Choosing the perfect bathtub faucet for your bathroom is an important decision that requires careful consideration of several factors. This is because a faucet is a focal point in the bathroom, and its style and finish should blend with your general bathroom design. Additionally, apart from just looking good, you need a fitting that matches your bathing requirements in terms of water flow rates, as well as one that can serve you for a very long time. All these choices make it difficult to determine the best tub faucet for your space among the many types, styles, and finishes out there. This all-inclusive article covers everything you should consider before selecting the best bathtub faucet to match both form and function in your bathroom.
We will discuss different kinds of bath taps, top tips to consider when choosing one based on what you want, and answer some frequently asked questions about bathtub taps. This guide will be helpful when selecting a tub filler, whether you are just changing fixtures as part of small renovations or doing a full upgrade of your bathroom, making it come alive with elegance and precision. So let’s get started!
Types of Bathtub Faucets
The first step in finding a new bathtub faucet involves determining which type between deck-mounted faucets, wall-mounted faucets, and freestanding ones is ideal for your needs and space. Each has its own considerations regarding installation, functionality, and aesthetics involved with them. Let us now look into each kind of tub faucet.
Deck-Mounted Faucets
Credits: Canva
Deck-mounted faucets, also known as rim-mounts or ledge-mounts, are meant to be installed along the edge or deck of your bath set-up, hence their name. The body plus handles of this tap sit on top of the edge while its spout extends above it into the restroom space below; they are considered by many people as being cheap compared to other types.
Key Features:
- Installed directly to the tub deck or rim
- The faucet body, handles, and spout sit atop the tub surround.
- The spout extends over the tub edge.
- Needs holes drilled into the tub deck for installation.
- More affordable price point
- A wide variety of styles and finishes are available.
Deck-mounted faucets are ideal to install around any standard alcove tub. The faucet components on top of the deck also mean that they are easier to access for repair and maintenance. However, the only problem with this type is the visible gap between the faucet base and the tub surface.
Wall-Mounted Faucets
Credits:Canva
Wall-mounted bath taps are mounted directly to a wall in your bathroom that is behind or above the bath area. Only the spout extends over the bath, while all other parts remain fixed to this wall, which gives it a sleek, minimalist look.
Key Features:
- Installed directly to the wall with a mounting bracket
- Faucet body and handles mounted to the wall
- Only the spout extends over the tub.
- It needs no holes drilled into the tub deck.
- More expensive than deck-mounted
- Limited-style selection
- Difficulty for DIY Installation
Wall-mounted tub faucets work best with freestanding tubs, as they allow full visibility of the exterior tub design. The installation is more complex, often requiring behind-the-wall access. Wall-mounted faucets also have a more contemporary, sleek look compared to deck-mounted designs.
Freestanding Faucets
Credits: Canva
Freestanding faucets are complete with the spout and handles attached to a base that is positioned on the ground near the tub. The plumbing fixtures are directly run from floor to faucet. For replacing traditional wall- or deck-mounted faucets, these serve as the main water sources.
Key Features:
- All-in-one faucet unit attached to a floor-mounted base
- Handles and spout sit on a freestanding base.
- Plumbing runs from the floor directly to the faucet.
- Minimalist aesthetic
- Only used with freestanding tubs
- More expensive than wall or deck-mounted
These fillers are specifically designed for freestanding tubs, creating an integrated minimalist look with all plumbing contained within one floor-mounted unit. This has the contemporary style of wall-mounted faucets, but the exposed floor plumbing increases the complexity of installation.
Top Tips for Choosing the Right Bathtub Faucet for Your Bathroom
Credits: Canva
Now that you know about bathtub faucets, how do you choose which one fits your bathroom and personal needs? Here are some of the most important factors:
Style and Design
Credits: Canva
One major consideration is selecting a faucet style that matches your bathroom decor perfectly. An ornate Victorian faucet will look out of place in a contemporary bathroom with clean lines. Look for a faucet finish and shape that coordinates well with your existing hardware and complements your sink faucet. Many collections offer matching tub and sink faucets.
Consider also what kind of presence this component has in terms of its visual weight; larger varieties with wide-set handles will have more weight, while minimalist wall-mounted options have less. These designs may be appropriate in classic settings, such as old houses. On another note, black and gold finishes can make any room appear glamorous.
You also need to select a height based on whether it ergonomically fits within the depth and shape of your bathtub. Avoid styles that would be awkward for bathers to reach.
Material and Finish
Credits: Jaquar
From brushed nickel to polished chrome, oil-rubbed bronze to matte black, the finish you choose for the faucet can tie your whole bathroom palette together. Consider which finish complements your other fixtures and hardware best.
The material, such as brass, zinc, or stainless steel, affects how it looks, its durability, and its price. Chrome and nickel finishes work with most colour schemes, while bronze, black, and gold finishes add a touch of glamour.
Special coatings like PVD or powder coating help prevent tarnishing, corrosion, and scratches. This is especially useful for higher-maintenance finishes like oil-rubbed bronze. The highest quality finishes will resist mineral buildup and water spots over time.
Functionality and features
Credits: Jaquar
Are you looking for single-lever handles that support precise flow rates plus temperature adjustment or double-lever handles that allow customisation on the hot versus cold balance? Think about which motion comes most naturally to you when operating handles.
For high-traffic bathrooms where kids or the elderly are using them, look for anti-scald valves. For rinsing purposes, choose a swivel spout. Handheld showers can be helpful in bathing disabled patients who cannot do it themselves or in washing pets.
You might like a minimalist look, which might make you consider using a tub filler with integrated valves. The valve in the spout is concealed by this streamlined design. For the ultimate in customisation, thermostatic or digital faucets allow you to digitally programme and maintain precise temperatures.
Installation Requirements
Credits: Jaquar
In selecting a faucet type, it must match your existing tub and water supply setup. Most alcove tubs work well with deck-mounted faucets, while wall-mounted or freestanding fillers are needed for clawfoot and freestanding tubs.
Ensure that your tub ledge has pre-drilled tap holes if you have chosen a deck-mount faucet. If an old faucet is replaced, ensure that the faucet base can cover up any old tap holes. Wall-mounted faucets may require more complex installation, and behind-the-wall access may be necessary.
Water Efficiency and Flow
Credits: Canva
Deck-mounted and two-handle designs happen to be among the most economical options. Freestanding and wall-mounted faucets cost more due to their complex installation and minimalist design. Digital and thermostatic faucets would be considered high-end because of the added technology.
Therefore, choose a faucet that provides maximum value without compromising its quality. Do not buy cheap models offering poor warranty coverage or that are made of plastic parts that will deteriorate over time. The right faucet should easily last decades, so it’s worth paying for reliability along with durability.
Budget Considerations
Deck-mounted and two-handle designs happen to be among the most economical options. Freestanding and wall-mounted faucets cost more due to their complex installation and minimalist design. Digital and thermostatic faucets would be considered high-end because of the added technology.
Therefore, choose a faucet that provides maximum value without compromising its quality. Do not buy cheap models offering poor warranty coverage or that are made of plastic parts that will deteriorate over time. The right faucet should easily last decades, so it’s worth paying for reliability along with durability.
Maintenance and durability
Instead of cheap plastics, select brass, zinc, or stainless steel that will last. Cast materials are heavier and tend to last longer than light aluminium. Get ceramic disc valves and drip-free engineering for a leak-free, long life.
Look out for finishes that are tarnish-, scratch-, and corrosion-resistant. Many companies offer a lifetime limited warranty on function as well as finish; this is a warranty against defects in the products. By doing so, one’s investment is safeguarded in case of any defect.
Aim for a faucet that makes regular upkeep, like cleaning mineral deposits, easy. For pull-out spray heads, go for an anti-clog washer-less design. In places with hard water, think about acquiring a water softener to minimise scale buildup.
Conclusion
Installing a new bathtub faucet is not something you should take lightly. You want beautiful-looking faucets that cater to your bathing needs while being durable enough to stand the test of time. Follow these tips above when buying the right faucet for you, which you will use whenever having “me” time in the tub.
Thereafter, take measurements of your existing space along with the plumbing to ensure you choose a suitable faucet type that will fit well into your tub setup. Visit showrooms and browse websites to explore the vast array of styles available and pick up samples to help visualise pieces within your space. Go for quality construction that feels solid and substantial when operated by hand. A good choice of tub faucet can bring together everything else within the bathroom design and add the style it deserves.’
FAQs
Still have some lingering questions about selecting the perfect bathtub faucet? Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:
What type of faucet is best for a freestanding tub?
Freestanding tubs look best paired with wall-mounted or freestanding tub fillers. The minimal plumbing details allow the sculptural tub design to really stand out.
How do I maintain the finish of my bathtub faucet?
Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe down your faucet regularly. Avoid harsh cleaners or chemicals that can degrade the finish over time. For chrome and other shiny finishes, use a gentle polish to maintain the gleam.
Can I replace my bathtub faucet without changing the plumbing?
In many cases, yes. As long as your existing water supply lines match up with the faucet location, you can usually swap out just the faucet fixture itself without full replumbing.
What are the most durable materials for bathtub faucets?
Solid brass and stainless steel constructions tend to offer exceptional durability and withstand the test of time. Seek out ceramic disc valve cartridges and leak-free joint seals for added longevity.
Jaquar's Range of Luxury Bathtubs
In today's fast-moving world, you need a bathroom where you can unwind and relax. By installing one of Jaquar’s beautiful luxury bathtubs from its extensive range, you can turn your bathroom into an amazing oasis!
Being among India’s leading brands in bathroom products, Jaquar offers an impressive selection of upscale bathtubs suitable for each taste and budget. You will definitely find your ideal hideaway, whether you choose contemporary stand-alone baths, traditional claw-foot tubs, egg-shaped soaking baths, or corner ones.
To make them both attractive and strong, Jaquar has used lucite acrylic material as well as state-of-the-art designs. Their free-standing luxury tubs create stunning focal points in modern bathrooms. For more traditional spaces, built-in models with clean lines and elegant details fit seamlessly into any decor.
Never settle—purchase from Jaquar’s collection of luxury bathtubs for the best relaxation fixture. The company’s dedication to quality craftsmanship and attention to detail is evident in every model. Additionally, Jaquar offers a range of sizes, shapes, and installation options that will suit any space or requirement. They even have extras like air jets that can be added if you are looking for a spa-like experience.
A luxurious upgrade like a new bathtub from Jaquar is one of the most effective ways to get your dream bathroom oasis while also increasing the resale value of your home. Why should you settle for anything less? For style, comfort, and durability at their highest level, indulge yourself with the unmatched selection of Jacuzzi’s high-end tubs. With every soak in it, you will realise all your dreams about an ultimate peaceful bathtub.