Faucet Types

Faucets come in a variety of styles, finishes and applications--they regulate the flow, volume and temperature in tubs, showers and lavatories. Different faucet types are constructed for aesthetic appeal, practicality and application.

Single Lever

Single lever faucets employ a single mixing lever to manage hot and cold water as it come through the spout. The lever may be attached to the top of the spout or positioned off to the side of it.

Widespread and Centerset

Both centerset and widespread faucets have separate hot and cold handles to control the mixture of hot and cold water. Centersets bunch the handles close beside the water spout, while widespread faucets space the hot and cold handles a few inches from the faucet on each side.

Wall Mounted

Wall mounted faucet sets are attached to the wall above the basin, or to the wall of a shower. Cold-water faucets are often mounted on outer walls.

Colors and Finishes

Faucets come in a variety of finishes which are usually chosen to accent other tones present in a room. Common faucet colors and finishes include chrome, nickel, gold, platinum and bronze.

Faucet Valves

Faucet valves come in four different designs to control water flow. Compression-valve faucets employ a rising and falling valve, cartridge faucets employ a rubber O-ring, ball faucets use a rotating ball and ceramic-disc faucets use two ceramic discs to regulate water volume.

References

• Choosing a Lavatory Faucet