Are you looking for kitchen or bathroom faucets that match your style? If yes, then you should read this article, as it contains some useful information about faucet finishes.
Faucets are essential fixtures in every home. They provide water flow and even control the temperature of the water.
There are several kinds of faucets available on the market. Some of them feature single handles, double handles, pull-outs, and more.
You can choose from various kitchen or bathroom faucets depending on your preference and budget. However, you will also need to decide on a faucet finish. So to help you choose, we have compiled the following faucet guide.
In this article, we are going to discuss the pros and cons of each faucet finish and the various styles they work with.
What Are Faucet Finishes?
A faucet finish is a kind of coating that is applied over the surface of the fixture. It serves to protect the faucet from corrosion and other damages.
Faucet finishes come in various metals and colors, which means you can match them to the aesthetic of your bathroom. However, this does not mean that all faucet finishes are uniform, as different companies produce different products.
To ensure you are getting the same finish, it is important to purchase the faucet and accessories from the same company.
If you have never chosen a faucet finish before, then we would recommend speaking to a professional designer to find the best match.
Now that you know what faucet finishes are, let’s take a look at the different finishes available. So that you can understand the pros and cons of each one.
Oil-Rubbed Bronze
This finish can be identified by its dark color and smooth texture. It is also ideal if you want something classic and timeless. Oil-rubbed bronze faucets can transform your kitchen or bathroom into a fashion statement. Giving it a unique and traditional feel.
Of course, the finish does come with its drawbacks. For example, it can be very expensive, which makes the finish hard to maintain. Oil-rubbed bronze also requires regular maintenance. This includes cleaning and polishing.
The finish has an average lifespan of 10 years. After that time, you may need to replace it. However, if you don’t, then the finish will still retain its beauty.
Pros
- Durable finish
- Easy to clean
- Easy to find
- Easy to match with other fixtures
- Doesn’t show fingerprints
- Doesn’t show watermarks
Cons
- Expensive (costs more than chrome and brushed nickel)
Styles
- Tuscan
- Mediterranean
Satin-Brushed Bronze
Satin bronze is another popular finish. It comes in a variety of shades. You can use satin bronze to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Or you can go for a cool and modern vibe. The finish works well with both contemporary and traditional designs.
However, like oil-rubbed bronze, satin bronze needs to be maintained regularly. Regular cleaning and polishing help to keep the finish looking new.
It has an average lifespan of 8 years. If you do not maintain it properly, then the finish will start showing signs of aging after 6 months.
Pros
- Durable finish
- Easy to clean
- Great alternative to copper and oil-rubbed bronze
- Doesn’t show fingerprints
- Doesn’t show watermarks
Cons
- Hard to find
- More expensive
- Harder to match accessories
Styles
- Traditional
- Eclectic
- Modern
- Mediterranean
Polished Brass
A popular choice among homeowners, polish brass is a beautiful finish that looks great on any type of design. It gives off a sophisticated and elegant appearance.
Brass has an average lifespan of 5 years. Like other finishes, it needs regular maintenance to stay looking good. Cleaning and polishing help to extend the life of the finish.
If you want something with a vintage twist, then a polished brass bathroom faucet is the best option. However, it can be very expensive when compared to other finishes.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Easy to find
- Easy to match with other fixtures
Cons
- Expensive (costs more than chrome and brushed nickel)
Styles
- Modern
- Traditional
- Eclectic
- Vintage
Satin-Brushed Brass
Satin brass is known for its distinctive color, which sets it apart from its polished counterpart. Because of this, the finish makes for a bold addition to any bathroom.
However, it does not come across as flashy or over-the-top. Instead, it creates a subtle yet classy look.
Like all finishes, satin brass needs to be cleaned and polished regularly. Doing so helps to make sure that the finish stays shiny and bright.
It has an average lifetime of 7 years and will not show watermarks or fingerprints. However, it can be hard to find and is difficult to match with other accessories.
Pros
- Subtle accent for bathroom
- Durable finish
- Matte finish
- Doesn’t show fingerprints
- Doesn’t show watermarks
Cons
- Hard to find
- Expensive
- Hard to match accessories
Styles
- Traditional
- Modern
- Contemporary
Polished Nickel
If you want something smooth and shiny, then we would recommend a polished nickel finish. Polished nickel is a classic finish that never goes out of style. It provides a sleek and stylish look that complements any type of design.
Nickel is one of the most durable finishes available. This means that it lasts longer than other finishes. It also doesn’t require much maintenance. Just a quick wipe down with a damp cloth once every few weeks should take care of the finish.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Durable finish
- Great alternative to brushed nickel
- Long lifespan
Cons
- Expensive
- Hard to find
- Hard to match accessories
Styles
- Modern
- Contemporary
- Traditional
- Eclectic
Brushed Nickel
Brushed nickel has stood the test of time and remains one of the best finishes on the market. It’s a timeless finish that adds class and sophistication to your home.
Brushed nickel kitchen faucets come in many colors and styles, making it easy to find what works best for your space.
The finish is extremely versatile and can complement almost any type of aesthetic. In fact, it was originally designed to mimic the look of traditional hardware. As such, it is perfect for modern bathrooms.
Nickel is extremely durable and requires a little maintenance to prevent spotting. It can last up to 10 years without showing signs of wear.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Easy to find
- Easy to match with accessories
- Durable finish
- Doesn’t show fingerprints
- Doesn’t show watermarks
Cons
- Hard to coordinate with stainless steel
Styles
- Brushed nickel works with every style
Copper
Copper finishes can be identified by their bold color and unique appearance. They are often found in antique stores and flea markets.
Copper is a great option if you’re looking for something that stands out but isn’t too flashy.
Copper is incredibly robust and is known for its natural antibacterial properties. In fact, the finish can even “heal” itself when scratched.
However, copper does require more maintenance than other finishes, which means you will need to polish it regularly to keep it looking fresh.
Pros
- Easy to find
- Natural antibacterial properties
- Can heal itself
- Can become darker
Cons
- Hard to match accessories
- Requires more maintenance
- Less durable than other finishes
Styles
- Tuscan
- Farmhouse
- Victorian
- Steampunk
Chrome
Chrome is a popular finish because it looks luxurious and high-end. It’s a great choice for people who like a simple yet elegant look.
Chrome finishes come in a variety of colors and patterns, so they can easily fit into any decor.
Chromes are very durable and don’t require much maintenance. However, they do have some drawbacks. For example, they tend to get dirty quickly and can stain easily.
Pros
- Elegant
- Simple yet sophisticated
- Durable finish
- Easy to match accessories
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Shows fingerprints
- Shows watermarks
Styles
- Chrome works with every style
Conclusion
There are tons of options when it comes to faucets. But the main thing to remember is that the finish on your faucet is just as important as the style. You want something that fits well with your overall design scheme and personal aesthetic. A local plumber can quickly install or replace a faucet or a dozen in the same finish throughout your home.
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