Bathroom Faucets
Your bathroom faucet may seem like any old bathroom necessity, but in reality, it’s an important purchase that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Beyond the style and finish of the faucet, you need to carefully consider quality, valve systems and spout options to be sure the faucet fits your needs.

If you’re considering a new faucet for your bathroom, be sure to consider:

Should you sacrifice quality for a less-expensive model?
Quality is an important aspect when shopping for bathroom faucets. In general, superior faucets give you better control and will result in fewer maintenance problems down the road. Plus, they cost the same to install as a less expensive option. When devising a bathroom budget, leave an ample amount aside to purchase the highest quality faucet you can afford.

What type of style should you choose? This depends on whether you’re replacing an old faucet or starting completely from scratch with a new sink. If it’s the former, you’ll need to choose a faucet style that matches the holes of your existing sink. If it’s the latter, you can customize the sink to fit the style of your desired faucet. Here are the general faucet styles available:
Single-hole faucets: These units have generally have one handle connected to the spout which controls water temperature. They’re compact, and easy to use, maintain and install.
Center-set faucets: The most commonly used and least expensive faucets, they combine the handles and spout on a 4” base unit. These work well on smaller basins.
Widespread faucets: This option features hot and cold water valves that are separate from the spout. Though a pricier faucet, they’re more flexible in terms of placement, and are usually at least 8” wide.
Wall-mount faucets: These work well with non-traditional sinks that don’t come with pre-drilled holes, such as vessel sinks. They also reduce clutter since they’re generally installed higher than typical faucets.


What’s the difference between an aerated spout and a non-aerated spout? The difference lies in the feeling of the water as it exits the spout. Aerated spouts use a mix of air and water as well as a screen and restrictor to control water flow while improving water pressure. Non-aerated spouts remove the screen so water flows freely, resulting in a waterfall-like effect.

What do you need to know about internal valve systems? The internal valve system controls the flow of water through the spout, so it’s an extremely important facet to high-quality operation. This is something you’ll want to invest in to ensure it works properly for years to come. These four available internal valve systems are as follows:
Compression: The most common type, it’s the only system that uses a rubber washer to control the flow of water. However, the washers wear out easily which can result in dripping.
Ball (washerless): Water through this system is controlled using a slotted metal ball. It’s durable and reliable, but must be paired with a single-handle faucet.
Cartridge (washerless): This system operates on a stem cartridge that moves up and down to regulate flow. Also durable and reliable, it’s compatible with both single- and two-handle faucets.
Ceramic disk (washerless): With two ceramic disks moving against each other to control water flow, this system is virtually maintenance free. It tends to be pricier, but can be used with single or two-handle faucets.


What type of finish should you consider? There are many different styles of finish; choose one that complements your bathroom’s décor. Brass is great for traditional styles, while a colored finish will evoke a cool, contemporary feel. Keep your eye out for manufacturers that offer lifetime finishes that won’t tarnish to keep your faucet in top condition over the years.

Don’t forget to consider the faucet’s height. Be sure there is ample room between the faucet and the bottom of the sink basin to wash your hands. If you have a vessel sink paired with a wall-mounted faucet, you may want to consider a tall, overarching spout.

What additional features might you want to include in your faucet? Anti-scald protection helps protect from burning, particularly with young children. You may consider adding a filter for drinking water, or installing an adjustable flow-rate restrictor to conserve water.

To kick off your search, take a look at the various styles and functions to help you find the best faucet for your bathroom.