Santa Clara County – Plumbing Fixture Showrooms

Inspect your new plumbing fixtures, whether you’re taking them home directly from the showroom yourself, having them delivered or having them installed. Compare item numbers or barcode numbers to ensure you’ve received the exact fixture you paid for.

Look for any flaws in the finish, design or installation. Now is the time to address any concerns and get answers to your question; once you leave the showroom or the installer leaves your home, it may be harder to get the attention you require.

Ask the showroom staff or installer to walk you through the use and function of the fixture one more time if if is a complicated fixture. You can also ask for installation tips if you are having the fixture installed by a separate entity. Have the showroom staff share with you cleaning and maintenance instructions for keeping your new fixture looking and functioning like new.

You should receive a written invoice, which should include the following:

• The name, physical address and state license number of the plumbing fixture sales center and the installation service (if they are different entities).
• A complete list of all work performed.
• An itemized list of all materials and parts used in the installation of the new plumbing fixtures.
• The total cost for your new plumbing fixtures, including an itemized amount due for labor.
• A written explanation of any warranties or guarantees provided by the product manufacturers and the plumbing fixture supply store.

Most good plumbing fixture supply stores in Santa Clara County, including those in Milpitas, Palo Alto, Cupertino, San Jose, Sunnyvale, Gilroy will provide warranties or guarantees on the quality of the faucets, sinks and toilets they sell.

However, you’ll want to get confirmation of these warranties in writing, specifically what warranties come with the fixtures you’re purchasing, what those warranties cover, how long they last, and what you have to do in the event you need to apply for warranty coverage.

Having a written warranty ensures you and the plumbing fixture center have the same understanding of the agreement, and it gives you legal standing in case there is ever a conflict about warranty coverage.

The following items should be included in any written guarantee document:

• The plumbing fixture showroom’s name and physical address.
• The installation company’s or fixture center’s state license number.
• A description of what exactly the warranty covers. This should include whether the plumbing fixture showroom will replace or repair faulty fixtures, sinks, toilets, etc. Any exclusions must be explicitly stated.
• Your responsibility in the case of a problem with your new plumbing fixtures and what you need to do in order to redeem the warranty.
• How long the warranty is valid, and whether it expires on a specific day or is prorated (meaning, the warranty coverage diminishes over time).
• If the warranty coverage is transferable to the new owner in the event that you sell the home in which the new plumbing fixtures have been installed.
• Any actions on your part that may invalidate the warranty (such as unauthorized repairs, care requirements or maintenance requirements).

The following terms and descriptions are some of the most popular types of plumbing fixtures and services offered by fixture showrooms throughout Santa Clara County, including Gilroy, Cupertino, Campbell, Palo Alto, Milpitas and other cities.

New Plumbing Fixture Installation
Many local plumbing fixture centers also offer installation services for new fixtures purchased from their store. These installers may be employees of the showroom or may be subcontractors they hire or recommend. If you need new plumbing fixture installation services, be sure to ask if the plumbing showroom has installation options, and then carefully vet those installers if they are not direct company employees.

Bathroom Fixtures
Bathroom fixtures include new toilets, sinks, bath tubs, showers, bidets, shower heads, faucets, toilet fixtures and custom bathroom fixtures. In some showrooms, the term ‘bathroom fixtures’ may also include décor items such as toilet paper holders, towel holders and bathroom vanities.

Shower Plumbing Fixtures / New Shower Heads
New shower plumbing fixtures such as shower faucets and shower heads are popular items in Santa Clara County plumbing fixture stores, including those in Sunnyvale, San Jose, Campbell, Gilroy, Morgan Hill. These fixtures are easy to switch out and can add luxury, style, comfort and  spa-like amenities.

Kitchen Plumbing Fixtures
Kitchen plumbing fixtures such as sink fixtures, stainless steel fixtures, kitchen faucets, new kitchen sinks, garbage disposals and faucets with sprayer nozzles are sold at most Santa Clara County plumbing fixture stores. These fixtures range in quality and price from inexpensive, value-priced fixtures to high-end, chef kitchen fixtures.

New Toilets
New toilets made by American Standard, Kohler, Grohe, Gerber, Toto and more are popular choices at home plumbing fixture centers. New toilets are relatively inexpensive, and can come in luxury models and water-saving models.

New Sinks in Santa Clara County Plumbing Fixture Showrooms
A new sink can help transform a kitchen or bathroom. Sinks have a variety of edges, sizes and styles, and can be found to fit almost any décor or style.

Commercial Bathroom Fixtures
Businesses and commercial buildings often purchase commercial bathroom fixtures specially built to stand up to heavy usage on a daily basis. Commercial toilets may come with dual flush capabilities for water savings, and sinks and faucets generally come in styles with options for hands-free use and low water usage.

New Faucets for Bathroom and Kitchen Sinks
New kitchen and bath faucets are popular requests, because they are an easy and relatively inexpensive way to upgrade the look of your kitchen and bathroom. Popular faucets include those that are hands-free, have removable spray nozzles or that match the décor of the existing room.

Metal Bathroom Fixtures
Most homeowners gravitate toward metal bathroom fixtures for their bathroom sinks and shower plumbing fixtures. Common metal bathroom fixtures include stainless steel bathroom fixtures, oil rubbed bronze fixtures, brass plumbing fixtures, steel shower faucets, and stainless steel shower heads.

Vintage Bathroom Fixtures
Vintage bathroom fixtures are often new fixtures that have a vintage look. These can be used to replace original bathroom fixtures while still maintaining the look of the home’s original style, whether you live in Mt Hamilton, Redwood Estates, Blossom Valley and Los Altos Hills or another area. Remodeled bathrooms with a vintage flair can also benefit from authentic or faux vintage bathroom fixtures to help the room feel like an original part of the home.

Favorite Plumbing Fixture Brands in Santa Clara County and Beyond
There are thousands of plumbing fixture manufacturers, but some have earned a reputation for creating quality fixtures that stand up to years of use in homes and businesses.

The brands below are a sampling of some of the most popular manufacturers of sinks, toilets, bathtubs, vanity fixtures, shower heads, sink fixtures, shower fixtures, bathtub fixtures and more.

• Jado plumbing fixtures
• Duravit faucets
• Kohler plumbing fixtures
• American Standard bathroom fixtures
• Toto toilets, sinks and plumbing fixtures
• Gerber fixtures
• Elijer faucets and sinks
• Grohe plumbing fixtures
• Elkay sinks and fixtures
• Hansgrohe plumbing fixtures
• Moen faucets and fixtures
• Delta faucets and plumbing fixtures
• Franke fixtures
• Price Pfister sinks and fixtures

Plumbing fixture showrooms carry a variety of plumbing fixtures and accessories for kitchen and bathroom plumbing. But choosing a new plumbing fixture is more complicated than simply picking out a new sink, toilet or faucet. The following terms will help you better communicate with the experts at local plumbing accessories stores. By understanding the common terms used by professional plumbing fixture showroom staff, you will be more likely to get the exact fixtures and accessories that meet your needs.

acrylic…

Plumbing fixture showrooms carry a variety of plumbing fixtures and accessories for kitchen and bathroom plumbing. But choosing a new plumbing fixture is more complicated than simply picking out a new sink, toilet or faucet. The following terms will help you better communicate with the experts at local plumbing accessories stores. By understanding the common terms used by professional plumbing fixture showroom staff, you will be more likely to get the exact fixtures and accessories that meet your needs.

acrylic
Acrylic is a strong material that is cast and molded into bathroom and kitchen fixtures. Acrylic is often used to create bathtubs, sinks, showers, backsplashes and countertops.
ADA
The Americans with Disabilities Act sets legal parameters for the construction of plumbing fixtures in order to better meet the needs of disabled individuals.

Also known as: Americans with Disabilities Act

apron front
An apron front fixture has a decorative front section. An apron front bathtub has a low front panel that covers the space from the floor to the top rim of the tub. Apron front sinks have a solid front that extends from the top rim to the bottom of the sink. The cabinets and countertop are interrupted by the apron front, but extend on either side of it.

Also known as: skirting, apron sink, farmhouse sink, apron tub, farmhouse tub

backflow preventer
All homes and businesses should have backflow preventers, which are devices that prevent backflow or water backup into the drinking water. Backflow preventers are usually installed on handheld showers, pullout faucet spouts, kitchen sprayers, sinks and faucets.

backsplash
The raised back portion of a wall mount sink or toilet to protect the wall behind it. Backsplashes can also be separate pieces made out of countertop extensions, tile or metal.

cast iron
Cast iron are heavy fixtures such as sinks, bath tubs and toilets made from heavy metal covered with porcelain enamel coating and cast by molds.

centerset
Bathroom sink fixtures with a combined spout and handles are known as centerset faucets.

Also known as: center set faucets

continuous feed garbage disposal
Some plumbing fixture showrooms also sell garbage disposals, including continuous feed garbage disposals. These wall switch-activated garbage disposals run continuously while garbage is fed into them.

Also known as: in-sink garbage disposals

deck mount faucets
Faucets that mount on a horizontal surface of a sink or bath tub are known as deck mount faucets.

drainboard sink
Sinks that have a drainboard incorporated into their design are known as drainboard sinks.

drop-in sink
Sinks with a visible rim mounted above the countertop are known as drop-in sinks. These are most often used with a laminate counter top.

fill valve
A toilet fill valve is located in the water tank. The water level-actuated valve regulates the amount of water emptied from the tank into the bowl. Some fill valves can be adjusted to raise or lower the amount of water in the toilet bowl, helping to conserve water and moderate gallons used per flush.

fireclay
Fireclay is a type of vitreous china that has more quartz and feldspar in the base material. Fireclay is heavier, denser, and thicker than regular clay, which ensures a smoother, flater surface that standard vitreous china cannot offer, especially on larger fixtures such as bathtubs.

fitting
The term ‘fitting’ usually refers to faucets, shower valves and tub fillers. ‘Fittings’ can also refer to piping and parts such as tees, joints and elbows.

GPM
GPM is the rate of water flow by which faucets and showerheads are measures. There are local and federal limits placed on the gallons per minute flow rate of plumbing fixtures.

Also known as: gallons per minute  

hot water dispenser
A plumbing fixture that maintains a near-boiling water temperature for instant use. Hot water dispensers are popular in professional kitchens and custom kitchens in private homes.

instantaneous water heater
A water heater which heats water as it passes through. Instant water heaters require no storage tanks and are therefore popularly called tankless heaters.

Also known as: instant water heater, tankless water heater

ledgeback fixture
A style of sink or toilet that has a ledge or deck at the rear used to mount a faucet and other fixtures and accessories.

Also known as: backsplash, backsplash mount

Microban
Permanent antimicrobial protection is available in some sinks, bathtubs and fixtures in the form of Microban, a patented material that kills bacteria.

Also known as: antibacterial fixtures, antibacterial sinks, antibacterial toilets, permanent antimicrobial protection fixtures

mixing valve
Mixing valves on sinks and shower faucets mix hot and cold water so that the water from the tap is a specified temperature. Older sinks did not have mixing valves, instead relying on two faucets—one for hot water and one for cold water.

monobloc faucet
A single-handle faucet on a sink or bath tub are known as monobloc faucets. These are popular in  bathrooms and kitchens.

Also known as: single-handled faucets

mounting frame
External mounting used to install sinks which have no built-in base is known as a mounting frame. A mounting frame is usually part of a cabinet which houses the sink base and plumbing, along with storage space underneath.

powder coat
Powder coat is a technique used to apply paint to metal surfaces, including plumbing fixtures and faucets. The metal is covered with a dry paint powder which is baked in an oven; this causes the powder to melt and harden into a solid metal finish. Powder coating is often matte in appearance and can usually stand up to years of heavy use.

PSI
PSI is a measurement used to determine pressure within pipes and appliances.
Also known as: pounds per square inch

pull-out spray faucet
A kitchen faucet that has a retractable hose and sprayer head that can be used for food preparation and cleaning. The faucet head often has a switch that enables the user to choose between a single stream of water or a shower stream.

PVD
PVD stands for physical vapor deposition. This is a modern plating process used to create a polished brass or gold finish on faucets. During PVD, vaporized zirconium reacts with nitrogen and another gas to form a plated surface on faucets which will not tarnish or discolor.

Also known as: physical vapor deposition   

self-rimming
The self-rimming style of sinks have a rolled and finished edge. Self-rimming fixtures install on top of a counter without needing a metal sink rim.

sillcock
Outdoor faucets that are furnished with hose threads on the spout are known as sillcock installations. This common water spigot installation is also used to supply water to washing machines.

Also known as: hose bib 

tile edge sink
Sinks that mount flush with the counter top are known as tile-edge sinks.

trim kit
The outside decorative covering of faucet valves are known as trim kits. Trim kits include the showerhead, tub spout, handles, and other parts you can see when looking at a faucet.

undermount
Undermount sinks are installed under the countertop cutout.

vitreous china
Vitreous china is a glass material. It is commonly used as a surface material for sinks, toilets, bath tubs and other large plumbing fixtures.

wall mount faucets
Faucets built to mount on a vertical surface of a wall, shower or bath tub are referred to as wall mount faucets.

Q: Why choose a Diamond Certified plumbing fixture center?…

Q: Why choose a Diamond Certified plumbing fixture center?
A: Diamond Certified helps you choose a local plumbing fixture showroom with confidence by offering a list of top-rated local companies who have passed the country’s most in-depth rating process. Only kitchen and bathroom fixture showrooms rated Highest in Quality earn the prestigious Diamond Certified award. Most companies can’t pass the ratings. American Ratings Corporation also monitors every Diamond Certified company with ongoing research and ratings. And your purchase is backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee. So you’ll feel confident buying fixtures for your kitchen or bathroom from a Diamond Certified plumbing fixture showroom.

Q: What is the best way to install quality plumbing fixtures?
A: Hiring a qualified, licensed plumber is the best way to have new plumbing fixtures installed. Some products come with warranties that are only valid if the fixture is installed by a qualified professional. Some fixtures, such as some faucets, are easy enough for average homeowners to install themselves, but keep in mind this may negate the warranty.

Q: What is the best plumbing fixture finish?
A: Plumbing fixture finish is a matter of personal taste. However, some finishes are known to be longer lasting than others. The most durable finish is chrome-plated solid brass. This finish will stand up to frequent usage and cleaning.

Q: How do I know which faucet is best for my bathtub?
A: First, determine where the faucet will be mounted. Look for deck mount faucets if they need to be mounted on the horizontal surface of the tub. Choose a wall mount style if you will be mounting the faucet on the wall or the wall of the bathtub

Q: Can I buy plumbing fixtures from a showroom if I’m not a plumber or contractor?
A: That depends on the plumbing fixture showroom. Most will allow you to purchase plumbing fixtures even if you’re not a professional plumber. However, some are members-only showrooms that only sell fixtures to paying members or local contractors.

Q: Is it smarter for me to provide my own plumbing fixtures, or to buy them from my plumber?
A: Some homeowners can get good deals purchasing their own plumbing fixtures from local fixture showrooms. However, it is usually best to talk with your plumber before purchasing fixtures. Your plumber may be able to suggest brands or products they recommend, and they can help you determine the exact measurements needed. Likewise, your plumber may recommend a plumbing showroom that offers better deals for the fixtures you need.

Q: What services do local plumbing fixture showrooms provide?
A: Depending on the fixture showroom, you may find knowledgeable staff to help you choose the fixtures that are best for your needs and your decor, large fixture delivery, design assistance, and cooperation with homeowners and contractors. Some also provide fixture installation services and online fixture sales.

Q: What types of fixtures are available from plumbing fixture showrooms?
A: Most plumbing fixture showrooms offer sinks, bathtubs, showers, faucets for kitchens and bathrooms, toilets, shower heads, shower doors, tub and shower wall kits, steam bath heads, specialty toilets, toilet seats, bathroom vanities,  cabinet door hardware, light fixtures, and bathroom and kitchen accessories. Others will stock water filtration systems, hot water heaters, bathroom counters, mirrors and medicine cabinets, mirrored cabinets, shower doors, drinking fountains and garbage disposals.

Q: Can I save money by buying plumbing fixtures online?
A: Yes and no. It depends on the source of the fixtures and the quality you receive. You may be able to find cheaper plumbing fixtures online, but they aren’t always the best quality parts. Even those that are from known brands may be a cheaper model than those found in high-quality plumbing showrooms. But because you’re buying online, you won’t have the chance to evaluate the fixtures and compare quality. You also risk purchasing the wrong size, color or material if you buy from a website. This is because it’s hard to know what you’re getting without seeing the items in person. You may also have a hard time returning or exchanging parts that don’t meet your needs. Talk with your plumbing professional before purchasing any fixtures, especially if you’re considering buying online.