Complete Guide to Choosing the Right Type of Bathroom Taps

Finishing touches make all the difference when you've been working on a renovation project. Choosing the correct type of tap for your bathroom might not seem that important, but it can be a difficult task. There are so many different styles, shapes, and sizes to consider.

Our guide at PlumbNation will help you decide which bathroom taps are best for you and overview everything you need to consider before buying.

What are the three different types of taps?

The three main types of independent tap models for bathrooms are basin taps, bath taps, and bidet taps. Bathroom basin taps are hard-wearing and are available in different styles, including mixer taps, pillar taps, and wall-mounted taps.

There are several bath tap types to choose from, so it's essential you know which is suitable for your home. You can pick almost any style you like, from traditional Victorian-style mixers to contemporary freestanding bath taps.

Bidet taps come in several styles combining function with style. Complete fixture solutions, including tap and pop-up waste, are also available.

What is the difference between bath and basin taps?

Before buying replacements for your old taps, make sure you have the right option for your fixture. Bath and basin tap styles are for different purposes, and you don't want to buy the wrong range. Look at the holes in your basin or bathtub, as these will show you whether you need one or two taps.

Don't forget about thread sizes, either. Your taps need to be secured and appropriately connected to the water mains. If you select the wrong size tap connector, you could experience issues. Basin taps usually have a 15mm thread, but bath taps have a 22mm thread. If you're unsure of which fixture is right, contact a plumber.

Types of Taps

There are plenty of tap types to consider for your bathroom, from modern monobloc taps to contemporary waterfall fittings. From polished chrome to copper, all those different types of tap can become confusing.

Read our guide below to find out more about the types of taps for basins and baths.

Deck mounted taps

As the most popular option in the UK, deck-mounted taps attach to a bath or basin through drilled holes. You can choose between pillar-type taps fitted through both tap holes or single lever monoblocs fitted through a single hole. These taps are compatible with most basin models and are easier to plumb in.

Pillar taps

Pillar taps supply hot and cold water to flow separately into a basin or bathtub. They come as separate taps, and each has separate valves which control water temperature and flow. These typically appear on traditional style basins, but there are modern styles available.

The most common pillar tap designs include:

Crosshead taps - These boast rounded spouts and conventional lines for a classic and traditional look.

Lever head taps - The cold and hot water tap has single levers that you can pull upwards or sideways to release water.

Bath and shower mixer taps

Mixer taps are suitable for basins that have two tap holes. They mix water from the separate hot and cold pipes, creating a consistent temperature mix from one spout.

Bath shower mixers are an excellent choice for family bathrooms. They fill a bath to the exact temperature you want, which is a safer option for children. The added shower fixture transforms the fitting, meaning you can adapt your bath to include a shower.

Monobloc mixer tap

A monobloc tap is the only option for single hole baths or basins. Single lever mixer taps work similarly to a bath and shower mixer tap and are ideal for family households.

Monobloc mixer taps are available in various styles, and feature crosshead handles, lever handles, and dual lever handles. These bath and basin taps can be deck mounted or mounted on a work surface overhanging a countertop basin.

Bath filler taps

Bath fillers are a stylish alternative if you're looking for something less traditional. The tap supplies a mix of both hot and cold water, perfect for filling a relaxing bathtub. They are ideal for controlling temperature and flow.

Wall mounted tap

Wall-mounted taps are an excellent option for modern bathrooms and those looking to save space. They hang over the bath or basin, creating a luxury integrated feel, and are simple and easy to clean.

You may need to find a plumber to help you install a wall-mounted tap. The pipes and plumbing are hidden away behind the wall, which can make them challenging to fit.

Freestanding taps

Rolltop, slipper and clawfoot bathtubs have been growing in popularity. A deck mounted tap usually isn't the right fit for a freestanding bathtub. They need a floor-standing model such as a freestanding bath tap or a standpipe.

As long as you can redirect your plumbing to the bath, you can install a freestanding tap anywhere. Some of the freestanding faucets at Plumbnation come with a shower mixer, giving you plenty of bathing options.

4 Things to consider before you buy new taps

There are still some things to consider before you buy your new bathroom taps. You need to make sure you have the right design for your basin or bath, and they work with your central heating system.

1. Style and finish

Remember the basin design will affect the tap finish and design you choose for your home. You may have your heart set on a particular fitting, but you need to make sure it fits your basin or bath.

You should also consider whether your bath has the suitable space for the taps you want. If not, you may have to change your choice.

2. Water pressure

The water pressure in your home determines what tap you can install. Households in the UK will have high or low pressure. If you have a combi boiler or unvented hot water cylinder, you should be able to access a wider choice of taps.

Each water tap will state its minimum requirement for water pressure (for example, 1 bar). You can generally find this in the product information. However, if you can't, contact the manufacturer directly.

3. Waste fitting type

For water to drain away, you need to ensure that the appropriate waste fitting is installed. Your sink might already have a waste fitting installed, and some new taps come with them included.

If you're installing a new bathroom suite, check which basin waste and bath waste fitting you need and install this with the taps. Some of the most common waste fitting types include pop-up, chained, and flip-top.

4. Type of tap hole

Another thing to consider is the type of tap hole. Check which tap holes your basin has to make sure you select the right fittings. Traditional basins tend to feature older style taps suited to two holes. More modern sinks are likely to need a single mixer tap.

Understanding the different types of bathroom taps

No matter what style your bathroom is, there's a tap for you. Once you know which fittings suit your fixtures, nothing is stopping you from creating your dream bathroom suite.

Feel free to contact our team if you want to find out more about the types of taps available at PlumbNation or need advice on how to change bathroom taps. We have several styles, sizes and designs of tap and tap accessories to suit your bathroom.