A faucet that comes out of the wall is commonly known as a wall-mounted faucet. Wall-mounted faucets are designed to be installed directly into the wall rather than on top of a sink or vanity. They are a popular choice in modern bathrooms and kitchens because they save counter space and create a sleek, minimalist look. In this article, we will discuss what wall-mounted faucets are, the different types available, their pros and cons, costs, and care and maintenance tips. Read on to learn everything you need to know about these stylish fixtures!
Page Contents
What is a Wall-Mounted Faucet?
A wall-mounted faucet, also sometimes called a wall-mount faucet, is a type of sink or lavatory faucet that is mounted directly to the wall rather than on the countertop or sink basin. The faucet body and spout extend out from the wall over the sink or basin below. This is different from a standard deck-mounted faucet, which sits on top of the countertop or is mounted into a pre-drilled hole in the sink itself.
With a wall-mounted faucet, all the plumbing, water connections, and parts are concealed inside the wall. Only the spout, handles, and trim are visible. This gives wall-mounted faucets a very minimal, streamlined look that is popular in modern and contemporary bathroom and kitchen designs. They also save space on the countertop since they do not take up any surface area.
Types of Wall-Mounted Faucets
There are several different types and styles of wall-mounted faucets to choose from:
Centerset Faucets
Centerset faucets have the hot and cold handles mounted onto a central spout and base plate. The handles are usually 4 inches apart. Centerset styles allow flexible placement anywhere on the wall since all the components are together in one assembled unit. They come in single-handle and double-handle designs.
Widespread Faucets
Widespread wall-mount faucets have separated hot and cold handles that are mounted 8 – 16 inches apart on the wall, with the spout in the center. These give you more flexibility in the handle positioning. Widespread faucets need to be precisely positioned on the wall during installation.
Single-Hole Faucets
Single-hole wall-mounted faucets have just one hole for the combined spout and handle. They have a minimalist look but offer less flexibility in positioning.
Two-Hole Faucets
Two-hole wall mount faucets have separate holes for the hot and cold handles, with the spout in the middle. This style also allows flexibility in the handle positioning.
Vessel Faucets
Vessel wall-mount faucets have a tall arched spout designed to extend over a vessel basin or bowl that sits on top of the vanity.
Bar/Prep Faucets
Shorter bar and prep faucets are designed to be installed near kitchen islands and prep areas and have a compact overall size.
Pot Fillers
Pot filler faucets extend from the wall behind stoves and are used for conveniently filling pots with water while cooking.
Pros and Cons of Wall-Mounted Faucets
Here are some of the benefits and drawbacks to consider with wall-mounted faucets:
Pros
- Sleek, minimalist look
- Frees up sink or counter space
- Allows flexible positioning anywhere on wall
- Easy to clean with no sink lip or countertop gap
- Modern, contemporary style
Cons
- More difficult installation into wall
- Limited reach may need sink moved closer to wall
- Repairs require access inside wall
- Typically more expensive than deck-mounted faucets
As you can see, the pros of wall-mounted faucets mostly involve their aesthetic appeal, while the cons relate more to functionality and repairs. The upfront installation cost is also typically higher.
Cost of Wall-Mounted Faucets
Wall-mounted faucets range widely in price depending on the finish, materials, design, and features:
- Basic models – $100 – $300
- Mid-range models – $300 – $600
- High-end designer models – $600 – $1500+
Factors that increase the cost include all-metal construction, premium finishes like chrome, nickel, bronze, and brushed gold, more complex designs, smart technology features, and high-end designer brands. The number of holes and handles will also impact cost with widespread configurations typically being more expensive. Installation fees will add several hundred dollars or more to the total project cost.
Installation Tips for Wall-Mounted Faucets
Installing a wall-mounted faucet requires making modifications inside your wall, so it’s recommended to hire a professional plumber unless you have experience with this type of project. Here are some tips for installation:
- The faucet must be connected to hot and cold supply lines inside the wall, so pipes must be routed and accessible.
- The wall must be opened up to install mounting brackets secured to wall studs.
- The faucet must be precisely positioned and leveled on the wall.
- Wall finishes will need repairs and touch ups after mounting the faucet.
- Consider a design that allows accessing the valves from below the sink.
- Make sure the faucet reach extends far enough over the sink.
Again, it’s wise to have a professional do the installation unless you are very experienced with plumbing projects. The construction, valves, and water supply lines must all be in the exact right position for proper function.
Care and Maintenance for Wall-Mounted Faucets
Wall-mounted faucets will need occasional cleaning and maintenance to keep them functioning properly and looking great:
- Use a mild soap and soft cloth to clean the exterior surfaces. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Wipe down after use to prevent mineral buildup and spotting.
- Clean outlet aerator screens regularly to remove particle buildup.
- Inspect for leaks around handles and spout.
- Replace washers and o-rings if leaks are found.
- Take care not to knock or apply excessive side force to the spout.
- Use drain cleaners and plumbing maintenance to prevent clogged drains.
Be very gentle with wall-mount faucet repairs and ask a plumber for help since the interior parts can be tricky to access. With proper care, your wall-mounted faucet can retain its good looks and performance for many years to come!
Finding the Right Wall-Mounted Faucet
When shopping for a wall-mounted bathroom or kitchen faucet, keep the following tips in mind:
- Look for models that swivel or have side-to-side motion to improve reach.
- Choose a spout height and design that works with your sinks.
- Pick a finish that matches your fixtures and decor.
- Consider your handle style preference (single vs double handle).
- Check water pressure and flow rate ratings.
- Review brand reputation and warranties.
Take precise measurements of your existing setup and sinks when selecting a new wall-mounted faucet. This will ensure that your new faucet fits properly and functions optimally once installed. A professional plumber can also provide recommendations. Investing in a high quality, durable faucet can provide a beautiful focal point and enhance your whole room.
Conclusion
Wall-mounted faucets are a gorgeous addition to modern bathroom and kitchen designs. With their minimal installation directly on the wall rather than on the counter or sink, they create a clean, streamlined look while also saving precious space. From widespread configurations to sleek single-hole designs, there is a wall-mount faucet to match any decor. Just be prepared for the more complex installation and maintenance requirements with these stylish fixtures. But if your priority is eye-catching contemporary style and wide open counters, then a wall-mounted faucet is likely the perfect choice!