Kitchen
How to Choose and Measure a Kitchen Sink Grid
Sink grids, also known as basin racks or sink racks, are a great accessory to have for use in your kitchen sink. They buffer the sound of pots and pans hitting the bottom of the basin, serve as a drainer, and protect dishes and cookware from scratching the finish on your sink. With so many sizes, shapes, and basin configurations available in kitchen sinks, grids also come in a variety of sizes and shapes to complement them. Here's some tips on finding one that works with your particular sink.
Take Measurements to Determine the Proper Size
Measuring a kitchen sink for a sink grid is fairly simple. These dimensions are imperative to finding a sink grid that fits well if you do not know the manufacturer. Using a tape measure, begin at the bottom of the sink walls just above where the walls start to curve inward toward the drain. Measure the width side to side from that point to the mirroring point on the other side of the sink. Repeat the same steps to measure the depth, front to back. You now have the width and depth.
Measure the width, depth, and drain location for a precise fit.
To find the center of the drain hole, make four measurements from each side of the sink, starting at that same "just above the curve" point, but only measure to the center of the drain this time. You should now have six measurements in total width, depth, front to drain center, back to drain center, right side to drain center, and left side to drain center. A more ambitious approach would be to take a large piece of cardboard and slowly trim it down until it sits in your sink as you would like the sink grid to, then using a pointed object simply poke a hole in the center of the drain hole. Measure the completed template to yield the same six measurements as above.
Also note the curvature or radius measurement of the corners of your sink. You will want to match the grid to the same or similar radius. If the grid's corners are sharper than your sink, it will not fit properly.
Once you have your measurements in hand, along with the drain location, you can shop for your grid (or grids if you have a double-basin sink). Stainless steel grids with protective rubber feet are the most durable and popular choice.
A perfectly fitted sink grid will cover the entire bottom surface.
If It Fits, It Sits
The ideal sink grid should perfectly fit the dimensions of the kitchen sink. Most kitchen sink manufacturers will offer sink grids that are compatible with their specific sink models. You should always opt for a durable sink grid from a reputable manufacturer that will withstand the test of time, lessen the chances of premature corrosion, and take the everyday abuse that a kitchen sink goes through. Metallic sink grids should always have rubber feet to protect from scratching the surface of the sink; be sure these rubber feet are installed prior to placing the grid into the sink.
A grid will protect your sink from scratches and delicate china from damage.
If you have a kitchen sink and are in the market for a new sink rack to help protect it, the best bet is to look for the sink manufacturer name stamped somewhere on the sink top, around the drain, on the rear wall of the sink, or sometimes beneath the sink. This will greatly help to find the specific size you need for a perfect fit from the same manufacturer. If you are unable to locate the manufacturer name, you will then need to measure the sink width and depth as well as locate the center of the drain.
