Most homeowners find it challenging to choose taps that fit different needs around their homes. For instance, baths, showers and bathroom vanities require other faucets for functionality and usability, especially if your tapware is getting old or dripping, as this could lead to higher water bills.
While having the same set of taps everywhere in your home will consume less time, picking a tap that works best for each section of your home is important. For example, a great tap in your bathroom will look odd if installed in the kitchen.
We will look at the different types of taps for bathrooms and kitchens. You can avoid the daunting experience of choosing your taps by carefully considering all available options while focusing on their style and application as the leading deciding factors.
With the continuous change in interior design trends and styles, most kitchen or bathroom tap manufacturers have responded well by providing more and more types of taps and finishes, each with the potential to give your bathroom or kitchen a whole new look. This means that homeowners will most likely find it challenging to distinguish between the pros and cons of each type of tap.
You can change a tap washer or call a plumber to fix a leaking tap. To instantly lift the appearance of your bathroom or kitchen, tap replacement is a better idea, especially if the existing taps are worn or dated. Let us look at the available options and tap styles, from the ever-relevant traditional tap type to a ball tap to the modern type of tap and fittings.
Different Taps Explained
1. Floor Mounted Taps
These are relatively new in the market. When you use floor-mounted taps, there is no need to hide the plumbing or pipes. This is because the taps are available from the floor to the tub, thus making it possible to have your bathtub anywhere in the bathroom. So far, you can have the fixtures directed to that section of the bathroom.
2. Wall Mounted Taps
Wall-mounted taps are also contemporary. They are fixed to the wall and usually fill the basin or bathtub. It is easier to clean the wall-mounted taps, but repairing them can be challenging, considering the plumbing is always in the wall.
3. Pillar Taps
This style of tap usually has independent valves controlling water flow. You can have them in baths and basins with two tap holes – cold and hot taps.
4. Mixer Taps
Mixer tap types, like compression and monobloc taps, ensure that the cold and hot water mix before the water leaves the faucet. Thus, the hot and cold water from the tub or basin has an even temperature. This ensures that you do not have water that is too hot or too cold.
The cartridge tap is called ‘mixer taps’ all over Australia. When the handle is operated left and right, it controls the temperature.
5. Bath Filler Taps
Like mixer taps, bath filler taps match two levers to regulate the temperature and flow of water. This means that you get the ideal water temperature in the end. Interestingly, they work at even low water pressure.
6. Bath/Shower Mixer Taps
These are combinations of bath fillers and hand-held showerheads, usually emerging from the tap. They are multifaceted; you can have them function as a shower or fill your bath, but you cannot use them for basins.
Now that you know the different types of taps available, here are some quick tips before going for any of the options above.
Types of Tap Finishes
All those different types must have the best finish that matches the other parts and the general style of your bathroom. If looking at the Victorian style, you should use gold or brass effect taps. These materials and finishes give your bathroom a unique touch of traditional luxury and feel. You can go for standard chrome taps if you want a modern but classic style for your bathroom. In such a case, a matt or shiny finish would be great.
However, you will need regular cleaning with shiny chrome taps to maintain their excellent appearance. Conversely, a stylish brushed or matt chrome finish requires less attention.
Tap Fitting and Installation
The ideal option for tap fitting is to attach taps on baths and basins using built-in tap holes. While this is something you can DIY, changing to modern designs such as wall-mounted and freestanding taps is best left to a plumber. These new models have installation challenges, considering they mostly require fittings behind bathroom fixtures.
Whichever option you are settling for, ensure that you work with a competent and experienced plumber to help you with all your plumbing needs. An incompetent plumber will most likely leave you with a faulty finish and may cause damage to your household plumbing system.
If you need help with tap fitting or any plumbing problems, contact the best plumbers in Sydney, Fixed Today! Get in touch on {{custom: phone}} or email us today.
