How to Choose Your Perfect Bathroom Taps

1. Water Pressure and Technical Requirements

Before falling in love with a tap design, it is essential to understand your home's water pressure. Taps are designed to work within specific "bar" ranges. If you have a low-pressure system (like a gravity-fed tank in the loft), you must choose taps specifically rated for low pressure to avoid a disappointing flow.

• Low Pressure (0.1 - 0.5 bar): Typically gravity-fed systems. Requires taps with larger internal valves.
• High Pressure (1.0 bar+): Common in homes with combi-boilers or unvented cylinders. Almost any tap will work.
• Ceramic Disc Technology: Most modern Plumbase taps use ceramic discs rather than rubber washers, ensuring a drip-free experience and a smooth quarter-turn operation.

A Plumbase specialist can help you determine your pressure levels to ensure your new taps perform as beautifully as they look.

2. Types of Bathroom Taps at Plumbase

Plumbase offers a wide variety of tap styles to suit every basin and bath configuration:

Mixer Taps (Monobloc)

The most common modern choice. A single spout mixes hot and cold water, controlled by one or two levers. Ideal for basins with a single tap hole.

Pillar Taps

Traditional separate taps for hot and cold water. These are essential for basins with two tap holes and offer a timeless, classic aesthetic.

Waterfall Taps

Featuring an open-spout design, these taps create a visual "waterfall" effect. They add a luxurious, contemporary feel to any modern basin.

Wall-Mounted Taps

Installed into the wall above the basin or bath. These create a clean, minimalist look and are perfect for use with counter-top vessel basins.

Freestanding Bath Taps

Floor-standing taps that sit alongside a freestanding bath. They act as a dramatic statement piece in larger, luxury bathrooms.

Bath Shower Mixers

A versatile option that includes a tap for filling the bath and a diverter for a handheld shower attachment, perfect for rinsing hair.

3. Finishes and Aesthetics

The finish of your taps can define the entire mood of the room. We provide durable coatings that maintain their shine even with daily use:

Polished Chrome

The most popular and versatile finish. It is highly durable, easy to clean, and matches almost any bathroom accessory or mirror.

Matte Black

Bold and industrial. Matte black taps provide a striking contrast against white ceramics and are excellent at hiding water marks.

Brushed Brass

Offers a warmer, more sophisticated metallic look. It works beautifully in both traditional and modern "boutique" style bathrooms.

Brushed Nickel

A softer, slightly warmer alternative to chrome. It offers a subtle, premium feel that resists fingerprints more effectively.

4. Tap Maintenance and Care

• Aerator Cleaning: Most Plumbase taps include an aerator to ensure a splash-free stream. Regularly unscrewing and cleaning this prevents limescale buildup.
• Avoiding Harsh Chemicals: To protect the finish (especially matte and brass), avoid abrasive cleaners. Use warm soapy water and a soft microfibre cloth.
• Waste Compatibility: Remember to choose a compatible waste. "Click-clack" wastes are the modern standard, replacing traditional plugs and chains.
• Handle Ease of Use: Consider lever handles rather than cross-heads if you are looking to future-proof the room, as they are much easier to operate with wet hands.