Bathroom Faucets
One way to acheive the expression of luxury in your bathroom space is to choose an incredible and unique faucet. The most important thing to remember however is that the plumbing for the faucet must match the sink that you choose as well. Not all faucets and sinks work together so if you are set on a certain faucet, be aware that you may not get the sink of your choice as well!
The Facts about Bathroom Faucet Design
Bathroom Faucet Construction
Like bathroom sinks there are many varieties of faucets to choose from in several materials, finishes and designs. Although cost can be a deciding factor make sure to consider the life expectancy of a faucet. Since faucets are meant to work with water it is wise to make sure the working parts of your faucet can handle it. All you need to know about the construction is:
- Solid Brass Bodied Faucets
- Zinc die-cast Faucets
- Plastic Construction Faucets
Most kitchen and bathroom faucets are made with a solid brass body. Faucets with brass bodies are the most durable and therefore last much longer than the alternatives. These faucets are resistant to corrosion and calcification making them an excellent choice for those with hard water. Brass bodied faucets are heavier than most faucets and are also more expensive.
These faucets are also fairly durable however Zinc does corrode when exposed to water and therefore parts need to be replaced once the zinc plating wears off. These faucets are more affordable than brass faucets.
Be aware of these faucets as plastic is not a durable product when used in this fashion. These faucets are much lighter and come with a lighter price tag as well. This is a quick fix product rather than a good investment.
Bathroom Faucet Types
There are a few main types of faucets to choose from. The type of faucet you choose depends entirely on the sink you choose!
- Centerset Faucets
- Single Hole Faucets
- Minispread Faucets
- Widespread Faucets
- Vessel Faucets
- Wall Mount Faucet
These faucets are compact and require three drilling holes equaling approximately a 4" distance on the countertop or the sink. The spout and the handles are atached to this 4" base. Centerset bathroom faucets are available in single and dual handle design.
These faucets obviously only require one hole drilling in the countertop or sink and are perfect for a smaller sink. Single hole bathroom faucets are available with either one or two handles which are attached to the spout.
Minispread faucets also require three holes in either the sink or countertop for installation. The difference between the minispread and the centerset faucet is that the minispreads handles and spouts are not attached together. The handles are spread 4" from each other one being hot the other being cold.
Widespread bathroom faucets are installed with an 8" spread where some can even expand up to 16". These faucets look best with a wider sink in a larger bathroom. The handles and spout are all separate like the 4" minispread faucet.
Since vessel sinks sit above the countertop, they require a very tall spout. Vessel sinks can only have two types of faucets one being a vessel faucet which is installed into the bathroom countertop. The vessel faucet's size depends entirely on the size of the vessel sink. The faucet needs to reach approximately 3-5" higher than the sink and the spout needs to reach to the middle of the sink over the drain. It is important to have chosen the sink first in this case!
These are impressive faucets and are also ideal for vessel sinks as they are located higher on the wall. They are also ideal for special countertops and sinks which you do not wish to drill any holes into. You mush consult with you contractor before purchasing a wall mount faucet as the plumbing is required to extend up the wall.
Bathroom Faucet Finishes
Bathroom faucets also come in an array of finishes. Some are better to clean than others, and some are worth the work but all of them are left up to preference more than anything.
- Chrome
- Electroplated Chrome
- Natural Brass
- Pewter
- Nickel
- Satin
- Enamel
- Wrought Iron
- Polished Nickle
- Antique Nickle
- Oil rubbed Bronze
- Stainless Steel
Bathroom Faucet Design
The last most important decision to make is the design of your faucet and what a choice you have! The leading faucet manufacturers today are still timeless classics like Moen and Kohler however www.thesexybathroom.com is dedicated to the sexiest materials and creations in bathroom design today, therefore the latest in sleek inovative and unique faucet design is happening in Italy.
The following sites will provide great insight into the latest in faucet design! These bathroom faucets and fixtures will take your bathroom to the next level!
www.visentin.it / www.mariner.it / www.mgsprogetti.com / www.axor-design.com
Investing in a luxury bathroom faucet is money well spent acting as the finshing elegant touch to your new space. Look for new and exciting pieces and continue your hunt on-line to find the perfect fixture for your new sexy bathroom!
