How to Choose a New Bathroom Faucet
Bathroom Faucet (Photo credit: rwkvisual)
The bathroom is one of the most frequently used rooms in your home, so why not fashion it to your tastes? After you’ve chosen the perfect bathtub, and found a toilet that serves your needs, don’t forget about the bathroom faucet. When chosen well, your faucet can add a spark of fun to your bathroom’s décor. But how do you make the right choice? We’ve come up with some tips to help you below:
Consider Type
There are four main types of faucets to consider: ball faucets, compression faucets, washerless faucets, and disc faucets. Compression faucets are famous for being durable, while washerless faucets are known for preventing leakage. Disc faucets are known for being both durable and leak-proof, but can be somewhat more expensive. Unless you’re deciding to remodel your bathroom sink, you will also likely need to choose a faucet that fits into the sink you already have. This pertains mainly to how many holes your sink has for a faucet and how widely spaced the holes are–is there room for two handles or just one? If you see three holes drilled within four inches of each other, they’re for a centerset faucet. Three holes drilled at least eight inches apart are for a widespread faucet. If you’re not sure what kind of faucet would work best you’re your home, don’t hesitate to contact a plumber for assistance.
Consider Function
In choosing your faucet, you should think about its primary uses. If you live alone, you probably use the bathroom faucet frequently but not excessively. But what if you have children? They’ll need to be able to reach the faucet, and its handles must be able to withstand pressure, pushing, and pulling. If you tend to wash your hair using the bathroom sink, your faucet will need to rise farther above the basin. These may seem like small details, but they’re important. Your faucet can have an impact on your lifestyle.
Consider Finishes
The finish of your faucet is what you and your visitors will notice first. So, it important to choose your faucet’s color and finish wisely. Oil-rubbed finishes, for instance, can lend a rustic air to a bathroom, while darker finishes create a handsome modern look (but more readily show soap spots). One of the most durable options is a PVD (physical vapor deposition) finish; it is durable and scratch-resistant, but can also be expensive.
Consider Features
Gone are the days when your faucet just delivered water. Faucets these days are customizable with features that can make your life easier: easy-to-clean surface coatings can save you time and money; temperature limits can be set to keep children’s hands from being scalded; some faucets are even touch-sensitive or hands-free, triggering water simply with the motion of your hand. With so many exciting features to choose from these days, it’s important to make sure you thoroughly investigate the options at your disposal.
FAQs
What should I consider when choosing a bathroom faucet?
Consider your sink’s configuration, faucet mounting type, handle style, spout size, finish, water flow, durability, and overall bathroom design.
Are single-handle or two-handle bathroom faucets better?
Single-handle faucets are convenient and easy to operate, while two-handle models provide separate hot and cold controls. The better choice depends on your preferences and sink setup.
How do I know if a faucet will fit my bathroom sink?
Check the number and spacing of mounting holes in the sink or countertop and compare them with the faucet’s installation requirements before purchasing.
What faucet finish is easiest to maintain?
The best finish depends on the faucet material, bathroom environment, and cleaning habits. Choose a finish that complements the bathroom while following the manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations.
When should I replace my bathroom faucet instead of repairing it?
Replacement may make more sense when the faucet has significant corrosion, repeated leaks, damaged components, or is outdated and difficult to repair.
Can a plumber install a new bathroom faucet?
Yes. A professional plumber can remove the existing faucet, install the new fixture, check the connections, and make sure the faucet operates properly without leaks.
Choosing the Right Bathroom Faucet for Your Home
The right bathroom faucet should do more than complement your décor. It should fit your sink, provide the functionality you need, be easy to maintain, and suit your long-term expectations for quality and performance. Taking these factors into account before purchasing can help you avoid compatibility problems and choose a fixture that works well for your bathroom.
If you’re replacing an existing faucet or need help with installation, professional plumbing assistance can ensure the new fixture is properly connected and working as it should.
