Bath Sinks and Faucets 101: Replacing Faucets Only

If you want a luxury bathroom design but don't want to do a compete remodel, there are ways to create the perfect modern bathroom or use traditional bathroom design ideas to upgrade one piece at a time. Sometimes you can change the look of a bath sink simply by replacing the faucets, but keeping the sink itself. Sinks and faucets should be matched carefully since they come in a variety of hole drillings and basins. There's no such thing as a universal fit.There are four basic types of faucets and their respective drillings:

* Wall-mounted - with a long spout to reach from the wall to the basin plus one or two handles
* Single lever - has a spout and a single handle to mix hot and cold
* Widespread - with a spout and two handles, all mounted as individual pieces
* Center set - a spout and two handles mounted in a center plate

Use the configuration of your original faucet as a guide to buying a replacement; bring the original with you when shopping for the replacement to compare if you aren't sure. When removing the old faucet, be sure to turn off the water and remove the water supply connection from the faucet before dismantling it.

Bath Sink Options

If you are planning to replace or improve your bathroom plumbing, you have a wide range of options when it comes to bath sinks. A wall-mounted sink is an excellent alternative for modern bathrooms, but if you are after a more traditional look, try a pedestal sink. Regardless of the style and mounting, make sure you have enough elbow room for comfortable sink use. Install your new sink at least a foot away from the closest wall or the toilet to avoid banging your elbows when washing or brushing.

Your bathroom sink construction options include porcelain, marble, and vitreous china. When using china or porcelain, beware of dropping items onto these surfaces as they tend to chip. Metal and fiberglass surfaces are also easily chipped or scratched in the right circumstances. Busy bathroom sinks used by children and teenagers are often better off with durable surfaces, such as enameled iron or steel.

Bathroom Contractors, Design Options, And Planning

If you are using bathroom contractors to remodel your bathroom, you'll need to give them some information to help design and plan your new bathroom plumbing needs. If you already have bathroom design ideas, give them to the contractor in advance, and be sure to include the following information:

* Counter top materials - do you prefer stone, a solid surface, or a laminate?
* Electric outlets and fixtures - do you want to add or move something?
* Sink, toilet, and tub - do you want a larger size, a different configuration, or a new location?
* What type of cabinets do you want?
* Do you want new flooring?

If you aren't sure on any of these bathroom remodeling ideas, check with the sales rep to look through a catalog or see samples of your options. You can look over a wide range of fixtures, toilet diagrams, and bathroom design ideas before committing. Always get multiple estimates on your final design with alternative materials and configurations to see how adding or changing fixtures or materials affects the bottom line.