Buying tapware in Preston: mixers, finishes and fitting it right

New tapware is one of the quickest ways to lift a bathroom or kitchen, and it is something you use every day. Many Preston homes still have older two handle taps or dated mixers, so tapware is often the first upgrade on the list. This guide explains what to look for, with links to our showroom page for Preston.

Types of tapware

Basin mixers

Basin mixers sit on the benchtop or basin. Taller versions suit above counter basins, while standard heights suit semi recessed and undermount basins. Check that the spout reaches comfortably into the bowl.

Wall mixers and spouts

Wall mixers with a separate spout keep the benchtop clear and are easy to clean around. They need plumbing in the wall, so they are best chosen during a renovation.

Shower and bath tapware

A shower mixer controls flow and temperature, and some include a diverter for a twin shower. For baths, choose between wall spouts, bath mixers and floor mounted bath fillers for freestanding baths.

Kitchen and laundry mixers

Kitchen mixers come with fixed, swivel or pull out spouts. A pull out spray helps with rinsing in kitchens and laundries. Our kitchen mixer guide goes deeper.

Choosing a finish

• Chrome: classic, bright and easy to match.
• Matte black: strong contrast with white or light tiles.
• Brushed gold: warm and pairs well with timber vanities.
• Warm or cool brushed nickel: subtle and forgiving of water marks.
• Gunmetal: dark and modern, softer than black.

Keep the finish consistent across tapware, shower, towel rails and accessories in one room. Read how to choose tapware finishes for care tips.

Brands we supply

We supply tapware from Phoenix Tapware, Meir and Modern National. Each offers mixers, showers and accessories in matching finishes, so you can complete a room from one range.

Fitting your existing plumbing

If you are not renovating, check before you buy:

1. The number and position of tap holes in the basin or benchtop.
2. Whether existing wall mixers have a body in the wall that the new trim can fit, or whether the body must be replaced.
3. The spout length needed to reach the centre of the basin or sink.

Bring photos and measurements to the showroom and we can help you match products to your plumbing.

Water efficiency and compliance

Look for WELS star ratings for water efficiency and WaterMark certification for use in Australia. See WELS and WaterMark explained.

Handles, flow and comfort

Pin lever handles are slim and minimal, while larger levers are easier for children and older family members to use. A flow rate that suits your water pressure keeps showers comfortable. If your home has low pressure, ask us about shower heads and mixers suited to it before you buy.

Bathroom renovation or simple swap?

Swapping a basin mixer or kitchen mixer is a small job. Changing from a basin mixer to a wall mixer, or moving a shower, means opening walls and is best done as part of a bathroom renovation in Preston. In that case, choose your tapware early so the plumber can install the right bodies before the walls are tiled. Our Preston bathroom renovation guide sets out the steps.

Accessories to match

Finish the room with towel rails, robe hooks and toilet roll holders in the same finish as your tapware. Brands such as Phoenix Tapware and Meir offer accessories designed to sit alongside their mixers.

See tapware side by side

Our Reservoir showroom is about 5 to 10 minutes from Preston and displays tapware in a range of finishes, so you can compare them under the same light. Order for free pickup, usually ready in 2 to 4 days, or have it delivered. If you are renovating, book a free measure and ask us to quote installation by our qualified trades, a paid service.

Close to Thornbury, Preston and Northcote

Our Reservoir showroom is minutes from the inner north. See our local pages for bathroom tiles and tapware near Thornbury, bathroom renovations near Preston and the tile shop near Northcote, or browse all areas we serve.

Common questions

Can I replace a basin mixer myself?

Tapware should be installed by a licensed plumber. We can quote installation by our qualified trades as a paid service.

Which tapware finish is easiest to keep clean?

Brushed finishes such as brushed nickel hide water marks and fingerprints better than polished or very dark finishes.

Where can I see tapware near Preston?

At our Reservoir showroom at 214 Broadway, about 5 to 10 minutes from Preston.

Visit us or shop online

See the range in person at our showrooms: Geelong at 35A Ryrie St, Geelong VIC 3220, phone (03) 5223 2765, and Reservoir at 214 Broadway, Reservoir VIC 3073, phone (03) 9867 5051. Both are open Monday to Friday 9:30am to 5:00pm, Saturday 9:30am to 3:00pm, and Sunday by appointment only.

Planning a renovation? Request a quote and a free measure, and ask us to include installation by our qualified trades if you would like it quoted. Prefer to shop from home? Order online with Australia-wide delivery, or pick up from either showroom, usually ready in 2 to 4 days.