Understanding the Two Main Mounting Styles for Sink Faucets

A deck-mounted faucet and a wall-mounted faucet are two different installation styles used in bathrooms and kitchens. Each type connects to the plumbing system in a distinct way and creates a different visual and functional experience. Manufacturers such as EMYSA design brass and stainless steel fixtures for both concealed and exposed applications, and understanding these faucet categories helps homeowners and designers choose the right option for their space.

What Is a Deck-Mounted Sink Faucet?

A deck-mounted faucet is installed directly onto the sink or countertop surface. This is the most common type of faucet in residential bathrooms and kitchens.

Key Characteristics

• Installed through holes on the sink or countertop

• Water supply lines connect from below

• Typically easier to install and service

• Suitable for most standard sink designs

Advantages

• Straightforward installation

• Wide compatibility with many sink styles

• Easy access for maintenance

• Lower installation cost compared to wall-mounted faucets

Deck-mounted systems differ from EMYSA’s concealed shower designs because their plumbing remains visible and accessible beneath the sink, making them practical for quick installation or replacement.

What Is a Wall-Mounted Sink Faucet?

A wall-mounted faucet is installed on the wall above the sink. The water lines are concealed inside the wall, similar to the structure used in EMYSA’s Concealed Shower Mixers.

Key Characteristics

• Mounted to the wall instead of the sink or countertop

• Requires concealed plumbing within the wall cavity

• Creates a clean, minimalist appearance

• Offers flexibility in sink positioning

Advantages

• Frees up counter space

• Ideal for vessel or above-counter sinks

• Creates a modern or high-end aesthetic

• Keeps faucet hardware clear of countertop clutter

Wall-mounted faucets, like EMYSA’s brass and stainless steel concealed systems, rely on precise in-wall engineering for consistent performance and stability.

Installation Differences Between Deck and Wall-Mounted Faucets

The two types differ significantly in how they connect to plumbing and how much construction work they require.

Deck-Mounted

• Connects through sink cutouts

• Requires only under-sink plumbing access

• Ideal for quick replacements or upgrades

Wall-Mounted

• Requires plumbing to be embedded inside the wall

• Needs accurate rough-in spacing and height

• Installation is more complex and generally more costly

EMySA’s Concealed Shower Mixers highlight the same principles used for wall-mounted faucets: stable in-wall support, accurate spacing, and well-sealed connections.

Functional and Aesthetic Differences

Both faucet types perform the same task—delivering water—but their visual and functional impact varies.

Deck-Mounted Look

• Traditional and widely used

• Works with nearly any sink design

• Hardware sits on top of the sink or counter

Wall-Mounted Look

• Minimalist and clean

• Ideal for modern bathrooms

• Creates visual separation between faucet and sink

The minimalist design of EMYSA’s stainless steel and brass fixtures aligns well with the aesthetic goals of wall-mounted installations.

Choosing the Right Type for Your Space

The best option depends on your bathroom layout, design goals, and installation conditions.

Choose Deck-Mounted If

• You want easier installation

• Your sink already has mounting holes

• You prefer lower installation costs

• You want simple access for maintenance

Choose Wall-Mounted If

• You want a modern, uncluttered appearance

• You use a vessel or above-counter sink

• You are building or remodeling and can modify wall plumbing

• You prefer concealed hardware similar to EMYSA’s shower mixer designs

When Both Types Can Be Used Together

Some bathroom designs incorporate both styles. For example:

• A deck-mounted faucet on one sink

• A wall-mounted faucet for a vessel sink

• Wall-mounted tub filler paired with deck-mounted lavatory faucets

This flexibility mirrors how EMYSA’s shower and faucet product lines serve different installation needs within the same home or commercial project.

Summary: Deck vs. Wall-Mounted Faucets

Both types provide excellent performance when installed correctly. Wall-mounted faucets share installation characteristics with EMYSA’s concealed systems, emphasizing precision and sleek design, while deck-mounted faucets offer practicality and universal compatibility.