Wall-mount faucets have steadily gained popularity over the years with a rise in open-concept spaces and minimalist designs. They provide a unique blend of style and functionality that not many faucet models can match. This article will delve deeper into what wall mount faucets are, why they are worth considering, and some factors to consider before purchasing one.
What are Wall Mount Faucets?
Before we delve into the nuts and bolts of this fascinating fixture, it is essential to know what wall mount faucets are.
As the name suggests, wall mount faucets are types of water fixtures installed directly on the wall rather than on the sink or the countertop. This faucet design offers an incredibly clean, streamlined look, often associated with both traditional and modern bathroom décor. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, but they also provide practical benefits that make them a worthy investment for any home.
Reasons to Consider Wall Mount Faucets
- Easy Cleaning: With wall mount faucets, routine cleaning tasks become a breeze. There's no struggling with the hard-to-reach areas behind the faucet since it's suspended off the countertop.
- Versatile Design: Wall mount faucets are available in various styles ranging from vintage to modern, thereby blending seamlessly with almost any home décor.
- Saves Space: If your bathroom is short on space, a wall mount faucet will save valuable counter space, making the area appear less cluttered.
Understanding Different Types of Wall Mount Faucets
It's remarkable just how many options are available when it comes to wall mount faucets. Listed below are some of the common types:
- Dish Filler Faucets: Traditionally used in restaurant kitchens, these are now a popular choice in homes with a farmhouse or industrial style decor. They are easily recognized by their long and curved neck.
- Vessel Sink Faucets: These faucets are tailored made for vessel sinks, with their long necks making it easier to fill the sink.
- Bridge Faucets: Bridge faucets are a go-to option for people yearning to give their kitchen or bathroom a vintage look. They connect the hot and cold water inlets in an arching bridge.
Key Factors to Consider when Buying Wall Mount Faucets
Measure Twice, Drill Once
Unlike other faucets, wall mounts require careful measurements of the sink, counter, and wall. Incorrect alignment can lead to a messy, costly correction.
Compatibility with Sink and Plumbing
Not all sinks match wall mount faucets, especially those with pre-drilled holes for deck-mounted faucets. Also, consider the existing plumbing setup, as it will require modification to accommodate the wall-mount design.
Installation Height
It's crucial to get the height of the faucet right. Too high, and the water may splash excessively; too low, it may not provide ample room to wash your hands or clean dishes.
Choosing the Right Wall Mount Faucet Design and Finish
There is a variety of stunning finishes and styles, from sleek chrome to antique brass. Some popular ones include:
- Modern or Contemporary: if you love clean lines and simplicity, modern designs with polished chrome or nickel finish might be the right choice.
- Transitional: For a blend of old and new, look for transitional designs often finished in brushed nickel, chrome, or oil-rubbed bronze.
- Traditional: Prefer classic looks? Antique brass or bronze will complement traditional decor perfectly.
Seeking Professional Help for Installation
Installing a wall-mount faucet is not for the DIY faint-hearted. It’s a job best left to professionals to ensure precise measurements, correct plumbing setup, and perfect alignment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wall Mount Faucet
Can I replace a Deck Mount Faucet with a Wall Mount Faucet?
Technically, yes. You can replace a deck mount faucet with a wall mount faucet. However, you need to consider the plumbing adjustments that will be needed. With wall mount faucets, the plumbing lines come from the wall instead of beneath the sink. You'll likely need help from a professional plumber for this alteration.
What Styles of Wall Mount Faucets are available?
Wall mount faucets come in a wide variety of styles and designs to suit different tastes and bathroom or kitchen styles. You’ll find modern designs with sleek lines and minimalistic appeal, traditional styles with elegant curves, or even baroque designs with intricate detailing. The handles also vary from lever, cross handle, to even touchless varieties.
Do Wall Mount Faucets save space?
Yes, wall mount faucets tend to save more counter space as compared to their deck mount counterparts. They make the area around the sink less cramped and offer easier cleaning access. They are ideal for small kitchens and bathrooms where-ever counter space can be precious.
How to maintain a Wall Mount Faucet?
Maintenance of wall mount faucets involves regular cleaning to prevent mineral build-up and ensuring it works efficiently. It's recommended to use non-abrasive, gentle cleaners to clean your fixture and avoid any harsh chemicals that can damage the faucet's finish. For any significant issues related to performance, it's better to get assistance from a professional.
How high should I install a Wall Mount Faucet?
The installation height of a wall mount faucet depends on various factors like the type of sink, its depth, and the length of the faucet's spout. A good rule of thumb is to position the faucet high enough so that there is a distance of at least six inches from the spout end to the sink bottom. However, it's recommended you refer to the manufacturer's guidelines.
Is it difficult to install a Wall Mount Faucet?
Installing a wall mount faucet is more complex compared to installing a deck mount faucet because the plumbing is typically behind the wall. It's recommended to call a professional plumber, mainly if it requires moving existing plumbing. If you're building or remodeling, this is the perfect opportunity to opt for a wall mount faucet, as the walls will already be open.
Can I use Wall Mount Faucets outside of the kitchen or bathroom?
Yes. While wall mount faucets are common in kitchens and bathrooms, you can use them anywhere you need a sink. They could be an excellent addition to a laundry room or an outdoor kitchen area, offering both functionality and a space-saving design.
Pros of Wall Mount Faucet
Aesthetics and Design
Modern Look
Wall mount faucets deliver a sleek, contemporary look that can make a bathroom or kitchen appear more stylish and modern. By lifting the faucet off the countertop, a wall mount faucet provides a clean line that enhances the room's design elements.
Versatility
Wall mount faucets can blend well with varying design styles, whether it's a rustic farmhouse sink or a contemporary glass vessel sink. These faucets are available in wide varieties of finishes and styles to fit with any décor.
Space Saving
Clears Counter Space
One of the principal benefits of a wall-mounted faucet is that it saves space on the countertop. This is especially significant in small bathrooms and kitchens where counter area can be at a premium.
Accommodates Large Pots
These faucets are commonly used in kitchens because they can accommodate large pots and pans more quickly, giving you extra room for cooking and food preparation.
Easy Cleaning
Minimal Dirt Accumulation
Unlike traditional faucets, wall mount faucets reduce the build-up of dirt and grime around the faucet base on the countertop, making the cleaning process simpler and more effective.
Improved Manoeuvrability
Wide Range of Motion
Wall mount faucets provide a broader range of motion compared to deck mount faucets. This feature allows you to move the faucet's spout to any direction that you find most convenient for your chores.
Cons of Wall Mount Faucet
Installation Difficulty
Extra Work
Installation of a wall mount faucet may be more complicated and time-consuming than a deck mount faucet. It requires running plumbing lines in the wall, which can mean extra work, particularly in a remodel.
Need for a Specialist
Incorrect installation can lead to leaks inside the wall, causing major damage over time. And so, the services of a professional plumber are often crucial, which adds to the overall costs of installation.
Cost
Higher Initial Cost
Wall-mounted faucets are usually more expensive than their deck-mounted counterparts not just in terms of purchase price, but also in terms of installation as mentioned earlier.
Maintenance
Difficult to Replace
Should the faucet malfunction or simply outlive its lifespan, replacing a wall mount faucet can be a challenging task. The faucet is deeply embedded in the wall, and gaining access to it may require breaking the wall open, which is not a problem you encounter with deck mounted faucets.
Difficulty Finding Parts
Depending on the model and make of your faucet, finding replacement parts for your wall mount faucet might be difficult. Some are exceptionally design-specific and might not use standard parts.
Possible Future Remodeling Restrictions
Limited Options
Once you have installed a wall mount faucet, you are somewhat committed to that style for the future. If you decide to remodel later and want to switch back to a deck mount faucet, you'll have to patch up the hole in the wall, which can be a hassle.
Limited Placement Options
Wall Availability
Wall mount faucets do require a wall to mount on. So, if your kitchen or bathroom design doesn't include a wall behind the sink, a wall mount faucet won't really work.
Incorrect Height Placement
If the faucet is placed at an incorrect height, it may cause splashing, too high and the water will splash out of the sink, too low and it won't provide adequate room for handwashing or filling tall pots. Determining the right placement requires careful planning.
In conclusion, choosing a wall mount faucet comes with both its unique benefits and challenges. While it may lend your space a modern look and optimize space usage, you need to consider the higher initial cost and possible future limitations. Furthermore, accurately installing and maintaining it can be more complex than conventional faucets. Therefore, it is crucial to weigh these factors before making your decision.
Summary
So, if you're aiming to spruce up your bathroom or kitchen, consider the versatility and style of the wall mount faucet. These fixtures can be a functional and eye-catching addition to your space. They free up counter space and with their durable construction, are designed to last for years to come.
The elegance and character the wall mount faucet brings to the table are undeniable. It blends seamlessly with vintage, contemporary, or minimalist styles, so you don't have to fret about it not fitting in with your existing decor. In addition to aesthetics, the convenience it presents when cleaning your counters or filling large pots just adds to its appeal.
However, bear in mind that the installation process of a wall mount faucet can be a bit tricky. You might need to get a professional to install it to avoid any leaky or loose faucet issues. But once it's up, you'll understand why it's worth it. It's not just a faucet, it's a stylish statement piece that marries utility and design seamlessly.
About Solid Construction & Design
Welcome to Solid Construction & Design, Sacramento's go-to professional contractors. We're a family-owned business, situated in Sacramento, CA, delivering top-tier construction and design services for many years. Our expertise lies in custom home building, kitchen & bathroom remodeling, home additions and more. Team Solid Construction & Design is a crew of passionate and dedicated professionals, striving to provide superior quality work and customer satisfaction. We believe in making your dream spaces come true, right from ideation to execution. Choose us to make your vision a reality while ensuring comfort, style, and elegance in every corner of your space.
