Kitchen Faucets

There are generally two types of kitchen faucets in use today. Single-handle faucets are center sets where hot and cold are controlled by one lever or knob that's often part of the spout. The other is widespread kitchen faucet. This type of faucet requires three separate holes and consists of the hot-water valve, the cold-water valve and the spout all being mounted separately.

When choosing your faucet as part of your kitchen plumbing fixture package consider the spout style and function. Straight spouts are less expensive, but you might need to move the faucet to fit a big pot under it. Gooseneck models are very popular at this time. They have higher clearances but they can cause splashing if your sink is to shallow. No matter what style you pick, make sure the faucet swings enough to reach the entire sink, especially if you have a wide or double bowl sink.

The finish of the faucet is very important when selecting plumbing fixtures, so be sure to pick a finish that complements the rest of your room design. For kitchen faucets chrome is still a clean look, while satin nickel and stainless finishes have become very popular. Oiled rubbed bronze is a color you will find very popular in more traditional or earth tone kitchens.

Kitchen faucets come in many finishes, with oiled rubbed bronze being the most fashionable choice at the moment. But be careful choosing oiled rubbed bronze because on many brands this is considered to be a living finish-- over time it changes from the original color. If you want the look of stainless to match your stainless sink, choose a satin nickel finish, which is an almost perfect match. Some brands do carry a stainless faucet but most have the satin nickel selection. Polished nickel is also a very popular finish that gives an old world look and is a bit more stylish than chrome.

Other faucets to consider are bridge faucets which bring an old time design to the kitchen. The pot filler is also a luxury faucet that is becoming more and more popular. The pot filler faucet can be placed in the wall behind the stove or on the counter next to the stove to quickly and easily fill pots without needing to clear out the main sink.

Initially, an inexpensive kitchen faucet may look as good as the more expensive option, but it will not last as long, costing you more money in the long run.

Warranties on kitchen faucets vary. The best ones offer lifetime protection against leaks and drips, insuring that your faucet will provide years of trouble-free service.

With most faucets being turned on and off hundreds of times a day, and for many years, it is necessary to select one that not only looks great, but also provide durable service.