When the time comes to replace a bathroom faucet there are many choices available to you. If you are starting fresh with both a new sink and a bathroom faucet then the sky is the limit. If you are just updating your faucet then you will need to work with the sink you already have, and that will limit the choices somewhat.

When you are working with an existing sink, the faucet drillings will predetermine some of your choices, but the style, finish and mechanics are open to change.

With so many choices available today, and the changes in the mechanics of faucets, it is a good idea to shop around and compare before making a snap decision. There are so many finishes and styles to choose from, and faucet mechanisms have improved to much you can find a faucet that suits your tastes as well as one that can be almost maintenance free.

How a Bathroom Faucet Works

Faucets have changed and improved over the years. Many of today's bathroom faucets will be maintenance free for many years without leaks and drips.

1. Compression Faucets-have been the most common for many years, and are still in use in many homes today and also available for purchase. With better choices available, these are among the less expensive choices. This type of faucet assembly has two handles and works by controlling water flow and water temperature by tightening the handle.

Inside this type of faucet assembly is a washer on the end of a screw. When you tighten the faucet handle this puts pressure on the washer covering and opening, and the flow of water is stopped. Washer replacement is frequently needed to stop leaking or drips.

2. Ball Faucets-are frequently in use in both the bathroom and kitchen. These faucets have a single handle which controls both temperature and the flow of water from the faucet. This kind of faucet was the first to be called washerless. These, however are complicated assemblies, and also prone to leaking.

3. Cartridge Faucets-are found both in single handle and two handle models. Temperate control and the rate of water flow are controlled by a moveable stem cartridge. Cartridge faucets are very dependable and need little maintenance.

4. Disc Faucets-are the latest development and will seldom need repair. This type of mechanism is found in better quality faucets and will raise the cost. Disc faucets are single lever models.

Installation Types

1. Single Hole Faucet-this type of faucet requires a single hole. In this type of assembly the spout and single lever which controls both temperature and flow of water is a single integrated unit.

2. Widespread Faucets-are separate pieces. The handles and spout are each separate pieces which mount to the sink individually, and obviously require different drillings.

3. Centerset Faucets-are a very common choice in a bathroom faucet. This installation type has all of it's components attached to a single base. Handles and spout are assembled on a single base as one unit.

4. Wall-Mounted Bathroom Faucets-are an interesting choice, but the less frequently used because the installation is complicated. This type of assembly is often used with vessel sinks, but not an option unless you are willing to open the wall to install. This is a good choice for a new build or extensive remodel.

Style choice in a bathroom faucet will depend on the other decor in your bath and your personal preferences. You alone know what feels right for you, and with all the choices this will not be difficult.

Choosing Your Faucet Finish

Sometimes the finish you choose is dependent on style, but many finishes will be appropriate for a number of styles.

Shiny finishes such as French gold, polished brass, or polished chrome are beautiful, but do require more attention in order to keep them shiny and free of water spots and fingerprints.

Satin and brushed finishes are easier to live with especially in a busy household, or one with children. Finger smudges and water spots will be less visible.

Oil rubbed bronze, Venetian bronze, black iron and weathered copper are also popular finishes in the bathroom faucets of today. Some in this group are considered living finishes. When you see a product listed as a living finish, recognize that it is designed to change with time and use. This is part of the charm of the material and is considered normal. Do be aware of this and decide if you will be comfortable with these changes as years pass.

Final Points:

1. What drillings do you need? centerset, widespread, or single lever?

2. Consider maintenance, and the differences in compression, ball, cartridge, or disc faucets before you decide.

3. What finish suits your lifestyle and preference?

4. Think about your style preferences. Do you want modern, traditional or a Vintage style bathroom faucet?

5. What will your budget allow?

Do some thorough comparison shopping, and you should have a bathroom faucet that will fulfill your wishes and that you are pleased with for many years.