The essence of simplicity: 1 hole, 1 lever
Many factors are involved in the comparison of bathroom faucets, among them: style, finish, placement, ease of use, reputation of the manufacturer and cost. The choice depends on the buyer's visual preference, the user's physical capabilities and the existing plumbing situation. If starting from scratch, the choices are staggering. When refitting a bathroom, the choices are narrowed if keeping the existing sink and tub is a financial necessity. Most faucet sets have matching versions for sink and tub.
Configuration
Four-inch mixing faucet, brushed pewter
Faucets come in different configurations. The simplest fits over a single hole and is one piece with a lever or dial that swings gradually from hot (left) to cold (right), up for volume, down to close.
Three-hole faucets come in two widths. The smallest sits on a base covering holes 4 inches apart and has a single centered spout. It has a cold dial or lever on the right and hot dial or lever on the left. Both dials or levers regulate the temperature independently, mixing for the single spout.
This type is available also for holes 8 inches apart. The pre-drilled hole spacing in the sink determines which one to use.
Faucet sets with separated dials and spouts are also available. These do not mix the temperatures.
Style
Can't splash water on your face here.
After choosing the configuration, the next step is visual preference.
Faucet company designers work on various styles: modern, colonial, cubist, plain and fancy. Some have flat spouts, sending out a flow of water resembling a waterfall. Others have high arching spouts or extending spouts that reach almost to the edge of the sink. Think about this when choosing a long spout: Will it be possible to lean over the sink and splash water on your face?
Finish
Anything can take place behind the wall.
According to Consumer Reports: "...when it comes to faucets, exterior finish, not brand, determines durability."
Shiny or matte (brushed) finish: Shiny is beautiful, but requires maintenance.
Silver colors: Pewter--polished and brushed, chrome plated
Gold colors: Brass--polished and brushed, gold plated
Pewter with gold accents
Black and variations such as verde green
Colored Lucite or ceramic trim
Some faucets have metal for the delivery part and ceramic 4-tongued dials resembling old-fashioned ones. These frequently have "hot" and "cold" written on them and are favored by renovators or antique lovers.
Considerations
Easy and safe for all ages
Who will be using the faucets? If children are in the house, mixing faucets are safer than separate hot and cold, and a single lever supersedes two independent dials.
People who are either older or handicapped have trouble using "ball" type dials, as they have a poor gripping shape. A mother with a child under one arm will find the single lever valuable.
Electric Options
Combination tub and shower mixing faucet set
Exotic, newer models with electronic switches and automatic turn-off can be found, but they often require backup power if the main power goes out.
A new set of faucets can do wonders to freshen up an old bathroom at relatively modest cost. Money well spent for a room well used.
Tags: dial lever, holes inches, holes inches apart, inches apart, mixing faucet, single lever, splash water