How do I determine what the coating on my sink is?

1cs1267
by 1cs1267

I have a 35 year old cast iron double bowl sink I purchased new from a now extinct big box store. The sink weighs around 100 pounds and is coated in a white finish. How do I determine what the coating is … i.e. porcelain, enamel, etc.? Is there any value in this sink? Thank you.


  9 answers
  • Cheryl A Cheryl A on Jan 13, 2020

    Hi

    We would not know the value of the sink but here is some info that may help you.


    https://www.cecosinks.com/index.php/resources/why-choose-cast-iron-sinks



  • William William on Jan 13, 2020

    I have seen the terms “Porcelain Enamel”, “Enamel”, and “Porcelain” each used to describe the top coating that is baked onto metal substrates on bathtubs, sinks and other products. As such, you may see the various terms used interchangeably.


    Since it is cast iron the coating is more likely porcelain over cast iron. The enamel is the baking process where the porcelain is fired to bond it to the metal. Very similar to the enameling process of colored glass to metal in jewelry making. Value is based on condition. Any chips, scratches, ground in dirt will diminish it's worth. Basically it can bring anywhere from $500 to $1000+. Ebay is a good source for prices.

  • Gk Gk on Jan 13, 2020

    More than likely a porcelain enamel sink. People do look for these and especially if it is in good shape. Craiglist or a local Marketplace (Facebook) listing may give you an idea if anyone is interested. Habitat for Humanity Restore would take is as a donation. I replaced my stainless steel sink with a heavy porcelain enamel sink a few years ago! I'd rather have this kind of sink than any othr kind!

  • Cynthia H Cynthia H on Jan 13, 2020

    I recently redid my sink. It's only value was the beautiful ivy design and my fondness for it. I redid it using a kit. Odds are it's porcelain over metal. Sadly, they have a tendency to chip and/or rust. Value in older ones is their overall condition. Here's mine:

    https://www.hometalk.com/diy/kitchen-dining/sinks-faucets/refinishing-my-kitchen-sink-43550851?expand_all_questions=1


  • Julie M. Julie M. on Jan 15, 2020

    At that weight, I would bet it is enamel coated cast iron. It should be a very durable finish NOT prone to chipping. If it chips, it is probably enamel coated steel which is not very durable and a much cheaper product.

    I have done MANY kitchens over and have decided I am over stainless steel sinks. SS sinks are such a pain to keep looking nice. I purchased the Riverby cast iron enamel sink for my latest kitchen for $800. Keep in mind that this is a new undermount well designed unit. I'm thinking you might be able to sell your used sink for $100 depending on where you live.

  • Wendylou from GA Wendylou from GA on Jan 15, 2020

    I tried everything to clean mine and low and behold....found out it was made of a car finish. I had it for 10 years and it’s never been cleaner now that I’m using car cleaner! Ha ha!!

    I hope you find it!!!

  • Simple Nature Decor Simple Nature Decor on Jan 15, 2020

    Not sure unless you do some research on cast iron sinks and check this article most are coated with enamel https://www.thekitchn.com/all-about-enameled-cast-iron-sinks-sink-spotlight-169379

  • Lifestyles Homes Lifestyles Homes on Jan 15, 2020

    As my grandmother used to say, It will bring what the market will bare.


    It is very heavy and selling it online, long distance, means a hefty Shipping Cost.


    The Golden Trifecta:

    Rare

    Mint Condition

    In Fashion or In Demand

  • Craft Invaders Craft Invaders on Jan 19, 2020

    My guess would be enamel too, if so and if it's in good condition I'd imagine it would have some value