The best kitchen sink for your Calgary renovation balances durability, style and how you cook — undermount, farmhouse and composite each suit different kitchens. Here's how to choose.
The Sink Gets Used a Hundred Times a Day
It’s one of the most functional items in the kitchen. Here’s how to choose the right sink for a Calgary renovation.
Sink Types
Undermount
Mounted below the counter — no lip to collect crumbs. The most popular choice in renovated Calgary kitchens.
- Cost: $300–$1,200
- Best with: stone or solid surface counters
Farmhouse (Apron Front)
Front of the sink exposed, no cabinet door needed. Large, deep, statement-making.
- Cost: $500–$3,000+
- Best for: traditional, transitional, farmhouse kitchens
Workstation Sink
Integrated ledge in the sink allows cutting boards, drying racks, and colanders to sit across the top. Calgary’s fastest-growing trend.
- Cost: $600–$2,500
- Best for: cooks who want a prep station
Drop-In (Top-Mount)
Drops into a hole, rim sits on top. Budget-friendly, but visible rim collects grime.
- Cost: $150–$600
- Best for: budget kitchens, laminate counters
Sink Materials
| Material | Pros | Cons | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stainless steel | Durable, affordable, timeless | Noisy, shows scratches | $200–$800 |
| Composite granite | Quiet, scratch resistant, no stains | More expensive | $400–$1,500 |
| Fireclay | Classic look, durable, easy clean | Heavy, chips if hit | $600–$2,500 |
| Cast iron (porcelain) | Beautiful, durable, heavy | Very heavy, chips | $800–$3,000 |
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⚠ Estimate Disclaimer: These are only ROUGH estimates that can vary wildly. Do not take these numbers as gospel. Having a defined scope of work and exact selections will give you clarity.
Single vs Double Basin
Single basin is more versatile — fits large pots, cutting boards, and workstation accessories. Double basin is useful if you want to soak and wash simultaneously. Trend in Calgary is moving toward single, large basins.
Gauge (Stainless Sinks)
Lower gauge = thicker steel. 16-gauge is ideal for residential. 18-gauge is minimum acceptable. Avoid 22-gauge (thin, dents easily).
Noise Dampening
Look for stainless sinks with a rubber/foam undercoating. Dramatically reduces noise from running water and pot banging. Almost always included on 16-gauge sinks.
What It Costs Installed in Calgary
- Sink swap (same location, supply lines good): $400–$900 labour
- Undermount sink with new counter cutout: $600–$1,500
- Farmhouse sink with cabinet modification: $1,200–$2,500
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Contact Olympic City Renovations to schedule a Discovery Call.
Olympic City Renovations serves Calgary, Priddis, Okotoks, and surrounding communities.
Frequently asked questions
Undermount for clean lines, farmhouse for a statement, and composite or stainless for durability.
Yes — they resist scratches, stains and heat well.
An undermount sink with no lip makes wiping counters easy.
A large single bowl is popular for big pots; doubles suit multitaskers.
Related reading: complete kitchen guide, kitchen layout ideas, and best countertops