When choosing a bathroom faucet, there are numerous factors to consider. Size and shape should be taken into account, as well as materials and special features.
You should also consider whether the faucet offers flexibility in use, is easy to clean, and matches your preferred design style. The installation process should also be considered, such as if the faucet requires a professional or if it is do-it-yourself friendly.
Lastly, research the reputation of the brand or manufacturer you are purchasing from to ensure quality. Taking all of these factors into account, you can find the perfect bathroom faucet for your needs.
A look at the global faucet market size shows how lucrative the industry is. As of 2021 it was worth $19.3 billion. Experts project a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.4% until 2030.
The most significant contributor to the growth is the multiple functionality and aesthetic appeal of faucets. Rapid urbanization and increasing investment in the sector will also contribute to the achievement of the CAGR.
So now you are shopping for the right bathroom faucet. Focus on the following considerations to make the job easier.
Find the Right Place to Buy the Faucets
The first consideration is to find the right place to buy the faucets. You want to be sure of high-quality ones that fit your budget. There are excellent selections at PlumbersStock online shopping store. The range of bathroom faucets includes:
- Center set lavatory faucets
- Single-hole lavatory faucets
- Widespread lavatory faucets
- Bathroom sink with faucet kits to name a few.
A good indication of the quality you can expect is reading customer reviews. Also, check the store’s ratings.
Determine the Type of Bathroom Faucets You Need
When shopping, you should have a good idea of the types of bathroom faucets. There are various options, including:
- Single-hole faucets, as the name suggests, fit into a sink with a single hole. The kit will contain a single handle for controlling water temperature and flow.
- Centre set faucets are for sinks with three holes. A typical measurement is 4 inches apart. You get two handles that control the cold and hot water temperature.
- Widespread or spread-fit faucets have two handles and separate spouts. These will fit into a sink with three holes 8 inches apart.
- Wall-mounted faucets sit on the wall above the sink.
- Bridge faucets combine the old fashion styles and newer technology. You will need two holes on the countertop for proper mounting. Bridge faucets work well with undermount sinks and are typically mounted on the countertop.
- Deck mount sits directly on the bathroom countertop. They also look great in bathtubs.
- Vessel faucets are for vessel sinks and look great on the bathroom vanity. They typically have a taller spout and single lever handles. What you get is an elegant focal point that will stand out. Please note you will need plumbing tools that can drill a hole through the countertop or vanity for proper installation.
Consider factors like the heating boiler system, toilet plumbing fixtures, plumbing tools and ease of installation. You can get all the necessary information by asking your plumber for advice.
Faucet Handles
The faucet handle type is critical because it determines the mixing of hot and cold water lines.
- One-handle faucets are excellent for volume and temperature control.
- Two-handle faucets give individual lines to the hot and cold water
- Touchless faucets have no handles. Instead, they have movement sensors to turn on and off the water.
- Touch-activated faucets require users to tap the sensor or wave to activate the flow.
Faucet Material
The faucet material you choose depends on your preference, budget and overall decor style. There are various options, including:-
- Brass has a classic look that will always stay in style for years. The material is durable, long-lasting and comes in a range of finishes and colors. The disadvantage of brass is that it may contain lead which can be hazardous. Check the NSF International lead-free standard and only buy those with 0.25% lead on maximum.
- Stainless steel has the advantage of being easy to clean and corrosion-resistant.
- Zinc is lightweight and affordable but not durable. So, look for those with a brushed nickel or chrome finish for durability.
- Plastic is affordable but does not have the benefit of durability. In the long run, it can become more expensive because you must keep replacing the faucets. Choose good quality plastic, which may be more expensive but will serve you longer. Also, please consult professional plumbers if you need clarification on the compatibility of the plastic with the heating boiler system.
Faucet Finish
The faucet finish will have a significant role to play in how it ends up looking. If you don’t have a good finish, it will tarnish. Over time it will look cheap and unsightly.
PVD finish is eco-friendly and looks fantastic over a long time. But if you want a statement piece, hand-plated finishes are the best. Yes, they may fall in the higher price range. But, look at it as a long-term investment that will look great year in and year out.
Other finish options include:-
- Gold metallic tones like rose gold, French gold, and brushed gold will give a bathroom a luxurious look.
- Silver metallic is more traditional and brings in the classic, never-out-of-style look.
- Non-metallic or powder-coated finishes may chip or not bond very well with metal. However, some popular options include graphic matte black or matte white.
- Mix-and-match finishes include combinations such as nickel and polished chrome. They blend in with most materials, allowing for a cohesive bathroom look.
Faucet Installation
Professional installation may come at an additional cost of hiring professional plumbers. But if you are good with DIY projects and have a suitable plumber tools kit, you can save money this way.
So have that consideration in mind when shopping. Wall-mounted faucets, for example, can be hard to install. Reaching pipes behind walls or backsplashes requires expertise, making it more expensive to install than, say, a deck-mounted faucet.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a bathroom faucet need not be daunting if you follow the tips we have shared above. The best advice is to find reputable sellers like PlumbersStock for your faucets. Next, determine the type of faucet, material, handle and installation type.
Some are easy to fix with the right plumbing tools and DIY skills. But, a good idea is always to let professional plumbers handle the work. You could damage the faucet or install it incorrectly, thus an additional expense.
With a multitude of choices, choosing the right bathroom faucet can sometimes be overwhelming. From materials to finishes, to style and plumbing connections, there’s a lot to consider.
With this comprehensive guide, you can be assured you are armed with all the required information you need to make informed decisions and find the perfect bathroom faucet for you. Your bathrooms shouldn’t have anything but the best!