Types of Bathroom Shower Taps: Bathroom Shower Taps Cheap
Choosing the right shower tap can significantly impact your bathroom’s functionality and aesthetics. There are many types available, each with its unique features, benefits, and drawbacks. This guide explores the most popular shower tap types, helping you make an informed decision for your bathroom.
Types of Shower Taps
Shower taps come in various styles, each offering different functionalities and aesthetics. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:
- Single-Lever Mixer Taps: These taps offer a simple and convenient way to control both hot and cold water flow using a single lever. They are easy to use and allow for precise temperature adjustment. They are a popular choice for modern bathrooms due to their sleek design.
- Two-Handle Mixer Taps: These taps have separate handles for controlling hot and cold water. They offer greater control over water temperature and flow but require more space than single-lever taps. They are commonly found in traditional bathrooms.
- Thermostatic Mixer Taps: These taps maintain a consistent water temperature by incorporating a thermostatic valve. They are ideal for families with young children or anyone concerned about sudden temperature fluctuations. They offer greater safety and comfort during showering.
- Wall-Mounted Shower Taps: These taps are directly mounted to the wall, providing a sleek and minimalist look. They are a popular choice for modern bathrooms, as they free up space in the shower area.
- Deck-Mounted Shower Taps: These taps are mounted on the shower deck or bath tub rim, offering a more traditional aesthetic. They are often preferred in bathrooms with limited wall space.
- Exposed Shower Taps: These taps have visible plumbing and pipes, offering a classic and traditional look. They are typically more affordable than concealed taps.
- Concealed Shower Taps: These taps have their plumbing and pipes hidden behind the wall, creating a sleek and minimalist look. They require more installation effort but offer a cleaner and more modern aesthetic.
Shower Tap Materials
The material of a shower tap significantly impacts its durability, appearance, and price. Common materials include:
- Chrome: A popular choice for shower taps, chrome is durable, corrosion-resistant, and easy to clean. It offers a classic and polished look.
- Brushed Nickel: Brushed nickel provides a warm and sophisticated look. It is also durable and resistant to scratches and fingerprints.
- Brass: Brass is a durable and long-lasting material. It is often used in traditional shower taps and can be finished in various styles, such as polished brass or antique brass.
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is a popular choice for modern shower taps. It is durable, resistant to corrosion, and easy to clean. It offers a sleek and minimalist look.
Shower Tap Design Features
Shower taps come in various designs to suit different bathroom styles. Some common design features include:
- Square or Round: Square taps offer a modern and minimalist look, while round taps provide a more traditional aesthetic.
- Single or Double Spout: Single-spout taps have a single outlet for water, while double-spout taps have two outlets, allowing for multiple shower heads.
- Lever or Cross Handles: Lever handles are easier to use and offer greater control over water flow, while cross handles provide a more traditional look.
Shower Tap Price Range
The price of shower taps varies depending on the type, material, and design features. Here’s a general price range for different types:
| Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Single-Lever Mixer Taps | $50 – $200 |
| Two-Handle Mixer Taps | $40 – $150 |
| Thermostatic Mixer Taps | $100 – $500 |
| Wall-Mounted Shower Taps | $75 – $300 |
| Deck-Mounted Shower Taps | $60 – $250 |
| Exposed Shower Taps | $30 – $100 |
| Concealed Shower Taps | $150 – $600 |
Finding Cheap Bathroom Shower Taps
Finding the perfect bathroom shower taps without breaking the bank is a challenge many face. But don’t worry, with some savvy shopping strategies, you can get stylish and functional taps that fit your budget.
Online Marketplaces
Online marketplaces are a treasure trove for finding affordable bathroom shower taps. These platforms connect sellers from various regions, often offering competitive prices.
- Websites like Amazon, eBay, and Shopee host a wide range of shower taps, from budget-friendly options to more premium choices.
- You can compare prices, read customer reviews, and filter by features and brands to find the best deal.
- Keep an eye out for flash sales and promotional offers for even greater savings.
Discount Retailers
Discount retailers are another excellent source for finding cheap bathroom shower taps. These stores often carry a limited selection of products, but they offer them at significantly lower prices than traditional home improvement stores.
- Stores like HomeGoods, TJ Maxx, and Ross offer discounted home goods, including bathroom fixtures.
- Be prepared to browse and sift through inventory to find the right taps for your needs.
- It’s worth noting that these stores may have limited stock, so it’s best to visit often to see what’s available.
Clearance Sales
Clearance sales are a great way to score amazing deals on bathroom shower taps. Home improvement stores and online retailers often host clearance sales to clear out old inventory.
- Keep an eye out for flyers, emails, and online announcements from your favorite stores.
- Be prepared to act quickly, as clearance items are often limited and can sell out quickly.
- While clearance items may have minor imperfections, they are often functional and offer significant savings.
Considering Quality and Durability
While affordability is crucial, it’s important to prioritize quality and durability when choosing cheap bathroom shower taps.
A cheap tap that breaks down quickly will cost you more in the long run than a slightly more expensive option that lasts for years.
- Look for taps made from durable materials like brass or stainless steel.
- Read customer reviews to get an idea of the tap’s reliability and longevity.
- Consider investing in a tap with a warranty, which can offer peace of mind in case of any defects.
Potential Drawbacks of Extremely Low-Priced Shower Taps
While extremely low-priced shower taps might seem like a great deal, they often come with potential drawbacks.
- They may be made from inferior materials that can rust, leak, or break easily.
- They might lack features or functionalities found in more expensive models.
- They may have poor craftsmanship, resulting in uneven finishes or misaligned parts.
Installing Bathroom Shower Taps
Installing a bathroom shower tap can seem intimidating, but with the right tools and knowledge, it’s a manageable DIY project. Whether you’re upgrading your existing taps or installing new ones, following these steps will ensure a smooth and successful installation.
Tools and Materials
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials. These will vary depending on the type of tap you’re installing, but generally include:
- Adjustable wrench
- Pipe wrench
- Teflon tape
- Screwdriver
- Level
- Pliers
- Basin wrench (for hard-to-reach areas)
- New shower tap
- New showerhead (if needed)
- Optional: Plumbing sealant
Safety Precautions
Safety is paramount when working with plumbing. Always remember to:
- Turn off the water supply to the shower before starting any work.
- Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris.
- Use caution when handling sharp tools.
- If you’re unsure about any step, consult a professional plumber.
Installing a Single-Handle Shower Tap
Installing a single-handle shower tap involves connecting the tap to the existing water supply lines and mounting it to the wall.
- Turn off the water supply to the shower and drain the existing pipes.
- Remove the old shower tap and showerhead. Be careful not to damage the surrounding walls or pipes.
- Wrap Teflon tape around the threads of the new shower tap’s inlets. This helps prevent leaks.
- Connect the new shower tap to the existing water supply lines. Use pipe wrenches to tighten the connections securely.
- Mount the new shower tap to the wall, ensuring it’s level. Use a level to check the alignment and make any necessary adjustments.
- Connect the new showerhead to the tap outlet. Make sure the connection is tight.
- Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks.
Installing a Two-Handle Shower Tap
Installing a two-handle shower tap is similar to installing a single-handle tap, but involves connecting two separate handles to the water supply lines.
- Turn off the water supply to the shower and drain the existing pipes.
- Remove the old shower tap and showerhead. Be careful not to damage the surrounding walls or pipes.
- Wrap Teflon tape around the threads of the new shower tap’s inlets.
- Connect the new shower tap to the existing water supply lines. Use pipe wrenches to tighten the connections securely.
- Mount the new shower tap to the wall, ensuring it’s level. Use a level to check the alignment and make any necessary adjustments.
- Connect the new showerhead to the tap outlet. Make sure the connection is tight.
- Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks.
Installing a Thermostatic Shower Tap
Thermostatic shower taps offer precise temperature control and safety features. Installing them requires additional steps:
- Turn off the water supply to the shower and drain the existing pipes.
- Remove the old shower tap and showerhead. Be careful not to damage the surrounding walls or pipes.
- Connect the new thermostatic shower tap to the existing water supply lines. This usually involves connecting two separate inlets for hot and cold water.
- Mount the new shower tap to the wall, ensuring it’s level. Use a level to check the alignment and make any necessary adjustments.
- Connect the new showerhead to the tap outlet. Make sure the connection is tight.
- Turn the water supply back on and test the temperature control. Adjust the thermostatic valve to ensure the desired temperature is maintained.
Common Installation Challenges, Bathroom shower taps cheap
- Difficult access to pipes: Using a basin wrench can help access hard-to-reach areas.
- Leaking connections: Ensure all connections are tight and properly sealed with Teflon tape or plumbing sealant.
- Misaligned mounting: Use a level to ensure the tap is mounted correctly.
Ensuring Proper Water Pressure and Functionality
- Check for leaks: Inspect all connections for leaks after turning the water supply back on.
- Test water pressure: Ensure the water pressure is sufficient and consistent throughout the shower.
- Test temperature control: For thermostatic taps, check the temperature control function and adjust as needed.
Bathroom shower taps cheap – Finding cheap bathroom shower taps can be a great way to save money on your renovation project. But don’t forget about the importance of a fresh-smelling bathroom! A good best bathroom spray for odor can help neutralize any unpleasant scents, leaving your bathroom smelling clean and inviting.
Once you’ve found the perfect shower taps and a great odor eliminator, you’ll be able to enjoy a truly luxurious bathroom experience.
Finding cheap bathroom shower taps can be a challenge, but it’s definitely achievable. A good place to start is by comparing prices online and checking for sales. And don’t forget about the overall aesthetic! You might consider pairing your new taps with a blue bathroom shower curtain for a touch of color and personality.
Remember, even with a budget in mind, you can still create a stylish and functional bathroom space.
