Handles

Common faucets materials are available with chrome plating, brass plating, epoxy coating, pewter, nickel, or an enameled color coating. The best material for a faucet is solid cast brass, with tubular brass as a second choice. Avoid materials such as plastic, steel, and pot metals. If you like brass, look for manufacturers that produce the faucet with a coating guaranteed not to tarnish.

You can make fashion statement by mixing materials, colors, and finishes. Colors are available to accent or blend in with your sink and countertop. Finishes are available to suit your tastes--such as matte, brushed, antiqued, and polished. Note that polished surfaces may show watermarks and scratches more than brushed and matte surfaces. Make sure that you use the appropriate cleaners for your type of faucet so as not to damage its finish.