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.

Sometimes those choices can be hard because there are so many to choose from, and you will need to decide which is more important the style of the bathroom faucet or the sink, but with so many options available in the style of both you should be able to come to a pleasant choice after doing some heavy duty comparison and shopping around.

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 the old standby for many years, and are still in use and available today. These are usually among the less expensive faucets and have both a hot and cold handle to control temperature and water pressure. To close off water pressure, you simply tighten the handle.

But what is happening inside the faucet to make this work? Inside is a mechanical assembly with a washer on the end of a screw. By tightening the handle of the faucet, you put pressure on the washer over an opening which stops water flow. This type of faucet is prone to leaking and may need frequent maintenance. Replacing the washer is a common fix.

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 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 latest development and will seldom need repair. This type of mechanism is found in better quality faucets and will raise the cost. Disc faucets are single lever models.

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-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 only an option if you are doing a full remodel where the wall will be open. This is a much more complicated installation. Often used with vessel sinks, the faucet assemble is mounted into the wall.

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

The finish you choose may depend on your style choice, although many of the finishes will work well with a number of styles. Consider your lifestyle when selecting a finish. How busy is your household?

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 easier to live with especially in a busy household, or one with children. Finger smudges and water spots will be less visible.

Oil rubbed bronze, Venetian bronze, black iron and weathered copper are also popular finishes in the bathroom faucets of today. Some in this group are considered living finishes. When you see a product listed as a living finish, recognize that it is designed to change with time and use. This is part of the charm of the material and is considered normal. Do be aware of this and decide if you will be comfortable with these changes as years pass.

Final Points:

1. What type of installation do you need? Widespread, centerset, or single lever?

2. Consider maintenance, and the differences in compression, ball, cartridge, or disc faucets before you decide.

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. What will your budget allow?

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.