Choose A Faucet To Match Your Bathroom Decor
It’s time to finally replace that leaky old faucet. The constant dripping noise is driving you crazy, not to mention the sleep it is depriving you of. Upon close inspection you discover it is not simply the washer causing the problem this time, but the whole thing needs replacing. So it’s off to the home supply store - and there you freeze, unable to choose from the huge variety of faucets on display.
Stick With What You Know
The first thing you need to do is decide if you want to replace your bathroom faucet with the exact same style as before or go for something new. The easiest thing to do is to simply replace your faucet with one which is similar or identical in style. You can remove the bathroom sink faucet and bring it with you to your local hardware store where you can buy the matching replacement. Of course, if this is not possible then the complications set in and your task becomes much more involved. There are many different types of mounting for your faucet and you will need to be aware of what type yours is before simply going and purchasing the new fixture. This can often be the most difficult part of selecting your new faucet because, as usual, the one you really prefer will not necessarily work with the configuration of your sink.
Determine Your Type of Mounting
There are some common types of mounting such as widespread faucets which have individual hot and cold water handles; center set faucets with just one handle to control both hot and cold water and covering all three holes which may be in your sink for mounting; mini widespread faucets which are similar to the widespread variety but positioned closer together, single-hole which is similar to the center set design but with only one hole and last but not least, wall mounted, most commonly found on a bathtub faucet. Sinks with 4″ holes pre-drilled are best for center set and mini-widespread type faucets. Some of the single hole faucets may also be used on these sinks. Needless to say if you have one of the other types, you would be best going for a replacement of the same kind.
Once you have determined what type of mount your sink has, your job of choosing a faucet comes down to aesthetics. It is a matter of personal preference as to which finish will look the best and complement the rest of your bathroom. If your bathroom has decor of an antique flavor you may decide to go with a classical style of rounded edges and flowery embellishments. For example, if your bathroom is more of an antique decor, you may want to stick with a classical style, an everyday decor could use either, and somewhat futuristic decor would definitely go well with modern bathroom designs.
Add the Finishing Touches
So you have chosen your new faucet and installation is on the horizon. Not so fast - you need to decide on a finish. Bathroom fixtures can be found in many different finishes and materials. Every finish has its good and bad points. Chrome and stainless steel are probably the most common of finishes but they scratch easily and water spots and fingerprints show up all too clearly. Brass, which simulates gold and is very distinctive, rusts easier. Brushed nickel has a nice flat finish, but is pricey and the plating eventually wears off. The finish is personal choice, but know your options.
There are even choices as far as the handles are concerned with some faucets. But once again, choose something that will be a good match for your bathrooms decor. Not only will you be free of the dripping noise, you are also likely to receive many compliments on what can only be described as one of the most basic bathroom items of all time.
