Bathroom Faucets and What You Should Know
Illa Maden
When the time comes to replace a bathroom faucet there are many choices available to you. If you are starting fresh with both a new sink and a bathroom faucet then the sky is the limit. If you are just updating your faucet then you will need to work with the sink you already have, and that will limit the choices somewhat.
If, however you are purchasing both a new bathroom faucet and sink, you have many options to consider and a wonderland of choices open to you.
With so many choices available today, and the changes in the mechanics of faucets, it is a good idea to shop around and compare before making a snap decision. There are so many finishes and styles to choose from, and faucet mechanisms have improved to much you can find a faucet that suits your tastes as well as one that can be almost maintenance free.
Bathroom Faucets and How They Work
Faucets have changed and improved over the years. Many of today's bathroom faucets will be maintenance free for many years without leaks and drips.
1. Compression Faucets-have been in use for many years, and are common in the lesser expensive models even today. These faucet assemblies have both a hot and cold handle which controls water flow and temperature. Water is shut off by tightening the handle.
Inside this type of faucet assembly is a washer on the end of a screw. When you tighten the faucet handle this puts pressure on the washer covering and opening, and the flow of water is stopped. Washer replacement is frequently needed to stop leaking or drips.
2. Ball Faucets-are a frequent choice for kitchens, but are also common in the bath. This type of faucet has one handle to control both water flow and the temperature. Although this is a popular faucet, and the first to be called washerless, they can be difficult to deal with and often leak.
3. Cartridge Faucets-are offered in both single handle models and also in models that have two handles for more control of temperature and water flow. In this type of faucet water flow is controlled by a moveable stem cartridge, and need less pressure. Cartridge faucets require little maintenance.
4. Disc Faucets-are single lever faucets, the newest development, and are better quality faucets and therefore more costly. This type of faucet also is very dependable and will be pretty much maintenance free.
Bathroom Faucet Installation Types
1. A Single Hole Faucet-is one assembly with the spout and lever for water control as one unit.
2. Widespread Faucets-spout and each of the handles are individual pieces which mount to the sink or countertop separately.
3. Centerset Faucets-are often used with a bathroom sink and feature the spout and handles adhered to a base, making the assembly a single unit.
4. Wall-Mounted Bathroom Faucets-are an interesting choice, but the less frequently used because the installation is complicated. This type of assembly is often used with vessel sinks, but not an option unless you are willing to open the wall to install. This is a good choice for a new build or extensive remodel.
We each have our own style preferences, and the style of the faucet you select should be in keeping with the rest of your bath decor.
Selecting a Faucet Finish
Faucet finish will depend somewhat on your style preference, but not totally. Many finishes work well with many different styles of faucet and decor.
Shiny finishes have traditionally been very popular. Polished chrome has been the number one choice through the years. Do keep in mind that polished chrome, French gold, polished brass and other like finishes will need more loving care to keep them at their shiny best.
Satin and brushed finishes are preferred by many due to the fact they are easier to maintain, and water spotting and finger marks are not as likely to show.
There are more exotic finishes available such as Venetian bronze, weathered copper and oil rubbed bronze. These are just a few of the many finishes available. Be aware that those listed as living finishes are designed to change with usage and time. This is built into the product and part of it's appeal. Just know when you purchase that they will look different over time.
Points To Consider:
1. What drillings do you need? centerset, widespread, or single lever?
2. How much maintenance do you want to do? Which mechanism fulfills your needs? Disc, cartridge, ball or compression?
3. What is your finish preference, and does it suit your lifestyle?
4. Choose a style that fits your preference whether it is Traditional, contemporary or Vintage?
5. How much will your budget allow?
Do some thorough comparison shopping, and you should have a bathroom faucet that will fulfill your wishes and that you are pleased with for many years.
About the Author:
Click on this link to find more information and pointers about the selection of a bathroom faucet as well as information about, and a wide selection of, vessel sinks.
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