FAQ

Q1: What kind of stainless steel does Symbol use? 

Answer: Most of symbol stainless steel sinks are manufactured from premium 304 series stainless steel, which is rust-free, scrape-resisting, non-porous, hygienic, and extremely durable. This type of steel has 18% Chromium content, and 8% Nickel content which provide shine and luster in your  sink, and prevent corrosion. This is the industry standard for kitchen sinks, and other food and sanitary products.

Q2: What is the difference between 304 and 316 stainless steel?

Answer: 304 contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel. 316 contains 16% chromium, 10% nickel and 2% molybdenum. The "moly" is added to help resist corrosion to chlorides (like sea water and de-icing salts) 

Q3: What does gauge mean?

Answer: All sheet metal is classified by thickness. The lower the gauge number, the thicker, and therefore stronger and heavier the steel is. So, 16 gauge steel is thicker and stronger than 18 or 20 gauge steel. 

Q4：What type of finish does this sink have?

Answer: The American sink has been polished to a lustrous satin finish with a very fine grain, typical of most high-end sinks. This is preferred by most homeowners because scratches do not stand out as much as they would on a polished or mirrored finish.

For other market, the polishing or plating or linen finish may be more popular, and we can finish the sinks according to your request. 

Q5: Why is the chromium and nickel content of the sink important?

Answer: Stainless steel is an alloy made up of different metals. Nickel gives the stainless steel it strength and hardness while chromium gives it luster & durability. 

Q6: How long does shipping take?

Answer: For a 40'HQ container, our common lead time is 6-8 weeks. And if you need the sinks urgently, we can adjust the schedule a little to match your demand, besides, we have some sinks in stock time to time. Please note you would need another 3-5 weeks for the shipment.

Q7: Why is it important for my sink to be undercoated and have pads on the bottom?

Answer: The undercoating and pads are the "soundproofing" of the sink. The pads reduce the "pinging" sound the sink would otherwise make when the faucet water hits the bottom of the sink and the pads help to reduce the noise from the garbage disposal. In addition, the undercoating helps to prevent unwanted condensation on the bottom side of the sink.

Q8: Can stainless steel be used at very low and very high temperatures?

Answer: Yes. Stainless steel has excellent properties at both extremes of the temperature scale. Stainless steel can be used down to liquid nitrogen temperatures and up to about 1800° F.

Q9: What is the best way to clean my new sink?

Answer: Stainless steel is very easy to clean, but you need to keep a few things in mind. First.... NEVER use steel wool to clean your Stainless Steel Apron Sink, or Undermount Sink. The steel wool can leave bits of steel embedded in the brushed finish of your sink, and those little threads of steel will rust. Also, do not leave pots or pans in a wet sink for long periods of time. This can cause discoloration in the sink. For regular, everday cleaning, a towel and soapy water are perfect. For more thorough cleaning, we recommend products such as Barkeeper's Friend, or Bon Ami. 

Q10: Will my new sink rust?

Answer: Because stainless steel is an alloy mixed with chromium and nickel it does not rust! However, rust may bond to the surface of your sink if a rusty object is left in the sink. Please remove it with right cleaner. The cleaner arrives with directions and is easy to use - your rust spot will be gone in a few minutes.  

Q11: Do I need a Strainer Basket if I am installing a Garbage Disposal? 

Answer: No.  The strainer basket serves as the transition piece between the sink and the drain assembly.  For customers installing a garbage disposal, the garbage disposal serves as this transition piece.  For example, if you are installing a double bowl sink, your garbage disposal will be installed on one side and you will need a strainer basket for the other side.