Buying a Bathroom Faucet
According to Michael Green of Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, “if you’re looking to make a small, low-cost upgrades, installing a new faucet is a simple and economical way to refresh your bathroom.”
We consulted with Green, as well as Doyle James, president of Mr. Rooter Plumbing, to create the following list of factors to consider when choosing a bathroom faucet.
Water controls/handle style
Single-handle faucets are typically easier to install and more convenient to use one-handed, while double-handle faucets offer more styles, finishes and shape options. Also, smart faucets with hands-free (touchless) operation are gaining popularity.
Compatibility with sink
If you’re replacing a faucet but keeping the same sink, choose the same faucet/handle configuration for easiest installation. Centerset faucets are the most common and require three holes in the sink — one for the faucet and one for each handle. Many single-hole faucets come with a cover plate to cover any extra holes.
Maintenance and cleaning
Different faucet finishes are easier to maintain than others.
- Brushed nickel doesn’t show spots or fingerprints easily. It’s also affordable and doesn’t corrode.
- Solid brass tends to show fingerprints and water spots, but is the most durable and holds up to hard water. Brass faucets typically cost more but can last a lifetime.
- Stainless steel lands somewhere in the middle. It tends to be more affordable. And though it can show fingerprints and water stains, it’s easier to maintain than brass.
- Chrome is typically the easiest to clean. It’s also affordable and doesn’t corrode.
Valve type
Make sure the faucet you buy has a ceramic disc valve. These valves last much longer than ball valves.
Installation
Most bathroom faucets can be installed by the average homeowner. If you don’t have the time, tools or interest, expect to spend around $70 to $175 to have it installed.
We kept our experts’ insights and considerations in mind when selecting the following bathroom faucets.
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