Archive for March, 2012

Whether you’re fitting a complete new kitchen or simply looking to add some fresh flourishes to an existing kitchen; the selection of your kitchen taps is worth some dedicated consideration. Given the vast number of decisions and options to consider when renovating it can be easy to overlook small details which really should be contemplated – with this in mind here’s a quick guide to selecting and fitting kitchen taps:

1 – Establish Water Pressure

Although unlikely to be a major issue in most circumstances, low water pressure can mean that certain types of kitchen taps aren’t the most suitable option. Taps with spray attachments for instance are likely to be more dribble than spray if you’re home has particularly low water pressure. Consult a plumber or your local water board if you’d like to find out more about your water pressure and potential solutions if it doesn’t live up to your requirements.

2 – Aim to Balance Style and Functionality When Selecting Your Kitchen Taps

The key to selection of kitchen taps is the consideration of practicality as well as style and aesthetics. Space constraints for instance may mean that a mixer tap is a more practical choice than separate taps. Similarly, a tap which features easy to use handles or levers may be better suited for your circumstances than a kitchen tap which places styling over ease of operation.

There are a number of distinctly different styles of kitchen tap and an array of different features to look out for. From professional systems with high pressure flexible spray hoses, through to minimalist monobloc mixers it can be hard to make a decision. Provided you bear in mind practicality whilst making a decision you’re unlikely to go wrong given the high quality of manufacture and lengthy warranty boasted by most modern kitchen taps.

On the style front it’s essential to look for taps which co-ordinate with the rest of the room, although only small in size, kitchen taps go a long way towards establishing the overall feel of the kitchen and design factors should be carefully considered.

3 – Hire a Professional for Fitting Unless you’re Proficient with Plumbing

Unless you, or a friend or family member are experienced in home plumbing, it is wise to enlist the services of a professional when looking to fit new kitchen taps. As you’re dealing with the mains water system there is no room for error when it comes to tap fitting. The task is however a straight forward and quick job for an experienced plumber and is likely to be inexpensive and certainly worth the outlay – especially compared to the price of rectifying an unsuccessful DIY attempt.

If you’d like any further help selecting kitchen taps then please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the Tapshop321 team!