Which tap should you choose for your free-standing bathtub? | Facq
Discover how to choose the ideal tap for your free-standing bathtub, plus advice on where to place the tap and the types available.
Which tap should you choose for your free-standing bathtub?
To choose the right tap for a free-standing bathtub, you should mainly look at the position of the bathtub in your bathroom. This is a key factor for the bathtub’s aesthetics, as well as its functionality and efficiency when in daily use. Let’s explore the various set-ups possible and the best types of tap available for each situation.
Location of the bathtub and what to consider for its positioning
Your bathroom’s visual appeal and functionality will be largely influenced by the place you choose to install your bathtub. What options are available to you?
Next to a wall
By placing your free-standing bathtub right next to a wall, you can truly maximise the usable space in the bathroom and facilitate the plumbing connections. This set-up also simplifies cleaning and maintenance, as it will be easier to clean behind and around the bathtub. The main disadvantage is that this will limit the design’s possibilities. Because positioning a free-standing bathtub next to a wall could reduce its visual impact, which is unfortunate as it is supposed to be a central part of your bathroom.
In the centre of the room
When you install a free-standing bathtub in the centre of your bathroom, you create a bold focal point whilst ensuring easy and flexible access to the tub from any angle. This offers you maximum design freedom and turns the bathtub into a prominent fixture within the room. Yet this option can also complicate the placing of water inlet and drain pipes. If so, you would likely have to make floor modifications to accommodate the plumbing, thus increasing the installation costs.
Wherever you want
Some free-standing bathtubs offer flexibility as to their position: these models are designed so that the tap can be fitted directly onto one of the bathtub’s sides. This versatility is ideal for spaces that are non-standard or where plumbing options are limited. However, it's important to remember that a bathtub’s location can influence its overall look, finish and accessibility.
Types of taps, plus their advantages and disadvantages
Before discussing the advantages and disadvantages of each type of tap on the market, it is useful to know the various tap options:
Floor-mounted
These taps are independent and mounted directly on the floor, making them ideal for bathtubs located in the room’s centre. These taps will surely add an elegant touch and sophistication, although the specific plumbing required could make them more expensive to install.
Advantages: These taps offer considerable design flexibility and look very impressive.
Disadvantages: Besides being more expensive to install, these taps are liable to move if they haven’t been fitted perfectly to the floor.
Wall-mounted
By fixing your taps against a wall, you can free up space in the room. Taps like these are often used for bathtubs placed next to a wall, as they don’t require many modifications to the structure of your bathroom, by comparison with floor-standing taps. Moreover, wall-mounted taps facilitate cleaning around the bathtub.
Advantages: Guaranteed to save space; less complex plumbing than for floor-mounted taps.
Disadvantages: The design choice may be limited by the position of the plumbing in place.
Deck-mounted
Fitted on the bathtub itself, these taps offer a compact and elegant solution. They are especially useful for fittings where there is only limited space or when you are seeking a refined style.
Advantages: You can maximise the space and avoid complex external plumbing.
Disadvantages: Less flexibility in terms of style and the placing of the bathtub.
Four tips to choose the ideal tap.
- Assess the space: Measure the available space around the bathtub to determine which type of fitting is needed, and to avoid blocking people’s movement or access.
- Think about the style: Make sure that the tap’s style is a good match for the bathtub and the bathroom overall. Visual harmony is a key goal for the layout of your space.
- Easy to use and clean: Think about how often the bathtub will be used and the people who will use it. Other important points are temperature adjustment and ease of cleaning.
- Budget: Set your budget by taking into account the tap’s initial cost, as well as the cost of installing it and long-term maintenance.
In brief
Style should not be the only consideration, when choosing a tap for your free-standing bathtub. You also need to think about the practical impacts linked to the tub’s position in the bathroom and the type of tap selected. Each set-up comes with its own advantages and challenges – whether the tub is located centrally in the bathroom, next to a wall, or in a place of your choosing. By considering the aesthetic, practical and financial aspects, you can select a tap model that will complement your bathroom’s design and enhance your daily experience of using this room. You should also give thought to the room’s visual harmony, its ease of use and cleaning. The tap should also match the requirements of your space, to ensure your choice is appropriate. To find out more and choose the ideal tap in line with your personal taste, selected from the numerous brands and products that we stock, don’t hesitate to contact Facq.
FAQ
How can I minimise the cost of installing a tap for a free-standing bathtub?
Choose a tap that won’t oblige you to make many structural modifications. For instance a wall-mounted tap or deck-mounted tap, if the plumbing is suitable, can help to reduce costs.
Should I use a professional plumber to install a tap on a free-standing bathtub?
Yes, because this will guarantee that the installation is safe and complies with standards. It is highly recommended that you call on a professional for more complex installations, like floor-mounted fittings or personalised fittings. Facq can suggest certain plumbers, on request.
What should I do to keep my free-standing bathtub’s tap in good operational condition?
To keep your tap in tip-top condition, you should clean it regularly with mild products, to avoid damaging the tap’s finish. Don’t use cleaning products that are abrasive or chlorine-based. From time to time, you should check the joints and pipes around the tap, looking for any sign of leaks or wear. You should also call a professional to make any repairs or adjustments: this will ensure the tap operates optimally and it will prevent any water damage.
Which tap arrangement should I choose to maximise the space in a small bathroom?
For small bathrooms, a wall-mounted tap is often recommended, as this will increase the available space around the bathtub and minimise any structural modifications that may be necessary. This is a practical and attractive option, as it helps to create a feeling of openness and movement.
How do I choose a tap that is most suitable for cleaning around the bathtub?
Deck-mounted or wall-mounted taps are normally the easiest to clean, as they won’t block your access to the bathtub. Wall-mounted taps, in particular, make it easier to clean the space between the bathtub and the wall.
What factors should I consider to ensure the durability of my tap on the free-standing bathtub?
The quality of materials, design of the tap and quality of installation are all vital for durability. Choose taps made from corrosion-resistant materials, and always ensure that professionals do the installation, as this will avoid potential problems such as leaks and mechanical failure.
Find your nearest showroom
Be inspired by our design solutions for all your needs.
Keep up to date
News, trends and special offers...
Subscribe to our monthly newsletter