It’s time again to fix that faucet. You’re sick of the ‘drip, drip, drip’ from your bathroom sink that keeps you awake until all hours of the morning. It’s not the washer in the faucet itself that’s gone bad this time; it’s the whole apparatus. You go to Lowe’s or Home Depot and wind up staring at the huge selection before you slack jawed because you have no idea what to choose. You need help.

Stick With What You Know

The first thing you need to do is decide if you want to replace your bathroom faucet with the exact same style as before or go for something new. The easiest thing to do is to simply replace your faucet with one which is similar or identical in style. You can remove the bathroom sink faucet and bring it in to find a good match. Of course if this isn’t possible or even feasible, your chore becomes a bit more complicated. There are many different types of mounting for your faucet and you will need to be aware of what type yours is before simply going and purchasing the new fixture. This can often be the most difficult part of selecting your new faucet because, as usual, the one you really prefer will not necessarily work with the configuration of your sink.

Choose Your Type of Mounting

There are some common types of mounting such as widespread faucets which have individual hot and cold water handles; center set faucets with just one handle to control both hot and cold water and covering all three holes which may be in your sink for mounting; mini widespread faucets which are similar to the widespread variety but positioned closer together, single-hole which is similar to the center set design but with only one hole and last but not least, wall mounted, most commonly found on a bathtub faucet. Sinks with 4″ holes pre-drilled are best for center set and mini-widespread type faucets. Some of the single hole faucets may also be used on these sinks. Needless to say if you have one of the other types, you would be best going for a replacement of the same kind.

Once you have determined which type of mount will suit your sink, it all comes down to looks. Which finish best matches your bathroom? Look for something which will complement the look of the room. If your bathroom has decor of an antique flavor you may decide to go with a classical style of rounded edges and flowery embellishments. For example, if your bathroom is more of an antique decor, you may want to stick with a classical style, an everyday decor could use either, and somewhat futuristic decor would definitely go well with modern bathroom designs.

Choosing the Finish

So you have chosen your new faucet and installation is on the horizon. But have you given any thought to the finish of your faucet? Bathroom fixtures can be found in many different finishes and materials. Each finish has its pros and cons. Chrome and stainless steel are probably the most common of finishes but they scratch easily and water spots and fingerprints show up all too clearly. Brass is very attractive, but rusts. And brushed nickel, which includes your flat finishes that do not show your fingerprints, is more expensive and its plating will eventually wear. The finish is a matter of personal choice, but knowing your options will help you to decide.

There are even choices as far as the handles are concerned with some faucets. This is a matter of personal choice of course, but be sure to select one which matches your decor. The only thing left now is to take your new faucet home and install it. And then enjoy the compliments you will get on this most basic of bathroom items.

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