You're almost finished with your kitchen remodel, but you still haven't found the right faucet for your new sink. Then it happens: during one Saturday-afternoon foray through a kitchen showroom, you spot the perfect polished-brass beauty. Should you buy it? Maybe. But before you plunk down your hard-earned cash, it's a good idea to make sure you know what you're buying.
Most faucets are turned off and on repeatedly, day in and day out, for many years. For that reason, you'll want to choose one that not only looks great, but is convenient and safe and will provide durable service for a long time. Though price is usually a pretty good measure of quality, it isn't necessarily the best measure-nor does it determine whether or not a certain faucet will best serve your needs. To make a wise choice, you need a clear understanding of typical faucet construction and inner workings.