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The constant dripping noise is driving you crazy, not to mention the sleep it is depriving you of. It’s really time to fix the faucet. Upon close inspection you discover it is not simply the washer causing the problem this time, but the whole thing needs replacing. A visit to Lowe’s or Home Depot causes total confusion as you stare opened eyed at the choice you are faced with. Help is seriously needed. How do you make the choice?

Keeping the Same Style Is Easiest

The first thing you need to do is decide if you want to replace your bathroom faucet with the exact same style as before or go for something new. Replacing your faucet with the same style is the easiest route to go. You can remove the faucet from your sink and bring it with you to your local hardware store where you can buy the matching replacement. Of course if this isn’t possible or even feasible, your chore becomes a bit more complicated. There are many different types of mounting for your faucet and you will need to be aware of what type yours is before simply going and purchasing the new fixture. This is actually the hardest step in choosing your new faucet because the one that you really liked at the store may not work with the current configuration of your sink.

Choose Your Type of Mounting

There are some common types of mounting such as widespread faucets which have individual hot and cold water handles; center set faucets with just one handle to control both hot and cold water and covering all three holes which may be in your sink for mounting; mini widespread faucets which are similar to the widespread variety but positioned closer together, single-hole which is similar to the center set design but with only one hole and last but not least, wall mounted, most commonly found on your bathtubs. The center set and mini-widespread faucets are both aimed at sinks with pre-drilled 4″ holes and some of the single-holed faucets include covers allowing them to be used on a sink with 4″ pre-drilled holes. Needless to say if you have one of the other types, you would be best going for a replacement of the same kind.

It’s all down to aesthetics once you have worked out which type of mount your sink has. It is a matter of personal preference as to which finish will look the best and complement the rest of your bathroom. If your bathroom has decor of an antique flavor you may decide to go with a classical style of rounded edges and flowery embellishments. On the other hand if it is modern is design, sharper and geometric angles may be more appropriate.

Add the Finishing Touches

You’ve picked out the faucet. You’re ready to go home and install it. Not yet. Have you considered your faucet’s finish? Bathroom fixtures come in a variety of finishes, from dull to shiny, chrome to wrought iron. Each finish has its pros and cons. Stainless steel and chrome are the most common finish available, but they scratch easily and show up fingerprints and water spots. Brass, which simulates gold and is very distinctive, rusts easier. And brushed nickel, which includes your flat finishes that do not show your fingerprints, is more expensive and its plating will eventually wear. The finish is personal choice, but know your options.

Some faucets even offer a choice in the style of handles that come with it. But once again, choose something that will be a good match for your bathrooms decor. The only thing left now is to take your new faucet home and install it. And then enjoy the compliments you will get on this most basic of bathroom items.