Sink gauge, specifically concerning stainless steel, refers to the thickness of the metal used in its construction. A lower gauge number indicates a thicker, more robust material. For example, an 18-gauge stainless steel sink will be thinner than a 16-gauge sink.
The thickness of the stainless steel impacts the sink’s durability, resistance to dents and noise, and overall lifespan. Thicker gauges provide superior sound dampening and are less prone to warping or damage from heavy pots and pans. Historically, thicker gauges were considered the standard for high-quality sinks, reflecting a preference for long-lasting and resilient fixtures.