So let’s start with the basics in getting to know your basin tapware. The crucial part is the names of the specific style you want. Get that wrong and all of sudden you end up with the wrong finish in the wrong location and no renovator wants that. Below we will use pictures and basic descriptions to give you a quick general guide of the most common basin tapware we install in our Perth Bathrooms renovations with a few tapware tips and tricks to help you with your vanity tapware selection.

MIXERS

Mixers are a tap in which hot and cold water supplies have a joint outlet

In Wall Basin Mixer
So the key point of reference for this mixer tap is in the wording “In-Wall” which means the outlet comes out of the wall over the sink and does not touch the vanity benchtop.

Extra Tip – The backing plate is what visually adds to the look of being off centred so not having it is an option to avoid this if it really bothers you.

Tower/Hi-Rise Basin Mixer
This mixer tap is most common for vanities that have vessel basins or top-mounted bowls.

On Vanity Basin Mixer
This vanity will often be the lowest in height either directly sitting on the vanity like the below-integrated tops or on an inset basin which as it sounds is cut into the top.

Turning Taps/Hot and Cold Turning Taps

As it sounds these are the classic basin tap set most homes in the 70’s 80’s and 90’s were built with through out bathooms in Perth. With a hot on one side and cold on the other finishing with a spout in the centre.

Classic Cross Set
Often in a criss-cross shape, this is the most classic style of tapset and often the one that everyone has had a leaking one in their lives

In Wall Tap Set
As the above descriptions, this set is in the wall above the sink height. Often this style is visually the best for lining up the basin and above tapware set in uniform as the mixer will often be offset.

Lever Taps (Quarter Turn)
The final on this list is the quarter turn or lever taps. The name comes from the fact when you move the tap it only turns a certain distance not all the way. I often refer to them as mini mixers as that is what the feel like.

Extra Tips

Water Pressure
If you have a high-pressure water system, you’ll be able to choose from most bath and basin taps, but if you have a lower pressure system it’s worthwhile identifying your exact water pressure to find taps that will ensure a strong flow of both warm and cold water

Keep It Simple
Less is more with tapware and when I say that I mean the less of the tapware surface area the less the kids can smudge it up allowing it to be cleaner longer. In Wall mixers also often a less cluttered benchtop as the example below shows.

Cost
Vanity tapware is a little unique compared to other bathroom wall tapware as it can be changed over from a tap set to basin mixer without as much fuss. Only when you start installing them into the wall will the cost increase due to the more difficult nature.

Tapware That Dates
Coloured tapware such as black, gold, white and all the manner of combinations may date in the future but in saying that it can look incredible when done right. You have to take your time in considering what you like and to do the pros and cons but it can look amazing and add wow factor to your bathroom.

 
It’s important to note that all our advice is general in nature and all bathrooms are unique so always speak to your local qualified tradesman for the best advice. At on the ball bathrooms we love feedback so let us know what you think with a comment below or if you are looking for a bathroom renovation quote and live in Perth, Western Australia contact us on 0419964678 or email us at info@ontheballbathrooms.com.au

 
If you like the article and want to get all the latest updates, see all of our before and after images, then show us some love with a like on Instagram: Click Here
 
For More DIY TIPS For Renovating Your Bathroom Visit:
 
Before and After Albums: Click Here
 
High-resolution examples of all projects: Click Here