Find out how to choose taps and fittings; here are some tips and tricks to optimize spaces available in the bathroom, with shapes, styles and materials that can make the difference.
The washbasin mixer tap, the bidet mixer tap and the shower mixer tap are undoubtedly indispensable elements in a bathroom, and in the event of new installation, renovation or when the old taps have broken, it is necessary to proceed with the purchase of new bathroom taps. On these occasions we find ourselves with several modern bathroom taps on offer: wall-mounted, deck-mounted, single-lever, dual-control, or even some in a decidedly retrò style. Such a wide universe of choices could put anyone who is not good at plumbing in difficulty. So, let us see how not to make any mistakes and what criteria to follow to obtain a bathroom that ensures functionality and design.
Wall-mounted or deck-mounted bathroom taps for sanitary ware?
Is it better to buy wall-mounted taps or those which fit directly on the sanitary fixtures? The answer to this question comes from the type of sanitary ware chosen, which can be single-hole, three hole or with a completely smooth surface (no holes). In the last case, the bathroom taps must be installed on the countertop or on the wall. Wall installation is a decidedly retrò style solution, perfect in combination with classic sanitary ware, while installation on the countertop is the ideal completion for bathroom furniture in a modern, contemporary style, where inset washbasins are protagonists. The sanitary fixtures prepared for taps can have one or three holes: in the first case the choice will be oriented towards a mixer tap, while in the second case we will come across a spout and two knobs (hot/cold water).
Single-lever or dual-control mixer taps?
How to choose a mixer tap? It is possible to find single-lever and dual-control taps on the market.
The single-lever mixer has a single knob that operates from left to right to adjust the water temperature, and from the bottom to the top to adjust the water flow. Handy because operated by one hand, the single-lever mixer is generally cheaper and has a memory effect for maintaining the water temperature. Some models also have an anti-scald system, limiting the function of the hot water through a ring.
The dual-control mixer features two knobs on the sides of the tap (one for hot water - with a red label - and one for cold water - with a blue label). Therefore, to obtain the ideal temperature it is necessary to mix the two streams. The water flow can also be adjusted by turning the knobs.
Choosing taps for bathroom fixtures
The choice of the ideal tap must also consider the type of sanitary fixture it is intended for. Concerning washbasins, the tap chosen must adapt to the ergonomics of the sanitary fixture and must be sufficiently high to allow easy hand washing. The length of the spout must coincide with the waste plug of the washbasin to avoid splashing.
For bathtubs, the bath filler tap must have a diverter, which allows users to choose whether to direct the flow of water towards the spout (for filling the tub) or towards the shower head. In the case of whirlpool bathtubs, a tap with a waterfall spout is ideal.
The shower mixer tap is designed to provide a connection between the handheld showerhead and the hose. It is always fixed to the wall of the shower cubicle or self-contained cabin through two holes.
Bathroom taps: when materials make the difference
As for any other product, the materials and the quality of finish make the difference in the bathroom tap industry. These elements directly determine both the duration of the tap and the maintenance of its original splendour. Only the highest quality raw materials, in fact, can guarantee optimal use over time, together with first choice components that prevent problems related to leaks even in the case of particularly intense use.
On the other hand, the surface treatment which taps undergo during the manufacturing process can offer a greater guarantee on the duration of the chrome plating and the external coating that could be easily damaged due to inappropriate procedures. Do not forget that the bathroom is one of the rooms that has the highest level of humidity and that vapours could quickly oxidize poor-quality taps, turning them into completely different accessories than those you intended to buy for your bathroom.