Taps are everywhere! We use them every day, often without a second thought. But when it’s time to renovate your bathroom, fix a leak, or install a new fixture, knowing the different types of taps suddenly becomes very important.
So, whether you are someone who is dealing with types of taps in the bathroom for your bathroom or types of thread taps for industrial applications, this guide will walk you through the top 10 different types of taps with names, their uses, and when to choose what.
Understanding the Two Worlds of Taps
Firstly, we have to understand that the word “tap” has two common meanings! One is water taps, and the other is thread taps.
The difference is that water taps are those fixtures used in bathrooms, kitchens, gardens, etc., to regulate the flow of water. While, the thread taps are the tools used in machining to cut threads inside a hole (for bolts/screws to fit). In this article, we will be talking about them both, so you can get a better understanding.
This guide will cover both! So whether you’re choosing different types of taps in bathroom setups or selecting the right types of thread taps, we’ve got you covered. Now, let’s start with water tap types!
Types of Water Taps (Bathroom, Kitchen, Basin & More)
Below, we will be discussing the types of taps with names, so you understand more about the various types of water taps:
1. Pillar Taps
Where it’s used: Basins and Sinks
How it works: This is basically a super simple, individual tap with a single handle. Usually, for this one, two pillar taps are installed, in which one gives out hot water, and the other gives cool water. So if you are someone who loves the classic two-tap setup or wants a vintage vibe, then pillar taps are the way to go!
Where it is popularly used: Older bathrooms, traditional, and is a great example of types of basin taps for heritage homes.
2. Mixer Taps
Where it’s used: Modern bathrooms and kitchens
How it works: These kinds of taps mix the hot and cold water through one spout. So yes, with this, you can actually control temperature with a lever or two handles. Also, these are now one of the go-to types of taps in bathroom setups, thanks to their functionality and appeal! And guess what? With NovaTech’s designer mixer taps, you get both smart controls and sleek aesthetics!
Where it is popularly used: Urban homes, stylish bathrooms, hotels
3. Monobloc Taps
Where it’s used: Compact bathrooms, minimalist kitchen
How it works: What you get here is basically a single unit with one spout and either one or two controls for temperature. The reason why this one is so popular is that it not only looks neat, but also saves you space. They are like mixer taps, but better! So if you have a minimal bathroom, then this type of basin tap is a must-consider!
Where it is popularly used: Where you have to save space, it also works as one of the most common different types of water taps used today.
4. Wall-Mounted Taps
Where it’s used: Above basins, bathtubs, or even kitchen sinks
How it works: Wall-mounted taps are very popular in modern bathrooms, and there is a reason for it! They truly bring a spa-like feel to the room, plus, the cleaning becomes easier as there are no fittings on the basin surface. So, if you are someone who loves clean, airy, and luxe styles, then this is your tap! In fact, you can also check out NovaTech’s wall-mounted range, which is a winning pick among the types of basin taps.
Where it is popularly used: Homes using RO systems or under-sink water purifiers
5. Sensor Taps
Where it’s used: Modern homes, public restrooms, kid-friendly wash areas
How it works: Let’s first answer why it is the coolest one. Touchless use, water-saving, highly hygienic! Yes, these taps can detect hand movement and dispense water only when needed. And because no hands are touching, it’s hygienic, and also an eco-conscious choice. So, if you are someone who has kids or elderly users at home, these kinds of taps can be super handy!
Where it is popularly used: Smart bathrooms in malls, kitchens, or households focused on sustainability
You can even try automatic sensor water tap options from Novatech for a smart and reliable upgrade.
6. Bib Taps
Where it’s used: Outdoor spaces, laundry areas, utility wash zones
How it works: These are super simple, wall-mounted taps that have a downward-facing spout. When you have to use it, all you have to do is turn the handle, and water will flow directly. There is no mixing, no complications. These are one of the different types of water taps that you can use anywhere, like washing, cleaning, or attaching a garden hose.
Where it is popularly used: Anywhere you need an easy-access water flow
Types of Thread Taps (Machining & Manufacturing)
Now we are moving towards another types of taps with names. Let’s dive right into it:
1. Taper Tap
The purpose: Ideal for starting a thread in a hole
Thread Coverage: First 7–10 threads are tapered, which makes it easier to get the tap into the hole
How it works: You can think of the taper tap as the base layer when using types of thread taps. It basically gradually cuts the thread as it goes in. But because the tip is narrower, it aligns easily without overloading the tool. Also, the best part is that it is not super aggressive, so yes, it truly is great for getting that first thread going smoothly.
Where it is popularly used: General-purpose tapping
2. Plug Tap
The purpose: Used after a taper tap for cutting deeper threads, and is one of the must-have types of thread taps in toolkits.
Thread Coverage: Less taper, more cutting
How it works: Now that we talked about the taper tap, it’s time for the plug tap! So, once the previous one has made a good start, the plug tap takes over to finish the job. It cuts deeper and faster because it’s more direct. So, unlike taper tap, this one gets down to the business a bit quickly!
Where it is popularly used: Through-holes
3. Bottoming Tap
The purpose: Reaches the bottom of blind holes
Thread Coverage: Gives you almost full threads right from the start, with just 1–2 tapered threads at the tip.
How it works: After you have started the thread with a taper or plug tap, it is the bottoming taps that step in to finish the job. What it does is it cuts threads all the way down to the base of the hole. This type of thread tap is perfect for when there is no existing point, and you need every bit of that depth.
Where it is popularly used: when maximum thread depth is needed
4. Spiral Point and Spiral Flute Taps
The purpose: Pushes chips forward.
Thread Coverage: Spiral Point pushes chips forward, while Spiral Flute pulls chips backward.
How it works: It’s pretty easy how these critical types of thread taps work! The angled tip is designed to push the metal chips forward as it cuts. That means the chips don’t get stuck around the threads, which helps everything run smoother and faster. So yes, you get less clogging, less friction, and work done will be super efficient.
Where it is popularly used: metalworking, automotive parts production, aerospace components
Wrapping Up
We all know that taps play a huge role in our daily lives. Whether you are shopping for different types of taps in bathrooms, exploring various types of water taps, or researching thread taps for technical work, you should always make an informed choice! If you are looking to buy premium-quality taps, then your search stops at NovaTech! We have a trusted lineup of bathroom fittings, kitchen taps, and designs that speak for themselves.
