Which Tap Is Right For You?
We are hoping that the below guide will answer some of the questions you may have on which type of tap may be suitable for your bathroom.
By understanding the different tap types and their respective advantages and disadvantages, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your bathroom design, functional needs, and budget. Whether you prefer the modern elegance of wall-mounted taps or the high-tech convenience of sensor taps, there’s a tap style to suit every preference and project.
For any additional questions you may have, we are here to answer any queries – feel free to call us on 01457834200.
Preface: Different Tap Holes
The number of tap holes in a basin/bath determines the type of taps that can be installed.
Most basins come with pre-drilled tap holes (between 0 and 3) and baths all depend on the manufacturer.
Producers such as Bette offer drilling services for as many holes as needed, providing the tap ledge allows.
- 1 Tap Hole: Designed for monobloc taps, which combine hot and cold water through a single spout.
- 2 Tap Holes: Accommodates separate hot and cold taps, often seen in traditional bathroom designs.
- 3 Tap Holes: Used for mixer taps with separate controls for hot and cold water on either side of a central spout.
- 4 Tap Holes: Used mainly for bath taps in different combinations, the most popular being: (1) bath spout + (2) hot/cold mixer + (3) diverter + (4) hand-shower.
- 5 Tap Holes: Similarly to above, with the exception that these taps usually have a separate hot and cold water valves and almost exclusively feature a hand-shower (wall mounted or “pull-out” from the bath).
Choosing the right number of tap holes depends on both functional preferences and aesthetic considerations.
Wall Mounted Taps
Wall-mounted taps are installed directly onto the wall above the basin or bath, creating a sleek and modern look. This design frees up space around the basin or bath edges, offering a minimalist aesthetic that complements contemporary bathroom styles. Wall-mounted taps can be a striking focal point, especially when paired with freestanding basins or baths.
These taps are ideal for those looking to maximize counter space or aiming for a clean, uncluttered look. They require plumbing within the wall, so planning during the early stages of a renovation or build is essential.
The majority of wall mounted taps use a concealed mixer, built into the wall, which receives hot and cold water feeds. Wall mounted taps come in various setups and range from “3 Hole” meaning hot+cold manual valves and a water spout, to touch-less/sensor spouts only.
Pros
- Space-saving: Frees up space around the basin or bath, providing a cleaner surface area.
- Modern aesthetics: Offers a sleek, minimalist look that suits contemporary designs.
- Easy cleaning: Less clutter around the basin or bath edges makes cleaning simpler.
The taps are also not sitting on a bath/basin and so there are less crevices to clean. - Versatility: Can be paired with various basin or bath styles, including countertop and freestanding models.
- Variety: Wall mounted taps come in a larger variety of types than their deck mounted counterparts. There are manual hot and cold valves, single valve mixers, progressive taps which are more energy-efficient (they start with cold water and mix in more hot the more the valve is turned)
Cons
- Complex installation: Requires plumbing within the wall, which can be more challenging and costly. The installation does require more precision, especially when it comes to leveling the mixer and installing it at the correct depth, taking into account tile/board/stone thicknesses.
- Maintenance access: Repairs may require wall access, potentially involving more work.
When it comes to issue with wall mounted taps, the biggest risk of them failing, are the mixing cartridges (similarly to concealed shower mixers), found mostly in the taps with “mixer” handles, meaning ones which mix water in-body.
The ease of replacement of the cartridge highly depends on the manufacturer of the taps – some make the swap easy (without taking tiles down) and also stock cartridges for many decades, whilst others make it more challenging. - Not ideal for retrofitting: Best suited for new builds or major renovations due to installation requirements.
Additionally, most manufacturers produce their own “bodies”, meaning concealed mixing valves, to fit the “trims”, which are the exposed parts – meaning the actual water spout and turning valves themselves.
This means that if you ever wanted to change out the exposed trims, you could do so by installing new ones from the same manufacturer.
Most Popular Wall Mounted Taps
Floor-Standing Taps
Floor-standing taps, also known as freestanding or stand-alone taps, are installed directly onto the floor and extend upwards to reach the basin or bath. They are often used with freestanding baths and basins, adding a touch of luxury and elegance to the bathroom. These taps make a bold statement and can serve as a centerpiece in bathroom design.
Ideal for spacious bathrooms, floor-standing taps require adequate floor space and careful planning to ensure they fit seamlessly with the bath or basin.
Pros
- Luxurious appeal: Creates a high-end, spa-like atmosphere in the bathroom.
- Design statement: Acts as a focal point, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
- Flexibility in placement: Allows for positioning of baths or basins away from walls.
Cons
- Requires space: Not suitable for small bathrooms due to the space needed around the tap.
- Higher cost: Can be more expensive in terms of both the tap itself and installation.
- Complex plumbing: Plumbing must run through the floor, which can complicate installation.
Most modern-looking floor-standing taps will also require a concealed mixing valve (or body) which needs to sit under the floor level, and onto which the tap is fixed.
Traditional floor-standing bath taps are an exception, as they usually come with two feet (called “standpipes”) which are screwed to the floor, and through which run the hot and cold feeds.
Most Popular Floor-Standing Taps
Deck-Mounted Taps
Deck-mounted taps are installed directly onto the basin or bath edge, sitting on the ‘deck’ or surface area around the fixture. This is one of the most common tap types due to its straightforward installation and wide range of styles. Deck-mounted taps can range from traditional designs to modern minimalist styles, fitting various bathroom aesthetics.
They are practical and functional, making them a popular choice for many homeowners and suitable for most bathroom renovations or builds.
Pros
- Easy installation: Simpler to install since they mount directly onto the basin or bath.
- Wide variety: Available in numerous styles and finishes to match any bathroom decor.
- Cost-effective: Generally less expensive to purchase and install.
Cons
- Space usage: Takes up space on the basin or bath edge, potentially limiting room for other items.
- Cleaning: Can accumulate grime around the base, requiring regular cleaning.
- Less unique: May not offer the same visual impact as wall-mounted or floor-standing taps.
Most Popular Deck-Mounted Taps
Sensor Taps
Sensor taps use infrared technology to detect the presence of hands, automatically starting and stopping the water flow. Commonly seen in public restrooms, they’re increasingly popular in residential settings for their hygiene benefits and modern appeal. Sensor taps reduce water wastage and prevent the spread of germs since they don’t require touch to operate.
They are ideal for households seeking to incorporate smart technology into their bathrooms and promote better hygiene practices.
Pros
- Hygienic: Touchless operation reduces the spread of germs and bacteria.
- Water-saving: Automatically turns off, reducing water wastage.
- Convenient: Provides easy use for children, elderly, or those with mobility issues.
Cons
- Installation complexity: Requires a power source (battery or mains), complicating installation.
- Cost: More expensive to purchase and maintain than traditional taps.
- Sensitivity issues: May require adjustments to sensor sensitivity and can turn on or off unexpectedly.
Most Popular Sensor Taps
Progressive Taps
Progressive taps feature a single control that starts the water flow cold and gradually increases the temperature as you turn it. This design is both stylish and efficient, offering precise control over water temperature and flow. Progressive taps are commonly used in modern bathrooms and are appreciated for their sleek appearance and ease of use.
They are energy-efficient, as they encourage users to start with cold water, reducing unnecessary hot water usage.
Pros
- Energy-saving: Encourages cold water use initially, potentially reducing energy bills.
- Sleek design: Minimalist appearance suits contemporary bathroom styles.
- Easy temperature control: Smooth transition from cold to hot water with a single control.
Cons
- Learning curve: May be unfamiliar to some users, requiring adjustment.
- Compatibility: Not suitable for all plumbing systems, especially gravity-fed systems.
- Cost: Can be more expensive than standard taps.