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Industrial design has become increasingly popular in home kitchens over the last decade. The retro utilitarian aesthetic brings vintage charm to modern spaces. Exposed pipes, distressed metals, and factory influences create urban edge. Industrial bridge faucets are an iconic way to get this commercial style with their bold lines and minimalist forms.
Bridge faucets have the spout set on a deck-mounted bridge above the sink. This unique mounting provides excellent clearance for filling pots and cleaning. The bridge itself acts as a focal point, drawing the eye with its eye-catching exposed pipes. While bridge faucets come in many designs, industrial styles stand out with their simple mixed metals and lack of plastic. Keep reading to discover what makes these faucets distinct, their benefits, and how to choose the right one to unleash your inner urban industrialist.
What Makes Industrial Bridge Faucets Distinct
Exposed Materials and Minimalist Look
Industrial bridge faucets emphasize metal materials and mechanical styling. They are made using real pipes and solid brass or zinc components. You won't find much plastic or flashy finishes. Instead, these faucets keep to a straightforward utilitarian look.
Exposed stainless steel and other metals create an eye-catching focal point. Finishes are matte or softly brushed rather than high-gloss. Combined with the lack of ornamental detailing, this creates a bold yet minimalist look. The aesthetic draws inspiration from early 20th-century factories and warehouses.
Functional Bridge Spout Design
Unlike regular faucets mounted to the sink or counter, bridge faucets have the spout set on a bridge that spans the basin. This bridge structure is what gives them their name. The design provides excellent clearance below the spout compared to other faucet types.
The bridge itself brings drama and becomes a defining interior feature. The exposed piping makes a statement and adds vintage industrial flair. Bridges allow flexibility in spout placement. You can position the spout anywhere along the bridge rather than being limited to pre-drilled deck holes.
Vintage Industrial Influences
While they look bold and modern, industrial bridge faucets take inspiration from early 20th century industry. Their aesthetics reference materials and forms used in factories, warehouses, and commercial kitchens of the era.
Exposed functional parts like pipes, valves, and brackets provide vintage appeal. Yet the minimalism and clean lines keep these faucets feeling current. Industrial bridge faucets blend historical engineering charm with modern sensibilities.
Benefits of Installing an Industrial Bridge Faucet
Easy Cleaning and Maintenance
The streamlined look of industrial bridge faucets isn’t just for style. It also makes cleaning a breeze. Without intricate detailing or complex joints, there are fewer spots for grime to hide.
The open bridge area allows you to access areas that would be hard to reach on other mounted faucets. Industrial bridge faucets are designed for utility, not ornamentation. Keeping them looking great is quick and simple.
Flexible Positioning
Since industrial bridge faucets mount to a deck-spanning bridge rather than your sink or wall, you have ultimate flexibility in placement. The spout can be positioned anywhere along the full bridge length.
Bridges allow you to install a single faucet across a double basin sink. Or you can mount the bridge on the wall behind a sink for a pot filler setup. The range of positions available makes it easy to customize your kitchen’s workflow.
Commercial Power and Performance
With their commercial styling, it’s no surprise that industrial bridge faucets also deliver pro-level power and performance. The internal components are built to withstand constant heavy use day after day.
From the pressure capacity to the water saving options, these faucets perform as well as models made for busy restaurant kitchens. They combine rugged durability with high-end features you'd expect in professional equipment.
What to Look For in an Industrial Bridge Faucet
Durable Materials
With their bold exposed piping, industrial bridge faucets demand durable materials that can handle wear and tear. All-metal construction is ideal. Solid brass, zinc, and stainless steel offer superior longevity over plastic internals.
The finish should also stand up to regular use. Look for powder-coated, PVD, or galvanized finishes rather than paint which can chip over time. Avoid softer metals like copper that dent and scratch easily. The right materials ensure your bridge faucet maintains its structurally sound industrial look.
Secure Mounting
Since industrial bridge faucets span a wide area, stability is crucial. Look for models with sturdy metal mounting brackets to handle the weight of the bridge and spout.
Ideally, the faucet should anchor securely to the sink deck or wall at multiple points. This distributes force and keeps the bridge from flexing or sagging over time. Reinforced mounting preserves the bold lines of your faucet.
Flexible Spout Height
One advantage of bridge faucets is their clearance under the spout. To maximize functionality, look for models with at least 15 inches of spout height from counter to aerator outlet.
Height adjustability allows you to raise the spout up or down to accommodate large pots. A swivel ball joint makes it easy to pivot the spout left or right. Together height and swivel motion ensure you can fill any vessel with ease.
5 Top Industrial Bridge Faucet Picks
With so many industrial bridge faucet options, it can be tricky to choose. These five models provide an excellent combination of attractive vintage styling, commercial-grade performance, and durable construction.
Kraus KPF-1650MB - A sleek single-handle faucet with a 16-inch matte black bridge. The metal construction feels substantial, and the spout height adjusts 18 inches. Industrial styling at a very reasonable price point.
Moen Caldwell - A polished chrome brass faucet with classic cross handles. Quality construction with Moen's Spot Resist finish to limit fingerprints and water spots. Easy to install and operate.
Delta Trinsic - Minimalist design with magnetic docking sprayhead and Diamond Seal Technology for leak protection. Available in arctic stainless, matte black, or chrome. Delta's signature quality at a mid-range cost.
Kraus KPF-2130 - For a true pot-filler setup, this commercial-style model has an L-shaped swing arm with a 27-inch reach. All-metal construction and rust-resistant finish.
Grohe Zedra - A high-arc modern spout complemented by cross handles. Offering Grohe's proprietary SilkMove ceramic cartridge and SpeedClean anti-lime system. A premium option made to last decades.
How to Install an Industrial Bridge Faucet
Installing an industrial bridge faucet takes careful planning and some DIY skills. But it’s very doable for an experienced homeowner.
You’ll need channel lock pliers, adjustable wrench, Phillips screwdriver, silicone sealant. Ensure you have all necessary components that came with the faucet. Have rags, bucket, and towels ready.
Shut Off Water Supply Lines
Locate the shutoff valves under the sink and turn them off. Open the faucet to release pressure. Disconnect and remove old faucet. Clean sink surface thoroughly.
Mount the Bridge
Apply silicone sealant to underside of bridge. Position bridge across sink basin. Insert screws through holes in mounting plate into deck. Tighten screws fully to secure bridge.
Assemble and Install Faucet
Attach the spout, handles, and spray hose to the faucet body following manufacturer instructions. Then attach faucet to mounting holes on bridge. Ensure all connections are tight.
Connect Supply Lines
Connect hot and cold supply lines to the faucet valves. Make sure inlet and outlet are threaded properly. Use wrenches to tighten.
Test for Leaks and Re-Pressurize
Turn on shutoff valves to re-pressurize. Remove aerator and turn handles to full on to flush debris. Check all connections for leaks. Re-attach aerator when water runs clear.
Achieving The Perfect Industrial Kitchen Ambiance
An industrial bridge faucet makes a bold stylistic statement. For a cohesive look, choose complementary elements like exposed pipes, metal finishes, and retro lighting. Here are some ideas to nail the urban industrial vibe:
- Swap out cabinet hardware for matte black or brass handles
- Use metal mesh screen on open shelving for an industrial accent
- Incorporate reclaimed wood or concrete surfaces to balance the metals
- Install matching industrial sconces or vintage Edison bulbs
- Add a backsplash with exposed brick, black hexagon tile, or subway tile
- Paint or stain cabinets a darker muted tone to let the metals pop
Tying these elements together creates an interior with rustic yet contemporary edge. The industrial bridge faucet serves as the anchor, bringing a slice of urban loft living into your own kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size bridge faucet do I need for my double basin sink?
Choose a bridge faucet at least as wide as your total sink width. For a coordinated look, extending 2-3 inches wider than the sink is recommended.
Can I install an industrial bridge faucet myself?
While feasible as a DIY project, bridge faucet installation is best left to an experienced handyperson. The extensive plumbing connections take skill to complete properly.
How do I keep my bridge faucet working well long-term?
Prevent hard water buildup with regular wiping and occasionally using white vinegar diluted in water for cleaning. Avoid abrasive cleaners. Use manufacturer care guidelines.
Can I customize my faucet with special finishes or features?
Many manufacturers offer bridge faucets that are customizable. You can often select sprayer styles, handle designs, and unique finish options to make the faucet truly one-of-a-kind.
With striking industrial design, superior clearance, and vintage utilitarian edge, bridge faucets are perfect for achieving a commercial-inspired kitchen aesthetic. The right industrial-style model offers artful exposure of robust metalwork combined with modern functionality. If you seek a focal point faucet to unlock your inner urban loft, an industrial bridge faucet delivers bold and beautiful inspiration.
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