Nikole Ramsay
Transforming a kitchen doesn’t always mean a full refit with new tiles, plumbing, cabinetry and layout. Whether you’re renting or simply on a budget a full renovation is not always possible so consider a simple makeover with a swap of dated tapware to bring it bang up to date.
“It should be a straight forward changeover,” says John Voltz of Reece at Lewisham. Older properties often have tapware that appears fixed forever but with careful measuring and inspection you can usually do a direct swap, like-for-like. Be sure to inspect what you’re dealing with first though, says John “older style taps have a jumper valve, whereas newer models turn on a ceramic disc.”
Sink and basin holes are a universal size so standard for all mixers but if in doubt, ensure your replacement fittings have a flange at the base for a neat finish.
Essentially tapware is standard across the board so a direct swap should be possible and achievable in a couple of hours. Before you buy, dismantle your taps and inspect the inner workings.
Tips to ensure a quick and easy facelift:
- Just check you are replacing like with like
- Inspect spindles inside the tap to ensure thread size is standard
- Ask for installation guidelines when purchasing tapware – these should have step-by-step instructions to follow
- Check stock levels online or call the store before you start pulling things apart and hit the road
- Take photos or remove the tapware and carry it with you to the plumbing supply store to be sure.
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