With their shiny appearance, most stainless steel sinks look similar on the surface. But you should look more closely at your options before you buy.

The thickness of the steel is a huge factor. The thicker the steel, the less susceptible it is to denting, and it will even make for less noise when your pots and pans hit its surface. You’ll notice the thickness of stainless steel described as “gauge,” which is represented by numbers. It’s important to remember that the lower the number, the thicker the steel. When you come across the most common numbers, 18 and 20, you’ll want the 18 gauge for a thicker, better-quality sink.

In terms of the general appearance, look for a rich, deep, satin-smooth finish rather than a surface gloss. This look results from machine and hand-finishing, which help the sink look good for years to come.

For more help finding a high-quality stainless steel sink, visit your local DirectBuy showroom. The kitchen designers and product specialists are trained to help you find the best products for your home at prices that won’t break your budget.

Quartz sinks are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners. These sinks will give your kitchen a sparkle only possible from Mother Nature, but their benefits are about more than just looks.

Quartz sinks are the most stain- and scratch-resistant option. The surface of quartz, whether used in sinks or countertops, is so solid and nonporous that you never have to apply sealers. Quartz sinks are virtually impossible to stain, too – just clean up spills and debris with a white non-abrasive scrubber or an all-purpose household cleaner. Also, the durable surface will provide a high-gloss shine for years to come. Under typical cooking conditions, quartz surfaces are heat and scorch-resistant, but you should still play it safe by using a trivet for extreme heat exposure.

Just because quartz is the second-most abundant mineral on the planet (second to water), doesn’t necessarily make it a bargain. Not only does quartz look similar to granite, but it usually has the same kind of steep price tag. But don’t rule quartz sinks out yet. DirectBuy offers a wide selection of quartz sinks, tiles and countertops, without the hidden retail markup you’ve seen in retail stores. Plus, the interior designers and product specialists at DirectBuy can help you figure out which options are best for you.