Bridge faucets span design eras

They look old-fashioned, but they're made to use with modern faucet technology.

December 10, 2011 at 10:18PM
(Star Tribune/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Q We plan on installing a farmhouse-style sink with the apron front in our new kitchen. I think that an old-looking "bridge" faucet would look great on that sink. But my husband wants to stay with a more modern-looking faucet. He is afraid that a bridge faucet could be harder to install and tougher to get parts for in the future. Are these valid concerns?

A Just like pedestal sinks, bridge faucets are one of those plumbing products that keep coming back.

Right now, bridge faucets are a very popular choice for bathroom, utility and, especially, kitchen sinks.

Bridge faucets are two-handled, but instead of the hot and cold connecting under the sink, these faucets have the exposed cross pipe (bridge) elevated above the sink to which the spout is attached.

This gives the faucet a very old-fashioned look on the outside, but on the inside most are made to use modern faucet technology.

So, this is my bridge to get back to your husband's concerns about parts and installation. As long as you stay with a quality major-brand faucet manufacturer, a new bridge faucet should not cause you any big issues with initial labor costs and/or service parts down the road.

Also, bridge faucets are now available in many finishes that should match any kitchen perfectly.

Bottom line: Go with the faucet you want and don't cross that bridge off your wish list.

Master contractor/plumber Ed Del Grande is the author of "Ed Del Grande's House Call," and hosts TV shows on Scripps Networks and HGTVPro.com.

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about the writer

ED DEL GRANDE, HGTVPro.com

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