It is very common to add a sink to a kitchen island these days, sometimes without much thought. Do you really need an extra sink in your kitchen? Installing a sink in your island can cause a bit of a plumbing nightmare. Most people aren’t aware of what’s really involved with the inclusion of a sink. Consider all the aspects of installation, cost and need to figure out if it is truly worth it for your home.
If you have a limited budget for an island, a sink will eat up a large chunk of it – not usually from the sink itself but from the installation costs. Proper venting of the drain needs to be taken into account, the drain needs to connect to the main drainage and both cold and hot water pipes need to be run to the island. Costs for the materials will add up as well as labor. If you decide to do things yourself you need to make sure to install everything properly. Pipes need to go somewhere hidden, and if you have a finished basement, you will have to cut through part of your basement ceiling to gain access to the kitchen floor above.
Is it worth it?
There are a few situations where it is advantageous to install a sink. Consider how much you will actually use the sink. If you have several people cooking on a regular basis, an extra sink in the island can be a valuable tool. The sink along with the island counter space makes a second work station for another person to comfortably work along side the main cook. In this instance a sink is useful.
If you entertain on a regular basis, and you find yourself cooking while guests are in the kitchen, an island sink may be ideal to let you prepare food and visit at the same time. If your island is set up for seating, you can face your guests while you work. Again, be realistic about how much you entertain.
If you rarely have anyone else cooking in the kitchen, how much will you use this sink? If you only have multiple cooks on special occasions such as holidays, a sink could be overkill. Try to be honest in this situation. Try to separate your gut feelings about a sink from the reality of the situation.
Alternative Counter Uses
Also consider the alternatives: without a sink you will gain counter space in your island. You may find the extra counter space valuable or you could add another feature more suited to your needs. Other potential island features include built in cutting boards, built in food processing centers, ranges, etc.
We aren’t saying that island sinks are bad; we aren’t trying to stop you from putting one in, but we are saying to make sure you have considered all the angles and make an educated decision. If you do have reason to need the extra water station and you have the budget to accommodate the installation costs, go for it. Weigh out the advantages against the cost, because the costs may be considerably more than you think.