Bathroom Faucet Mounting Types
There are many types of faucets for bathroom use and not all bathroom sink faucets work with every sink. It's important to make sure the faucet you choose will fit your sink or basin. Standard faucet drillings are centerset, single-hole or widespread. Once you decide which type of faucet you need, you can check out the best rated bathroom faucets that will correspond to your sink's style.
Renovating your bathroom? Here's How to Replace a Bathroom Faucet.
4-Inch Centerset
4-inch centerset faucets are made for washbasins with three holes and have handles that are 4 inches apart. They combine a spout and handles on a single base unit. Some centerset faucets may have two handles mounted onto a 6-inch plate.
Single-Hole
A single-hole bathroom faucet can have a single handle or two handles. If your sink has already been drilled for extra holes, use an optional plate to cover them up.
Vessel
These taller faucets are meant to complement a vessel sink, which sits higher than other sink types. Vessel sink faucets typically come with a single, multifunction handle.
Wall-Mounted
Wall-mounted bathroom faucet options are available for above-the-counter and freestanding basins that require a long spout for extended reach. They won't work with basins that have drilled holes. Wall-mounted faucets require a separate wall-mounted valve and drain for installation. Make sure the spout is long enough for adequate basin clearance. Check that the sink is deep enough to prevent water from splashing on your floor or countertops.
Widespread
Widespread bathroom faucets work with three-hole basins. They have three separate pieces, two handles and a spout, and the spacing between the handles ranges from 6 to 16 inches.
Bathroom Faucet Color and Finish
It's typically thought the best bathroom fixtures are ones that match, or at least complement, each other. A good rule of thumb is to coordinate your faucet color and finish with the rest of the fixtures and accessories in your bathroom. A chrome waterfall faucet pairs well with modern home designs. Or make a statement with black bathroom faucets.
Choose spot-resistant finishes to simplify cleaning. Popular faucet finish choices include:
- Black
- Brass (Antique or Polished)
- Bronze
- Chrome (Matte, Brushed or Polished)
- Copper
- Gold
- Nickel (Brushed and Pearl)
- Stainless Steel
Some faucet sets come with a combination of finishes such as brass and chrome, which offers a unique look. A combination finish can also be a cost-effective way of making a change in your bathroom. For example, if you currently have brass fittings, you could update with a chrome and brass faucet. Just remember to stick to the same finish (for example: polished versus antique).
For more inspiration, see Better Living Design in the Bath.
Faucet Valve Construction
Every type of bathroom sink faucet has an inner valve that controls the flow of water through the spout. The valve quality and whether or not it has a washer determines the reliability and durability of the faucet. The best choices are faucets with solid brass, brass-based metal or corrosion-resistant workings.
Faucets With a Washer
Compression-Valve Faucets: They're a common type of faucet that works by means of a stem that rises and falls to open and close the water's passageway.
Washerless Faucets
Ball Faucets: They have a rotating metal or plastic ball that regulates the amount of incoming water. With only one moving part, the likelihood of a malfunction is greatly reduced. A plastic ball will eventually wear out but a metal ball is designed for longevity.
Cartridge Faucets: They use rubber O-rings inside a cylindrical cartridge to control the flow of water. These faucets are very reliable, especially if equipped with a brass cartridge.
Ceramic Disc Faucets: They're nearly maintenance free. They have two ceramic discs that move against each other in a shearing action, blocking water or allowing it to pass through. The seal is strong because the discs are flat and smooth.
Control Options
There are a variety of options for the simple act of turning a faucet on or off. Think about the needs of those using your bathroom.
Cross Handles
These popular handles usually come in cross or X-shaped design, making them easy to grip and turn.
Joystick
A control similar to a lever, joystick handles offer a unique look and an extensive range of motion and multifunctionality.
Knobs
Knob handles function like cross handles but offer a different style.
Lever Handles
These timeless models offer different finishes to coordinate with the room's décor. Lever handles are available in many decorative styles.
Push-Buttons
With a push-button faucet, you can turn the water on and off with a push instead of turning a handle or knob.
Touchless
Motion-activated faucets don't require handles or knobs at all. Simply place your hands under the spout to activate. A mixing valve allows you to control the blend of hot and cold water and comes standard with some models but must be purchased separately for others. Some touchless faucets also include a manual override lever as an optional way to control the water flow. These faucets are a safe choice with children since you can control the temperature and flow of the water.
Touch-Activated
Like touchless models, these faucets don't require you to manipulate handles or knobs. Activate them or turn them off with a simple tap to the top of the faucet. A handle controls the water temperature and acts as a manual control. These faucets work well for those with accessibility issues.
See our Bath Planning Guide and learn how to prepare for your bathroom renovation.
Other Bathroom Faucet Considerations
With such a variety of designs, explore these additional options and features that'll help you find the best faucet for your needs.
Decorative Handle Buttons
These can add a stylish touch to your space.
Integrated Supply Lines
With integrated lines, you won't need to purchase supply lines separately.
LED Lights
The light is emitted from the spout and activated when the water is turned on. There are also options that'll change the water to different colors, giving your faucet a unique appearance.
Matching Pop-Up Drain
This drain will complete your new look.
Water-Efficient Designs
They're built to use less water, while matching the performance of less efficient models. According to EPA.gov, by installing a WaterSense® labeled faucet, an average household can save more than 500 gallons of water a year.
Waterfall Faucet
These don't use as much water pressure as standard models and offer a distinct look.
Also look for hardware (robe hooks, toilet paper holders, towel bars and rings) and vanity lighting that coordinate with some faucet models.
Ready for more bathroom improvements? Check out our Bathroom Sink Buying Guide.
Bathroom Faucet Installation Services
A new bathroom faucet installation doesn't have to be difficult. If you don't have the time or tools required to change out bathroom faucets in your home, just lean on us. We offer the best bathroom fixtures to choose from as well as bathroom faucet installation done by professional independent installers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bathroom Sink Faucets
What Bathroom Faucets Do Experts Recommend?
From a brand standpoint, Moen, Delta and KOHLER are some of the most popular due to their wide range of styles and finishes, and features like easy installation, durability, reliability and longevity. Plumbers also recommend choosing a bathroom faucet that’s made from a durable material, has ceramic valves, and is compatible with your existing sink. So look for options with the same mounting type as what you currently have, such as centerset, widespread, single-hole, or something else.
What Is the Best Material For Bathroom Faucets?
Brass or stainless steel tend to be top choices for bathroom faucet material. Both materials are durable and resist rust and corrosion, increasing the faucet’s lifespan. Along with what the faucet is constructed from, consider choosing a faucet with a ceramic valve over a ball valve, which typically are more reliable.
Let Us Install It
If you’d prefer to leave bathroom installation to the pros, reach out to us. We’re happy to help.