PLEASE NOTE: The following questions pertain to kitchen sinks and faucets.
Undermount Sink Questions
What is GAUGE for stainless steel sinks?
GAUGE NUMBER
Basically GAUGE refers to the thickness of the
stainless steel sheet used for the manufacturing of sinks. A lower gauge number
means the sheet is thicker. The standard thickness in the stainless steel sink
market is 18 gauge. Any number that is greater than 18 gauge is not recommended.
What is chromium and nickel?
CHROMIUM/NICKEL CONTENTS
Chromium/nickel contents are mentioned almost
always together. 18/10 steel means that chromium content is about 18% and nickel
about 10%, which is usually the case for T304 steel that is used for almost all
the sinks out there on the market. The chromium content controls the lustre,
durability and corrosion protection properties of the steel, while the nickel
content affects the hardness and strength of the steel.
Will my new stainless steel sink scratch?
Stainless
steel sink WILL get scratch eventually with use. However, over time as the sink
ages, scratches will become less apparent and in fact blend into the surface.
Minor scratches on the inside surfaces of the bowl may be blended into the sink
by lightly rubbing a Scotchbrite pad in the direction of the finish grain. Be
sure to rinse thoroughly with water and towel dry after this procedure, removing
any particles left over from the Scotchbrite as you rinse.
For other
resources of removing scratches, visit Scratch-B-Gone at
http://www.scratch-b-gone.com.
More scratching information under our
Resources section.
Will my stainless steel sink
rusts?
Stainless steel does not rust. However, if your water
contains high amount of irons, and these iron particles can creat the rust on
the surface. Tin coated steel cans or cast iron pots left in the sink while wet
can cause rust. The rust stains are not usually a part of the stainless steel,
they are simple deposits on the surface of the sink. Scrubbing the stains with
an abrasive cleaner along the grain lines of the finish will almost always
immediately solve the problem.
Can stainless steel
sinks corrode?
Chlorine bleach is a very aggressive chemical. It
can and will corrode stainless steel. Remember, the stainless steel is primarily
steel, chromium, and nickel. Chemicals can and will discolor these materials.
Certain acids, etc. will cause problems. Remember, avoid household cleaners
contain chlorine bleach or sodium hypochlorite.
How
do I clean my Castle Bay Sink?
Rinse, Rinse, and Rinse Again
...
Rinse your sink well after each use. Not only spray, but rub with a clean
cloth or paper towel as the clean water is flowing. Simply spraying will not
remove all residue or harmful deposits.
NEVER use steel wool to clean your
stainless steel sinks. The steel wool can leave bits of steel embedded in the
brushed finish of your sink, and those little threads of steel will rust. Also,
do not leave pots or pans in a wet sink for long periods of time. This can cause
discoloration in the sink.
KITCHEN FAUCET QUESTIONS
What material is used in the construction of Kitchen
Faucets?
Most kitchen faucets in the market are made from
solid brass, and then plated with "chrome", "satin/brush nickel",
"bronze" or other finishes. However, select manufacturers such as Castle Bay,
offer kitchen faucets which are made from 100% solid stainless steel. It
is important not to confuse Satin Nickel Finish or Stainless Steel Finish
faucet, which is plated brass faucet, with real solid Stainless Steel
construction faucet. Stainless steel does not stain, corrode, or rust as easily
as ordinary steel.
What is the standard size hole for
kitchen faucet?
The standard size kitchen faucet hole is 1 3/8?
inch.
Am I required to hire a certified plumber or can I install it myself?
We always recommend to refer to a certified plumber for all installations.
What type of a cartridge does the faucet have?
Always recommend faucets with Ceramic Cartridges
Where may I purchase Castle Bay brand sinks and
accessories in my area?
Our Distributor or Contact Us section on
this site will help you find the Castle Bay dealer nearest you.
Our
distributors are located across Canada. Serving Toronto, Mississauga, Oakville,
Brampton, Ajax, Pickering, Hamilton, Ottawa, Montreal, Kingston, London,
Orangeville, Calgary, Edmonton, Markham, Richmond Hill, and etc.