Old Fashioned Drainboard Sinks - porcelein problem

DrRod · Jul 20, 2015

We have a porcelain drain board sink in our cabin. The porcelain was in bad shape so about 15 years ago we applied one of those restoration kits to it. It looked fine for a few years but then it started staining and peeling. Its in really bad shape now so I'd like to either replace or repair. I've done some homework on the web and it appears that there is just one guy [in Illinois] who actually sandblasts down to the metal and then bakes on new porcelain. Everything else is just another after market coating.

I've also looked for a replacement but new ones are very limited and so far haven't seen one that will fit. There are used ones on eBay but they all show their age and it looks like a short trip back to the status quo; plus they want $1,000 and up for these things.

I suspect stainless steel would be a good option especially because we get dark stains from the well water. But I hate to change the look of things in the kitchen. I also wondered if I could get it powder coated -- seems like that might work but never heard of anyone doing it.

So does anyone have advice on what to do and where to turn? As always, your comments are most appreciated.

chuck172 · Jul 20, 2015

I can't really help with your problem, but my wife wanted an old porcellan farm sink. We found one in good shape used. I took out the modern ss sink and installed the old. Wouldn't have it any other way. Love the sink. It's the kind with the basin in the center and drainboards on both sides.

wolftree · Jul 20, 2015

There is not an enduring $50 solution, however there are $250-$1500 solutions that reglaze iron and steel tubs and sinks. Search for professionals in your living area that re-enamel these.

RickB · Jul 20, 2015

Cabin implies seasonality. If the worst case is a couple trips from MD to IL when the cabin isn't in use to refurbish the sink you like so well, why not?

DrRod · Jul 20, 2015

I like your outlook on things. I'm in the market for a travel trailer so I can run away from home this winter so maybe my first stop should be the great state of Illinois.