Faucet Tap Explained: What the Words Mean, Kitchen, Bathroom and Outdoor Types, Valve and Handle Styles, Mixer Versus Single Tap, Materials, Rates and How to Choose
Faucet tap is a search that combines the American word faucet with the Pakistani and British word tap, and shoppers use it to find any water tap for a sink, bath or garden. This page explains what the words mean, kitchen, bathroom and outdoor types, valve and handle styles, mixer versus single tap, materials, rates and how to choose. For specific pages see bathroom taps, sink faucets and kitchen faucets.
The words
Faucet is the American word, tap is the British and Pakistani word, and mixer means a tap that blends hot and cold. Shops list the same product under any of these names, so searching with several is wise.
Types by use
- Kitchen tap. Tall, swivel or pull-out, for sinks.
- Bathroom basin tap. Short, for washbasins.
- Bath and shower mixer. For tubs and showers.
- Bib tap. A wall tap for buckets and hoses.
- Garden or outdoor tap. Rugged, with a hose connector.
Indicative rates
These ranges show common retail figures.
| Tap | Indicative range |
|---|---|
| Basic bib or pillar tap | PKR 500 - 2,500 |
| Kitchen mixer | PKR 3,000 - 15,000 |
| Basin mixer | PKR 2,000 - 6,600 |
| Shower mixer | PKR 3,000 - 12,000 |
| Pull-out kitchen tap | PKR 6,000 - 20,000 |
| Premium mixer | PKR 15,000 - 60,000 |
Prices move with brand, model, size and stock. Use these ranges to judge a quote, then compare the exact model and what is included.
Valve and handle styles
Old taps use rubber washers and a turn of several rotations, and wear out. Modern taps use ceramic discs and a quarter turn, or a single lever, which are smooth and drip-resistant. Choose ceramic disc valves.
Mixer or single taps
A mixer blends hot and cold through one spout, which is convenient and gives better temperature control. Separate hot and cold taps are cheaper but you cannot mix at the spout. Mixers need balanced pressure.
Materials and finish
Brass bodies last longest, zinc alloy is cheaper but can pit, and plastic is for light use. Chrome is easy to clean, and brushed, black and gold finishes cost more. Check weight and plating.
How to choose
- Decide the use. Kitchen, basin, bath or outdoor.
- Check holes and spacing. On your sink or wall.
- Choose brass with a ceramic cartridge. For long life.
- Check pressure and hot water. For mixers.
- Buy hoses and valves. With the tap.
What to check before buying
- Use and type. Matches the sink or wall
- Body and cartridge. Brass and ceramic
- Hole count and spacing. Measured
- Warranty and spares. Written
Searching tips
Use both words, faucet and tap, plus the place, such as kitchen, basin or bath, when you search. See bathroom taps and kitchen faucets for detailed buying guides. Fixed plumbing should be done by a licensed plumber.
Before you decide
Decide where the tap goes, measure the holes and choose brass with a ceramic cartridge. Whatever you call it, a good tap is a small purchase with a big daily effect.
Frequently Asked Questions
None in function. Faucet is the American word, tap is the British and Pakistani word. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis. Check the warranty terms and who honours them before you pay. Measure carefully and confirm sizes with the seller before ordering.
A tap that blends hot and cold water through one spout. Check the warranty terms and who honours them before you pay. Measure carefully and confirm sizes with the seller before ordering. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit.
A basic bib tap is about PKR 500 to 2,500, a basin mixer about PKR 2,000 to 6,600, a kitchen mixer about PKR 3,000 to 15,000 and a premium mixer about PKR 15,000 to 60,000. Measure carefully and confirm sizes with the seller before ordering.
A ceramic disc valve, smooth and drip-resistant. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit. If you are unsure, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis.
Brass with a ceramic cartridge. If you are unsure, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis. Check the warranty terms and who honours them before you pay.
Send the details and a photo on WhatsApp. We confirm what we can supply and reply with a written rate that lists the model, size, warranty and delivery, so you can compare it with other quotes on the same scope. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit.
Choosing a tap?
Send the details and a photo. We reply with a written rate.