Buyer’s Guide to Faucet Configurations

Single-hole, centerset or widespread? It’s not as confusing at it may seem. A little prep before you shop makes buying a new faucet simple. This Moen video presents a quick buyer’s guide to faucet configurations:

Unless you’re planning to replace your sinktop or countertop, your new faucet must have the same number of holes and spacing as your existing sinktop or countertop.

Single-hole means just that; the faucet has one valve that fits into a sinktop or countertop with just one hole. Single-hole faucets can work with multiple sink or counter holes. If you have three holes, deck plates are available to cover up the extra holes.

A centerset lavatory faucet has two handles and a spout on a single base, and the handles are four inches apart.

Widespread faucets consist of three separate pieces, two handles and a spout, and the handles are usually eight inches apart.

To determine if you need a centerset or widespread lavatory faucet, measure the distance between the center of the two outer holes in your sinktop or countertop.