Basin Taps Buying Guide

Bathroom taps may seem like a small detail, but they can significantly impact the functionality and overall look of your bathroom. Whether you’re completing a bathroom renovation or simply replacing old taps, this expert basin tap buying guide will help you make an informed decision. From different tap types and styles to considerations about water pressure and materials, this expert basin taps buying guide covers everything you need to know to choose the perfect taps that suit both your design and practical needs.

 

Click on the links below to jump to a section:

• For First-Time Buyers:

  • Tap Styles and Designs

  • Choosing the Right Tap Based on Tap Holes

  • Key Features to Consider

   

• For Savvy Shoppers:

  • Materials and Finishes

  • Water Pressure Compatibility

  • Installation Tips

  • Brands We Stock

  • FAQs

For First Time Buyers

Tap Styles and Designs

Here are some of the most common types of bathroom taps, suitable for various needs:

• High Rise Taps: These taps are ideal for countertop basins or freestanding baths. High-rise taps add height, style, and practicality. They work well in larger bathrooms where design and usability go hand in hand.

• Monobloc Taps: A popular choice in modern bathrooms, monobloc taps feature a single spout and are controlled by either one lever or two handles. These taps combine hot and cold water through a single spout, making them highly practical and stylish. They also incorporate ceramic disc technology, ensuring smooth operation and preventing drips.

• Pillar & Bridge Taps: Perfect for more traditional bathroom designs, these taps offer separate hot and cold controls. Pillar taps require two tap holes and are a hallmark of classic elegance. Bridge taps have a similar aesthetic but come with a connecting bar between the hot and cold taps for added style.

• Wall-Mounted Taps: As the name suggests, these taps are mounted directly on the wall. They save counter space and provide a sleek, modern look. Installation can be more complex due to the need for concealed plumbing.

• Water-Saving Taps: These taps are designed to help reduce water consumption without compromising on performance. Most include aerators that mix air with water to reduce usage while maintaining strong flow.

Choosing the Right Taps

Tap holes in your basin or bath dictate the type of taps you can choose. Here’s how to match them:

• 1 Tap Hole: Ideal for monobloc taps, which combine hot and cold water through one spout, perfect for contemporary bathrooms.

• 2 Tap Holes: Best suited for traditional pillar taps or bridge taps, providing separate controls for hot and cold water.

• 3 Tap Holes: Designed for more intricate setups like three-piece mixers, which include separate controls for hot and cold water with a central spout.

Key Features to Consider

When choosing bathroom taps, keep these features in mind to ensure functionality and aesthetic appeal:

• Spout Height and Reach: Make sure the tap’s spout can comfortably reach the sink or bath without causing splashing. Higher spouts are great for added practicality, while shorter spouts work well in compact spaces.

• Tap Handles: Options include lever, cross-head, push-button, or joystick designs, with lever handles being particularly easy to use and suitable for families or individuals with reduced mobility.

• Water-Saving Features: Some taps come with built-in eco-friendly technology that limits water usage, reducing waste without sacrificing performance.

 

For Savvy Shoppers

Once you’ve got the basics down, it’s time to dig into the finer details that separate a good tap from a great one. In this section, we’ll explore materials and finishes that not only enhance durability but also add a touch of luxury to your bathroom. You’ll learn how to match your taps to your home’s water pressure and get installation tips to avoid common pitfalls. Plus, discover the top brands we stock, known for their reliability, style, and great warranties.

Materials and Finishes

The material and finish of your taps are crucial for both durability and style:

• Brass: The most common material, known for its durability and corrosion resistance.

• Chrome: A popular finish that works well in both modern and traditional bathrooms. It’s easy to clean and offers a sleek, reflective look.

• Brass Finish: For a more luxurious feel, brushed or polished brass finishes add warmth and elegance, perfect for vintage or industrial-style bathrooms.

• Matt Black: Ideal for contemporary designs, this bold, modern finish makes a statement and is great for minimalistic bathrooms.

• Gold: A classic finish that brings a touch of luxury and works well in period-style bathrooms. Modern gold finishes are more durable than older styles, with fewer issues of peeling or tarnishing.

• Nickel: Known for its strength and durability, nickel finishes give a sleek, modern look and resist corrosion, though they require careful cleaning.

Water Pressure Compatibility

Before choosing your taps, it’s important to check your home’s water pressure. This ensures the taps will perform optimally:

• High Pressure (1.0 bar and above): Most modern homes with combi boilers or mains-fed systems can support high-pressure taps, including waterfall and mixer taps.

• Medium Pressure (0.5–0.9 bar): Suitable for a variety of taps, including some monobloc and mixer options.

• Low Pressure (0.1–0.4 bar): Homes with gravity-fed systems often have lower water pressure, requiring taps specifically designed to work efficiently with this pressure.

Installation Tips

Here are some key installation tips to help you avoid common pitfalls:

• Check Compatibility: Ensure that your taps are compatible with your existing plumbing and water pressure before installation.

• Wall-Mounted Taps: These require concealed plumbing, so professional installation is recommended for a flawless look.

• Freestanding Taps: Typically used with freestanding baths, these require more complex plumbing, often involving rerouting pipes under the floor.

Disclaimer: Installation costs can vary depending on your region and specific installation requirements. It’s always a good idea to consult with a professional to get an accurate estimate.

Our Top Tap Brands

Basin taps come in all shapes, sizes, and budgets. Here are some of the top brands we stock, each offering a wide range of styles, from modern to traditional, with many products covered by guarantees for peace of mind.

 

Bristan

• UK’s go-to brand for taps and showers, blending style and reliability.

• Features: Smooth ceramic disc valves, durable chrome finishes, suitable for most water pressures.

• Perfect for modern and traditional designs​

 

Burlington Bathrooms

• Specialises in luxury, period-style taps (Edwardian and Victorian-inspired).

• Combines classic aesthetics with modern features like ceramic disc cartridges.

• Best for: Timeless, elegant bathroom designs.

 

Crosswater

• Innovative and modern, perfect for contemporary bathrooms.

• Features: Thermostatic controls, water-saving technology, sleek finishes (brass, matt black).

• Best for: Minimalist and design-conscious homeowners.

 

hansgrohe

• Global leader in sustainable, premium taps.

• Features: EcoSmart water-saving tech, intuitive controls, high-quality finishes (chrome, nickel).

• Best for: Luxury, eco-friendly bathroom solutions.

 

Victorian Plumbing

• Known for affordable style with a wide range of traditional to modern taps.

• Finishes: Chrome, brass, and matt black.

• Best for: Budget-friendly, yet stylish and reliable bathroom fixtures.

 

Disclaimer: Product availability is subject to stock and may vary. Always check availability when making your purchase to ensure the brand or style you’re looking for is in stock.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size are bathroom taps?

Basin taps generally require a hole of at least 22mm in diameter, while bath taps typically need a 28mm hole.

Can I use high-pressure taps in a low-pressure system?

No, high-pressure taps won’t perform well in low-pressure systems, leading to a slow water flow. Always check the bar rating of your taps before purchasing.

What are taps made of?

Most taps are made from brass, which is plated with chrome, nickel, or other finishes. Ceramic disc technology is often used to prevent dripping and provide smoother operation.

Can I paint bathroom taps?

Yes, taps can be painted using metal spray paint. Be sure to sand the surface and apply a primer before painting.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right taps for your bathroom isn’t just about functionality, it can elevate the look and feel of your space.

Ready to give your bathroom the upgrade it deserves? Explore our full selection of taps today, and discover how the right choice can turn your bathroom into a stylish, functional retreat. For more tips and inspiration, check out our blog posts on bathroom design, DIY tips, and other expert buying guides.

And hey - don’t keep this valuable info to yourself! Share this guide with friends or family on social media so they can upgrade their bathrooms too. Together, we can transform those bathroom dreams into reality!