From the traditional pillar tap to the modern monoblock, the variety of types of taps available can be overwhelming. Whether you’re renovating your kitchen or upgrading your bathroom, understanding the different types of taps can help you make the right choice for your home.
This guide offers an in-depth look at the various types of taps available for installation and repair.
Important Considerations Before Purchasing Taps
Before you consider what the perfect tap is for your home, there are several factors to keep in mind to ensure you get the best tap type for your needs.
1. Aesthetics Vs Functionality
While the design of the tap is important, it’s equally crucial to consider its features and durability. A tap should not be chosen solely based on its look; longevity and functionality are equally important.
2. Budget
The cost of taps can vary greatly due to the wide range of options available in the market. It’s a must to consider your budget before making a decision on all those different types.
3. Height and Reach
Height and reach are vital factors when choosing the right taps for your home. The number of holes in your sink will influence whether you choose mixer taps or a pillar tap.
4. Finish of the Tap
The finish of the tap can range from shiny chrome taps to matt, gold or ceramic. The method of cleaning them might also be something to consider.
5. Water Pressure
Some taps may have “minimum pressure gauge considerations”, so it’s crucial to check your home’s water pressure before making a purchase.
6. Waste Fitting Type
Ensure you double-check the waste fitting type. There are several types, including click-clack, pop-up, flip, or chained.
Having understood the key considerations for your kitchen tap, laundry and bathroom fixtures, let’s delve into the different types of taps available in the market.
Understanding the Types of Taps and Their Features
The world of tap styles is broad, and the variety of options may seem overwhelming. However, with the right knowledge and taps explained, the task of choosing the perfect types of taps for your home becomes easier.
1. Pillar Taps
A pillar tap is one of the most conventional taps that most of us have in mind when we think of traditional types of taps. Despite their traditional design, they still hold a place in many homes, particularly those with a classic or vintage aesthetic.
They are mounted on a basin or a bath, with separate taps for hot and cold water. Pillar tap types are available in a wide range of styles and designs, catering to both modern and traditional aesthetics.
2. Mixer Taps
Mixer taps comprise two pillar taps joined together, sharing one spout for the hot and cold water to come out together. They offer improved water control, helping you achieve the perfect, consistent temperature mix. These types of taps are popular in modern homes due to their convenience and sleek design.
3. Wall-Mounted Taps
As the name suggests, these taps are fitted to the wall. Wall-mounted taps are a stylish and space-saving option for bathrooms and kitchens, offering a clean, minimalist look by concealing the plumbing fixtures within the wall. They come in various designs and finishes, allowing for seamless integration with different interior styles and providing a modern touch to any sink area.
4. Monobloc Taps
Monobloc taps, while similar to mixer taps, are distinguished by their single-handle control. This single handle controls both the water flow and temperature, making them a popular choice for minimalist or contemporary homes.
5. Traditional Washer Taps
Washer taps, also known as compression washer taps, are ideal for DIY work. They operate with a twisting handle that controls the amount of water released. Their design incorporates a rubber washer that compresses against a valve seat, effectively controlling water flow and making them easy to repair or replace.
6. Ball Tap
Ball tap type have a ball inside the tap mechanism that allows you to switch between hot and cold water easily. Often found in kitchens, they are sleek and easy to operate, but they are also known to leak over time.
7. Cartridge Taps
A cartridge tap is distinguished by its internal cartridge, which controls the release of water. The cartridge moves left and right to control temperature, and up and down to regulate the strength of the water flow.
8. Disc Tap Type
Disc tap types are a modern innovation in tap design. Instead of a traditional washer, these taps use two ceramic discs with holes. These holes align when the handle is operated, controlling the flow and temperature of the water. Disc taps are praised for their durability and ease of use.
Choosing the Finish of Your Tap Types
When selecting an ideal design for your bathroom or kitchen, pick a finish that compliments the overall style of your home. Gold or brass-effect taps are ideal for creating a Victorian style, perfect for adding traditional luxury and warmth and are also trendy. Standard chrome taps come in a wide range of styles that suit most bathrooms or kitchens, and you can select a matt or shiny finish to complete the look.
Whether choosing floor-mounted taps, mixers, pillar taps or other popular styles, be sure to consider the overall aesthetics you want for your home.
Installation of Taps
Conventionally, taps were attached to basins with built-in tap holes. However, contemporary designs, from freestanding floor-mounted taps to wall-mounted tap types, offer sleek styling for a clean, organised look. We recommend having your new taps fitted for installation or repair by an experienced licensed plumber from Canberra Plumbing & Drains to ensure the perfect finish.
Experienced plumbers can provide advice on the best types of taps for your home, perform installations, and repair any tap issues you may have.
Navigating the Tap Type Maze with Canberra Plumbing & Drains
Choosing the right tap type for your home can seem daunting, especially with the plethora of options available. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make, based on your home’s decor and your personal preferences, but should you require guidance and installation, We can provide you with various services related to tap installation, maintenance, and repair.
Don’t hesitate to contact us for any plumbing needs in your home. Whether you need guidance on separate controls on your new taps or need new mixer tap types installed, an experienced plumber can help you navigate all your options.
Recent Comments