"Upgrade Your Space: Best Deck-Mounted Taps for 2023"
Deck Mounted Taps: Enhance Your Outdoor Space with Style and Functionality
Deck mounted taps, also known as deck faucets, are a practical and stylish way to integrate water access into your outdoor living space. Whether you're watering plants, washing hands, or filling a cooler, these taps offer convenience and durability, making them an excellent investment for your deck or patio. In this guide, we'll delve into the world of deck mounted taps, exploring their benefits, types, installation, and maintenance.
Why Choose Deck Mounted Taps?
Deck mounted taps offer several advantages that make them a popular choice for outdoor spaces:
- Convenience: They provide easy access to water, saving you trips back and forth to your indoor kitchen or bathroom.
- Durability: Designed to withstand outdoor elements, these taps are built to last, often featuring materials like brass, stainless steel, or heavy-duty plastic.
- Style: Available in a variety of designs and finishes, deck mounted taps can enhance the aesthetic of your outdoor space, complementing your deck's style and your home's exterior.
- Versatility: They can be installed on decks, patios, sheds, or even standalone posts, making them a flexible addition to various outdoor settings.
Types of Deck Mounted Taps
Deck mounted taps come in different types to cater to various needs and preferences:
Mixer Taps
Mixer taps, also known as pillar taps, have two handles that control both hot and cold water flow. They are suitable for outdoor kitchens or bars where you might need hot water.
Single Lever Taps
Single lever taps have a single handle that controls both water flow and temperature. They are easy to use and are a good choice for simple water access points, like for filling watering cans or washing hands.
Pull-Out and Pull-Down Taps
Pull-out and pull-down taps have a flexible hose that can be extended for better reach. Pull-out taps extend from the side, while pull-down taps extend from the bottom. These are ideal for filling large containers or reaching hard-to-get-to areas.
Wall-Mounted Taps
Wall-mounted taps are similar to deck-mounted taps but are installed on the wall instead. They are a good option if you want to save space or have a unique design aesthetic.
Installing Deck Mounted Taps
Installing deck mounted taps is a DIY-friendly project. Here's a simplified step-by-step guide:
- Gather your materials: deck mounted tap, water supply lines, tape measure, drill, screwdriver, wrench, and Teflon tape.
- Measure and mark the location for your tap, ensuring it's close to a water supply line.
- Drill holes for the tap and water supply lines, using a drill bit that matches the size of your supply lines.
- Thread the water supply lines through the holes and connect them to the tap using compression fittings or push-fit connectors.
- Wrap the threads of the tap with Teflon tape to create a watertight seal.
- Secure the tap to the deck using the provided mounting hardware.
- Turn on the water supply and check for leaks. Tighten any connections as needed.
Maintaining Your Deck Mounted Tap
Regular maintenance can extend the life of your deck mounted tap and keep it functioning properly:
- Inspect for leaks: Regularly check the tap and connections for any leaks. Tighten connections as needed.
- Clean the aerator: Over time, the aerator (the screen at the end of the tap) can become clogged with mineral deposits. Remove it and clean it with vinegar to restore water flow.
- Winterize the tap: If you live in a cold climate, you'll need to winterize your tap to prevent freezing and bursting. This usually involves draining the water supply and turning off the water supply valve.
Deck Mounted Taps: A Versatile Addition to Your Outdoor Space
Deck mounted taps are not just a practical addition to your outdoor space; they can also enhance its aesthetic and functionality. Whether you're looking to create an outdoor kitchen, a relaxing seating area, or a lush garden, deck mounted taps can help you make the most of your outdoor living space. With a variety of types and designs to choose from, you're sure to find one that suits your needs and complements your home's exterior.