What is the difference between a cheap and expensive faucet?

Author: Dr. Ines Gerlach IV  |  Last update: Monday, February 17, 2025

Cheaper faucets will use different metals in production, usually zinc. These faucets may warp, break or even snap over time. There's a reason brands use brass or stainless. Solid brass fixtures tend to be heavier and cost a bit more.

Is it worth it to buy expensive faucets?

In general, expensive kitchen faucets tend to be higher quality than regular ones. They often have better build quality, more advanced features, and longer warranties. However, this is not always the case, and it's important to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase.

Does it matter what brand faucet I buy?

Choosing a well-known brand can help you avoid faucets that may wear out or develop issues quickly. Warranty and Support: Established brands typically offer better warranties and customer support. This can be essential if you encounter problems with your faucet down the line.

Why are some faucets so cheap?

Faucet manufacturers inexpensively mass produce products for big box stores like Home Depot, Lowes, Faucet Direct, and even Amazon. They do this by downgrading the quality of the fixture. They use lower quality brass and ephemeral finishes.

What is the difference between cheap and expensive taps?

The main differences between cheap and expensive taps often lie in the materials, design, functionality, and durability. Expensive taps are usually made from higher quality materials, offer better water efficiency, and come with longer warranties. They may also feature more sophisticated designs and finishes.

Don't Buy Junk | Home Depot vs Amazon vs Plumbing Supply Store

How long do cheap faucets last?

You can figure out the lifespan of your faucet by researching the model number through its manufacturer. However, most faucets generally last about 15 years if maintained and cleaned properly.

How to tell a good quality tap?

How to tell the quality of a tap?
  1. Make sure you choose a tap with a bright finish. ...
  2. It's important that a tap operates smoothly so that the water flow isn't disrupted and you get a consistent stream of water. ...
  3. A good tap is made with good quality brassware.

What brand of faucets do plumbers recommend?

When revamping your kitchen, selecting a top faucet brand for your kitchen or bathroom is key to getting long-term satisfaction and ensuring you get the best value for your money. Moen, Delta, and Kohler stand out as top faucet brands among master plumbers due to their quality and availability of repair parts.

What faucet lasts the longest?

Solid brass bodies are the gold standard for durability, especially in areas with hard water. These faucets resist corrosion and tend to last longer, but they come with a higher price tag, starting at around around $500*. Zinc alloy bodies offer a more budget-friendly option, usually beginning at $100 to $150.

What is America's most trusted faucet brand?

Moen Named America's Most Trusted Faucet Brand for 10th Consecutive Year By Consumers, Lifestory Research Reports.

What is the number one faucet brand?

Most Trusted Faucet Brands

Moen: Known for its innovative designs and exceptional warranty, Moen has earned the trust of homeowners and professionals alike. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction makes Moen a go-to brand for reliable bathroom and kitchen faucets.

Are there different grades of faucets?

The main difference between contractor-grade (bought from plumbing suppliers)and retail-grade (also known as builder-grade, on the shelf at home improvement stores or on-line) plumbing fixtures is the quality of the materials used inside the faucets. Quality equals durability.

Why is Kohler so expensive?

Why is Kohler so Expensive? There are several reasons, the biggest being their commitment to using high quality materials Kohler's dedication to craftmanship, R&D, The strong reputation and brand recognition and advertising.

Does brand matter on faucets?

The next thing you want to consider is the brand of the faucet in question. This makes a huge difference in the likelihood that a repair will be successful! We'll talk more about brands in a minute, but if the faucet is made by a reputable, well-known manufacturer, then you have a better shot at repairing it.

What to measure when buying a new faucet?

How to Measure for a New Kitchen Faucet
  1. Step 1: Understand Your Current Mounting & Installation Type. ...
  2. Step 2: Count the Mounting Holes. ...
  3. Step 3: Measure the Faucet Centers & Faucet Hole Diameters. ...
  4. Step 4: Measure the Deck Thickness. ...
  5. Step 5: Measure Your Current Faucet & Check the Surrounding Space.

What is the difference between cheap and expensive faucets?

Cheap Faucets: Inexpensive faucets are often made from lower-grade materials such as plastic or lightweight metals. These materials are more prone to corrosion, wear, and damage over time. Expensive Faucets: High-end faucets are typically constructed from premium materials like solid brass or stainless steel.

How long should a faucet last?

Here are some reasons why you should get a brand-new faucet instead of fixing your old one: Some faucets aren't repairable or aren't worth repairing. A high-quality faucet will last 15 to 20 years. A brand-new faucet means you'll likely go a long time without necessary repairs.

How much does Home Depot charge to install a faucet?

For a basic kitchen sink faucet installation by a pro plumber or a qualified handyperson, you can expect the installation cost to be anywhere from $119 for faucet installation through Home Depot, $92 for faucet installation through Lowe's to $400+ on a complex project.

Is Moen or Kohler better quality?

Short answer: Both Kohler and Moen are reputable plumbing brands known for their quality, durability, and innovation. The choice depends on personal preferences and specific needs. However overall Kohler beats MOEN in a few categories such as brand age and reputation & Innovation.

Is Moen or Delta better?

Yes, Delta is better than Moen. Here are a few reasons why Delta faucets can be considered superior: Innovative Technologies: Delta is known for its innovative technologies that enhance user experience and improve water efficiency.

Why are name brand faucets so expensive?

Quality Means Durability

Branded fixtures are typically made with metal—brass or stainless steel—instead of plastic, which cheaper products tend to be built of.

Are more expensive taps better?

Cheap and cheerful is not always the best option though, and it is important to consider value for money. A poor-quality tap, although ugh cheap, may not last as long as a better-made, more expensive design.

How do I choose a faucet?

It's a good idea to explore the different styles, finishes, and features that are available when selecting a new faucet. Take stock of the styles and colors you want to emphasize and accent in your kitchen, as well as the size of your sink and countertop to compare as you consider a new faucet.

What to consider when buying a tap?

If you have a high-pressure water system, you'll be able to choose from most bath and basin taps, but if you have a lower pressure system it's worthwhile identifying your exact water pressure to find taps that will ensure a strong flow of both warm and cold water.

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