When planning your designer dream home's perfect bathroom, the major fixtures are thoroughly researched and sought out.
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The garden tub, walk-in shower, vanity, and toilet are important focal points in designing the ideal commode. Who would ever think that similar research should be put into the faucet selection? For many homeowners, the faucet is simply part of the sink or bathtub; they barely give it a second thought. However, there are more to faucets than one may realize.
When constructing a new home, it is ideal to purchase the faucet with the sink itself. The sales' professional that has helped make the vanity and basin selection should be able to easily help narrow down faucet options. However, some of the terminology can get confusing and you may not realize that the sink chosen is not compatible with the faucet you desire. Being familiar with faucet options will help you choose the combination that is best.
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Today's faucet selection goes well beyond the basic spout with hot and cold water handles. There are three main faucet styles: center set, widespread, and mini widespread.
- Center set faucets are the cheapest. They can have one or two handles, with the hot and cold water feeding through a single hole or two separate holes, respective to their handles.
- Widespread faucets have separate hot and cold handles and a separately mounted spout. The handles can be installed anywhere from 8 to 20 inches apart, making the widespread faucet ideal for corner mounting. However, this style can get expensive.
- Mini widespread faucets are the same as widespread but have a range of 4 inches from center to center.
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Beyond the faucet styles, there are also different valves that control the water flow for each.
- Compression valves are quite common, have two controls and use a rubber sealer to stop water flow. These valves are prone to leaks after time as the rubber sealer wears out.
- Cartridge valves are reliable, easy to repair, and available for either single or double-handle styles.
- Ball valves use a rotating slotted ball to regulate water flow but are only available on single-handle faucets.
- Ceramic disc valves work similarly to compression valves, but two ceramic disks replace the rubber sealer. This style is most durable and typically the best to install. They are maintenance free and usually carry a lifetime guarantee due to their extensive durability.
Beyond functionality, faucets are also available in styles that vary from traditionally simple to uniquely modern and even elegant antiquity. There are also styles that are designed to be ADA compatible, making them ideal for small or troubled hands. Each faucet style is then available in a number of finishes. Chrome is standard but brass, nickel, and porcelain are all popular options as well. No certain finish or style is best; the important thing is that the faucet fits the look you desire and the metal finish is properly sealed from water damage.
Remember to shop around for your faucet just as you do for the sink and other bathroom fixtures. When possible, purchase the sink and faucet together to ensure compatibility. Direct any questions to a professional and receive their confirmation that the hardware chosen is indeed a good fit. Now you can completely enjoy your dream bathroom, right down to the faucet handles!
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