Generally speaking when it comes down to tapware you have a choice between single lever mixers or twin handle taps. Single lever mixer taps in the kitchen could be said to be the logical choice because this will always leave the other hand free when working in the kitchen under the tap. But if your styling is towards a more traditional look, twin handles will generally be more appropriate.
The same logic could be applied to the mixers in the bathroom over the hand basin. However there is no other place where the greatest advantage of single levered mixers can be fully appreciated than in the shower. This is because when you have finally adjusted the water to your desired temperature, the single lever mixer can be instantly switched off and on again without changing the direction of the handle and therefor the desired temperature will have not changed. This means no nasty surprises of cold bursts or scolding of the skin during soaping and shampooing. The water can be quickly and conveniently be switched off and back on for rinsing without having to tamper the controls for the correct water temperature. This feature is also a great water and energy saving benefit. Less time spent fiddling the controls means less water and energy wastage.
Mounting Styles
There are many styles and types of tapware. Apart from the two styles mentioned in the above, you also have the choice of 'wall mount' meaning off the wall, (also known as 'in wall') mounting or 'hob mount' (meaning on the horizontal surface, directly into the sink, basin or benchtops). Hob mounted taps are seamless and visually appealing. Wall mounts are stylish and maximizes benchtop space. Just be sure when selecting a mounting style that it will complement your desired effect and is appropriate to the basin or sink type you prefer. Obviously if you choose sinks and hand basins with tap landings you will be restricted to hob mounted tapware. If you choose a sink or basin without a tap landing you have a choice of purchasing in wall mixers or a hob mount tap for mounting directly into the benchtop. In any case one will also need to consider the height of the tap outlet and its reach to determine whether it has the height and distance required to comfortable wash hands and/or pots and pans.
Finishes
Although style plays an important part in the visual aspect of a particular design, colour and finishes are also significant and help create the overall feel and ambiance of a particular room or space. With advanced technologies these days, consumers are getting more and more choice especial in regards to colours and finishes.
Here are some of the things you should consider when deciding colours and finishes. Besides looks, one may want to consider up keep or maintenance, durability, practicality and economics. Also remember to choose something that is going to complement your overall design and décor. Polished chrome remains a practical choice in terms of cleaning and colour matching and will always remain modern and timeless. Brushed finishes as opposed to polished chrome can give a sense of decadence but may date more easily and in many cases harder to keep clean. Options include stainless steel, nickel, brass, gold and rose gold and are just some of the colours now readily available in brushed finishes.
Ergonomics
Tapware can sometimes be difficult to use for the elderly, physically impaired and most children. However, today's tapware includes styles that are ergonomic and elegantly designed. The best options include extended lever handles such can be found on Tilo's Regency mixer range with 'Ez-adjust' single lever handles. They are ideal for people who suffer from arthritis, have limited hand movement and/or strength.
Consider Also Water Efficiency
Today, water efficiency is of utmost importance. Not only will water efficient tapware save you money in the long run it will drastically reduce the amount of water that will otherwise be wasted. For instance, a meager three drips in a minute from one tap wastes approximately 104 gallons, approximately 400 litres of water a year.
When it comes to water saving and compliance, look for the Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme, other words 'WELS' Star rating on all tapware. Also select water efficient showers and possibly automatic taps could be a consideration. Remember the more 'Stars' on the rating label the water efficient the product is.
In Summary
With the growing number of single lever mixer taps and tap/spout combinations now available on the market, it isn't hard to conclude that single lever mixers win hands down when compared to twin handle taps and in most cases are more cost effective and are lower maintenance. They are the ideal solution in most cases and in fact, having control and maintaining the correct temperature and flow in one action can make your life safer and more tranquil. This alone makes them a great choice for both kitchen and bathroom tapware.