bathroom style guide

If you are replacing both a bathroom faucet and the sink, there will be many options and choices, on the other hand, if you are simply replacing a bathroom faucet and keeping the existing sink then some decisions have already been made for you since you are bound by the faucet drillings in the sink.

If you are matching to an existing sink, you still have choices concerning the mechanics of the faucet, the style and the finish.

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.

Mechanics of a Bathroom Faucet

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 frequently in use in both the bathroom and kitchen. These faucets have a single handle which controls both temperature and the flow of water from the faucet. This kind of faucet was the first to be called washerless. These, however are complicated assemblies, and also prone to leaking.

3. Cartridge Faucets-are found both in single handle and two handle models. Temperate control and the rate of water flow are controlled by a moveable stem cartridge. Cartridge faucets are very dependable and need 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. Single Hole Faucet-this type of faucet requires a single hole. In this type of assembly the spout and single lever which controls both temperature and flow of water is a single integrated unit.

2. Widespread Faucets-feature the handles and the spout as single items which each mount 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 often a choice used with vessel sinks. These faucets require a lot of work to install, and are only a choice if you are going to have the walls open either during new construction, or in the process of an extensive bathroom 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 easier to live with especially in a busy household, or one with children. Finger smudges and water spots will be less visible.

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. Do you need a single lever, widespread, or centerset faucet?

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. Think about your style preferences. Do you want modern, traditional or a Vintage style bathroom faucet?

5. How much will your budget allow?

A good bathroom faucet assembly will last for many years. Shop around, consider the points above and you should find a bathroom faucet that will be pleasing and dependable for many years.