Chrome Bath Taps

Why Opt For Chrome Bath Taps? Why chrome indeed? Chrome is actually chrome plating which refers to a process of electroplating or coating a thin layer of chromium over another metal object.

Why Chrome Bath Taps? 

Chromium is a hard, lustrous, steel-gray metal that has the capacity to withstand the effects of corrosion and tarnish. It is used to harden steel alloys and produce stainless steel. It is also used to resist corrosion in decorative platings, as a pigment in glass, and as a catalyst. Because of its luster and strong resistance to pressure, damage, and discoloration, chrome is the most preferred among other metal platings. This is why chrome bath taps are the favorites.

When buying a chrome bath tap, it is not enough that it is chrome. The bath tap should be able to satisfy your requirements as to function and meet your budget as well. There are important factors to be considered when buying a chrome bath tap, some of which are:

Mounting Chrome Bath Taps

Mounting will depend on the style and design of both your bath and tap. It can be done on the rim of your bath or on the wall against which your bath is positioned if the required plumbing and wiring systems are in place. Your chrome bath tap can be mounted on one, two, or three holes depending on the design you will choose. A three-hole design can be mounted in different fashions as follows:

• Centerset mounting – An elongated base is mounted on three holes over the mounting rim of the bath, a hole on each end of the base for the hot and cold supplies, respectively, and a hole in the middle for the spout where hot water and cold water meet and flow out. The hot and cold water supplies are concealed by the elongated base and the handle and spout sit in the middle of the base, one on top of the other. The elongated base, the handle which controls the flow and blending of water, and the spout, are exposed and mounted as one piece.

• Widespread mounting – The bath tap is mounted on three widespread holes in a line. The two independent hot water and cold water handles are located on each outer hole, respectively, and the spout in the middle hole.

• Miniwidespread mounting – The bath tap is mounted on three holes that are closely aligned with each other, with the hot water and cold water handles located on each outer hole, respectively, and the spout in the middle hole.

Variety of Chrome Tap Handles

Handles have come a long way as to style and design. When choosing handles, the size of the bath and the space available for mounting should be considered. Handles can be the lever type or screw type. Too long levers may cramp a small mounting space, in which case the screw type is advisable. More modern taps can now be operated electronically with an AC/DC power as we are gradually saying goodbye to the handle.

How To Maintain Your Crome Bath Taps

Chrome bath taps can get dirty and unsightly due to daily use. Regular cleaning and maintenance will keep them fresh looking and ever elegant.

1. Clean your chrome bath tap with mild soap and warm water. Never use abrasive cleaners, especially in concentrated amounts, as they may damage the chrome finish.
2. Dry the tap with a clean cloth before applying a mild chrome or metal cleaner. Use a small brush, like a toothbrush, to clean nooks and crannies that are hard to reach.
3. Thoroughly wipe the tap again with a dry cloth. If stains persist, you may try a small amount of white vinegar or rubbing alcohol, pour it on a dry clean cloth, and rub it on the stained portions.
4. Lastly, dry the tap again with a clean cloth, apply high quality chrome polish, let the polish sit for a few minutes, and buff the tap until its luster is restored.