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When it comes time to replace your bathtub faucet, you may be wondering what types of bathtub faucets are best for you. Do you want a traditional style faucet, or something more modern?
What material should your new faucet be made out of? The choices are endless and it can be overwhelming trying to decide which type of faucet is best for your needs.
Table of Contents
Different Types of Bathtub Faucets
In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of bathtub faucets and their features. We will also highlight the benefits and drawbacks of each material and style.
So, whether you are looking to replace an old bathtub faucet or are just starting your search, read on for information that will help you make the right decision!
1. Wall Mounted Bathtub Faucet
Wall-mounted bathtub faucets are a great option as it allows you a clutter-free bathtub surface on the deck around your bathtub providing a sleek, modern look to your bathroom.
However, these types of faucets require access to the wall behind your bathtub so they can be a little complicated to install by yourself.
2. Floor-Mounted Bathtub Faucet
These faucets also known as freestanding faucets mount directly to the floor and require underfloor access and are not as easy to install as their counterparts.
They can, however, be fitted anywhere around the tub as the holes will be made in the floor and not the tub. They provide a very unique look to your bathroom.
3. Deck Mounted Bathtub Faucet
A deck-mounted bathtub faucet is one that mounts to the deck, or ledge, around your bathtub. This type of faucet is easy to install and can be a great option if you are looking for a more traditional look.
However, these types of faucets do not come with a diverter valve so if you want to enjoy a shower you will need to install a separate diverter valve.
4. Three-Hole Bath Faucet
These are normally installed on the deck and have 3 separate holes for the spout and controllers for both the hot and cold water.
Both water temperature and water pressure can be controlled more precisely avoiding any accidental burns.
5. Widespread Three Piece Faucet
These types of faucets are identical to three-hole faucets with a couple of key differences. The fixtures sit on a fixed plate and are situated around 8 inches apart from each other giving you plenty of space for additional features such as a soap dispenser or an extendable shower head.
6. Minispread Faucet
Minispread faucets differ from widespread faucets in that the fittings are 4 inches apart giving you a much sleeker look to your bathtub. They, like their widespread counterparts, sit on a plate and have 3 holes.
7. Waterfall Faucet
Waterfall faucets can be very relaxing as they look like a waterfall. The faucet typically has a very wide mouth giving the effect of a flowing waterfall. Most major faucet brands offer free standing waterfall faucets as well as ones that can be installed on the wall and the bathtub deck.
8. Vintage Faucet
Vintage bathtub faucets can give your bathroom a very antique look. These faucets come with a shower head pre-installed and are often made of brass and have an old-fashioned design. While they may not be as popular as some of the other types of faucets, they can add a touch of elegance to any bathroom.
9. Roman Bathtub Faucet
A roman faucet typically sits on the deck, getting its name from the old roman baths. These 3 holed faucets are available in various different designs from the classic long spout and short edgy spout with handles or levers so you can choose the style that suits you best.
10. Single-Hole Faucet
As the name suggests these types of faucets sit in a single hole and work from one handle that swivels up and down to control water pressure and left and right to control the water temperature. As there is only one hole these are generally easy to install.
11. Spout Only Bathtub Faucet
In most cases, bathroom faucets come in a set with the faucet and handle however brands will allow you to purchase just the spout if needed. This is specifically if you want to replace the spout fixture of the bathtub setup because it is damaged or you simply just want a new look.
12. Spout Only Bathtub Faucet With Diverter
If you want to have a shower in your bathtub then you will need to install a diverter allowing you to divert the water through a lever or a knob that you need to pull, to the bathtub spout or through the shower hose.
Different Bathtub Faucet Materials
Bathroom fixtures are available in different materials, and faucets are not excluded. Some materials are more durable and last for decades, while others are aesthetically very appealing but will need replacing after a few years.
Ensure the faucet material on the outside is not just a coating and that the body of the faucet is of the material mentioned.
Brass
Most bathroom brands will use brass for the valves as it doesn’t rust or corrode and is extremely durable. Brass bathroom fixtures can be expensive; however, they will last for a lifetime, so they are very cost-effective.
Typically brass faucets come with a thin layer of a gold plate that can be reapplied when it starts to peel. You can get brass fixtures polished, brushed, or hammered.
Zinc
Zinc is another material that is popular for bathroom fittings because it is rust-proof and does not corrode like brass, but it is not as durable. Its fittings are generally cheaper, which is great if you have spent most of your budget on other parts of your bathroom.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a very easy material to maintain, just a simple wipe will keep it looking shiny and brand new. As durable as brass and more affordable, stainless steel fittings are favored by homeowners.
Plastic
As bathroom fittings are concerned plastic is the cheapest option but it is also prone to breaking and it is not durable at all and will need replacing much more frequently than any of the other materials mentioned.
This is a good option if you are on a tight budget however the need to replace the fixtures will eventually cost you more in the long run.
Rust Resistant Bathtub Faucets
Typically heavier materials are generally better quality when it comes to faucets. As discussed previously there are various materials to choose from but there are a couple of factors to take into consideration.
It is important to note that a faucet that is displayed as rust-resistant may only have a thin layer of rust-resistant metal on the exterior, which in most cases will not be enough protection against the elements and will lead to corrosion. Plastic components may not rust but they will corrode a lot faster than a faucet that contains a ceramic coil.
Keeping the faucets clean and wiping them down after use will extend the life of the faucet as well as keep your bathroom looking clean.
Bathtub Faucet Handles
When it comes to bathtub faucets, you will have to make a decision among three main types of handles. But it’s not only about style–you will also be able to select from different materials and finishes for each set.
Cross Handles
These types of handles turn clockwise and anticlockwise to allow the water to run or stop and are in the shape of a cross.
Knob Handles
There are several different designs when it comes to knob handles but they generally look like a cylinder shape that will turn left and right.
Lever Handles
These faucet handles have a single handle that rotates left and right to function and is available in various styles.
What Is A Bathtub Faucet Flow Rate?
How long does your bathtub take to fill? This will mainly depend on the size of the tub and your flow rate. Measuring the amount of water that flows through the flow valve in any given minute, should give you an accurate estimate of the flow rate.
Typically a standard bathtub can carry 60 – 70 gallons of water. Ordinarily, a bathtub faucet has a 1/2 inch outlet opening, allowing approx 6 gallons of water per minute taking approximately 10 minutes to fill a bathtub.
If you want your bathtub to fill faster then you can get a faucet with a slightly larger opening at 3/4 inch that will fill the same bathtub in under 5 minutes, increasing the flow rate to 15 gallons per minute.
Bathtub Spout Height And Reach
The spout height is the distance between the top of your tub and the opening at the end of your faucet. Ideally, you want your faucet opening to be placed approx 4 to 6 inches from the top of the tub.
The spout reach is how far the spout stretches out from the wall or edge of the tub. Ensure it does not hang too far in over the bathtub, as you will end up hitting the faucet every time you get in and out of the bathtub.
Facts to Consider When Buying A Bathtub Faucet
A bathtub or sink basin faucet is a bathroom fixture that you will not replace often so getting the right one first time round is important. There are a number of things to consider when buying a bathtub or sink faucet
Price
Bathroom faucets range from under a hundred dollars to thousands depending on the material, style, and finish. Make sure to pick one that fits not only your budget but fulfills the other needs. You will only need to replace your faucets once a decade so keep that in mind when deciding.
Longevity
If you live in a hard water area then you will need to get faucets of brass or chrome and make sure to regularly clean and dry them with a cloth after use to prolong life. The minerals in hard water are corrosive and will deteriorate the metal over time if not maintained properly.
Material
There are different materials to choose from as well as different finishes. Some are more expensive than others while some materials will last longer so make sure to research which material will be most suited to you.
Style Of The Faucet
There are a number of different styles of faucets that we have covered in this article however there are variations of designs in those specific styles of faucets from the different brands. As a result, there are quite literally thousands upon thousands of different looks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you measure a bathtub faucet?
For an accurate fit, measure the distance between the centers of the two holes known as the center measurement. If you take a measurement of 7 inches from one hole to the next then you will only be able to replace it with the same size faucet setup.
How do I know which bathtub faucet to buy?
If you are remodeling your bathroom then get some catalogs or just search the internet and once you have an idea then visit a hardware or bathroom store to get a feel for the fixture.
If you are replacing your current taps then try and match the sink basin faucet to the bathtub faucet or vice versa.
Why does my bath water turn GREY?
Grey slime may be produced by fungi that live in your home, even if they aren’t present in the water supply. They will multiply quite rapidly after landing on a moisture-ridden surface, creating a slimy layer that in time will turn grey.
Can you water plants with bath water?
Yes, you most certainly can water your plants with bathtub water. This is not only great for the environment but it will as an added bonus reduce your water bill.
Can you use a sink faucet for a tub?
The simple short answer is ‘No’. There are a number of components in these faucets that differ from each other such as the completely different installation type and water flow rate which is much lower in a sink, not to mention the ability to have a shower valve in a bathtub faucet.
What is a vessel filler faucet?
A bathroom sink that is placed above the counter rather than one that sits inside a counter. A vessel filler faucet is designed to be installed higher than a regular sink and usually has a single-column faucet.
Conclusion
When it comes time to replace your bathtub faucet, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, think about what style of faucet you want. There are traditional, modern, and vintage styles to choose from. Second, consider the material the faucet is made out of. Brass, bronze, and chrome are all popular materials for bathtub faucets.
Finally, keep in mind the flow rate and spout height/reach when making your decision. With all of these factors in mind, you should be able to find the perfect bathtub faucet for your home.
If you liked this article about types of bathtub faucets, consider checking out these articles below —
- Easy Steps On How To Connect Two Faucet Supply Lines And What Is The Best Type Of Connection
- How To Clean Chrome Faucets: Tips And Tricks Using Household Items
- The 5 Main Types Of Shower Faucets And How To Pick The
- How to Remove a Faucet Aerator And When You Should You Change It
