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, 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.
How a Bathroom Faucet Works
Over time faucets have improved dramatically. Today there are faucets which will operate for long periods of time, maintenance free.
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.
A washer is located on the end of a screw so that when the faucet handle is tightened pressure is put on the washer covering an opening, which stops the flow of the water. This type of faucet needs periodic maintenance usually requiring the replacement of the washer to prevent leaks and 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 the newest type, seldom require repair and are a higher quality and usually more expensive faucet. They are available in single lever models that control both temperature and the flow of water.
Installation Types
1. Single Hole Faucet-is a single assembly that is mounted over a single hole drilling. This is a single unit which contains a lever for water control and the spout.
2. Widespread Faucets-are separate pieces. The handles and spout are each separate pieces which mount to the sink individually, and obviously require different drillings.
3. Centerset Faucets-are commonly found in bathrooms. This type of faucet assembly has handles and spout integrated on a base as one 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.
Consider your style preference. If you are doing a full remodel, all your faucets and fixtures should match. If you are doing a small update, then you will want your choice to be in keeping with the rest of the bath fixtures.
Choosing Your Faucet Finish
Sometimes the finish you choose is dependent on style, but many finishes will be appropriate for a number of styles.
Shiny finishes such as French gold, polished brass, or polished chrome are beautiful, but do require more attention in order to keep them shiny and free of water spots and fingerprints.
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.
Final Points:
1. Do you need a single lever, widespread, or centerset faucet?
2. What mechanism and how much maintenance are you willing to do? Should you choose compression, ball, cartridge of a disc faucet?
3. Choose a finish to suit both your lifestyle and your preference.
4. What style do you prefer? Traditional, Vintage, Contemporary?
5. Work within your budget.
By carefully shopping and doing comparisons you should find a bathroom faucet that will fill your needs and please your eye for many years to come.
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