How do I Choose the Best Bathroom Fixtures?

The best bathroom fixtures should accurately reflect the style and age of the home into which they have been installed, as well as fit into a homeowner's budget. The term bathroom fixture may be used to refer to tubs, sinks, showers, and faucets. These items are available in a variety of finishes, sizes, and materials to suit virtually every home's needs.

First consider the age of the home into which the new fixtures will be placed. For example, homes that are over 100 years old typically contain bathroom fixtures which reflect the age of the home. There are several types of restoration fixtures available for such homeowners, both online and in local home improvement stores.

Oil-rubbed bronze is a common choice of finish to provide an antique look for faucets, towel holders, and lighting fixtures. Claw foot tubs may be purchased as single units and installed into any bathroom that can accommodate the square footage these large tubs require. Matching shower heads may be installed above these tubs by use of a free-standing holder, or attached to the head of the tub using a flexible hose.

The second consideration when choosing bathroom fixtures is the style of the home. Homeowners wishing to maintain a modern look may consider stainless steel faucets and shower heads. Free-standing showers are also common in modern bathrooms. Some include multiple water spigots which can mist users from various angles and create a rain-forest shower.

These fixtures should additionally serve the purpose of the room and be functional. Some bathrooms require small toilets, showers, and faucets to fit into homes with limited square footage. Homeowners who are expanding to make room for a spa bathroom may wish to incorporate a whirlpool tub and sauna into their designs. Measure the area where the bathroom renovation will be completed, prior to purchasing any fixtures, to ensure that accurate sizing is maintained throughout the project.

Bathroom fixtures are also sold in packages for budget-conscious renovators. These packages usually combine different elements and allow purchasers to mix and match the portions they may need. Matching faucets for sinks and tubs may be purchased together. Similarly, matching under-the-sink and wall cabinetry may be combined at a lower price than purchasing each item separately.

When completing a bathroom renovation, homeowners should generally inspect the plumbing involved in the project prior to its start. In older homes, original copper piping may need to be replaced if it is rusted or warped. The homeowner can replace this personally with PVC piping available at a home improvement store, or can contract the work to a professional plumber. New bathroom fixtures usually last longer in a home when they are coupled with new plumbing.