Let’s Talk About LaSalle Bristol 13TGS331964 Stainless Steel Double Sink 4 Hole
The LaSalle Bristol 13TGS331964 Stainless Steel Double Sink 4 Hole is a self-rimming, double basin sink designed primarily for RVs, campers, and other mobile living spaces. Manufactured by LaSalle Bristol, it features a durable 20-gauge stainless steel construction and a standard four-hole configuration for faucet and accessory installation. Its compact size makes it a practical choice where space is at a premium, but does it deliver the durability and functionality expected from a sink destined for hard use on the road?
My journey to this particular sink began with a frustrating problem: the original sink in my vintage travel trailer was rusting from the inside out. I needed a replacement that was both durable enough to withstand the rigors of travel and compact enough to fit in the limited space. The LaSalle Bristol sink seemed to strike the right balance between size, material, and price.
Upon unboxing, my initial reaction was one of cautious optimism. The stainless steel had a clean, brushed finish, and the overall weight felt substantial enough to suggest decent build quality. However, the 20-gauge steel felt a bit thin compared to the 18-gauge sink I had in my home kitchen, sparking some initial concerns about its long-term durability.
I considered a few other options, including a similar model from a different manufacturer and a smaller single-basin sink. Ultimately, I chose the LaSalle Bristol because its double-basin configuration offered more versatility for washing dishes and prepping food, while still fitting within the existing countertop cutout. It was a gamble, but I was hoping its stainless-steel construction would provide long-term resistance to corrosion.
My first impression was a blend of excitement and trepidation. The sink looked fantastic and fit the space perfectly, but only time would tell if it could withstand the bumps, spills, and vibrations of life on the road. I crossed my fingers and hoped for the best!
Real-World Testing: Putting LaSalle Bristol 13TGS331964 Stainless Steel Double Sink 4 Hole to the Test
First Use Experience
The initial test came during a weekend camping trip to the coast. Installed in my travel trailer, it faced the usual gauntlet of camping scenarios: washing dishes after messy meals, rinsing off sandy gear, and general cleanup. The double basin design immediately proved its worth, allowing me to separate clean and dirty dishes, or to soak items in one basin while using the other.
The sink performed adequately, but revealed some minor quirks. The basins are somewhat shallow, requiring more frequent draining. The 20-gauge steel also amplified the sound of running water and clanging dishes more than a thicker gauge sink would.
After the first weekend, I noticed a few water spots that were difficult to remove, hinting at the need for regular cleaning to maintain its shine. Overall, the first outing was a positive experience, but highlighted areas that would require closer attention in future uses.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including multiple camping trips and weekend getaways, the LaSalle Bristol 13TGS331964 Stainless Steel Double Sink 4 Hole has held up reasonably well. There are no signs of rust or corrosion, which is a testament to the quality of the stainless steel. The finish, however, requires frequent wiping to prevent water spots and maintain its luster.
The sink has proven surprisingly durable, withstanding the constant vibrations and bumps of travel without any dents or warping. I did invest in a sink grid to protect the bottom from scratches and dents caused by dropping silverware or dishes.
Maintenance is relatively straightforward; a quick wipe down with a stainless-steel cleaner is usually sufficient. Compared to the old, rusting sink it replaced, the LaSalle Bristol is a significant upgrade in terms of ease of cleaning and overall hygiene. It outperforms the old sink in every way, although a thicker gauge steel would have been preferable for sound dampening and increased dent resistance.
Breaking Down the Features of LaSalle Bristol 13TGS331964 Stainless Steel Double Sink 4 Hole
Specifications
The LaSalle Bristol 13TGS331964 Stainless Steel Double Sink 4 Hole features a self-rimming design for easy drop-in installation. It is constructed from 300 series nickel chrome 20 gauge stainless steel. The sink measures 33 inches wide, 19 inches long, and 6 inches deep.
The four pre-drilled holes accommodate a standard faucet and accessories such as a sprayer or soap dispenser. The 20-gauge steel, while lightweight and cost-effective, is thinner than higher-end sinks, affecting its sound-dampening properties and dent resistance. The 33″ x 19″ size is a good compromise for maximizing basin space while fitting in smaller RV or camper countertops.
Performance & Functionality
The LaSalle Bristol sink performs its primary function adequately, providing a convenient space for washing dishes and prepping food. The double basin design is a major plus, offering greater versatility than a single-basin sink. The shallower depth can be limiting, requiring more frequent draining and potentially leading to water splashing.
Its strengths lie in its compact size, easy installation, and resistance to rust and corrosion. A significant weakness is the thinness of the steel, which amplifies noise and makes it more susceptible to dents. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly RV sink, but does not exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The sink boasts a clean, utilitarian design that blends well with most RV and camper interiors. The self-rimming design simplifies installation, but does leave a small lip around the edge that can trap water and debris. The 20-gauge stainless steel construction keeps the weight down, which is important in weight-sensitive vehicles.
The sink is relatively user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. The shallow basins might take some getting used to, but overall, its operation is intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the LaSalle Bristol sink should last for several years. The stainless-steel construction is resistant to rust and corrosion, the primary culprits in sink failure. Regular cleaning with a stainless-steel cleaner is essential to prevent water spots and maintain its shine.
Repairing dents or scratches is possible, but often requires specialized tools and skills. Replacing the entire sink is usually more cost-effective than attempting major repairs.
Accessories and Customization Options
The LaSalle Bristol 13TGS331964 Stainless Steel Double Sink 4 Hole does not come with any accessories. However, it is compatible with a wide range of standard faucets, sprayers, and soap dispensers. A sink grid to protect the bottom of the basins is a worthwhile investment.
Customization options are limited, but you could potentially add a sound-dampening undercoating to reduce noise. The standard four-hole configuration allows for a variety of faucet and accessory setups, providing some flexibility in terms of personalization.
Pros and Cons of LaSalle Bristol 13TGS331964 Stainless Steel Double Sink 4 Hole
Pros
- Resistant to rust and corrosion: Stainless steel construction ensures long-term durability.
- Double basin design: Provides versatility for washing and prepping.
- Easy installation: Self-rimming design simplifies the drop-in process.
- Compact size: Fits well in smaller RV and camper countertops.
- Budget-friendly: Offers good value for the price.
Cons
- Thin steel gauge: Amplifies noise and is more prone to dents.
- Shallow basins: Require frequent draining.
- Water spots: Requires regular cleaning to maintain shine.
Who Should Buy LaSalle Bristol 13TGS331964 Stainless Steel Double Sink 4 Hole?
Perfect for: RV owners, camper enthusiasts, and those renovating or building small mobile living spaces who are looking for a cost-effective and durable sink solution. It is also well-suited for those who prioritize a double basin design for added versatility.
Who should skip this product? Those seeking a high-end sink with superior sound dampening and dent resistance should consider models with thicker gauge steel. Also, those who prefer deeper basins may find the LaSalle Bristol sink too shallow for their needs.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A sink grid to protect the bottom of the basins is highly recommended. Adding a sound-dampening undercoating can help reduce noise levels.
Conclusion on LaSalle Bristol 13TGS331964 Stainless Steel Double Sink 4 Hole
The LaSalle Bristol 13TGS331964 Stainless Steel Double Sink 4 Hole offers a solid, budget-friendly solution for those needing a compact and durable sink in their RV, camper, or other small living space. Its stainless-steel construction provides excellent resistance to rust and corrosion, while the double basin design adds versatility. The thinner gauge steel and shallow basins are compromises that come with the lower price point.
The price is definitely justified for what you get; a functional, durable, and easy-to-install sink. It is a significant upgrade over many stock RV sinks.
I would recommend the LaSalle Bristol sink to anyone seeking an affordable and practical sink solution for their mobile living space, with the understanding that it is not a high-end, luxury product. If you’re looking for a reliable workhorse that won’t break the bank, this sink is definitely worth considering. Upgrade your RV kitchen today!