Ask the plumber: ‘Artist editions’ turn sinks into works of art
Q. I’m changing out my plumbing fixtures in my master bathroom. It’s a pretty nice bathroom, and I want to make it extra special by installing fancy decorated (painted-type) lav sinks. What types of sinks are available when you get into the decorative fixtures? Will I have to limit my style choices?
A. Decorative sinks are often called “artist editions,” because they look more like a work of art than a bathroom sink. Artistic patterns can include florals, geometric designs or even custom “special interest” themes.
You can get decorative sinks that are wall-hung, under-mounted, vessel-type, drop-in and even pedestal-based for that old-fashioned look.
Style choice should not be an issue. As far as materials go, a popular choice for a decorative sink is vitreous china. And then there’s the faucet. If the faucet is not on the same level of artistic flare as your sink, your entire creative venture could end up going down the drain.
Q. Ed, I read your column weekly, and thanks for all the free information you have given us over the years. Now, I could use more of that information for my new kitchen. We plan on installing a farmhouse-style sink with the apron front. I think that an old-looking-style “bridge” faucet would look great on that sink. But my husband wants to stay with a more modern-looking faucet. He is afraid that a bridge faucet could be harder to install and tougher to get parts for in the future. Are these valid concerns?
A. Just like pedestal sinks, bridge faucets are another one of those plumbing products that keep coming back.
Right now, bridge faucets are a very popular choice for bathroom, utility and, especially, kitchen sinks. For those who may not be familiar with a bridge-type faucet, here’s a basic explanation. It’s a two-handle faucet, but instead of the hot and cold connecting under the sink, these faucets have the exposed cross pipe (bridge) elevated above the sink to which the spout is attached.
This gives the faucet a very old-fashioned look on the outside, but on the inside most are made to use modern faucet technology.
So, this is my bridge to get back to your husband’s concerns about parts and installation. As long as you stay with a quality major-brand faucet manufacturer, a new bridge faucet should not cause you any big issues with initial labor costs and/or service parts down the road.
Also, bridge faucets are now available in many new finishes that should match any kitchen perfectly.
Bottom line: Go with the faucet you want and don’t cross that bridge off your wish list!
Ÿ Master contractor and plumber Ed Del Grande is the author of “Ed Del Grande’s House Call” and hosts TV shows on Scripps Networks and HGTVPro.com. Visit eddelgrande.com or write eddelgrande@hgtvpro.com.
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