The first thing to learn is the different types of bathtub faucets and how to identify them. This is key because you can decide which one appeals to you and which one you currently own. Unless you plan to replace the sink as well, you will have to use the same size faucet. so we start

Single lever/single handle: These are easily identified by the single actuated handle that controls water flow and temperature. They only require drilling a hole in the sink, so they can be installed into any sink that has a center hole. Some single poles will have a 6" trim plate to cover the holes drilled for a 4" center set or wide drilling.

Center Set Faucet: This type of faucet has the spout and handle mounted on a 6" trim panel for a clean design. It is ideal for smaller basins that usually come with pre-drilled holes.

Extensive: This is my favorite type of faucet because it gives industrial designers and engineers the most flexibility when designing and therefore more options for the end user. The hot handle, cold handle = and spout are separate parts, you can see the surface of the sink between them when installed. The widely used faucet itself has two sub-species:

One. Mini: Three separate parts fit in three separate drilled holes. 4" distance between hot and cold handle holes

b. standard. Same as above, except the hot and cold holes are 6 to 12 inches apart (usually 8 inches). It also allows the parts to be arranged in a circular fashion to follow the shape of the sink.

Wall-Mounted: As the name suggests, this faucet is hard-wired into the wall and covered with drywall or preferably a tile backsplash. Often used with container sinks and retro styling. Our advice...if you want this type of faucet, call a professional plumber to install it after selecting the faucet you want.

Container faucet: Used with container faucets, it is easier to install than wall-mounted faucets. They are usually single-lever/single-hole faucets that feature a tall spout. Make sure it's at least 3 inches above the sink and almost sticking out of the middle of the sink.

Waterfall Faucets: These are relatively new types of faucets that allow water to flow downwards in a non-aerated fashion. Usually made of glass, they offer a unique modern look. Make sure they are functional enough for you.

Now you can distinguish the types of faucets and identify the faucets in the bathroom. Let's find out what materials they are made of. These are usually cast brass, zinc and plastic.

Brass is the most expensive and probably the most durable. If you're going for a faucet that's more than 15 years old, choose brass. Zinc faucets are the second most expensive and a great material. It corrodes more easily than brass, but will last at least 10-15 years. The truth is that once the faucet is installed, it can be difficult to tell the difference between brass and zinc (the main difference is weight). Also keep in mind that most faucets from well-known manufacturers must pass the same rigorous life cycle testing and must also comply with agency regulations (usually CSA. or CUPC). Also, many faucets are made with only zinc handles and brass bodies, or vice versa, to keep prices down.

Finally we have plastic faucets. Once again, they also have to undergo rigorous testing, and contrary to popular belief, they are extremely durable. Here's my take on durability, metal performs better in terms of physical pressure to open/close the faucet, but plastic is definitely more resistant (i.e. doesn't corrode). With modern plastic faucets it's hard to tell the difference because of the quality of their plastic-plated metal finish, the giveaways are weight and temperature (plastic doesn't feel as cool as metal).

After that all that's left is to choose the finish (chrome, stainless steel, brushed nickel, oil rubbed bronze, etc.) and style to match your bathroom. Hope this helps, happy shopping and happy decorating!