Your kitchen faucet is much more than a simple dispenser for hot and cold water. It also has a large impact on your kitchen’s style. Choosing a kitchen faucet may seem difficult with the broad variety of different mounting styles and finishes. Here is what you should think about when you are shopping for a new faucet.

Mounting styles

1. Sink-mounted faucets.

Not all faucets and sinks are compatible with each other. If you are replacing the faucet on your existing sink, you need to look at how many holes each has for mounting. Faucets have anywhere from one to four holes. If you have more holes than you need, you can cover up the extra ones by using an escutcheon plate. This may be a good option when you want to continue using your current sink, but your faucet options will be limited by it.

2. Deck-mounted faucets.

Deck-mounted faucets are mounted to the countertop rather than to the sink. These work well with under-mounted sinks. You will want to make certain that you leave enough room behind the faucet so that you can clean. These faucets work well with contemporary kitchens and give a seamless look. They do take up countertop sauce and may cause water and dirt to accumulate between the wall and the faucet.

3. Wall-mounted faucets.

Wall-mounted faucets need to be placed at a distance where they will work well with the sinks. They may not work well with double sinks. The benefit of these types of faucets is that cleaning is easy. In cold climates, it will be important to check the local codes to make certain that outside wall installation is allowed. If it is, you will need to make certain that it is properly insulated in order to prevent freezing. Wall studs may also have to be relocated.

Handle choices

1. Single-handled faucets.

These rotate in different directions, allowing people to regulate the flow of water by moving the handle up and down. The temperature is regulated by moving the handle from side to side. They only require one countertop hole and are easy to use when you only have one free hand. It is more difficult to adjust the temperature with a single-handed faucet as opposed to a double-handled faucet.

2. Double-handled faucets.

Most two-handled faucets need at least three holes to install them. There are many different handle style options, making this a highly customizable choice. The separate handles for hot and cold water allow you to more easily adjust both the water flow and temperature. If a person’s hands are full, these faucets are more difficult to use.

3. Hands-free faucets.

Hands-free faucets use a sensor for activation. There is also a side handle allowing you to manually adjust the flow rate and temperature. In addition to being good options for people who have arthritis, they also automatically shut off, helping you to save water. You will have to occasionally change the battery to keep the sensor working.

Finishes and materials

The standard colors and finishes available for faucets include the following:

● Brushed nickel
● Chrome
● Nickel
● Rubbed bronze
● Stainless steel
● Brass
● Black
● White

You should be aware that the finishes offered by different manufacturers may differ from each other. You’ll want to purchase the accessories you want to go along with your faucet from the same manufacturer so that they will match.

Style

Your kitchen’s style will help you to narrow down your faucet choices. Your designer should help you to select the one that will work the best for both you and your kitchen.

Quality and price considerations when choosing a kitchen faucet

Faucets commonly use ceramic-disk, ball or cartridge valves. Those with solid brass or stainless steel bases along with ceramic-disk valves are more durable. It will also be more expensive than a faucet that has plastic parts.

The heaviness of a faucet should tell you whether or not it has brass or stainless steel fittings. They are heavier than other ones. Faucets that have bodies made out of solid brass require the least amount of care and last the longest. They are also the most expensive. Although brass faucets are expensive, the costs of replacing cheap faucets over time and hiring plumbers install them can quickly add up, negating any savings.

Choosing a kitchen faucet is only one of the many steps involved in renovating your kitchen. To learn more about kitchen designs and materials, call the professional team at Flemington Granite today or fill out our contact form.