Kitchen renovations are major undertakings that require a lot of planning. Whether you are contacting the job out or tackling it alone, you will be faced with many important decisions that you have to live with. From cabinets and flooring to appliances and lighting, you want everything to be absolutely perfect. Every last detail down to the knobs, hinges, and screws needs to be carefully thought out. This includes choosing the right faucet for your kitchen sink.
Some people don’t understand how critical their faucet is. It’s far more than just a mere piece of equipment. The right faucet for your kitchen sink can really tie the room together just as the wrong choice can stick out like a sore thumb. So, how do you choose the right faucet? Like every other aspect of your kitchen renovation, you need to consider a number of things such as functionality, efficiency, aesthetics, and, of course, your budget.
What to Consider when Choosing the Right Faucet
Those who are particular about brand names are most likely familiar with Moen, Delta, and American Standard. These brands are immensely popular and known for their high quality. They are easily found at major hardware stores around the globe. Those who are looking for a quality product at a good price should consider an Aquasource faucet. Aquasource faucets come in many styles and their ceramic valves ensure a top-notch and drip-free performance backed by a limited lifetime guarantee.
The right style for you depends on the amount of space you are working with and the look you are trying to achieve. Do you prefer single-handled, two handled, or no-touch? Gooseneck or low arc? What kind of finish? A modern or classic design? There’s a lot to think about. Be sure to do your homework and weigh your options.
Your Sink
If you plan to keep your existing sink, you have to think about how many holes it has. Sinks usually have between two and four holes which accommodate the flow controls, the faucet stem, and the retractable sprayer. Sure, you can always use a bridge piece to cover an open hole, but that’s something that will probably give you a niggling feeling every time you see it. If you are in love with your sink and absolutely don’t want to swap it out, choose your faucet accordingly. You obviously have a few more options if you decide to install a new sink.
Configuration
Many faucets feature two knobs. One controls the flow of hot water while the other controls the cold water. However, single-handle models have found a home in more and more kitchens over the past few decades. One of the benefits of these models is the ease in which water temperature is controlled. Those who prefer a single-handled model need to make sure they have enough room to allow the handle’s full range. Having your sink too close to a wall or window sill could be a problem.
Sprayers
Sprayers are quite handy for a number of reasons. These days, the most popular type of sprayer is the pull-down type which extends right out of the faucet’s head. Similarly, pull-out sprayers, which are great in areas where a faucet’s height is an issue, are also widely used. The more traditional sprayer, the side spray type, is mounted beside the faucet and activated using a trigger. Again, the right style for you mainly depends on the amount of space you have to work with and the look you are going for.
Price
The cost of a kitchen faucet might shock you. Typically, a decent faucet will run you anywhere between about $100 and $300. Like most other things, price does not necessarily equate to quality or lack thereof. You can still find a quality faucet in the lower price range just as you can find inferior faucets in the higher ranges. Stick to your budget and shop around.
Reap the Rewards
You cannot underestimate the importance of choosing the right faucet for your kitchen remodeling project. It’s not just for your own personal satisfaction either. A newly renovated kitchen is a huge selling point when you put your house on the market. Seeing how your kitchen sink is a focal point, going the extra yard and installing the ideal faucet could make a big difference. There really is no downside.
Leave a Reply