Kitchen Taps - What's on offer?
Lever and tri-flows options
Kitchen taps have come a long way in recent years, not only in function but also in design. There is now a huge range of finishes and styles to go with contemporary or traditional kitchens. However, if you have never dabbled in redecorating or plumbing before, so much choice can be a little overwhelming.The most common kitchen tap is the dual-flow model, which provides straightforward hot, cold or mixed water delivery. Traditionally, these are pillar/bridge mounted or they can be deck-mounted on the sink. Alternatively, you could opt for monobloc tap, this type of tap has a single-hole fitting and it usually has handles for hot and cold water supply.
The continental-style single lever tap is becoming more popular, it combines the on/off and temperature function in one lever. These are a great option if you are busy cook, who needs one hand free to tend to other tasks while you’re running the water.
At the more expensive end of the kitchen tap market you could opt for a tri-flow tap. Tri-flow taps are similar to the dual-flow model, but they also come with a built-in purification system. When a tap or lever is turned the water is diverted to a purification unit which is sometimes fitted underneath the sink. The water is then channeled through a separate waterway back to the tap.
Recent trends in design have moved towards, sleek and minimalist styling. Stainless steel is one of the most popular sink materials, so there are plenty of metallic tap finishes to co-ordinate with it, such as nickel, pewter or high-gloss chrome.
If you wash a lot of big pots and pans or bulky items in your sink you might want to consider a high arch kitchen mixer so you have plenty of room to move things around in the sink. Another option worth considering is a pull-out or pull-down spray rinse. This can make the water very accessible wherever you may need it.