How to Choose a Bathroom Faucet Know your bath faucet type, then let the finish make a statement If you are replacing an old faucet or installing one in a new bathroom, you will have no trouble finding one to complement your décor. With four basic styles and an array of finishes to choose from, you will find the bath faucet that best expresses your style without sacrificing performance. This guide will help you understand your faucet options. SHOP ALL BATHTUB FAUCETS Faucets are generally available in four types: single hole, centerset, widespread and wall mount. If you are replacing an old faucet, your new faucet may need to be the same type as the old one, depending on the installation setup. The design of your sink plays a large part in determining which type of faucet you’ll install. Simple to install and maintain Compact and easy to use Often used on smaller sinks and may have an optional cover plate Usually have one handle connected to the spout, though some may have separate handles for hot and cold water

Ideal for smaller, predrilled or pre-existing basins Combine the handles and spout on a 4-inch base unitLaminate Flooring Business Plan The most commonly used faucet, least expensive and easiest to installGreat Lakes Hot Tub Replacement Jets Standard spread of at least 8 inchesHuf T Shirt Size Guide Feature hot- and cold-water valves that are separate from the spout Often more expensive than other types but allow for a wide range of placement options Mini-widespread faucets (minispreads) have a spread of 4 inches For something different, consider a wall-mounted faucet. Pair one with an above-counter basin for an especially striking look. While they may be more difficult to install, wall-mounted faucets reduce clutter on the sink and make cleanup easier.

Spouts may be aerated or nonaerated. Handles come in a wide range of styles including ring-type cylinder, round, cross and lever, and may be a single unit or separate for customized hot- and cold-water control. Aerated spouts mix air with the water and utilize a screen and restrictor to limit flow while simultaneously improving water pressure. Nonaerated spouts do not have a screen and allow water to flow freely, causing a waterfall-like effect. Touchless electronic handles help conserve water by shutting off automatically as soon as you are done washing your hands. The internal valve mechanism is crucial to high-quality operation, as it governs the flow of water through the spout. Compression valves, which feature a rubber washer to stem the flow of water, are the most common type, but they tend to drip when the washers become worn. Consider choosing a ball, cartridge or ceramic-disc valve for better performance. This chart details some of the features and a few points to consider for each type of valve.

Features rubber washers that stop the flow of water Washers eventually wear out, but are cheap and easy to replace May begin to drip over time Uses a ball valve Uses a slotted metal ball to control flow Must be used with a single-handle faucet Uses a cartridge valve May be used with single- or two-handle faucets Features ceramic disks that move against each other to stop the flow of water Usually have extended warranties Many manufacturers offer lifetime finishes that won’t tarnish over time to ensure that your faucet looks great for years. Commonly used finishes include chrome, brass, colored, gold plate, nickel, stainless steel and PVD. Chrome may have a polished, brushed or matte finish and is durable and economical. Brass is ideal for traditional styles, and faucets with lifetime finishes resist fading, scratches and corrosion. Colored finishes may be coated with epoxy or baked-on enamel and are easy to clean. High-quality gold plate won’t tarnish, though it is more expensive.

Nickel may be brushed or satin and is stylish, durable and easy to clean. Stainless steel is stylish and won’t show water spots, though it is often more expensive. PVD, or physical vapor deposition, is highly durable and resists abrasion and discoloration. Choose from features such as anti-scald protection, filtration systems and adjustable flow-rate restrictors to customize your faucet. If you have young children or elderly parents in your house, you may want to consider installing a faucet with built-in anti-scald protection so they won’t accidentally burn themselves. Sinks with filtration systems provide high-quality drinking water, helping you save money on bottled water. Some newer sinks feature common-valve architecture that fits a number of different faucet types, allowing you to remodel or upgrade your existing faucet simply by unscrewing the handle and spout from the top. If you are concerned about conserving water or live in an area where your water supply is limited, an adjustable flow-rate restrictor will give you complete control over how much water you use.

Small Space Savers: Our Favorite Wall Mounted Bathroom Faucets (Image credit: T01 Architectures & Interiors via Designhunter) Wall mounted faucets might be a little more expensive to install than their deck-mounted cousins, but there are also certain benefits to having fixtures separate from the actual sink. There's more room for toothbrushes and your products — which is a serious bonus in small bathrooms — and cleaning is easier when there aren't fixtures to maneuver a sponge around. Here are twelve of our favorites to consider, in a range of styles: (Image credit: Melissa DiRenzo) SHOP WALL MOUNTED BATHROOM FAUCETS: 3. Otella In Wall Bathroom Faucet, All Modern, $699 4. Elements of Design Double Handle Faucet, Wayfair, $94 5. KOHLER Wide Spread Faucet, Wayfair, $433 7. Candy Standard Bathroom Faucet, All Modern, $266 8. Rotunda Wall Mount Faucet, Signature Hardware, $139 9. Single Leaver Stainless Steel Faucet, YBath, $907 10. West Slope Wall Mount Faucet, Rejuvenation, $799