Ceramic Vs Fireclay Sink

As the name implies fireclay is made by molding clay into the desired shape and allowing it to dry.

Ceramic vs fireclay sink.

A fireclay sink has a tough molded ceramic body with a smooth glossy porcelain finish. Ceramic sinks are made when materials are heated and then cooled so that they maintain a constant shape form. It is a ceramic porcelain material that is in appearance much like cast iron enameled but with a stronger finish. The process of molding starts when clay is formed into the desired size and shape of the sink which then dries under a mild level of heat for up to 2 days.

This process increases the durability of both the ceramic clay and porcelain enamel while giving the sink a glossy shine. With this understanding porcelain and vitreous china are also ceramic materials. Fireclay is made by heating a clay based ceramic in a kiln at high temperatures. Fireclay is non porous which means the sink is stain and acid resistant.

These sinks are not carved. Ceramic sinks run a higher risk of chipping or scratching. Ceramic sounds like pottery so the name is spruced up a bit to sound nicer and called porcelain. Fireclay sinks are crafted from ceramic clay.

This sink is fired in a kiln at double the temp than enameled sinks which gives them a nonporous surface and everlasting shine. In addition rohl fireclay sinks are lead free and 100 recyclable. Although porcelain is far cheaper fire clay may be a better consideration over time due to durability. The farm sink is a great alternative to an undermount sink and will distinguish your kitchen from the others.

However the firing process fuses the glaze to the clay and vastly improves the strength and integrity of the material. Fireclay is a type of ceramic. Fireclay sinks are extremely versatile since the clay can be poured and shaped in any configuration including the incorporation of artistic embellishments. The firing process used to make fireclay fuses glaze to clay in a way that improves the overall strength and integrity of the sink.

Then a porcelain enamel is applied and the sink is placed in a kiln at an extremely high temperature like 2000 f for a period up to 20 hours. They are molded at extreme temperatures. Fireclay sinks are more durable than ceramic sinks as they are nonporous and very heat resistant. That s dried at high heat and then fired in a kiln at an even higher temperature to fuse on a porcelain enamel outer layer.

The ultimate appeal of a farmhouse fireclay sink is its durable deep and spacious basin which adds a touch of timeless vintage style.