An apron sink is a huge sink.
A farmhouse sink is a deep sink.
Confused? Yup. We were, too.
Were you told these two sink types are exactly the same? Well, they're not!
...Sort of.
Our experts will cover the differences in this apron sink vs farmhouse sink review.
Farmhouse Sink
Farmhouse sinks fit the farmhouse aesthetic: rustic, country, comfortable. Here are the differences between a farmhouse sink vs. apron sink!
Design
The farmhouse signature design feature? Size. These sinks are DEEP!
That's because it's an all-in-one workstation that can fit all your cleaning needs. You can wash everything from your dishes to a little laundry. Your kid's clothes, perhaps?
And because these sinks fit the farmhouse style, it has more rounded corners and softer edges. So if you're in the market for a modern, industrial home, farmhouse sinks might not fit your kitchen [1].
Materials
If we're going to be a bit pedantic, true farmhouse sinks use fireclay, porcelain, or enameled cast iron - materials that resist stains from food to dirt.
But most manufacturers these days use different stones and metals for their farmhouse sink material.
However, if you're truly gunning for a farmhouse style sink, you can be more picky about the materials in your kitchen sink. A copper sink might look out of place in a kitchen full of hay!
Installation
There are plenty of ways to install these sinks, from undermount to top mount/drop-in styles. So it's an excellent choice if you're setting up your kitchen yourself.
Farmhouse Sink Advantages
Farmhouse sinks look cozy, so it fits more relaxed, laid-back interiors. If your kitchen design is pastel or comes in shades of natural browns and beiges, a porcelain sink of this style will suit it well.
Farmhouse Sink Disadvantages
Farmhouse sinks may not fit all kitchen interiors. Most use natural stones and metals, like porcelain or cast iron.
So if you prefer hardier material like stainless steel, or if you have a more urban house, you're out of luck.
Apron Sink
If your house needs a style statement, look no further than apron sinks. It's got a distinctive look that screams unique.
And did we mention that this type of sink is great for short people?
Design
Apron sinks are deep cut, like farmhouse sinks. The only difference is, an apron sink's front is exposed.
That's why they're also called "apron front" sinks.
Modern kitchens use apron sinks as highlight pieces, and for good reason. It's versatile and fits your personal style.
Materials
You're not limited to porcelain and ceramics here. These kitchen sinks come in a variety of materials and finishes.
Need an apron front sink in stainless steel? How about copper? No problem, there are designs made with modern materials!
Installation
We have to be honest here: this style of sinks are CHALLENGING to install!
Because of the exposed front, you'll have to limit your countertop and base cabinet.
Unlike the farmhouse style, which fits through a standard-sized hole in your countertop, you need a custom-made cutaway front for your countertop to fit these sinks.
Your kitchen cabinets must be up to spec, too. Standard base cabinets won't work; you need a base cabinet in sizes MEANT for apron sinks.
Apron Sink Advantages
If you're no taller than 5'5", apron sinks are perfect. This style of sink is ergonomic, especially for shorter people: no reaching over to wash dishes!
Plus, and this is probably one of our favorite features of the apron front sink: you reduce the water damage to your cabinet!
That's because the exposed front takes care of all the splashes.
Apron Sink Disadvantages
They're VERY difficult to mount, so you might need to hire a professional to fit it in for you.
You'll also need to plan your kitchen around your sink, instead of using your apron sink to design your kitchen.
These are also pricey. Some are worth all the way up to $3000!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a farmhouse sink and an apron sink?
Though these two sinks are about the same size and wash the same amount of dishes, they can give your kitchen a totally different character.
In a battle of farmhouse sink vs apron sink, this greatly helps:
- For cozy, warm kitchens, a farmhouse kitchen sink might fit your needs.
- For modern, urban kitchens, we recommend apron front sinks instead.
Conclusion
See? That was easy! We hope this short farmhouse sink vs. apron sink comparison gave you some idea about their differences and how they can fit your home.
Farmhouse sinks and apron front sinktypes are all the rage now, so you're on the right track! They fir well into a variety of design styles: from themore kitchen to a more traditional look to older farmhouses.
Hopefully, this apron sink vs farmhouse sink review cleared your confusion. Be sure to check our other expert reviews for the best one you can buy.
Annie andOak Farmhouse sinks offers a variety of sinks. Traditional materials vary, as well as different features and different materials. You can also choose from single basin and double basin sinks. Show now!
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Learn more about Farmhouse Sinks and Apron Sinks on our Farmhouse Blog!
