Antique Copper Kitchen Faucets

For years, copper has been a common medium for crafting items for use in the home to fill both functional and decorative purposes. Today, our fondness for the natural, burnished beauty of this metal is evident in the rising popularity of copper fixtures. This is especially evident in the rapidly growing market for antique copper kitchen faucets, a popular fixture in many kitchens and bathrooms the world over.

Features

If you are shopping for antique copper kitchen faucets, you will be able to choose from a wide range of designs, sizes and finish options available. Manufacturers provide this variety so as to meet the huge demand among today's homeowners for a faucet that is not just a water tap, but also a fashionable accessory that significantly enhances their kitchen design set up. Like other modern faucets, antique copper kitchen faucets can be broadly categorized into two types based on their functionality: Compression faucets and mixing faucets.

Compression Faucets

The compression faucet is the traditional, old-style design that consists of a spigot with two knobs, one for hot water and the other for cold. It relies on washer valves to regulate the temperature and pressure of the water. This type of antique copper kitchen faucet requires a 3-hole widespread installation.

Mixing Faucets

The mixing faucet is a more contemporary design. It consists of a spigot and a single handle that enables you to control water pressure and temperature with a single lever. This type of antique copper kitchen faucet is an easy-to-use option, particularly for anyone who has some degree of difficulty using their hands. It functions without the need for water valves and requires only one hole in the sink for installation.

Choices

While the mixing spigot offers a more modern and durable configuration, the most popular choice among buyers of antique copper kitchen faucets is the old-fashioned compression faucet design; this is largely because it offers more artistic variety and sophistication, particularly for rustic or country design themes.

Patina

Antique copper kitchen faucets are vulnerable to oxidation. Over time, copper oxidizes with exposure to moisture and air; this causes it to tarnish as it develops a green colored patina, which is a thin film that develops on the metal surface through oxidation. Some people love the patina for the touch of authentic, rustic charm that it adds to their overall design theme. If you would rather not deal with patina on your antique copper kitchen faucets, be sure to purchase a brand that has a lacquer coating, which helps preserve the original antique finish.