Plumber: Wall-mounted faucets can top standard faucet choices

Dear Ed: We're saving up for a nice little bathroom remodeling job and will be on a strict budget. The job will include replacing our old bathroom sink and faucet. We have a standard faucet, but because we're installing a completely new sink and vanity we would like to put in a wall-mounted faucet. Will that be more expensive than putting in a regular faucet that just mounts on the sink? Joe, Ohio

Dear Joe: Wall-mounted faucets can be a good choice for new construction. Like the name says, wall-mounted bathroom faucets mount on the wall behind the sink and typically are installed on raised "vessel" sinks, or under-counter mounted bathroom sinks.

They provide a trendy look and can make it easier to clean the sink or counter because the entire faucet is raised off the deck. However, you may have noticed that I used the phrase "new construction." That can be the key for choosing a wall-mounted faucet.

With new construction or a complete bathroom demo job, the walls are opened up and the extra work needed to pipe in a wall-hung faucet usually can be kept under control. If you did not plan on opening up the wall behind the sink, this type of faucet could add significant costs to your job. Bottom line: If you really want a sleek, wall-mounted faucet, you may need to raise the ceiling on your bathroom remodeling budget.

Master contractor/plumber Ed Del Grande is as the author of "Ed Del Grande's House Call," host of TV and Internet shows and a LEED green associate. Visit eddelgrande.com or write eadelg@cs.com. Always consult local contractors and codes.

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Plumber: Wall-mounted faucets can top standard faucet choices