Considering a New Kitchen Remodel? How To Choose The Best Kitchen Faucet
How To Choose a Kitchen Faucet For Your Remodel
Kitchen faucets receive a lot of use, wear and tear. Choose one that not only looks great, but is also convenient, stylish, safe, and durable
If you're in the market for a new kitchen faucet you're in luck. The latest technology has made corroded leaking faucets a thing of the past. Faucets have become so consistently reliable, that Consumer Reports has stopped rating faucets as there are so few performance differences among the major makers.
Today the main differences between manufacturers comes down to finishes and features. In fact most faucets come with a lifetime warrantee for the original buyer, that covers defects and even finishes. Price is a fair measure of quality, but it may not be the best measure. To make a clear choice you need to examine your needs and aesthetics before making a choice.
Faucet features to look for
A good water valve will prevent water temperatures from abruptly changing as you adjust from hot to cold. A good safety feature to look for is a scald-guard or temperature limiter. This feature allows you to remove the handle and adjust the maximum water temperature, a great feature if you have kids in the house. Most building codes now require temperature limiters on all new fixtures.
As we all strive to live a more sustainable lifestyle, faucet manufacturers have designed all new faucets to deliver no more than 2.5 gallons per minute. Some provide additional controls and flow rate restrictors. Warrantees can also vary, with the best ones offering lifetime protection against leaks and drips, which means your new faucet can provide you with years of trouble-free service.
Kitchen Faucet Shopping tips
Mounting holes
First, match the faucet to the number of pre-drilled mounting holes in the sink as well as any accessories like side sprays or soap dispensers. If you're just changing the faucet, you may need to match what is existing, or get a base plate to cover any unused holes. Make sure not to purchase a faucet the requires more holes than you have. It's difficult to drill new holes in the sink or countertop.
Spout style and shape
Straight spout faucets are compact and inexpensive but they may not fit your needs. Gooseneck models have clearance, but if your sink is shallow they can cause splashing. Whatever style and shape you choose make sure the faucet head swings to cover the entire sink, especially if it's a double bowl. Also aesthetically, keep the sink and faucet proportional for example, a large sink with a small faucet will look odd.
Shopping for faucet types
There are three basic faucet types to choose from and your choice will depend on your needs. A single handled faucet has one handle to control both the hot and cold water. They are easier to use and install, but check the handle rotation to make sure it will not hit the backsplash or window ledge. If your sink has additional holes consider installing a separate spray nozzle or soap dispenser.
A two handled faucet has separate controls for hot and cold water. Two handled faucets have handles that can be part of the baseplate or mount separately. The sprayer is usually separate. Two handles allow for better temperature control but a two handled faucet is slightly harder to install.
Finally, pull out and pull down faucets allow you to remove the head which is attached to a hose. A counterweight help the hose and spout to retract easily. Pull out faucets are handy when washing veggies and cleaning up the sink. They may not be the best choice if you have a smaller sink.
There are some other features that can make cleanup easier. Hands free faucets have an activator on the front of the faucet. Simply touch once to activate the water flow and a second time to shut it off. This is a really convenient option is your hands are dirty or full. Some newer models have a motion sensor which means you don't have to physically touch the fixture.
Kitchen Faucet Finishes
Faucet finishes are widely varied and available to meet any décor needs. Tough finishes are common on most faucets with the possible exception of cheaper models. Typical finishes include polished and brushed chrome, high-gloss, satin and antique brass, brushed brass, gold plate and powder coated decorator colors like red, white, black and gray. Ultimately your choice of finish will depend on your personal style and décor. Speak with a designer about kitchen remodeling trends.
Kitchen faucets receive a lot of use, wear and tear. Choose one that not only looks great, but is also convenient, stylish, safe, and durable. Do your research and try to stick with the most popular brands like Kohler or Delta. If you're seeking a hands-free model, the new Kohler hands-free faucets have great new technology and are competitively priced.
If you're still not sure, speak with your design build contractor. They can offer you buying tips and suggestions for the best options, feature sets and finishes to meet your needs. The good news is that faucet quality has improved tremendously in recent years and you have a lot of great choices at every price point. Just make sure to do your research and you'll be rewarded with a great, durable, kitchen faucet that will provide years of trouble free service!
Forward Design Build is a residential design-build firm in Ann Arbor, Michigan that is known for its commitment to craftsmanship and communication. We are committed to improving our neighbors quality of life with inspired design and creative remodeling. Our homes are highly functional, exquisitely beautiful, and remarkably comfortable. Contact us to speak with an expert about your new home or remodeling project.