Are you tired of the same bathroom design? Do you want to change something but don't have a big budget? Don't worry there's a solution to every problem. In this case, you can change the bathroom tapware. This is a simple, yet very effective way to spruce things up. Plus, it's very budget-friendly and you won't spend a crazy amount of money. There are plenty of options you can choose from depending on what you're trying to achieve. The different shapes, sizes, materials and finishes, make it almost impossible to make a decision.
Types of Bathroom Basin Taps
These taps come in so many different shapes, sizes, finishes and materials. You have plenty of choices, and no matter the interior design of the bathroom, you’ll find a matching tap to complement it. Some of them are more popular than others, but it’s all about finding the one that fits your bathroom setting best.
Wall Mount Taps
The wall-mount tap is one of the most popular choices. It's not just because it looks pretty and contemporary, but because of its space-saving properties. These high-quality, stylish bathroom taps will make a small bathroom look spacious. Just as the name suggests, they’re meant to be installed on a wall, the space just above the basin.
This way you’ll have more space around the basin for your brushes, soap, sponges or anything else you might need. They look very modern and contemporary and will work with almost any type of sink. Countertop basins are a perfect match with these taps. You’ll have a clean, organised space, that looks absolutely gorgeous and elegant.
Their minimalistic features make them look luxurious and they’ll enhance the bathroom's interior without a doubt. There are twist, push-activated wall mount taps and non-touch sensor ones. The twist activated is the most common type. Keep in mind that the water pipe that connects to this tap has to be installed in the wall.
This might be a problem for some people because if the pipes break and need to be replaced, they’ll have to break the wall as well. This means more money, time and effort. But on the other hand, these taps are easy to clean and maintain. You can find them at different price points, and anyone can afford a wall-mount tap.
But this was not always the case because in the past they were a part of just luxurious hotels, spas and restaurants. The traditional design has a singular flow control. It regulates both the hot and the cold water. You can also get a separate control, with a hot and cold handle. This has a more modern look. Plus, some of them have a backplate that makes cleaning much easier.
Mixer Taps
These taps just need one tap hole and have a single spout that can discharge both hot and cold water. There is only one sprout that lets water out. There could occasionally be two, one for hot water and the other for cold. They come in different materials and designs, so there’s something for everyone.
They'll work well in traditional bathrooms, but also in modern and contemporary ones. They may have an aerated spout or a waterfall that is square or curved. Their most common finish is chrome, but you can find other options such as matte black, stainless steel, nickel or brushed brass.
These bathroom taps require just one hole in the basin. So, keep this in mind in case you want to do some alterations in the future. If you change the tap you may have to drill another hole or change the whole basin. Good water pressure is important as well. And if you have a very small basin, this is not the tap for you. You'll get a lot of splashbacks and a messy bathroom floor.
Pillar Taps
After the wall-mounted tap, this is the second most popular design. They feature 2 taps, one is for hot and the other for cold water. Homeowners that have a classic bathroom interior usually buy these taps because they complement this type of décor perfectly. You can try them with more modern interiors, but it might not work.
A lot of people buy them for more practical reasons. Because 2 taps control the type of water you want to get, having good water pressure is not very important. You'll need 2 holes in the basin, so make sure you match the tap and the sink you have or want to buy. Pillar taps can be very affordable, and you can find them in many materials, designs and finishes.
3 Hole Taps
These taps operate similarly to mixer taps even though installation calls for three holes. The same sprout gives you both hot and cold water. The first 2 holes are for the levers that control the water flow, and the third hole is for the sprout.
If you want to have good control over the temperature of the water, this is the right tap for you. Some people consider this an advantage because you need to use both hands to adjust it. These taps are more expensive than the others, but the flair and luxury they provide to the space make the cost worthwhile.
Small Taps
If you have a small bathroom with limited space this is the right tap for you. They fit perfectly on small basins. If you want it to function smoothly, and appear symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing, make sure the sink isn’t bigger than 600mm. In this case, size is important, choose wisely. Don't go for a cheaper but bigger tap. This will only cause splashes all over the sink, the floor and the rest of the bathroom furniture. We all know how dangerous a wet floor is and how long it takes to dry it out.
What About Tap Finishes?
Pick a finish that blends well with the bathroom's general style and decor. Brass or gold are the best choices for creating an antique Victorian vibe in the bathroom. The most common taps are those made of chrome. They essentially work with both traditional and modern bathroom designs. People generally pick either a shiny or matte finish to complement their bathroom décor.
You should know that shiny designs are more time-consuming when it comes to cleaning and maintenance. If you don’t clean them regularly, they’ll get stains and look old and dirty. If you don’t have the time for regular cleaning, go for the matte finish.
