Are you looking for a new bathroom faucet? But don’t know much about bathroom sink faucets? Well, nothing to worry about.
In this article, we’re telling you all about bathroom faucets, their types, builds, materials, etc. The intention of writing all this info together is to let you have proper knowledge about bathroom faucets. So that you can buy a new one on your own rather than relying on the seller.
Let’s start.
What is a Bathroom Faucet?
A bathroom faucet is a hardware or device that controls water from the main line to the basin or tub. The main job of a bathroom sink faucet is to regulate the speed, flow, temperature, etc. of water. Some faucets can even filtrate water.
Some local people also call faucets taps as the function seems almost the same.
Bathroom faucets are mounted on floors, walls, and tubs. But the wall-mounted faucets generally work as a part of the shower head-tub combo. So, some people put this type in the shower faucet category.
We can say that any faucet working well with bathroom sinks or tubs is called a bathroom faucet. They can have different shapes, handles, sizes, and materials.
Bathroom sink faucets aren’t only essentials anymore. They work to enhance the interior of a bathroom. There are several options in the market only for bathroom styling. These are considered very rich and premium models. A faucet with the proper shape, color, and finish can change the total outlook.
Classifications of Modern Faucets
Depending on where you are using it, there are three types of faucets or spouts.
Shower Faucet
Shower faucets are mounted on walls. Just below the showerheads. Shower faucets sometimes control the water flow from the showerhead. These are actually a part of shower head systems. Most of the time, shower sets are sold with faucets.
These days, shower faucets can have two handles, one for cold water and another for hot. There can also be a third handle if the showerhead and bathtub are connected with a single water line. The third handle will help to change the flow direction from the tub to the showerhead and vice versa.
Kitchen Faucet
Kitchen faucets are suitable for cleaning jobs in the kitchen or dining space. This type of faucet comes in different heights and shapes.
Nowadays, the kitchen faucets have taller spouts. The style helps in convenient washing and cleaning. The handles of tall kitchen faucets are mounted at the bottom mostly.
Another interesting thing is some faucet spouts are removable. It lets you clean every corner of the vessel or sink.
Bathroom Sink Faucet
By the name, you might’ve already understood what it is and how it works. Bathroom faucets are installed with bathtubs, sinks, and basins in the bathroom. You’d find several mounting options in bathroom faucets.
Moreover, bathroom faucets have more varieties than any other types of faucets in the matter of size, color, and number of handles. You’ll know more about this stuff later on in this discussion.
Basic Construction of Bathroom Faucets
A bathroom faucet construction is almost the same as other kitchen and sink faucets. Yet, to help you understand every single word we say further, here’s a short note.
Aerator
The aerator is the net you will find at the tip of your faucet. The net can be either metal or plastic. An aerator’s job is to create fine dramas with the water. But some aerators are capable of blocking debris coming out with water.
Valve
There are two types of valves. One is a washer compression faucet and the other is a non-washer. Washer compression ones have cores known as stems that rely on water pressure solely to work. But non-compression ones like cartridge, ball, and disk valves move sideways to make a path for the flow.
Mounting
Wall mount, floor mount, and deck mount are the three major types. Among them, deck mount faucets are more suitable and common.
Handles
Every year, new types of faucet handles are innovated. Till now,we’ve found these ones to be common in every place:
Bar handle
Knob
Cross
Joystick
Lever
Push button
Lever, bar, and knob handles are often seen in usual bathrooms. But the cross, joystick, push button, etc. are good for modern-style bathrooms.
Spout
By spouts, we mean the main pipe or body. Spout and knob are the two main things that create the outlook of a faucet. The curve, angle, and height of the spouts also determine how well the water will come out. There are 4-5 types of spouts. We’ve talked about them below.
Other Parts
There are also other parts like O-ring, baseplate, etc. You can easily understand what their jobs are by seeing them once.
16 Different Bathroom Faucet Types
Now, let’s tell you about the primary types of faucets for bathrooms or laundry. We have categorized them based on the mounting style mainly. Because most shops also classify them in this way.
We will talk about other types right after finishing this part.
Deck Mount Faucet
The faucets you need to install on the top of the basin or tub are deck-mount faucets. Almost every other faucet you see is deck mounts.
Single Handle Faucet
Among deck mount faucets, the ones with only one handle or lever fall in this category. Nowadays, most single-handle faucets have cartridge valve construction.
Center Fit Faucet
Basins or tubs with three holes for faucet mount require center fit faucets. A center fit faucet set comes with one spout and two handles. After mounting, the distance between two handles remains 4-6 inches.
Widespread Faucet
It is a sub-type of center fit. The only difference is the distance between two handles is more than 8 inches. Widespread faucets are good for larger tubs and sinks.
Vessel Faucet
Vessel faucets are totally a different type. Both the vessel and the faucet are installed separately on the countertop. You can see vessel faucets and basins in high-class hotels and restaurants. The aesthetics of this faucet is on trend.
Wall Mount
Wall mounted faucets almost look like shower faucets. They are mounted on walls right behind the sink. Users think using wall mount faucets is convenient. It keeps the top of the sink spacey to clean. But installing a set of wall mounted faucets can be tricky.
You can also categorize bathroom faucets depending on the valve constructions. Plumbers, DIYers, and other experts differentiate by valve or inner construction.
Ball Faucet
The valve inside here is a hollowed ball with a required number of holes. It’s an old-style construction. But still, it’s on demand due to its cost-effectiveness. Ball faucets only have a single handle mounted on top of the spout. As the model is old-fashioned, there are many flaws in the construction. Such as leakage, corrosion, etc.
Cartridge Faucet
Currently, cartridge faucets are not hype. The main reason is easy installation. Inside the cartridge valve faucet, there’s barely any complex components. Cartridge has a simple housing. It controls water flow and mixes water for regulating temperature. Cartridge faucets are also single handle constructions. Double-handle faucets can have two separate cartridges.
Stem Faucet
Many say stem and cartridge are the same. But stem works differently. The vertical tension or compression created while moving the knob makes a stem active. While cartridge rotates and aligned water holes for waterflow. Another name of the stem faucet is the compression faucet. Because the stem relies on water pressure to be active.
Disc Faucet
Disk valve faucets are more common in places where several people gather. For example, office restrooms, restaurant toilets, etc. The two disks inside the valve area move to mix and direct water from the spout. This type is a long-lasting option. But it also costs you extra money.
Not just valves, the shape and length of faucets also create some famous types of bathroom faucets. Here are some of them:
Standard Low Spout Faucet
Here, the spout remains at 90-degree angle with the mounting. The spout stays very close to the basin. It’s good for congested areas.
Gooseneck Faucet
Gooseneck faucets are curved like the neck of swans. It’s a good choice for styling bathrooms and sinks. Gooseneck spouts give you enough space in the vessel.
Arch Faucet
Arch faucet is also like gooseneck. But it has an U-shaped curve with two 90-degree folds in the spout body. Arch or U spouts pout water right at the middle of the basin.
Waterfall Faucet
Waterfall faucets don’t have any aerators installed. They create drama similar to real waterfalls. This type of faucet is very expensive.
Swivel Faucet
The swivel faucet is also a low-profile style. But the spout is straight and angled. The top of the soap rises higher here.
Pullout Faucet
This type of spout is extendable. You can detach the mouth from the main body and reach every corner of the vessel with the mouth.
Apart from all those, you can also find some other types of bathroom faucets. Such as:
Bridge faucet
Touchless faucet
What are the Best Materials for Bathroom Faucets?
Here’s a list of top materials used to make bathroom and shower faucets.
Stainless Steel
Brass
Plastic
Zinc
Nickel
Stainless steel is a very popular option. SS faucets can last more than 3 decades if used properly. But the material is a bit costly.
Brass is the most expensive and durable material for making bathroom items. Some brass products can even last longer than SS. However, they require high maintenance.
Plastic is the latest material. It is very cheap and easy to mount. However, their construction breaks easily.
People go for zinc or zinc alloy when the budget is tight but the requirement is metal faucets. Zinc often comes with corrosion issues.
Nickel, on the other hand, is a great deal. It comes with various finishes. The price is okay. It can also last a couple of decades.
Bathroom Sink Faucet Finishes & Colors
The bathroom is where you refresh your body and mind. So, the outlook of bathroom accessories must be nice and catchy.
Let’s tell you about the colors and finishes you need to focus on while buying a bathroom faucet.
Popular Faucet Colors
Black
Silver
Bronze
Gold
Brass
Gold
Elegant Faucet Finishes
Chrome
Polished
Brushed
Matte
Satin
Oil rubbed
Bathroom Faucet Buying Guide
If you’re in a situation where replacing your old bathroom faucet becomes a must. Consider these things first.
Things to Consider Before Buying
Observe the interior of your bathroom well. The new faucet should match properly.
See the size and number of holes in your sink.
Measure the space of the countertop of your sink or tub. It will help to determine the right height for the faucet.
Consider how much the faucet will be used daily.
Things to Consider While Buying
Go for the cartridge faucets. But if you intend to use the faucet heavily, the disc valve will work better.
Check for the WaterSense Label.
Match the color and finish with existing components in the bathroom. If you’re still confused, go for a silver or chrome finish, it’s universal.
The best choice is to buy a stainless steel build. But go for plastic if you don’t have the budget and tend to use the faucet less.
Check for accessories like brass plates, sink drainage caps, etc.
Choose the handle according to your hand’s comfort.
When to Buy a New Bathroom Faucet?
If you’re facing any issues with your old faucet, that doesn’t mean you have to change it immediately. You can repair or troubleshoot them to use for a few more years. However, there are some times when replacing your old faucet becomes mandatory. Those moments are:
When the valve is totally worn out or damaged
The handle is constantly coming loose
The faucet is leaking even after repair
Inner components are corroded
The faucet has lost its color and finish completely
Can I Change the Bathroom Faucet on My Own?
It depends. If you’re experienced enough, you can even install complex devices like disc valve faucets. But for an amateur, plumbing work can be a hefty job.
The interesting thing is you can install a cartridge faucet by yourself quite easily. This type of faucet has fewer components and a very simple housing.
Things to Consider
If you know where the main valve of your home’s water line is, you can easily turn it off and start replacing old faucets
You need to know the compatibility of your main water lines. Depending on that, you need to make a blueprint of your work
Some replacement work requires more than one person. So, you should seek help from someone skilled if you can’t do it yourself.
Tools Requires
Plumbers’ tape
Wrenches of different sizes
Screwdriver
Allen keys
Hand saw
Sealant
How to Replace a Bathroom Faucet?
Replacing bathroom faucets is done in two steps. First, you need to remove the old faucet without leaving anything. Second, you need to install the new one accordingly.
DIY: How to Replace and Install a Bathroom Sink Faucet
Removing Old Bathroom Faucet
Gather your tools
Turn off the main water line
Put a bucket below the faucet line if needed
Now, remove the nuts and separate the lines of water from the faucet
Next, unscrew the bolts holding the faucet
Finally, remove the old faucet carefully without damaging the sink
How to Install Faucet Bathroom
After removing the old faucet, clean the mounting area
Place the new faucet precisely
Tighten the nuts at the bottom
Now, connect the lines with the faucet
Use tapes to tighten if necessary
At last, turn on the main line and check if there’s any leak
Key Notes
Make sure you don’t put any scratches while using wrenches
Before installing the new faucet, you can clean the debris and deposits inside the faucet line
How to Fix a Leaking Bathroom Faucet?
Leakage is a common problem among older faucets. Worn-out cartridge or valve can’t handle the water pressure properly.
Apart, if you install the new faucet the wrong way, it will start leaking. You also need to check the water pressure in your home. If it’s more than 50-60 PSI, any water outlets might leak. You can learn more about all the troubleshoots of faulty bathroom faucets in another article.
How to fix a leaky dripping Delta faucet
Bathroom Faucet Stuck: Easy Fix
If your bathroom faucet handle is hard to turn, it means there are carbon deposits. The handle core can also be corroded or broken in this situation.
You need to open the handle and thoroughly check everything. Below, we’re suggesting a video that might help.
Bathroom Faucet Handle Sticking and Hard to Turn – EASY FIX – Delta
Best Faucet Brands for Bathroom Sinks and Tubs
Based on the quality and design, we’ve found the faucets of these brands to be the best:
100% durability assured of each product. With more than 50 years of global reputation, Delta offers the best deals for any type of bathroom.
Moen is the top company that has so many innovative models of faucets and showerheads. Their products are long-lasting and good for aesthetics.
This is another global brand with a rich history. The materials Kohler use are good for sustainable components. The price is also mid to high.
American Standard faucets are good for styling and eco-friendly performances. The functions of their faucets are tested and certified.
It is a European brand. Rohl symbolizes luxury. The designs and looks of their durable faucets are incomparable.
We cant hold ourselves to introduce LitroHub bathroom faucet. Why is it unique? In a sentence, It is Efficient, Eco-Friendly, & Elegant!
FAQ
Can you put a kitchen faucet in the bathroom?
You can put a kitchen faucet in the bathroom if the mounting option matches. But you should try to use bathroom faucets with your bathroom sink or vessel.
Do bathroom faucets come with drain assembly?
Some bathroom faucets come with drain assembly. They are actually bathroom sink or tub sets. They price more than bare faucets.
How high should the faucet be above the bathroom sink?
The height of the bathroom faucet shouldn’t be more than 6 inches. Too high or low can spill water outside the sink.
Why does my bathroom faucet smell like rotten eggs?
Your bathroom faucet can smell like rotten eggs if bacteria is growing rapidly. You need to clean the pipes and drains to remove the smell.
Can I paint my bathroom faucet?
You can paint your bathroom faucets using paints for metallic surfaces. Read the label of the paint before applying.
Summary
Bathroom faucets don’t come with any extra noticeable features. They are built to comply with the bathroom interiors and other components.
Long story short, there are tons of different types of bathroom faucets out there. To find the best ones, you need to know the requirements and compatibility of your sink or tub first.
We hope this article was able to guide you to the best bathroom faucet you were looking for.