Why Are Faucets So Expensive? (Find Out Now!)

Factors that Impact the Cost of Your Faucet

Not all faucets are expensive, but you will have to drop some money to get one that’s worth it. There are a handful of factors that will impact the overall cost of your faucet, whether it’s for your kitchen or your bathroom. Here’s what you should pay attention to when looking for your new faucet.

Faucet Material

Faucets are made from different materials, which will most definitely affect how much it costs. When it comes to deciding on your own space, you’ll have to decide what matches your room’s aesthetic and how much you want to pay. Here are some of the most common materials from most expensive to most affordable:

Types of Sink Faucets

There are four main types of sink faucets that you’ll have to choose between for your kitchen or bathroom. The one you choose will end up affecting the overall cost of your faucet, which is why it’s important to know about the one you want to buy. First, we’ll take a closer look at sink faucets:

Compression Faucets

These are the oldest type of faucet and are also typically the least expensive. However, they are also usually more prone to leaks and require more maintenance. They feature separate handles, one for hot water and one for cold. These handles tighten and untighten when you rotate them, which will stop and start the water flow.

Ball Faucets

Ball faucets are a type of washerless faucet, which basically means it does not have a threaded valve stem and a washer. They have a single handle that moves over a rounded ball-shaped cap in order to turn the water on and off and control the temperature. These are also fairly inexpensive. When compared to other washerless faucets, they are also more likely to leak.

Disc Faucets

These types of faucets are a bit newer when compared to compression and ball faucets. The body of this faucet is wider than other types and are usually cylindrical. The handle moves to the side and up and down but don’t have as much in terms of free range of motion. They are generally much more durable and therefore, a bit more expensive, too.

Cartridge Faucets

These faucet types can have either one or two handles. However, you don’t have to screw them like compression faucets. Instead, you can turn them from an “off” to an “on” motion. If you have a single-handle faucet, it will move from side to side to set the temperature and up and down to control the flow of water. These are usually a bit more expensive, but not as much as disc faucets.

Types of Bathtub Faucets

When compared to sink faucets, bathtub faucets are priced similarly. There are also four main types of these faucets that you can consider:

Wall-Mount Bathtub Faucets

These are the ones you find in most bathrooms. They’re also the most affordable option. This is because wall-mounted faucets save space and are easy to install since you have better access to plumbing. There are four types, including standalone, spout-only, spout-only with diverter, and bathtub/shower faucet combos.

Deck-Mount Bathtub Faucets

Deck-mounted faucets are installed on the ledge of your bathtub. They are ideal for tubs without a shower. That way, it won’t be in the way while you stand in the shower and will be closer to you when you soak in the tub. These faucets are cost-effective for tubs that are made for them. Otherwise, you’ll have to pay for renovations, too.

Freestanding Bathtub Faucets

AS the name suggests, freestanding faucets are needed for freestanding baths since they aren’t attached to any wall. These types of faucets are floor-mounted with exposed plumbing fixtures. There are many different styles, making them very versatile. That said, they are the most expensive options on the market.

Roman Bathtub Faucets

Roman faucets offer a traditional style with an arched spout and luxurious design. They are versatile in that they can be wall-mounted, deck-mounted, or freestanding. Depending on which option you choose, you can find both cost-effective and expensive options.

Types of Shower Faucets

Finally, there are shower faucets. There are countless types of shower faucets with different settings and setups. We’ll quickly go over the important ones, so you know what to look for in your own home:

Fixed Shower Heads

Fixed shower heads are exactly what they sound like. They are affixed to the wall and cannot be moved off it. However, you will be able to adjust the angle, so the water hits your body just right.

Handheld Shower Heads

These are multipurpose faucets that can hang on the wall and act as a fixed head or can be used in your hand when you need it. This way, you can use it to target specific parts of your body.

Overhead Showers

Overhead showers provide a relaxing, waterfall experience where water will fall evenly around your body instead of at an angle. They can also add to the overall aesthetic of your space.

Full Shower Systems

Full shower systems will have both a fixed head and a flexible handheld one, so you can enjoy the best of both worlds depending on your wants and needs for that day.

Deluxe Shower Systems

If you want to take your shower to the next level, a deluxe shower system is the way to go. On top of a fixed and handheld showerhead, you can enjoy additional body sprayers placed around the walls for a luxurious spa-like experience.

Faucet Features & Styles

No two sinks are the same, so it stands to say they won’t cost the same. Features like the faucet neck and spray options can directly impact the cost of the faucet. How new it is and how intricate the design is will also have an effect on the price you pay.

Faucet Brands

Different faucet brands will charge different amounts for their products, so you should do your research before making a final decision. Some of the more expensive options will come from Delta, Kohler, Moen, and Grohe, while cheaper faucets are often found at KRAUS and Kingston Brass. That said, you can find cost-effective and luxury options from brands across the board.

Interior Remodeling Industry

Finally, the remodeling industry as a whole is expensive, so retailers are able to set higher rates for all types of products, including faucets. Also, you won’t need a new faucet for about five to 10 years on average, and manufacturers and retailers know that. Therefore, they’re going to try to get as much for them as they can.

Why You Should Buy an Expensive Faucet

At the end of the day, spending more money on your sink will be worth it. Otherwise, you’ll have to deal with replacing it more often, which will cost you more in the long run anyway. Plus, a more expensive sink won’t have as many issues, which will save you money on repairs and maintenance, too.

Average Cost for Kitchen and Bathroom Faucets

Kitchen Faucets

On the low end, you can expect to pay between $150 and $300 for a kitchen faucet. That said, you use your kitchen sink every day. For that reason, you should plan to pay a little more. For a mid-quality sink, you can expect to pay more like $500 to $1,000. Higher-quality products can be upwards of $1,500.

Bathroom Faucets

Related Questions

What are some of the most common faucet brands?

Some of the most common faucet brands include Kohler, Grohe, Moen, Delta Faucet, American Standard, KRAUS, Kingston Brass, Glacier Bay, and Pfister.

What are the different parts of a faucet?

Many different moving parts make up the average faucet. These include O-rings, an aerator, a lever, a dome, a cartridge, and a spout.

Final Thoughts

A high-quality faucet is going to cost you, but it’s going to be worth it in the long run. How much you pay will depend on what type of faucet you get and where you get it from. If you choose to purchase one online directly from the manufacturer, you can skip out on the markup prices, but you will have to trade that out for shipping costs. However, if you get one from a store, you have the benefit of actually looking at your options. In the end, the choice is yours!