Current Sink and Accessory Upgrade Options
The board has already determined that we will go to a large, deep and single bowl sink, a built in sprayer option, and an adjacent water filtration system, which Barbara has already ordered and delivered.
We are still considering specific models of both sink and faucet. In reading reviews of multiple sinks it's apparent that all stainless steel sinks are subject to complaints about scratching on the surface, uneveness of corners during installation, and in some cases rust (which seems to come from objects placed on it).
Faucet Options:
3/29/17
4/20/17
Glacier Bay ($254) This is one of the few 16 gauge (thicker steel) sinks available from Home Depot
Pros: Thick construction, soundproof backing, center hole, configured for spray faucet shown and adjacent water filtration faucet. Comes with rack insert and some installation parts, including deep trap drain and strainer. For a small quantity of dishes people seem to just rinse and dry dishes within sink rather than move to a drying rack.
Cons: Apparently a new product on HD. Early reviews are quite favorable. The proximity of the filter faucet to the right of the main faucet if we use that style of faucet might be a little awkward, but should work fine.
Thoughts: It's an excellent price for a sink with 16 gauge stainless steel, specified as grade 304 18-8. It's 10 inches deep, but that's mitigated somewhat by the removable rack at the bottom.
Moen "Arbor" pull down faucet with spray attachment
This model was highly recommended by a salesperson in a multiple brand kitchen supply store. I like the appearance and the ease of operation when I tried it out in the showroom.
Excellent versatility of spray hose operation
Franke Kinetic ($219)
Pros: Large side expansion for large pots, accessory hole for water filtration on left of faucet, can be drop in (but shown as undermount in this picture)
Cons: 18 gauge (thinner) stainless steel, complaints about rust stains (and easy scratching) on reviews. Complaints about drain not being beneath faucet resulting in poorer drainage and cleaning.
Moen "Capstone"
Suzy's choice
Slight advantage in not conflicting with filtration faucet to right
Seems to have less versatility in spray nozzle operation
Moen "Banbury"
Same advantages as Capstone
Available in stock at HD