From style to function, here is everything you need to choose beautiful bath and shower taps that make your bathroom twice as enjoyable.
Before choosing bath and shower fittings to enhance your bathroom and make bathing as enjoyable as possible, it is important to consider functionality, aesthetics, budget and compatibility with your existing plumbing. Our guide will help you make an informed decision.
Before buying a tap, find out what type of plumbing you have. Most bathrooms have either a single-lever or a twin-handle system. This will affect the types of fittings you can choose.
Let's explore the different types of bath and shower taps together:Combined bath/shower mixers: Most homes today have this standard bath/shower combination: a bath with a wall-mounted shower head and bath taps. These fittings generally consist of taps and a lever that diverts the water flow from the bath to the shower.Shower sets: Shower sets usually require a separate valve. They generally include a control and a shower head. The shower mixer may offer a thermostatic valve option.Wall-mounted/concealed bath mixers: These are taps mounted on the wall above the bath or shower.Deck-mounted bath taps: These are fitted to the body or rim of the bath, or to the surrounding marble.Freestanding bath taps: These floor-mounted models are suitable for freestanding baths.Hand showers: Attached to a flexible hose, these shower heads make rinsing easier.
Taps need special valves to control water flow and temperature. The main valve types are:Compression valves: An older, less common type, these control water flow by compressing a washer against a valve seat.Ball valves: Found in single-handle fittings, these use a rotating ball to control water flow, pressure and temperature.Cartridge valves: Modern taps commonly use a cartridge to balance water flow, pressure and temperature.Ceramic disc valves: Another modern tap type uses ceramic discs to control water flow, pressure and temperature.Thermostatic valves: These are the Porsche of shower valves. They regulate not just the mix but also the water temperature according to a preset preference. Thermostatic valves require two handles: one to regulate the temperature and the other for on/off control and pressure. This type of valve is found in high-end shower mixers and shower systems.
Choose bathroom taps in a style that complements your décor. Options include classic, traditional, contemporary, modern and commercial styles. Decide on the colour as well as the style; you can choose from various finishes, including chrome, brushed nickel, bronze, gold, black and white.
Consider additional features such as a hand shower, rainfall shower head or body jets. These features can enhance your showering experience, although they may also increase the cost.
Look for fittings with water-saving features such as aerators or flow restrictors to help conserve water without compromising performance.
Tap prices vary considerably depending on the brand, features and quality. Set a budget and consider the options within your price range.
Research brands and read customer reviews to ensure that the fitting you are considering is durable and performs well over time.
Make sure the tap you choose is compatible with your existing plumbing. Remember that you may need to hire a plumber to make any necessary adjustments.
While some of us feel comfortable installing taps ourselves, do not hesitate to seek professional help for complex installations to ensure that the product works properly and to prevent leaks.
You can visit Kale showrooms and sales outlets to see the fittings in person. You can also shop online for a wider range of products. Be sure to compare prices, features and styles.
Choose bathroom taps from a manufacturer that offers a good warranty and reliable customer support should you encounter any problems.
Remember that choosing bath and shower fittings is a personal decision, depending on your preferences, needs and the overall design of your bathroom. Taking the time to research and choose the right fittings for you will make a difference to an enjoyable, functional bathroom experience.
