When choosing the perfect shower faucet for your bathroom, two brands may likely appear on your radar: Symmons and Kohler.
Both have earned their reputation in the industry through their years of producing high-quality and innovative products. But when it comes down to Symmons and Kohler shower faucets, which is the better option?
Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed decision.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Aspects | Symmons | Kohler |
| Material and Durability | Uses solid brass, known for extreme durability. | Uses various materials including metal, brass, and plastic. Durability may vary based on the material and model. |
| Design and Style | Typically minimalist, less diverse in terms of design. | Wide range of designs, from traditional to contemporary, providing more choices. |
| Technological Features | Good water flow control, but fewer advanced features. | Known for advanced features like temperature regulation and anti-scald protection. |
| Price and Value | Higher priced due to sturdy construction and longevity. | Wide spectrum of prices due to diverse collection, from budget-friendly to premium models. |
| Compliance with ADA Guidelines | Generally designed in compliance with ADA guidelines. | Offers some ADA-compliant models, but not standard across all collections. |
Symmons Shower Faucets
- The Pros
Symmons shower faucets are known for their solid brass construction, making them extremely durable.
If longevity is your prime consideration, Symmons stands out with its ability to withstand daily wear and tear.
The faucets also flaunt superior valve technology, ensuring efficient water flow control that saves you precious resources.
Another significant advantage of Symmons is its compliance with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines. This makes the faucets accessible and easy to operate for people with disabilities, a valuable feature that not all brands cater to.
- The Cons
On the downside, the selection of styles and finishes is somewhat limited with Symmons. While their designs are elegant and simple, they might not suit those who are looking for highly ornate or contemporary options.
Moreover, Symmons shower faucets are not the most budget-friendly options out there. If you’re working with a tight budget, this could be a potential drawback.
Kohler Shower Faucets
- The Pros
Kohler is famous for its wide array of designs and finishes. Whether you want a minimalist design, a rustic charm, or a cutting-edge contemporary style, Kohler probably has it.
The broad range of choices makes Kohler a go-to brand for interior designers and homeowners aiming to achieve a specific aesthetic.
In terms of technology, Kohler shower faucets offer exceptional features, such as temperature regulation and thermostatic valves, to ensure a comfortable showering experience.
Many of their models also include a built-in anti-scald feature, providing an additional layer of safety.
- The Cons
Despite its numerous advantages, Kohler does have its limitations.
These faucets can be on the higher end of the price spectrum. Hence, while you get excellent design and features, you may have to stretch your budget a bit.
Another potential downside could be the complexity of installation. Given the advanced features and designs, Kohler faucets often require professional installation, which adds to the overall cost.
Key Differences Between Symmons and Kohler Shower Faucets
Though both Symmons and Kohler have carved out their place in the market, they have distinguishing characteristics that set them apart. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between these two reputable brands.
- Material and Durability
Symmons faucets have a reputation for their solid brass construction, contributing significantly to their robustness. The brand’s faucets are designed to withstand daily use, which makes them a highly durable option.
On the other hand, Kohler uses a variety of materials for its faucets, including metal, brass, and plastic. This variety doesn’t necessarily compromise durability, but the lifespan might vary based on the model and material.
- Design and Style
When it comes to design versatility, Kohler takes the lead. They offer a wide variety of designs ranging from traditional to contemporary, meeting various stylistic needs. The aesthetic appeal and extensive collection make it a preferred brand among interior designers.
In contrast, Symmons takes a more minimalistic approach. Their designs are elegant and functional but might lack the diversity that Kohler offers.
- Technological Features
Kohler faucets typically incorporate advanced features, including temperature regulation and anti-scald protection. These additions enhance user comfort and safety during the showering experience.
While Symmons also offers good water flow control, they might not match the advanced technology Kohler often brings to the table.
- Price and Value
Price is another area where Symmons and Kohler differ. Symmons faucets, given their sturdy construction and longevity, are typically priced higher than many other brands.
Kohler, while also priced at a premium level, offers a broad spectrum of prices due to its diverse collection. This means you can potentially find a Kohler faucet that fits both your budget and style.
- Compliance with ADA Guidelines
Symmons excels in its commitment to accessibility. Their shower faucets are generally designed in compliance with ADA guidelines, ensuring they can be used easily by individuals with disabilities.
While Kohler does offer some ADA-compliant models, this isn’t a standard feature across all their collections.
While both Symmons and Kohler provide high-quality shower faucets, their key differences lie in material durability, design versatility, technological advancements, price range, and compliance with ADA guidelines.
These factors can influence your decision based on what you value the most in a shower faucet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Symmons Industries is based in Braintree, Massachusetts. Their products, including their shower faucets, are manufactured in the USA, ensuring high standards and quality control.
Kohler faucets are often perceived as expensive due to their superior quality, extensive range of designs, advanced features, and brand reputation. The company invests in cutting-edge technology, and the cost reflects the high standard of materials used and the innovative designs available.
Delta and Kohler are both reputable brands in the plumbing industry, each with their strengths. While Kohler stands out with its design versatility and advanced features, Delta is known for its budget-friendly yet durable options. It depends on your specific needs and budget as to which is the better choice for you.
The Verdict
Both Symmons and Kohler shower faucets offer outstanding quality and performance. If durability and compliance with ADA guidelines are your top priorities, Symmons might be the better option.
However, if you prefer a broader range of designs and advanced features, Kohler might be the brand for you. Ultimately, the choice comes down to your specific needs and budget.
