Get matched with top sink reglazing pros in Maple Plain, MN

Porcelain and enamel sinks have very similar appearances, but they aren’t the same. Porcelain is a ceramic made from natural clay, while enamel is a strong powder that’s glazed over a metal sink. Use a magnet to determine whether you have an enamel or porcelain sink. If a strong magnet sticks to the sink, it’s likely enamel. If it doesn’t, you probably have a porcelain sink. You can also use the model number on the sink (often found on the underside of the bowl) or information from the manufacturer to determine the material.

It is possible to resurface porcelain sinks—in fact, it’s a smart thing to do for aesthetic and functional reasons. If your porcelain sink has scratches, chips, or dings, resurfacing or recoating it can make it look new and prevent further damage. Depending on your budget, the sink's value, the extent of the damage, and your DIY abilities, you can resurface the sink yourself or hire someone to do it. You can buy DIY porcelain sink resurfacing products at home improvement stores, and sink resurfacing contractors offer reglazing and recoating for sinks, bathtubs, and other porcelain surfaces.

Natural stone stinks require sealing before installation because they have a porous surface susceptible to staining and damage. Quartz is much denser than natural stone, making it non-porous and resistant to stains or absorption. Because quartz is a composite material, it doesn’t need to be sealed before daily use.

Sink discoloration from water is caused by any of a number of different kinds of minerals in hard water, including iron and manganese. To avoid the staining that hard water can cause, install a water softener to remove minerals from the water as it enters your home. Rusty pipes can also cause discoloration, and may be the culprit if only one sink is stained.