So you're in the market for a new kitchen or bathroom faucet. The old one is, well old, worn out and maybe even corroding. Before you put the cart before the horse, let's think more about this new faucet.
That is, when we pick out a faucet based on style alone, we forget to consider three basic factors that will help ensure our decision is really what's right for our needs:
Spout Height and Reach: This matters! How many times have you used a bathroom faucet where the spout is so short and close to the bowl, that you weren't able to thoroughly wash your hands without them hitting and rubbing against the bowl or maybe without splashing a lot of water on the back splash? Faucet spouts vary in both height and length, quite a bit, and though you can pretty much get away with picking one based on looks alone, don't forget to survey the surrounding sink area for impediments, such as a shelf above the sink or maybe a large protruding mirror frame. Think about who's using this bathroom faucet, your teenager or maybe it's an infrequently used guest bathroom? If it's a kitchen faucet and you have a double bowl sink, make sure the spout reaches to both sides of the bowl. And you'll want to ensure this faucet has a pull down sprayer to keep your sink its cleanest; especially if it's a farm sink and has a relatively low drain pitch where food particles need frequent help moving down the drain (but sinks are for another blog!). Now it's time to think about faucet finishes.
Faucet Finish: Some finishes are more durable than others. Chrome finishes are the most durable and that's why you see them in commercial establishments. But then again, they can be seen as a too shiny, sterile, or an industrial look. That's fine if it's for you. Currently, the finish I most frequently install is Nickel, which is also commonly referred to as "satin", "brushed", and "stainless steel." Each finish basically comes with the same dull finish with some color variance. However, keep in mind that this finish tends to show water spots more than chrome and may even begin to chip or peel sooner, especially with frequent use. The last finish is Bronze. This is also commonly referred to as "rubbed" or "oil." Believe it or not, this type of finish is not even metal, but an epoxy! And even though it is tough, it too tends to chip and wear more quickly than both Chrome or Nickel finishes.
Number of Holes: Lastly, if you currently have two water handles (cold/hot) and you want to buy a new faucet with only one handle, you'll probably need a new sink basin or bowl too. That is, for each handle and spout there is a hole in the bowl. This is not a big deal, but you will now need to budget more money for that new sink. Though it may be possible to install a liquid soap dispenser in that unused hole!
Whatever your preference, Simply Home Maintenance is here to help install that new bathroom or kitchen faucet. Give me a call or text today at (240) 324-8081 to discuss your options.
I bought a faucet from Lowe's last week I'm having the hardest time ever putting it in. I've bought 4 sets of hoses and nothing.. Can't find 2 ends to hook up to water lines coming in. Help.
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