Sink & Tap Jargon Explained
Undermount Sink
An undermount sink sits beneath the countertop. The edges of the sink basin itself are surrounded by the worktop, opposed to the classic in-set sink style.
In-Set Sink (Overmount)
The most popular design of sink, an inset, or over mount sink simply drops into a pre-prepared hole in the kitchen counter. It’s a popular style as it’s very straightforward to install.
Sit On Sink
This sink type sits directly on top of the kitchen counter. They’re either designed with the countertop to surround it, or the sink is raised above the counter for a more rustic design.
Belfast Sink (Butler)
Belfast sinks are a hard wearing, traditional sink style designed to fit under your worktop with an edgeless finish. Also known as Butler sinks, they’re designed to minimise spillage and overflow.
Ceramic
A superior, strong surface material that has been used for many types of sinks for decades. Incredibly resistant to heat, scratching, cutting and light impacts due to the smooth, non-porous finish.
Mixer Tap
This tap draws from both a hot and cold water supply, to give you hot, cold or warm water through a single spout. This is controlled through either one or two control handles.
Cold Water Filter Kit
A cold water filter kit allows you to quickly switch from tap water to cold, filtered water in an instant. Once installed, the water passes through an activated carbon filter to deliver water that both tastes and smells better.
Boiling Water Tap
A boiling water tap instantly dispenses hot water, replacing the need for a kettle. It has a small unit that goes under your sink. It also dispenses cold water, and filtered water with an additional kit.
Water Tank
A boiling water tap will always come with a water tank that contains all the instant water heating technology. It sits beneath your kitchen sink.
Hard Water
Hard water has a high mineral content. Minerals such as magnesium and calcium that can cause a build-up of limescale, as well as leave spots and residue.
Soft Water
Soft water is free of the harsh chemicals of hard water, and doesn’t carry the negative effects either. The calcium and magnesium is removed through a water softener system.
Grey Water
Grey water is the waste water made from any kitchen appliances, including washing machines, toilets, sinks and more.
What is a sink & tap for the kitchen?
A sink and tap are an essential for your kitchen. They provide hot, cold and warm water for you to achieve a variety of tasks. Including washing vegetables, cleaning dishes, making drinks and much more. As a sink and tap are integral to your kitchen, choosing the correct design can be tricky. That’s why we have a huge range of sinks and tap available for you to choose from.
A mixer tap and sink is standard for any kitchen, however you can upgrade this to a boiling water tap to eliminate the need for a kettle and making access to water easier for your family. Boiling water taps are safe, and we have many trusted brands on offer such as Quooker and Franke. There are so many benefits to a boiling water tap, but it’s main advantages are the ability to sanitize and make hot drinks quickly.