How to Pick Out the Perfect Bathroom Faucet

Maybe you’re working on a full or partial bathroom remodel. Perhaps you’re finally updating that bathroom sink you’ve grown oh-so-weary of looking at. Or, it could be that your bathroom faucet’s so worn out and leak-prone that it needs to be replaced—now. No matter the reason, picking out a new bathroom faucet is a big decision.

Think we’re kidding? Think of the fixtures in your bathroom as the room’s jewelry. The handles, grab bars, cabinet hardware, shower heads, and faucets tie together all the other decorating choices you’ve made. Updating said hardware can completely change the look of the space. Moreover, picking out the right faucet the first time can save you hours of running back and forth to the store, fighting with an improper fit, or worse, not liking the finished product.

So, in the interest of keeping your bathroom “flowing” optimally, we’ve assembled this list of the 3 things you need to consider when picking out a new bathroom faucet.

Bathroom Faucet Consideration #1: Finish & Styling 

For most, choosing the right look is as easy as matching your new faucet to your existing bathroom hardware. But, there are still a few things you should know:

• For minimal maintenance, brushed, satin and matte metals are the way to go. Commonly found in nickel, bronze, and brass, the non-reflective finish doesn’t show fingerprints or water spots. For a brighter look, polished or chrome finishes give your sink a mirror-like shine but require more
  rigorous cleaning.

• Aiming for a modern, chic look to your bathroom? A no-frills minimalist style faucet will complement a 21^st-century theme. For a more eclectic look, companies like Moen and Delta are producing beautiful, highly-detailed designs that harken back to styles popular in the early 1900’s.

Bathroom Faucet Consideration #2: Centerset or Single-Hole

Before you fall in love with a new bathroom faucet, you’ll want to know for sure it can be installed on your existing countertop.

• Centerset faucets are the traditional three-piece arrangements you’re probably used to seeing. Comprised of separate hot and cold handles, with the water spout in the center, most countertops will be pre-drilled for this setup.

• Single-hole faucets combine the hot and cold levers, as well as the spout, into one piece. You’ll see this design in almost all touchless, touch-activated, lever and joystick designs. Be sure to consult with your plumber before choosing a single-hole faucet, as installation can be a bit more labor intensive.

Bathroom Faucet Consideration #3: Technology

The word “technology” might not immediately come to mind when shopping for a faucet. However, in 2018, advancements in bathroom tech mean homeowners have more options to choose from than ever before.

• Motion and touch activated designs offer a high tech, sleek alternative to traditional faucets. By eliminating nearly all the manual controls, these faucets are perfect for limited-mobility individuals and families with young children. Though typically more expensive upfront, motion and touch-activated faucets also minimize waste, which cuts down on your monthly water bill.

• Leading the charge in eco-friendly bathrooms, new faucets are being manufactured with an array of “green” technology. But, there’s more to it than saving the planet. By installing a unit that’s WaterSense certified, monthly water bills will be reduced thanks to a more efficient design.

Picking out and installing the perfect bathroom faucet doesn’t have to cause headaches. Whether for a new home, a remodel, or simply a revival of your current bathroom, getting the design, fit, finish, and function right makes all the difference. If you’re looking to update your bathroom faucet, contact your plumber to guarantee the best possible fit and finish.