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FAUCET FEATURE 1: Profile of the FSC1971APL American Patriot Lavatory Faucet
- Model Number: FSC1971APL
- Brand Name: Fauceture
- Collection Name: American Patriot
- Category: Faucet
- Sub-Category: Bathroom Faucet
- Sub-Category2: Widespread Faucet
- Material: Brass
- Number of Handles: 2
Lavatory faucets are designed to fit three different types of sinks, one of those is the widespread design. The widespread, also known as the 8″ center-to-center setup (also can extend as much as 16″) is not manufactured as a single piece faucet, since each valve and the spout are installed individually in their respective holes.
- Pros: A more upgraded look and large selection of styles to chose from.
- Cons: More difficult installation as it requires that you connect the valves to the spout from below the counter.
ABOUT THE CARTRIDGE – CERAMIC DISC:
A ceramic cartridge depends on two opposing discs with triangular openings which either line up to allow the flow of water or block the opposing disc openings (preventing the flow of water). A washerless cartridge is designed with a stainless steel plate at the bottom. This has a crescent shape cutout as the cartridge rotates the cutout lines up with a spring-loaded washer to allow the flow of water. When the cartridge turns 180 degrees, the spring-loaded washer will line up with the solid portion of the cartridge blocking the flow of water.
The bottom line is that both systems perform the same function in a consistent manner. The major differences are that because ceramic carbide will not wear out due to friction. The carbide however is brittle and any debris on the water lines may cause the cartridge to crack, barring that eventually it could literally last a lifetime. On the other side, the springs on the washerless cartridge will eventually lose their tension allowing water to seep in between the washer and the stainless steel plate causing the faucet to drip. Should repairs be necessary, replacing the springs, washers and cartridge is far more economical than replacing a ceramic cartridge.
ABOUT THE COLLECTION – AMERICAN PATRIOT
In highlighting the patriotic inspiration with traditional beauty, the American Patriot collection from Kingston Brass brings incomparable stylings that evoke pride and regalness. Relish the chic, classic porcelain handles inspired by early colonial times. The lavatory faucets are complimentary to vintage decor, added, its gracefulness is concurrent throughout the entire collection.
ABOUT THE FINISHES:
Polished Chrome – This was a very popular finish, especially in plumbing and door hardware products globally, especially in Europe, Asia and South America. Part of the reason might be its durability. It is an electroplated finish, which is part of the reason it is very durable. Chrome is considered a cold color; it’s a stark silver color. Designers like it because it is very easy to work with and it fits into most décor depending on the style of the faucet or accessory. The biggest complaint is that it does show fingerprints and water spots.
Polished Nickel – Some people consider this an alteration of the polished chrome finish. In reality it is a totally separate finish, somewhat like chrome with a slight yellow tint, making it a warmer option to your décor. Although it gives a much richer look to your kitchen or bathroom, it is usually not immensely popular. It is priced at 25% to 50% higher than chrome, and unfortunately most end users do not see the value of paying a substantial up-charge for a finish that looks very close to chrome.
Satin Nickel – Without a doubt, this is one of the most popular finishes today.. It gained its popularity partly because of practicality. It is easy to maintain as it does not show fingerprints or water spots easily. From the designers point of view, it is easy to coordinate with most granite or marble colors. You may still have the risk of tarnishing, but if you follow common sense maintenance guidelines you should be able to maintain it for many years.
Oil Rubbed Bronze – This is by far the most problematic finish to most manufacturers because it is considered a living finish. Living is a code word for “forever changes.” The ideal scenario is that it will mature with age and give the room a rustic feel. In reality, it does not always mature the way you want it to. If the end user is aware of the characteristics of this finish and knows what they are getting into, it is fine. The problem originates when designers fail to educate the client and do not give enough “Caveat emptor” information.
Polished Brass – After the development of PVD technology back in the 90’s, the durability of the polished brass finish was no longer an issue. This finish was very popular in the 80’s and 90’s, but not long ago, because of the availability of so many finishes in the market, polished brass lost its flair–but then has popularized again. Its acclaim, affected somewhat by geographic trends, still has a great standing especially in the Northeast and Midwest. Polished brass will add a touch of rich elegance to any bathroom unsurpassed by any other finish.
