subject: Chicago Plumbing Fixtures: 4 Helpful Tips For Choosing Faucets And Other Fixtures [print this page] Chicago plumbing fixtures offer a variety of attractive and functional options for kitchens and baths. Whether your Chicago bath needs a complete renovation or you simply want to spruce up your kitchen with new faucets, you'll find an impressive selection at most home improvement stores. Keeping a few simple tips in mind will help you choose the perfect fixtures for your home.
Know What You're Looking For
It sounds obvious, but some people get to the home improvement or remodeling center and suddenly realize they don't have the faintest idea which fixtures they need. For instance, some sinks use a single knob to control both hot and cold water, but others have separate handles for each temperature.
You'll also need to take the style of sink into consideration. Some sinks have a single opening for faucet installation, while others have a separate opening for the spigot and the handles. It's difficult, if not impossible, to modify the opening to suit the type of faucet you choose, so be sure you get the correct kind. Be sure you check the openings in the sink deck in your Chicago kitchen or bath before choosing your fixtures. Some sinks require under mount hardware while others need a faucet and spigot that are installed from the top. If you're handy at minor plumbing installation, you'll be able to tell which way your sink works. If you aren't sure which style your sink needs, ask a plumber or remodeling expert to take a look at it.
Coordinate For A Consistent Look
Make sure you're getting all of the plumbing fixtures you'll need for your Chicago bathroom. If you need a new bath tub faucet, consider investing in new handles and a new shower head as well. It can be difficult to find the same style, finish and color of fixture from year to year, so it's best to replace all the fixtures at the same time for the best match.
You may also want to purchase accessories such as lighting fixtures and towel racks that have metal accents when your get your plumbing fixtures so that you can coordinate these finishes as well. For instance, if the lights around the your vanity mirror in your Chicago bathroom feature brushed nickel accents, look for faucets and spigots should also be brushed nickel for a cohesive look.
Keep The Decor In Mind
Don't go shopping for plumbing fixtures without taking into consideration the decor and color of your bathroom or kitchen. While you may fall in love with the unusual look of a sleek, modern faucet that's very simple and angular, it won't work well in traditional or elaborately decorated bathrooms or kitchens in Chicago. Bathrooms that are decorated with chandeliers and ornate, Victorian wallpaper should have old-fashioned style fixtures rather than something strikingly modern.
Don't Forget the Extras
When you're ready to install new plumbing fixtures, do your homework by visiting at least two or three remodeling showrooms in Chicago. Plumbing fixtures can vary widely from one retailer to another, and not every place will carry a full selection for you to choose from. Comparing fixture styles you find at different retailers will give you a greater selection to choose from. You may even discover some great new fixtures you hadn't thought about on your own. Many of today's Chicago kitchens have sprayer fixtures in addition to the standard kitchen faucet, and every year you'll find more Chicago bathrooms featuring rainfall showerheads.
Another popular feature to consider is a water filter. You can find fixture-mounted water filters that easily screw onto the head of standard faucets or more elaborate water filters that need to be installed under the sink. You should consider water filters for any sinks where you frequently drink the water, such as the kitchen or the bathroom sink where you brush your teeth.
