WHICH FAUCET FINISH IS FOR YOUR REMODEL?

We, at E.W. Tompkins Plumbing Heating Cooling, see a variety of faucets being installed in the Capital Region. In Loudonville or Rexford, Voorheesville or Saratoga, there are lots of varieties being chosen during remodels.

It is best to match all your fixtures. Different companies have slight variations in their colors and finishes so it’s best to use the same brand.

WHITE FINISH

White faucets look clean. Everything blends with them. They really contrast with dark surfaces. There is something cool about an all-white bathroom and they are generally made out of plastic or porcelain.

Advantages: Looks clean. Water spots and fingerprints do not show much.

Disadvantages: Porcelain fixtures can chip and is expensive.

Styles it works with: Farmhouse and modern.

SATIN BRASS

We are seeing more of this color which looks classy and bold.

Advantages: It is durable and makes a statement and does not show fingerprints and water spots.

Disadvantages: Sometimes it is hard to find other fixtures that match. And it can be expensive.

POLISHED BRASS

An all-time favorite which gives your room a vintage look.

Advantages: Easy to find and sharp looking. It is really durable and matches other fixtures.

Disadvantages: More expensive than other finishes, such as chrome and brushed nickel.

Styles it works with: Looks great and appears to be coming back. Great in modern, traditional and eclectic settings.

OIL-RUBBED BRONZE

Traditional. Looks great. Different from other stuff.

Advantages: Easy to clean and durable and you can find it in plenty of show rooms. It doesnt really show spots and fingerprints.

Disadvantages: It is more expensive than other finishes, like chrome and brushed nickel.

Styles it works with: It really looks nice in traditional homes or those of Mediterranean style.

COPPER FINISH

Want to make a statement ? Copper makes things look rich.

Advantages: Copper has natural antibacterial properties. Many showrooms carry it. Scratches will blend into the rich patina.

Disadvantages: Copper takes some time to age and develop its beautiful patina. it is not as durable as other finishes. You arelly have to let it age. It may require more maintenance. It shows spots.

Styles it works with: Tuscan and farmhouse.

SATIN BRONZE

This is a finish that is sort of like copper and sort of like bronze.

Advantages: Durable, easy to clean and maintain, this is a great alternative to copper and a lighter option than oil-rubbed bronze. Water spots and fingerprints won’t show.

Disadvantages: We think it is a tad hard to find and it is pricey. . It’s hard to match accessories and other fixtures to satin bronze.

Styles it works with: Traditional, eclectic and Mediterranean.

POLISHED NICKEL

This is popular. Many like the shiny finish that si smooth. It is a tad draker than chrome.

Advantages: Easy to clean. Durable finish. A great alternative to brushed nickel.

Disadvantages: More expensive. It’s hard to find matching accessories or fixtures for it. Be sure that all the fixtures are from the same company.

MATTE BLACK FINISH

Black is striking! We are seeing it in more bathrooms. It really makes a classy statement.

Advantages: Easy to clean and it does not show dirt, fingerprints or water spots. It’s easy to coordinate a matte black faucet with bathroom accessories. We like the options.

Disadvantages: Sometimes it is hard to find fixtures to match. So, try to get them all at once at the same supply house.

Styles it works with: Modern and eclectic.

BRUSHED NICKEL

Brushed nickel is the #1 finish we install for faucets.

Advantages: It is really durable. It seems to last longer than bronze and chrome. It doesnt show water sports and fingerprints. It is available everywhere and is easy to clean.

Disadvantages: In a kitchen it is not going to match with your stainless steel refrigertor and dishwasher… it will not be as striking as other finishes.

Styles it works with: Every style

CHROME FINISH

It appears to be the most popular because it goes with everything!

Advantages: It’s generally the most inexpensive finish. It’s a very easy finish to clean and maintain. It’s durable, easy to find and easy to match with accessories and other fixtures.

Disadvantages: Shows water spots and fingerprints.

Styles it works with: Almost every style.