Plumbing Fixtures

Plumbing is often something that many homeowners presuppose. They turn on their faucets and the water is there. However, there are times when good plumbing fixtures are overlooked, and many homeowners end up needing to redo their plumbing systems to be more efficient and convenient. Homeowners must at least have the basic knowledge of the different types of plumbing fixtures available and its installation requirements.

What Are Plumbing Fixtures?

Basically, plumbing fixtures are devices that’s part of a plumbing system, needed to “deliver and drain” water, at the same time as being designed to enable a specific use. The most common plumbing fixtures include water closets or flush toilets, urinals, bathroom sinks, utility sinks, bathtubs, bidets, showers, terminal valves, hose bibs, and kitchen sinks.

“Tapware” is often the term used in the industry for the sub-category of these plumbing fixtures that consists of faucets or watertaps, and its accessories like shower heads and water spouts.

Most Common Types Of Plumbing Fixtures

Manufacturers of both residential and commercial plumbing fixtures have become very innovative in supplying an extensive range of finishes, shapes, colors, and even the themes for faucets, trim, and fixtures. Taking benefit from these alternatives and integrating them into the plumbing design will create an effective and pleasing environment for homeowners.

Every plumbing fixture isn’t created equal. They must be chosen based on one’s needs, construction conditions, code requirements, budget considerations, and aesthetic requirements. Here’s an overview of the most common types of plumbing fixtures for the bathroom:

Water Closets

There are essentially two kinds of water closets: the floor-mounted and wall-mounted. Both types are available with flush valves or flush tanks and may be chosen to meet the A.D.A requirements. Every water closet for “public use” must have open-front seats and elongated bowls.

Floor-mounted toilets are often used for home bathrooms, and they require two-floor penetrations for its piping. One will be for its vent located within the wall and the other for its drain located ten to twelve inches from the wall face. It’s secured to the floor through bolts, and requires less “chase space” that wall-mounted types.

Bathroom Sinks

There are endless types and designs of bathroom sinks. They can be counter-mounted, molded together with counter-tops, and wall-mounted. They can also be chosen to meet the A.D.A requirements and have the same piping requirements. Wall-mounted bathroom sinks have a carrier that supports its rear with arms, bracket, and bolts. Its more stable carrier type is bolted to the floor to keep its weight from being transferred to the wall –this type of carrier needs a thicker wall.

Counter-mounted bathroom sinks must be selected to suit the “casework” provided, and its bowl can either be mounted from under the countertop or above it. Faucets for bathroom sinks must also be selected for aesthetics, functionality, and A.D.A compliance.

Showers

Showers are common plumbing fixtures for bathrooms, as they provide a more convenient way of bathing. They come in various types and designs, and some modern showers are even integrated with a spa function. Nearly all showers come with a hot and cold water system, which provides more suitable bathing. Showers are considered a more efficient way of using water than using bathtubs.

There are various well-known manufacturers for plumbing fixtures including Gerber plumbing fixtures, Kohler plumbing fixtures, Delta plumbing fixtures, and others. Plumbing fixtures are more than just symbols of plumbing designs and floor plans. Along with various aesthetic appearance and functionality, they can be suited for specific applications. Additionally, plumbing fixture designs that accommodate special use requirements such as for handicap accessibility are also available. The most important thing for homeowners is that they pay attention to the details of their plumbing fixtures, and always choose quality, durability, and functionality over anything else.