The term TAPWARE in this guide refers to 3 piece tapware, or conventional style tapware, consisting of 2 separate handles (1 HOT, 1 COLD). MIXER TAPS or single lever tapware, is discussed in the guide “CHOOSING A MIXER TAP”.
TAPWARE SET TYPES
BASIN SETS come as a 3 piece set with a hot and cold tap and a spout. There are hob mounted sets, or, wall mounted sets. Wall mounted basin sets give a more minimalist look by keeping the benchtop area around the basin free from clutter. If you choose a wall mounted basin set, make sure the basin you choose doesn’t have any tapholes.
BATH SETS come as a 3 piece set with a hot and cold tap and a spout. The taps are wall mounted as well as the spout. Bath sets are also available as a hob mounted bath/ spa set. The taps are available separately to put with a different spout, these are called Wall Top Assemblies. For information on the types of spouts available see our guide to CHOOSING A SPOUT.
SHOWER SETS come as a 3 piece set with a hot and cold tap and a shower rose. The taps are wall mounted as well as the rose. The taps are available separately to put with a different rose, these are called Wall Top Assemblies. For information on the types of showers available see our guide to CHOOSING A SHOWER.
LAUNDRY SETS come as a 3 piece set with a hot and cold tap and a laundry arm (spout). The arm will swivel for easier use of the tub. There are telescopic or folding arms to acheive a greater spout length.
SINK SETS come as a 3 piece set with a hot and cold tap and a spout. There are hob mounted sets, or, wall mounted sets. Wall mounted sets give a more minimalist look by keeping the benchtop area around the sink free from clutter. If you choose a wall mounted set, make sure the sink you choose doesn’t have any tapholes.
WALL TOP ASSEMBLIES are wall taps on their own. They are used where a different spout or shower rose other than what is included as a set is required. They are used for Baths, Laundry Tubs, Spas and Showers. Basin and Sink Top Assemblies are also available.
WASHING MACHINE TAPS are used for the water supply to the washing machine. There are some taps available that will operate the laundry tub as well as the washing machine.
HANDLE TYPES
Conventional tapware sets come with 3 handle styles; Cross, Lever or Dial.
CROSS HANDLES are the most common. They are available with Jumper Valves (standard washers) or Ceramic Discs (1/4, 1/2 or 3/4 turn). Styling wise they are available in traditional or contemporary designs.
LEVER HANDLES are becoming more popular especially for those with movement restrictions and the elderly. They are only available with Ceramic Discs.
DIAL HANDLES. A new generation of handle design. These handles are sleek, minimalist and modern. Due to their innovative water control valve they offer a very low profile handle.
VALVE, OR SPINDLE, TYPE
A JUMPER VALVE SBA is the technical terminology for a spindle with a standard washer assembly. The washer, when screwed down, sits into a housing (or seat) and shuts off the water. When the valve is opened the pressure of the water pushes the washer up allowing the water to flow.
A CERAMIC DISC SBA has 2 ceramic plates (discs) which slide against each other. They have openings in each disc, and when you turn the handle these openings meet, allowing the water to flow. Ceramic Disc SBA’s are available as 1/4 turn, 1/2 turn or 3/4 turn (eg. 1/4 turn SBA’s only need to be turned a quarter of the way to acheive a full flow). 3/4 turn SBA’s will give the best control of water flow.
POPULAR BRANDS OF BATHROOM AND KITCHEN TAPWARE
Follow the links to Australia's most popular brands of bathroom and kitchen tapware.
Argent
Bastow
Brewers
Brodware
Caroma
Centique
Dorf
Irwell
Methven
Millenium Tapware
Novelli
Paco Jaanson
Phoenix Tapware
Ram Taps
Southcape