Choosing the Right Bathtub Tap

In order to choose the ideal bathtub tap, it is important to know the different styles, materials and types available, as well as the ways to install and maintain it.
Here is a six-point guide to help you through the process.

• Styles
• Mixer types
• Materials
• Showerhead or shower column type
• Type of installation
• Ways to maintain

A mixer bathtub faucet has two outlets, one for the shower and one for the bath. It has an inverter that then allows the water to run in one outlet or the other. The most common mixer types are the double knob mixer, the mechanical single mixer and the thermostatic mixer.

• Double handle mixer tap: One knob adjusts cold water, the other hot water. The disadvantage of this mixing tap is that it involves additional time to achieve the desired temperature, by acting on the flow of cold water and hot water, which can cause some discomfort and waste both water and energy.
  
• Mechanical single mixer tap: The single mixer adjusts both the flow and temperature of the water with a single handle. The temperature setting is less precise and stable than with a thermostatic mixing valve. To prevent the risk of burns, some mechanical bath mixers are equipped with a temperature limiter that limits the opening of hot water. Some models have a flow limiter that limits water consumption.
• Thermostatic mixer tap: Similar to the double knob mixer in that it has two knobs, the thermostatic mixer prevents temperature changes by automatically adjusting the water mixture. It stops the water from exceeding a certain temperature, preventing the risk of burns. From a safety point of view, it is the most suitable system for children and people with reduced mobility.
  

  Double handle bathtub mixer tap by NOKEN PORCELANOSA BATHROOMS

  

  Mechanical single mixer by Riluxa

  

  Thermostatic bathtub mixer tap by guglielmi

The base and finish material you choose will depend on the style you prefer and what fits with your bathroom environment. The various types of materials for bathtub taps include metal, glass, ceramic, concrete, stone and wood. The most common material for bathtub taps is metal. Chromed metal is very durable and can last a long time. Other metal taps can also have a nickel, gold or brushed steel finish. 

Glass taps can add a modern and clean look to your space, but they can easily be damaged and cracked and can be expensive. 

Bathtub taps that have a free-standing type of installation usually have a showerhead (overhead shower) or hand shower connected to a 4 or 5-inch hose. The hand shower is sometimes situated on a cradle that is attached to the bathtub tap. Handshowers serve as a practical alternative to overhead showers as they make rinsing better due to easy handling. They are best suited to bathtubs and spaces that are small. They can also be useful for cleaning the bathtub.

Also known as a shower set or shower conversion kit, shower columns transform the handheld shower into an overhead shower. Some shower columns include a 2-way diverter that allows you to reattach the handheld shower so both handheld and overhead showers can be used.

You can choose from different types of installations which include free standing, wall mounted or built in, and deck mounted (also called Roman). It is important to keep in mind the characteristics of the bathroom and the shape of the bathtub where your tap will go when making your choice.

Floor mounted bathtub mixer tap by GRAFF

This type of installation is also called floor mounted mixer tap. The tap is anchored to the floor and it towers up over the bathtub rim. The water supply comes from below the floor, requiring a more complicated underfloor installation for most free-standing bathtub taps. This type of installation is not attached to the bathtub, so no faucet holes are needed. It also is a flexible type of installation as you can place it anywhere beside the bathtub.

Wall-mounted bathtub mixer tap by CRISTINA-RUBINETTERIE

This installation requires mounting the bathtub tap to a wall next to the bathtub. There is no need for faucet holes to be drilled into the bathtub as this type of installation does not connect to the tub at all. A wall-mounted tap is ideal for a bathroom where underfloor access would be complicated. It is connected to the water source behind the wall.

Deck-mounted bathtub mixer tap by Ritmonio Rubinetterie

This type of installation refers to a faucet that is mounted on the rim of the bathtub or on the deck behind the tub. It is typically seen with drop-in or jacuzzi bathtubs. This installation requires 3 or more faucet holes, one for each handle and another one for the spout. Most come with a hand shower which would require an additional hole for installation.

Bathtub taps are available in all sorts of different materials, so keep in mind the maintenance involved when choosing which tap to buy. In general, metal taps are easy to clean and require little daily maintenance, while taps in matte metal finishes can take more time to clean.

• Clean regularly.
• Check valves, pipes and handles.

Modern technological developments have led to the creation of bathtub taps built with innovative material finishes and additional smart tech features and functions that can make the bathing experience better. Here are some of the latest trends:

• Swirling flow effect that saves water at the same time. 
• Smart bathtub taps. 
• Innovative finishes for metal taps, i.e. rose gold and brushed brass.