Install Vanity Faucets
The faucet is where function meets beauty in your bathroom. Choose the right style, finish, and features to create a fixture you'll use dozens of times daily for years to come.
Why Faucet Selection Matters
Your bathroom faucet is one of the most-used fixtures in your home. The average person interacts with their bathroom faucet 8-10 times per day, making it essential to choose one that's both functional and aesthetically pleasing. A quality faucet transforms your daily routine from mundane to enjoyable.
Daily Use
Used 8-10 times daily per person, your faucet must be reliable, comfortable, and easy to operate for decades of use.
Style Statement
The faucet is often the visual centerpiece of your vanity. Its finish and design set the tone for your entire bathroom aesthetic.
Water Efficiency
Modern WaterSense faucets use 1.5 GPM or less, saving thousands of gallons annually while maintaining excellent performance.
Types of Bathroom Faucets
Single-Hole Faucets
The most popular modern choice, single-hole faucets combine the spout and handle(s) in one compact unit. They require only one mounting hole, typically 1-3/8 inches in diameter.
- Easy installation
- Clean, minimalist look
- Fewer leak points
- Easy to clean around
- Limited reach options
- May need deck plate for 3-hole sinks
- Temperature control varies by model
Widespread Faucets
Three separate pieces - spout and two handles - connected by supply tubes beneath the sink. Requires three holes spaced 8-16 inches apart, offering the most flexibility in placement.
- Elegant, traditional appearance
- Flexible handle placement
- Easier individual repairs
- Premium aesthetic
- More complex installation
- More connection points
- Generally higher cost
- Harder to clean around
Center-Set Faucets
A single unit with handles and spout mounted on a shared base plate. Designed for standard 4-inch center-to-center hole spacing, the most common configuration in existing bathrooms.
- Fits most standard sinks
- Easy replacement upgrade
- Budget-friendly options
- Simple installation
- Less design flexibility
- Base plate collects water
- Dated appearance for some styles
Wall-Mounted Faucets
Mounted directly to the wall above the sink rather than on the countertop or sink. Creates a dramatic, spa-like aesthetic and works beautifully with vessel sinks. Requires in-wall rough-in during construction.
- Striking visual impact
- Easy counter cleaning
- Adjustable spout height
- Works with any sink style
- Requires rough-in during construction
- Professional installation recommended
- Repairs require wall access
- Higher total cost
Choosing the Right Faucet
Compatibility Check
Before shopping, measure your sink or countertop holes:
- •Number of holes: Count 1, 3, or no holes (for wall-mount)
- •Hole spacing: Measure center-to-center (4" standard, 8-16" widespread)
- •Hole diameter: Typically 1-3/8" but verify before purchase
Spout Reach and Height
The spout must reach comfortably over the drain:
- •Measure from mounting point to sink drain center
- •For vessel sinks, add vessel height to calculate needed spout height
- •Allow 2-4 inches of clearance between spout and sink bottom
Style Coordination
Match your faucet to your bathroom's design language:
- Cross handles, curved spouts
- Polished chrome or brass
- Decorative escutcheons
- Single lever, geometric lines
- Matte black or brushed nickel
- Minimal ornamentation
Finish Options and Durability
Chrome
The classic choice. Highly durable, easy to clean, shows water spots.
Brushed Nickel
Hides fingerprints and water spots. Warm, versatile appearance.
Matte Black
Bold modern statement. PVD versions resist scratching better.
Polished Brass
Classic elegance. Requires regular polishing to prevent tarnishing.
Brushed Gold
Trending warm metallic. PVD finish essential for longevity.
Oil-Rubbed Bronze
Living finish that develops patina. Warm, antique appearance.
Pro Tip: Match your faucet finish with other bathroom hardware - towel bars, toilet paper holder, shower fixtures, and cabinet pulls - for a cohesive look. Most manufacturers offer coordinating collections.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Turn Off Water Supply
Locate the shut-off valves beneath the sink. Turn both hot (left) and cold (right) valves clockwise until fully closed. Turn on the faucet to release remaining water pressure and verify water is off. Place a bucket under the work area.
Remove the Old Faucet
Disconnect supply lines using an adjustable wrench. Use a basin wrench to reach up behind the sink and loosen the mounting nuts holding the faucet in place. Once loose, lift the old faucet straight up and out. Remove any remaining gaskets or putty.
Clean the Mounting Surface
Use a plastic scraper to remove old plumber's putty or silicone. Clean the area thoroughly with rubbing alcohol and allow to dry. Inspect the sink surface for cracks or damage before proceeding.
Prepare the New Faucet
Unpack and inspect all components. Install any included gaskets or mounting hardware as directed. If your faucet doesn't include a gasket, apply a thin rope of plumber's putty around the base (skip this for granite or marble - use silicone instead).
Install the Faucet
Lower the faucet through the mounting hole(s). From beneath, thread on the mounting nuts hand-tight. Center the faucet and tighten the mounting nuts firmly with a basin wrench, alternating sides for even pressure. Avoid over-tightening.
Connect Supply Lines
Wrap Teflon tape 3-4 times clockwise around the threaded connections. Connect supply lines to the faucet inlets - hot on left, cold on right. Hand-tighten, then give an additional quarter turn with a wrench. Don't over-tighten.
Test for Leaks
Slowly turn on the shut-off valves. Check all connections for leaks. Run water through both hot and cold. Inspect the faucet base, supply line connections, and drain. Tighten any dripping connections slightly.
Connecting Supply Lines Properly
Proper supply line installation prevents the most common faucet problems - leaks and flooding. Follow these guidelines for reliable connections.
Choose the Right Supply Lines
- ✓Braided stainless steel - Best choice, durable and flexible
- △Vinyl mesh - Budget option, replace every 5 years
- ✗Avoid reusing old lines - Gaskets wear out, connections fail
Proper Connection Technique
- 1.Wrap Teflon tape clockwise 3-4 times on male threads
- 2.Thread connections by hand until snug
- 3.Tighten 1/4 to 1/2 turn with wrench
- 4.Never use pipe dope with compression fittings
Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid
Over-tightening connections
Cracked fittings, stripped threads, and actually causes leaks
Solution: Snug plus 1/4 turn is enough. If it leaks, try adding Teflon tape.
Forgetting to turn off water
Flooded bathroom and water damage
Solution: Always verify water is off by opening the faucet before disconnecting lines.
Mismatching supply line sizes
Connections won't seal properly
Solution: Check both valve and faucet inlet sizes. Standard is 3/8" compression.
Skipping the plumber's putty
Water seeps under faucet base, causing mold and damage
Solution: Use putty or silicone (check manufacturer's recommendation for stone).
Reusing old supply lines
Hidden wear leads to sudden failure and flooding
Solution: Always install new braided stainless steel lines with a new faucet.
Ignoring spout reach
Water splashes outside sink or doesn't reach drain
Solution: Measure and verify spout reaches center of sink before purchasing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which faucet style fits my sink?▼
Check the number and spacing of holes in your sink or countertop. Single-hole faucets require one hole, center-set faucets need three holes spaced 4 inches apart, and widespread faucets require three holes spaced 8-16 inches apart. Measure your existing holes or check the sink manufacturer's specifications before purchasing.
What is the difference between single-hole and widespread faucets?▼
Single-hole faucets combine the spout and handles in one unit, requiring only one mounting hole. Widespread faucets have separate spout and handle pieces connected by supply tubes under the sink, requiring three holes spaced 8-16 inches apart. Widespread faucets offer more design flexibility and a more traditional look, while single-hole faucets are easier to install and clean.
Which faucet finish is most durable?▼
Brushed nickel and chrome are the most durable and low-maintenance finishes. PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) finishes like brushed gold or matte black resist scratching and tarnishing better than traditional plated finishes. Polished brass and oil-rubbed bronze require more maintenance to keep looking their best. Look for faucets with lifetime finish warranties for the best long-term value.
Do I need a plumber to install a bathroom faucet?▼
Most homeowners can install a faucet themselves if they have basic tools and the shut-off valves work properly. The job typically takes 30 minutes to 1 hour. However, hire a plumber if you need to replace corroded shut-off valves, modify plumbing connections, install a wall-mounted faucet, or lack confidence working under the sink.
How do I prevent leaks when installing a new faucet?▼
Use Teflon tape on all threaded connections, wrapping 3-4 times clockwise. Hand-tighten connections first, then use a wrench for an additional quarter to half turn - over-tightening can crack fittings. Apply plumber's putty or silicone around the faucet base to seal against the sink. Replace old supply lines with new braided stainless steel lines for the most reliable connection.
Installation Checklist
Before You Start
- Verify faucet fits sink hole configuration
- Confirm spout reach and height are appropriate
- Gather all tools and materials
- Purchase new supply lines if needed
After Installation
- Test hot and cold water flow
- Check all connections for leaks
- Verify drain operates properly
- Clean up and dispose of old faucet