Antique faucets can add a touch of nostalgia and charm to almost any area. Choosing the right ones can sometimes be difficult as there are many factors to consider. When you are thinking of purchasing antique faucets, you first might want to consider whether or not the fixtures will work with the pipes you already have. You should also ask whether or not an antique fixture has been refurbished and thoroughly cleaned. It is important as well to check each unit for signs of rust or cracks. After this, you should be able to select ones that suit your personal taste as well as the decor of your home.
Many times, plumbing pipes in newer structures are different sizes than that of older houses. This could mean that some antique faucets may not work in your home. Try to determine what size pipes you have in order to know whether or not the one you are considering can be used after it is purchased. You may want to take a tape measure with you when shopping in order to be able to measure the size of any units you find.
It also is important to ask the dealer whether or not the antique faucets they are selling have been restored. Ideally, a dealer should have replaced all the washers within the units as well as any screws. Also, ask whether or not they have been checked to make sure the threads were not worn or if they have been tested in order to make sure they work.
You may also want to know if the fixtures have been cleaned thoroughly. This is because older fixtures can have lime or calcium build-up inside them. Ideally, the ones you are looking at should have been disassembled and scrubbed completely in order to get rid of any of these deposits.
Faucets that you considering also should be thoroughly checked for signs of rust or cracks in any metal pieces. Discard any that have a great deal of rust or cracks bigger than a hairline in them. Such damage could make the faucet unusable.
After making sure the antique faucets are in good condition, you can then try to figure out which ones might look best in your bathroom, utility room, or kitchen. Think about where you might want to place them and the overall decor of these areas. This should help you pick the models that will give you the look you are trying to achieve.