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FAQ
Why choose a copper sink?
Copper was known to some of the oldest civilizations on record, and has a history of use that is at least 10,000 years old. We are simply stewards of the oldest metal known to mankind.
Why choose your sink from Rio Grande Imports?
It is our belief that some things in this world, simply cannot be improved upon by modern technology or speed. Copper products whose artistic beauty and fine quality come from a tradition of skilled craftsmanship handed down generation after generation. Our masterful Artisans hand craft each copper piece "one-by-one" in our factory where they have been doing this for four generations; creating magnificent, individual pieces of "Functional Art" for your home. The effort that goes into making our Copper products is a measure of love and appreciation for the finer things in life, and our understanding that true quality is timeless.
How should I care for my Rio Grande Imports copper sink?
Caring for our copper bowls is surprisingly easy. For basic cleaning simply use a mild soap and water. Copper will naturally patina over time. Do not use copper cleaners, abrasive materials or harsh chemicals as these will damage the finish.
Keep your basin and drain clean and dry by wiping it down after each use with a soft cloth. For extra protection, a product such as "Johnson's Paste Wax" may be applied. This will help maintain the luster and provide better water runoff. Enjoy the "living" finish of your beautiful hand hammered sink.
Is the drain included with my purchase?
Drains are not included with your sink but are available for purchase on our website. Our drains are made to match the finish you choose perfectly. While placing your order, you will be prompted on step 2 of the order process, with the drain we suggest that best matches your bath or kitchen sink or you can pick a finish you prefer.
Will the template for the basin be supplied?
Due to the variation in dimensions of our handcrafted basins which can be up to ½", we do not supply templates. We recommend waiting to receive your actual bowl before making any cuts in the counter top.
Can the Copper bowls be under mounted?
All of the bowls with a flat lip can be installed as an under mount or drop-in (self rimming). Rounded lip sinks can only be installed as drop-ins.
What is the gauge of the copper used?
We use 18 gauge copper for our bathroom sinks and 16 gauge copper for our kitchen sinks and tubs.
What precautions should I use with my copper sink?
Do not use corrosives such as chlorine or concentrated vinegar on the copper sinks and/or abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals. These may damage the finish of the copper sink.
What is the Patina Process Rio Grande Imports uses?
Our tempered Patina finish is achieved through a special heating and cooling technique resulting in rich variations of color. These variations are enhanced by using heavy gauge copper and specialized hammers to create a rich hand made texture on our copper pieces.
We use both heat and chemical processes to obtain these desired Patina finishes. The patina process is meticulous and time consuming due to the many steps involved. It involves firing the copper until it is Red-Hot, cooling it in water and then applying the chemical patina process, many times repeating the process until the desired look is reached.
What finishes are available?
The finishes available are Dark Smoke, Rio Grande, Red October, Café Natural, Shiny Copper, and Matte Shiny Copper.
What maintenance is required for the specific finish I choose for my sink?
Shiny Copper and Matte Shiny Copper: If you don't like the deep tarnished "Old World" look copper gets over time when exposed to air and water, a quick cleaning with a soft cloth and a copper cleaner is all it takes to bring your sink back to a shiny luster.
If you enjoy the "old look", simply do nothing! Your sink will develop a rich brown patina in a few weeks and will look like it's been in your house for many years. Remarks like "Where did you get that fantastic antique sink?" will be quite common!
All other finishes: These are considered living finishes that change slightly and darken over time. Do not use copper or other metal cleaners on these "patina" finishes as you will remove the finish. If an acidic product such as ketchup removes some of the patina, don't worry. The patina will return over time.
Copper was known to some of the oldest civilizations on record, and has a history of use that is at least 10,000 years old. We are simply stewards of the oldest metal known to mankind.
Why choose your sink from Rio Grande Imports?
It is our belief that some things in this world, simply cannot be improved upon by modern technology or speed. Copper products whose artistic beauty and fine quality come from a tradition of skilled craftsmanship handed down generation after generation. Our masterful Artisans hand craft each copper piece "one-by-one" in our factory where they have been doing this for four generations; creating magnificent, individual pieces of "Functional Art" for your home. The effort that goes into making our Copper products is a measure of love and appreciation for the finer things in life, and our understanding that true quality is timeless.
How should I care for my Rio Grande Imports copper sink?
Caring for our copper bowls is surprisingly easy. For basic cleaning simply use a mild soap and water. Copper will naturally patina over time. Do not use copper cleaners, abrasive materials or harsh chemicals as these will damage the finish.
Keep your basin and drain clean and dry by wiping it down after each use with a soft cloth. For extra protection, a product such as "Johnson's Paste Wax" may be applied. This will help maintain the luster and provide better water runoff. Enjoy the "living" finish of your beautiful hand hammered sink.
Is the drain included with my purchase?
Drains are not included with your sink but are available for purchase on our website. Our drains are made to match the finish you choose perfectly. While placing your order, you will be prompted on step 2 of the order process, with the drain we suggest that best matches your bath or kitchen sink or you can pick a finish you prefer.
Will the template for the basin be supplied?
Due to the variation in dimensions of our handcrafted basins which can be up to ½", we do not supply templates. We recommend waiting to receive your actual bowl before making any cuts in the counter top.
Can the Copper bowls be under mounted?
All of the bowls with a flat lip can be installed as an under mount or drop-in (self rimming). Rounded lip sinks can only be installed as drop-ins.
What is the gauge of the copper used?
We use 18 gauge copper for our bathroom sinks and 16 gauge copper for our kitchen sinks and tubs.
What precautions should I use with my copper sink?
Do not use corrosives such as chlorine or concentrated vinegar on the copper sinks and/or abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals. These may damage the finish of the copper sink.
What is the Patina Process Rio Grande Imports uses?
Our tempered Patina finish is achieved through a special heating and cooling technique resulting in rich variations of color. These variations are enhanced by using heavy gauge copper and specialized hammers to create a rich hand made texture on our copper pieces.
We use both heat and chemical processes to obtain these desired Patina finishes. The patina process is meticulous and time consuming due to the many steps involved. It involves firing the copper until it is Red-Hot, cooling it in water and then applying the chemical patina process, many times repeating the process until the desired look is reached.
What finishes are available?
The finishes available are Dark Smoke, Rio Grande, Red October, Café Natural, Shiny Copper, and Matte Shiny Copper.
What maintenance is required for the specific finish I choose for my sink?
Shiny Copper and Matte Shiny Copper: If you don't like the deep tarnished "Old World" look copper gets over time when exposed to air and water, a quick cleaning with a soft cloth and a copper cleaner is all it takes to bring your sink back to a shiny luster.
If you enjoy the "old look", simply do nothing! Your sink will develop a rich brown patina in a few weeks and will look like it's been in your house for many years. Remarks like "Where did you get that fantastic antique sink?" will be quite common!
All other finishes: These are considered living finishes that change slightly and darken over time. Do not use copper or other metal cleaners on these "patina" finishes as you will remove the finish. If an acidic product such as ketchup removes some of the patina, don't worry. The patina will return over time.
