Apron Sink vs. Farmhouse Sink: What’s the Difference?

Choosing a sink is a crucial part of any kitchen design plan. Not only does it need to match your design style and lifestyle needs, but it can also determine cabinet and countertop decisions.

During my last kitchen renovation, I wanted a functional yet beautiful sink. With that front of mind I was instantly drawn to apron and farmhouse sinks. Attractive focal points that can keep up with the demands of a busy kitchen, apron and farmhouse sinks instantly elevate the look of any kitchen. While the terms are often used interchangeably, some subtle differences are worth exploring.

Here to break down the nuances of apron sinks and farmhouse sinks are two kitchen design experts — Annika Cooper from RK Miles and Kevin McIver from Cape Cod Lumber’s Homescapes Design Center and Showroom.

What Is a Farmhouse Sink?

Farmhouse sinks are a traditional style of sink with a finished, visible front and a large, deep basin. Originally used as a multipurpose workstation in busy farmhouse kitchens, these sinks were designed to wash large pots and pans, clean babies, and launder clothes all in the same space. The added apron front increased the sink’s working size to keep water from spilling onto the floor and reduce back strain during use.

Today’s farmhouse sinks bear their predecessors’ look and workhorse reputation, including the hallmark rounded edges of the originals.

A farmhouse sink is usually an oversized single-basin design but can also include a built-in drainboard and backsplash.

Types of Farmhouse Sinks

• Enameled cast iron
• Fireclay
• Porcelain

How Much Does a Farmhouse Sink Cost?

Expect to pay $600 to $1,800 or more for farmhouse sinks. Cooper recommends skipping cheaper models and instead investing in a quality sink with a thicker, more durable enamel layer that will resist scratches and staining.

Farmhouse Sink Pros and Cons

Pros

One of the biggest perks of a farmhouse sink is the deep, wide basin that makes cleaning large items easier. This sink type also creates a more comfortable user experience with less stooping and reaching to use the sink.

Beyond functionality, farmhouse sinks are an aesthetically pleasing kitchen centerpiece that can have beautifully fluted or curved apron details. Regarding apron sinks vs. farmhouse sinks, farmhouse sinks have the advantage of built-in backsplash and drain board options.

Cons

While the large size is a draw for many fans of a farmhouse sink, the lost counter space and under-cabinet space can be problematic, especially in a smaller kitchen. The large basin also takes a long time to fill and drain. “You may find yourself using a lot more water to wash just a few dishes,” Cooper says.

Enameled cast iron is the classic farmhouse sink material, which can be difficult to keep clean. Metal pans or racks left in the sink can quickly leave rust stains, and scratches in the enamel, trap dirt and make cleaning more challenging.

Cast iron sinks are also very heavy and need to be installed correctly. When filled with water, these sinks can crack if not supported correctly. “These really should be installed by someone with experience,” Cooper says. This adds to installation costs, which is another con of this sink style.

What Is an Apron Sink?

An apron sink is a modern take on the more traditional farmhouse sink. With square edges and simple lines, apron sinks have a more contemporary design that suits a variety of home styles.

While apron sinks are still large, you may be able to find some with smaller dimensions.

How Much Does an Apron Sink Cost?

“A lot more expensive than an average sink,” Cooper says. Costs will start at about $600 and can go up to $1,500 to $1,800 or higher for higher grade materials and designs. “Copper apron sinks can be very costly,” Cooper says.

Types of Apron Sinks

Apron sinks are typically made of four materials types.

• Granite composite
• Stainless steel
• Copper
• Soapstone

Apron Sink Pros and Cons

Pros

Apron sinks are more versatile due to their modern styling. They look good in transitional, contemporary, industrial and modern-style kitchens. “There are a lot of different sink designs to choose from,” McIver says.

When it comes to apron sinks vs. farmhouse sinks, apron sinks can be easier to install if they are lighter, stainless steel models. “These are easier and can cost less to install,” Cooper says.

Cons

Apron sinks are better suited to new construction and remodeling projects. “They’re difficult to integrate into a typical sink base, and usually require one meant for apron front sinks,” McIver says. Typical sink bases are not constructed to fit the extended sink front or to support the added weight. He recommends professional installation to avoid cabinet damage during installation.

“One con of an apron sink is it gets your belly wet at the sink [due to the exposed apron front],” Cooper says. McIver points to another water spillage problem. “If water splashes up over the sink, it drips onto the cabinet below,” he says. “If you’re careful and clean up after it’s not a big deal, but water is a cabinet’s worst enemy.” He says some models offer a drip edge on the apron’s underside to prevent this problem.

Apron Sink vs. Farmhouse Sink: Which Is Right for Me?

When it comes down to which sink is best for you, “it really comes down to which look do you prefer,” Cooper says. If you have a modern home aesthetic, then an apron sink in stainless steel may be your right choice. If you prefer a more traditional or rustic design, then a farmhouse sink is the way to go.

About the Experts

Annika Cooper is a kitchen and bath designer at RK Miles in Barre, Vermont. She has over fifteen years of experience in the industry.

Kevin McIver is a kitchen designer for Cape Cod Lumber’s Homescapes Design Center and Showroom located in Abington, Massachusetts. He has been a kitchen designer for 40 plus years.