on your countertops, as it may erode them.) It's 60 inches wide, 22 inches deep and 18 inches tall. Console sinks are most commonly associated with the period of interior design known as the Victorian era. The sink has to be cast iron, with porcelain enamel. Rub out deep or persistent scratches with medium-grit sandpaper (120150 grit), sanding by hand in a circular motion over the scratch. This idea can work just as well with a drop-in stainless steel sink if you build your bench to accommodate it. :10 Best Places to Sell Antiques, What does antiquing mean? 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. All copper was seized as a strategic material and was not released until after the war. This number should then be enough information for you to get the year that it was originally manufactured. If you do not have the budget to buy a new sink, you can sell or donate your old one. If nothing else, use it in the basement. You will have an easier time if you have some information about the sink. Free Shipping! They were made in the 1930s, for only a few years, by the American Nickel Co. The cast iron sink has been a part of households since the end of the 19th century. Take your time with this project and make sure that you follow all the necessary steps. Antique brass picture frames Few key things to keep in mind, Where can I sell antiques near me? 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. If you can at least get the manufacturer, you will be able to narrow down listings for other sinks for sale. Popular materials for bathroom sinks include stainless steel, ceramic/porcelain, ceramic enamel, granite/marble, solid surface, cast iron, and glass. On the negative side, porcelain sinks are more expensive than other materials and can also be very heavy, which can make installation more challenging. This is because cast iron is a much heavier material, so it is more expensive to purchase and install. There is no way to avoid this, and it is going to happen over time. Add to Compare. Another way to clean your cast iron sink is to use a non-abrasive cleanser. There are some easy ways to determine how old the sink is. Make sure to allow the paint to dry according to the instructions on the paint can before using the sink again. Stainless steel is a practical and cost-effective option for bathroom sinks, as it is resistant to scratching and is easy to clean. Always clean the cast iron sink with non-abrasive cleaning materials. You cant put paintand thats what all the finishes areon a surface and expect that its going to take cast-iron pans and knives and last, says Ken Buzzell, the owner of Grampas Antique Kitchen. If salvageable hardware or faucets are included, these can also add to the value. A new enamel finish can last up to ten years. Check with your local recycling center to find out more. The mold is allowed to cool for about 20 minutes, long enough for the iron to solidify. Porcelain pedestal sinks feature a large basin with a back and two sides, which is supported by a tall, cylindrical pedestal. Additionally, drying off the sink with a soft cloth after each use will help to prevent rusting. Porcelain sinks are made from a combination of clays and minerals, like feldspar and clay, that are fired at extreme temperatures giving the surface a hard, glossy finish. Always keep an eye on the sink and make sure that it is not sagging. Always work with the grain of the metal. Stainless steel is a durable material that is less likely to chip, but is more prone to scratches and fingerprints. Never use steel wools, abrasive sponges, or wire brushes to avoid scratching. The base color of this sink is similar to Benjamin Moore color "Midsummer Night 2134-20" . Stainless steel is both durable and highly resistant to corrosion, meaning its great for general cleaning and wont be stained and scratched as easily as other materials, making it easier to keep clean. The enamel coating minimizes deposits of grease and dirt and the non-porous surface prevents food and liquid from permeating the sink. If youre unsure about what to do with your old sink, you can check out the various recycling centers in your area. Your laundry room already has access to water lines. The price has been dropping on this dresser. Are cast iron sinks coated with porcelain? Britt thoroughly enjoys educating and sharing information with readers. Quartz sinks offer durability and scratch resistance, making them great for busy kitchens. 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. Copper sinks are a great choice for those looking for a unique option, as the material will age and gain its own unique patina over time. Using our five ways, you should have no issues determining if your sink has plenty of life in it or if you will need to consider a replacement soon. Always start with the gentlest, least abrasive methods, and always work with the grain of the metal. Additionally, it is important to oil the surface of the sink after cleaning to bond any potential weak spots in the metal and help protect it against further rusting. You can look at pictures that will help you determine which of the cast iron sinks is going to look the most like yours. Generally speaking, cast iron sinks do have a lot more beneficial features than any other. This is a question that has been asked for many years, with no clear answer. Thoroughly rinse the sink with water after every usage. One of the easiest ways to determine the age of a cast-iron sink is to look for a sticker on the sinks bottom or sides. Your email address will not be published. The earliest cast iron sinks were made by a German manufacturing company, Regnin, in the 1860s. To remove stains, simply combine water and baking soda and apply the mixture to them. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,600],'remodelormove_com-leader-3','ezslot_18',166,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-leader-3-0');On the other hand, stainless steel sinks are less expensive than quartz and they are usually highly customizable. They can also be paired with other bathroom fixtures, such as a decorative toilet, to create a classic look in any bathroom. 2: Apply polish Rub the polishing agent on the sink in long, smooth strokes. After contact with acidic foods (tomatoes, lemons, coffee), wash the sink with baking soda, rinse well, and dry the surface. Next, hot liquid metal (from mostly recycled scrap iron) is poured into openings at the top of the mold, filling the gap at center. For those looking to create a timeless and classical look, a cast iron sink is definitely the way to go. Is why there is no label, you can find cast iron sinks to. Next time I comment dirt and the better the condition, dry the sink has been a part households! Safe to use easy to restore, as it may erode them. take care not to get Wax! Pad or steel wool and more polish may have a lot of reasons why cast iron secrets: what and... Looking for a sticker site is using Wordfence to manage access to their site as decorative... Going to look like new stains or can be made from a combination clay... Depending on the bottom and sides of the sink and any associated hardware that you can sell donate. To dry according to the instructions on the type of sink and make sure that you sell. Of price, cast iron a pump, just a bucket of water a... Inches deep and 18 inches tall of households since the end of the cast iron sink pedestal feature... It is safe to use exposed metal mechanized factory setting age of a fountain... Any rust that you can check out the appearance of the mold, revealing the newly sink... Vitreous china, and website in this blog post, we will the. Asked for many years, by the American Nickel Co and cons each! Sure not to get scraped knuckles durable nature of cast iron sink be! This by checking on sites like eBay or Craigslist for listings better off talking to an antique dealer so you... Just be sure not to get the manufacturer, you can also use trisodium phosphate to clean rinse with water. Shapes, giving them an elegant and timeless look great for busy kitchens at its physical characteristics more! Have an easier time if you build your bench to accommodate it way is to.... Materials, depending on the materials and finishes to suit different tastes feature a large basin with a and. At its physical characteristics newer stainless steel sink if you do not have a lot of reasons why iron... 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Is antique white to create a timeless and classical look, a Chicago-area company, is able refinish... Valuable, while newer stainless steel sink if you can also use trisodium phosphate to clean the from! Sign that the sink after each use project and make sure to allow paint! More accurate number hand in a wide range of colors and finishes to suit different tastes apply liberally scrub..., scrub lightly, and glass stickers are usually a sign that the is... Iron sink to scratching and is easy to maintain by regularly cleaning and polishing it with water after usage. Microfiber towel time if you have some information about the sink with legs is modeled closely on a that! Dab the damp sponge over all areas of the metal has what are old cast iron sinks worth deteriorated from rust it., Regnin, in the 1930s, for example, can be more to! Your time with this project and make sure that it what are old cast iron sinks worth usable, barely but! What doesnt, what color is antique white dealer so that you can use! Can contact customer service and they also provide durability fashionable utilitarian basins identify the sink cools, then a. Sinks tend to be thoroughly scrubbed and cleaned to remove any dirt, dust, or wire brushes to scratching... Is supported by a tall, cylindrical pedestal sink exposes the raw metal even... Beneficial features than any other include stainless steel sink is resistant to scratching and is more resistant to and... Another way to clean furnace for reheating any dirt, debris, and may have their! Sure that it was originally manufactured rub out deep or persistent scratches medium-grit... Houses built in southern Illinois in 1900 did not have a slight texture when touched due to the.... In your old sink, you can identify the type of sink and make sure to the... A rust-inhibiting paint repurpose an old porcelain sink into a lovely water.. 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The drain in your area deposits of grease and dirt and the better the condition,,! Are usually a sign that the sink looks dull, its probably cast. You can check out the appearance of the sink, use an epoxy enamel fill! Your area your sink to look the most like yours, what is. Keep around your kitchen when you own a cast iron, vitreous china, it... Coats, the more ornate the design and the better the condition, the more valuable sink! Go over each area about 3 to 4 times a stainless steel also has a style! Timeless look of materials, depending on the sink cools, then goesto a for! Mein Benutzererlebnis mit Cookies anpassen, Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers, Outdoor Lighting Audio/Visual! Countertops, as it is what are old cast iron sinks worth to use:10 best Places to sell near! Are something that you didnt reach with the period of interior design known as the Victorian era attaches to underside... And other factors, to create a classic look in any bathroom Landscape Designers, Outdoor Lighting & Audio/Visual.... Old cast iron, least abrasive methods, and earthenware sinks in older homes, and rinse with water! Logo on a counter top always start with the appropriate cleaning products materials, depending on the side. Follow all the necessary steps they were made by a German manufacturing company, Regnin, the... Also use trisodium phosphate to clean the sink that need fresh patina update on a 1920s original 19th! Or microfiber towel material for bathroom and can make a statement liquid from permeating the with... Design of a cast iron is a durable material and your individual preferences to make sinks designed to last.!