Low rates and easiest to calculate/understand shipping/handling for kitchen sinks
"What is the difference between an 'under counter' kitchen sink and a 'self-rimming' sink?" An "under counter" sink is just that - it mounts from the bottom of the counter. A self-rimming sink has overall dimensions larger than the opening in the counter and sits on top of the countertop. It requires no additional rim around the outside of the sink, and generally will give you a lot less problems down the road. Why? Because it cannot fall down, and gravity, over time, will not open the seal between the counter and the sink with a self-rimming sink. Under counter mounts can be used with solid surface, granite, or marble counter tops. If you're using Formica type counters use the self-rimming. For tile we like to recommend self-rimming. Under counter sinks, over time, can have problems where the sink and counter meet.
"Do you stock every sink from Elkay that is listed?" We list most Elkay sinks. No one could stock them all. Many are in stock but some will take some time to get to you. When you place an order for your Elkay sink/s we will let you know within 24 hours (Mon-Fri) whether that sink is in stock and, if it isn't, how long it will be before we ship it. If time is a major factor in your decision, then please place your order with written comments that state the longest that you can wait. We will then let you know (within 24 hours Mon-Fri) if we cannot meet your deadline. Some unusual sizes can take up to 4-5 weeks for Elkay to actually make the sink.
"Please explain the best gauge of stainless, which is longer lasting, i.e. luster, mirror finish, etc?" The lower the number, the thicker the material. In our opinion, 22 gauge is bare minimum - builder quality. During the manufacturing process, stainless steel sinks are "stamped" into shape. That means that the material stretches and therefore the corners can be very thin. We suggest at least 20 gauge and preferably 18 gauge. Stainless can scratch and with a mirror finish those scratches will show. We recommend that you do not purchase any brand mirror finished stainless sink (no matter what the price or claimed quality).
"I'd like to have 2 extra holes for an air gap and hot water dispenser and was wondering
if you can drill extra holes in my sink for me?" Yes, we can do that. Just enter the number of additional (EXTRA) holes that you would like here = $50.00 . Please note that we do not take back sinks where we have drilled holes, and also, that we do not guarantee that we will drill the hole in the sink in any particular place. We will drill it where we believe it is most appropriate and cannot promise to drill it in any exact/specific place on the sink. Please allow additional time if you order additional holes in your sink. Once you place the order for a modified sink, it is
your sink (we will charge your credit card and the order is non cancelable).
All orders that include a stainless sink, will have an additional $10.00 charge per sink due to additional packing.
We hope that we have helped you on this page with Elkay sinks,
and thank you for helping to make PlumbingSupply.com the most famous Internet plumbing supplier.
"What is the difference between an 'under counter' kitchen sink and a 'self-rimming' sink?"
An "under counter" sink is just that - it mounts from the bottom of the counter. A self-rimming sink has overall dimensions larger than the opening in the counter and sits on top of the countertop. It requires no additional rim around the outside of the sink, and generally will give you a lot less problems down the road. Why? Because it cannot fall down, and gravity, over time, will not open the seal between the counter and the sink with a self-rimming sink. Under counter mounts can be used with solid surface, granite, or marble counter tops. If you're using Formica type counters use the self-rimming. For tile we like to recommend self-rimming. Under counter sinks, over time, can have problems where the sink and counter meet.