Trough sinks have become increasingly popular in recent years for both residential and commercial settings. With their long, rectangular shape, trough sinks provide a modern, sleek look while also offering practical benefits. Here are 8 great reasons to love trough sinks and consider installing one in your home or business:

1. Space Saving Design

One of the biggest advantages of trough sinks is their efficient use of space. The continuous rectangular shape allows for a spacious washing area without occupying a large footprint. This makes trough sinks a smart choice for compact powder rooms, narrow bathroom vanities, or any small space where you want to maximize every inch. The long shape also allows multiple people to use the sink together.

2. Contemporary Style

With their streamlined silhouette, trough sinks have a very modern, contemporary aesthetic. They provide a sleek, minimalist look that pairs well with the clean lines of vanities and mirrors in modern bathrooms. The exposed drain pipes and lack of separate bowl spaces give trough sinks an industrial vibe as well. This unique style works great in urban lofts, contemporary homes, and businesses wanting a cutting-edge image.

3. Made from Diverse Materials

Trough sinks come in a diverse range of materials, finishes, and colors to match any design style. Popular choices include:

• Stainless steel – This material gives a very modern, industrial look with its metallic gleam. Stainless steel also resists stains, rust, and scratches.
• Engineered stone – Substances like quartz composite are molded into trough sinks for a sleek, seamless appearance. These sinks are durable and available in various colors.
• Ceramic/porcelain – For a warmer, more organic feel, ceramic and porcelain trough sinks come in matte, glossy, or textured finishes. Glazing makes them stain and scratch resistant.
• Solid surface – Acrylic and polyester resins form a lightweight but durable sink material that can be shaped for trough sinks. Seamless installation is possible.
• Fireclay – This classic material involves shaping clay before high-temperature kiln firing. The resulting trough sink has a timeless, subtle appeal.

So whether your taste runs toward the ultra-modern or traditionally cozy, you can find the right trough sink material for your space.

4. Promote Good Hygiene

The shared trough shape and open concept mean trough sinks support better general hygiene in public or shared home bathrooms. The continuous sloped sink bottom and smooth surfaces eliminate places for dirt, grime, and germs to hide. The exposed, above-counter installation makes the whole sink area easier to inspect and keep clean. Good hygiene is promoted compared to separate sinks or basins with more crevices.

5. Flexible Installation Options

Trough sinks provide you with several installation options:

• Undermount – The sink is installed beneath the countertop for a smooth, contemporary look. An adhesive and sealant attach the sink below the counter.
• Drop-in – The sink rests above the counter, which has a cut-out area for the sink to drop into place. Some assembly is required.
• Vessel – The free-standing trough sink sits on top of the counter like a decorative vessel. No counter cuts are needed, offering more flexibility.
• Wall-mount – Brackets secure the trough sink directly to the wall without needing a counter. This is great for open-concept designs.

So whether dealing with an existing counter space or designing a new one, a trough sink can adapt to fit your installation needs.

6. Provide Efficient Workflow

The continuous trough shape makes a trough sink ideal for efficient workflow in busy settings. For example, restaurant and bar workers can quickly wash glasses, plates, ice, etc as they move down the sink trough. Spa and salon staff can smoothly move from one process to the next when hair washing or pet grooming along the trough sink. The linear design optimizes workflow.

7. Allow Flexible Usage

Trough sinks are not limited to hand washing – their shape makes them more flexible than regular sinks. Some additional uses include:

• Filling vases or buckets – The extended length lets you easily fit and fill larger items.
• Bathing babies or pets – Give babies a safe, easy tub bath or lather up your dog along the sink.
• Washing produce – Rinse heads of lettuce or bunches of fruit along the trough.
• Cooling baked goods – The wide space allows you to spread out warm cookies, breads, or other items to cool.
• Cleaning tools – The sink accommodates hand tools, paintbrushes, gardening tools, and more for cleaning.

So a trough sink becomes a multi-purpose utility station for your various needs.

8. Make an Architectural Statement

With their striking linear design, trough sinks truly stand out as an architectural feature. They immediately draw the eye due to their unique, elongated proportion compared to regular sinks. Trough sinks give a modern or industrial accent to bathrooms or laundry rooms. Made from materials like heavy-duty cast iron, they feel like custom built-in features. Let a trough sink make an eye-catching statement in your space!

Trough Sink Buying Guide

If you’re sold on incorporating a trough sink into your home or business, use this buying guide to pick out the perfect one:

Choose a Length

Trough sinks come in varying lengths, usually starting from about 24 inches up to 10 feet for commercial units. Measure your existing space or proposed installation area to determine the ideal length. Allow reasonable space on each end of the sink and make sure the trough will fit comfortably within the area. Standard residential versions are often 60 inches or 72 inches long.

Select Your Material

As mentioned before, trough sinks come in stainless steel, ceramic, porcelain, composite materials, solid surface, and fireclay. Consider factors like the overall look you want, durability, ease of cleaning, stain resistance, and cost. For example, ceramic provides classic style at lower cost but requires more maintenance than very durable stainless steel.

Decide on Undermount or Drop-In

Undermount styles have a more seamless, built-in look. But drop-in models might be easier for DIY installation since they simply drop into an existing counter cut-out. Undermount trough sinks generally cost more as well.

Include Drainage Accessories

Look for trough sinks that include drain grates or drain covers. These accessories catch hairs, food scraps, and debris so they don’t clog plumbing. Some also come with removable drain strainers or traps you can easily clean.

Pick Basin Depth

Trough sinks can range from just a few inches deep to over foot deep. Deeper basins offer more utility for washing large items or holding more water. But shallow versions retain the trough’s signature minimalist look. Standard depths are often around 8 inches.

Choose Faucet Style

To complement the modern trough design, choose a minimalist, wall-mounted faucet in materials like brushed nickel or chrome. Long, horizontal spout shapes also enhance the continuous lines of a trough sink.

Determine Your Budget

Like most sinks, trough sink pricing runs the gamut from budget-friendly to high-end. Factors like material, size, accessories, and faucets greatly impact cost. Have a reasonable budget in mind and choose options within your range that don’t sacrifice quality or durability.

With its unique elongated shape and contemporary style, a trough sink can transform a mundane space into one with standout modern flair. Keep these tips in mind to pick out the perfect trough sink to gain added function and visually enhance your bathroom, kitchen, laundry, or commercial space.

FAQs About Trough Sinks

Still have some questions about incorporating trough sinks into your space? This FAQ has you covered on some commonly asked questions:

Are trough sinks hard to install?

Trough sinks are no more difficult to install than regular sinks if you follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Undermount versions will require cutting the counter to size. Wall-mounted or vessel styles avoid counter modifications. Compatible mounting hardware and sealant are key. Or hire a pro for stress-free installation.

How can I incorporate a trough sink in a small bathroom?

Even modest bathrooms can accommodate a trough sink installed against a narrow wall or between vanity cabinetry. Opt for a small to mid-size trough. Floating wood or metal shelves on each side provide space for towels, decor, and toiletries while retaining an open look.

What’s the best material for kitchen trough sinks?

The kitchen’s heavy usage and exposure to various foods and hot items makes durable stainless steel an ideal pick. Steel resists stains, scratches, and damage while providing a hygienic, easy-to-clean surface. Composite granite or porcelain also work well.

Can you install two faucets on a trough sink?

It’s possible to install two faucets on opposite ends of a single trough sink. This can be helpful for very long sinks or to provide hot and cold taps on each side. Make sure to position the faucets to avoid splashing and consider different spout heights for ergonomics.

Are trough sinks expensive?

Trough sinks are available at varying price points based on size, materials, and accessories. Smaller troughs made of ceramic or enameled steel can cost a few hundred dollars. Large stainless commercial units can run $1000 or more. Set a reasonable budget and comparison shop to find deals.

How should you divide a shared trough sink?

For residential or commercial shared sinks, look for models with pre-drilled holes designed to accommodate dividers. These separate sections visually and prevent splashing between users. Removable wire grid dividers are inexpensive and easy to install as needed versus permanent dividers.

Can you install cabinets underneath a trough sink?

Yes, standard sink base cabinets can be installed under a wall-mounted or undermount trough sink. Be sure to account for the trough’s length and alignment when designing and installing the cabinetry. Custom cabinetry may be needed for a perfect fit.

Should trough sinks have overflow drains?

Overflow drains are not common or even possible with most trough sinks, unlike traditional basin sinks. Ensure any stoppers are removable to prevent overflow issues. Some commercial models have overflow channels versus actual drains. Manage use and install a larger trough size if overflows are a concern.

How often should trough sinks be disinfected?

Shared commercial trough sinks should be disinfected multiple times daily. Residential trough sinks used by just family can be disinfected weekly. Use a diluted bleach solution or commercial disinfecting cleaner and rinse thoroughly. This prevents germs from accumulating in the sink and fixtures.

Conclusion

With their striking contemporary design and practical multi-user functionality, it’s no wonder trough sinks are gaining popularity for modern homes and busy commercial settings. If you’re ready to embrace minimalist style while enjoying space-savings and flexibility, a state-of-the-art trough sink delivers. Keep these 8 compelling benefits in mind, from sleek style to easy maintenance. Use the buying considerations and sizing tips to pick out the perfect trough sink suited to your needs. Then make a design statement and install your new trough to take your space into the future in sustainable style.