Replacing a lavatory faucet is a small change that can greatly enhance the look of your bathroom; consider it jewellery for your home. Bathroom faucets are available in an array of styles and finishes, and prices to suit any budget. In the case of a complete bath renovation or new home, you will have the flexibility to plan the décor around your faucet.
Choosing the Right Lavatory Faucet
Consider the following when selecting your lavatory faucet:
Size of sink and location of the holes
Function, style and finish
Number and type of handles
Size of Sink
Faucets are measured by the distance between the centre of the outer holes. The most common types of sinks have 4" or 8" centres.
Planning Considerations
Most jurisdictions require maximum water flow be restricted to 2.2 gallons per minute (GPM) or 8.3 litres per minute (L/Min) at 60 psi for all new faucet installations. To ensure compliance, look for a logo from a third party certifier such as CSA, IAPMO, NSF, UL, or ETL.
Style, Finish and Function
Types of lavatory faucets are: 4" centre-set, single-control (single-hole) or 8" - 16" widespread.
Faucets may come with or without pop-up drain assembly.
Spouts may be aerated or non-aerated. Aerated spouts mix air with the water and utilize a screen and restrictor to limit flow while improving water pressure. Non-aerated spouts do not have a screen and allow water to flow freely, causing a waterfall-like effect.
Pullout design is available for some lavatory faucets. The flexible hose allows you to reach any part of your sink.
The internal valve mechanism governs the flow of water through the spout. The four valve types are: compression washers, washerless ball, washerless cartridge and washerless ceramic discs.
Valve Type
Benefits
Points to Consider
Compression Washers
Washers are inexpensive and easy to replace
Washers eventually wear out
May begin to drip over time
Washerless Ball
Durable and reliable
Must be used with a single-handle faucet
Washerless Cartridge
Durable and reliable
May be used with a single or two-handle faucet
Easy to maintain
Washerless Ceramic Disc
May be used with a single or two-handle faucet
Virtually maintenance free
More expensive
Number and Design of Handles
Single-handle faucets allow for easy one-hand operation.
Two-handle faucets offer a larger selection of styles.
Handle designs include:
Lever
Cross
Round
Installation Maintenance Tips
Clean the surface where the faucet is to be installed.
Be sure to shut off your water.
If you are replacing an older faucet, avoid stripping the nuts by using penetrating oil to loosen them.
Water conditions and wear may affect the performance of your faucet over time. Changing the faucet cartridge or O-rings could significantly improve performance.
Clean your faucet using a damp cloth and a mild soap; avoid using harsh abrasive cleaners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some faucets offer built-in anti-scald protection, which allows you to set the maximum water temperature.
Faucets are measured by the distance between the centre of the outer holes (the hot and cold inlets.) A 4" centre means that there is a 4" distance between the centre points of the two outer holes.
In most cases, yes. However, if you are changing finishes, (i.e.,from chrome to brushed nickel), you'll probably want to change the drain assembly to match your new faucet finish.
The Home Depot carries a large assortment of the most common replacement parts. To order a particular component, please contact the manufacturer.
