Guiding Your Customers to Their Ideal Kitchen Faucet, by Philipe Filion (Baril), an Education Committee Member

Even though most customers will research prior to visiting a showroom, they can become easily overwhelmed by the sheer quantity of features and designs available in the marketplace. The Internet has accelerated information overload. Your role is to create a comfort zone by asking the right questions and listening carefully to responses. You will earn their trust and demonstrate your expertise.

1. Is this a replacement faucet? If so, what is the existing hole configuration?

If the replacement leaves open the possibility of unfilled holes on the sink or mounting surface, a useful and popular solution is to fill open holes with soap dispensers, air switches, filtered water dispensers and pop-up strainer controls. A cover plate may also be used.

2. What is the size and type of sink and deck the faucet is to be mounted on? What are the immediate surroundings?

It is always a good idea to purchase the sink and faucet at the same time to ensure a perfect fit. Whether they keep an existing sink or purchase a new one, you must determine if, given the reach and angle of the spout, the water stream will reach at least the middle of the sink bowls. Make sure there is adequate space to enable the handles to function properly. Some manufacturers’ single-handle faucet handles move backwards towards the backsplash. The location of the sink may have an impact on the height of the spout too. If installed in front of a window or below low-hanging cabinets, a low-arc or pull-out faucet may be preferable.

3. How many sinks in the kitchen?

New kitchens often feature more than one preparation area. Many manufacturers offer matching faucets for kitchen and bar sinks.

4. Who in the household will use the kitchen faucet the most and how? How often do they cook?

Determining a customer’s lifestyle is part of the needs assessment. High-arc faucets provide more work surface in the sink, making it easier for your clients to fill large pots. A pot-filler may also be advisable. Some manufacturers offer hands-free options. These faucets let you activate the water flow without touching the handle so you avoid getting it dirty. Two types of technology are available. Infrared models turn on the flow when an object is within a few inches of the sensor while capacitance faucets require you to touch the faucet to turn it on and off.

5. What type of handles and spray do they prefer?

Bridge and widespread faucets require two hands to operate and if a spray is available, it is separate from the unit. Contemporary and transitional single-handle pull-out and pull-down models are popular for the cleaner look they provide and for their quick, easy, one-handed operation. Sprays are always advisable for their convenience at washing fruits and vegetables and cleaning the sink.

6. What finishes are used and what is the general style of the kitchen/home? Does the customer have a style preference?

You need to gain insight into a client’s style. Styles available today range from the basic single handle chrome faucet to elaborate traditional models reminiscent of 18th century England. It’s your job to assist them in curating the vast array of options and then finding the product that will fit their needs and price range. Sometimes this can be a real challenge! The most common styles range from traditional – with details such as ridges, finials and porcelain or crystal accents – to contemporary – clean, straight lines and often minimalist. The transitional style is a marriage of traditional and contemporary and often features tear-drop shapes.

The finish of the kitchen faucet should blend with or accentuate the other colors in the kitchen. Stainless steel and satin nickel offer a similar look and either may be acceptable to complement stainless steel appliances and sinks. Chrome remains very popular for its durability and timelessness. Manufacturers offer a spectrum of colors but inform your client that these finishes may be more delicate and should be shielded from some acid- and alkaline-based foods and cleaning products.

By listening to your customers and guiding them towards the ideal faucet for their individual needs, you not only satisfy them, but also earn their trust and create a bond that no online retailer can achieve.