The Monarch Collection Brings Enlightment of Classical Art

Inspired by the movement of visual arts in the Neoclassic 18th century, the Monarch collection brings classical design for your bathroom.

With one particular style offered in both centerset and widespread setups, the Monarch gives you just what you need for your bathroom.

In addition, a bathroom accessory combo is offered: A 24″ towel bar, an 18″ towel bar, a towel ring, robe hook and toilet paper holder.

View our NPL list The Monarch Collection New Product List PDF.

For more questions, contact mkt@kingstonbrass.com.

BLOG: KB Showcases Three New Collections at KBIS and NHS

In a one month span, Kingston Brass traveled across the U.S. to showcase their three new kitchen/bath collections–their first stop at New Orleans on April 19-21 for the 2013 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show and then westward in Las Vegas on May 7-9 for the National Hardware Show.

For this year’s shows, Kingston Brass displayed the new Aqua Eden bathtub collection (first non-faucet collection), as well as products from the Water Onyx, Millennium, Tudor, Green Eden, and Vintage collections.

The Aqua Eden collection consists of 10 different Vintage tubs (a few contemporary tubs included), each providing its own tub feet style in polished chrome, polished brass, oil rubbed bronze and satin nickel.

Along with the other faucet collections, Aqua Eden was a success among the visitors, said Louis Wong, Product Manager.

“The bathtub was very well received with the visitors–some came and actually got in the tub to try it out. The Water Onyx collection also did very well with its unique black nickel finish,” he said.

To represent Aqua Eden, a large 72” cast iron double slipper pedestal tub was displayed as the centerpiece of both shows.

With the recent high demand of cast iron and acrylic tubs, Kingston Brass has acquired large product offerings.

“We’re proud to showcase one of our tubs from Aqua Eden,” said Gary Lu, Aqua Eden brand manager. “This tub mixes both vintage and a little contemporary styling in a beautiful pedestal tub. The cast iron construction of the tub is durable and sturdy–good for long lasting use.”

For 2014, both shows will be held at Las Vegas in the Las Vegas Convention center. KBIS will be held together in conjunction with the International Builder’s Show in Las Vegas in February. The NHS will take place May 6-8.

“We love taking part of these trade shows,” said marketing executive Raul de Paz. “It’s exciting bringing out these great new collections, networking with people and having them tell us how well our products are doing for them.”

Kingston Brass will unveil more new collections at the upcoming shows. To keep up with the latest news on Kingston Brass and product releases, like us on Facebook at facebook.com/kingstonbrass or follow us @kingstonbrass on Twitter. You can visit our website at http://www.kingstonbrass.com.

Fix-A-Leak Week: Facts and Tips on Saving Water

We at Kingston Brass are always aware of the environment and the role that water saving plays in that effort.

According to the EPA, more than 1 trillion gallons of water leak from U.S. homes each year.

The Facts on Leaks:

• Leaks can account for, on average, 10,000 gallons of water wasted in the home every year, which is enough to fill a backyard swimming pool.
• The amount of water leaked from U.S. homes could exceed more than 1 trillion gallons per year. That’s equivalent to the annual water use of Los Angeles, Chicago, and Miami combined.
• Ten percent of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more per day.
• Common types of leaks found in the home include leaking toilet flappers, dripping faucets, and other leaking valves. All are easily correctable.
• Fixing easily corrected household water leaks can save homeowners more than 10 percent on their water bills.
• Keep your home leak-free by repairing dripping faucets, toilet valves, and showerheads. In most cases, fixture replacement parts don’t require a major investment and can be installed by do-it-yourselfers.
• The vast majority of leaks can be eliminated after retrofitting a household with new WaterSense labeled fixtures and other high-efficiency appliances.

Leak Detection:

• A good method to check for leaks is to examine your winter water usage. It’s likely that a family of four has a serious leak problem if its winter water use exceeds 12,000 gallons per month.
• Check your water meter before and after a two-hour period when no water is being used. If the meter does not read exactly the same, you probably have a leak.
• One way to find out if you have a toilet leak is to place a drop of food coloring in the toilet tank. If the color shows up in the bowl within 15 minutes without flushing, you have a leak. Make sure to flush immediately after this experiment to avoid staining the tank.

Faucets and Showerheads:

• A leaky faucet that drips at the rate of one drip per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons per year. A home with WaterSense labeled toilets could use that water to flush for six months!
• Leaky faucets can be reduced by checking faucet washers and gaskets for wear and replacing them if necessary. If you are replacing a faucet, look for the WaterSense label.
• A showerhead leaking at 10 drips per minute wastes more than 500 gallons per year. That’s enough water to wash 60 loads of dishes in your dishwasher.
• Most leaky showerheads can be fixed by ensuring a tight connection using pipe tape and a wrench.

Toilets:

• If your toilet is running constantly, you could be wasting 200 gallons of water or more every day.
• If your toilet is leaking, the cause is most often an old, faulty toilet flapper. Over time, this inexpensive rubber part decays, or minerals build up on it. It’s usually best to replace the whole rubber flapper—a relatively easy, inexpensive do-it-yourself project that pays for itself in no time.
• If you do need to replace the entire toilet, look for a Watersense-labeled toilet.
• If a family of four replaces its older, inefficient toilets with new WaterSense labeled ones, it could save more than 16,000 gallons per year. Retrofitting the house could save the family approximately $2,000 in water and waste water bills over the lifetime of the toilets.

A modern home is where the heart is with the Claremont collection

If you’re in a situation to remodel or make a new bathroom/kitchen, there are a number of things you’ll need to get it started (essentially speaking).

It’s up to you to decide how the look of the bathroom/kitchen will appear, but also what particular kitchen/bath items you’ll use (faucets, shower heads, accessories or sinks) to make everything look right.

Having more options based on finish, architecture and pattern can be exciting.

The contemporary style of the Claremont collection will provide that finishing touch to your ideal setting.

In comparison to other Kingston Brass collections, the Claremont series has much to offer when piecing together matching items, making it an exceptional complimentary set.

The thin tubular lever handles and geometric shape will coincide well with pure colors and unique patterns. The Claremont look is authentic in its own way and provides a scenic and vibrant look to the kitchen/bathroom.

Our lavatory faucets come in single handle deck-mount installations as well as double handle centerset or widespread setups.

KS8461CL
- Solid brass construction
- Includes ceramic disk cartridge
- Also available in satin nickel finish
- 9-1/8″ spout height with a 5-1/8″ spout reach
- 2.2 GPM / 8.3 LPM @ 60 PSI

KS8441CL
- Solid brass construction
- Includes ceramic disk cartridge
- Also available in satin nickel finish
- 7″ spout height with a 4-1/4″ spout reach
- Single hole installation
- Single lever handle rotates 180 degrees with joystick-like manueverability

KS4641CQL
- Solid brass construction
- Two handle deck mount setup
- 4″ centerset platform
- 3-hole sink application
- Ceramic disk cartridge
- 2.2 GPM / 8.3 LPM @ 60 PSI
- ADA compliant
- Available in polished brass, oil-rubbed bronze and satin nickel

KS4981CQL
- Solid brass construction
- 8-16″ widespread platform
- 3-hole sink application
- Ceramic disk cartridge
- 2.2 GPM / 8.3 LPM @ 60 PSI
- With brass pop-up
- Available in polished brass, oil-rubbed bronze and satin nickel

The vessel sink faucet possesses a rectangular build with sharp curves giving a modernized flavor, while the kitchen faucets feature gooseneck style spouts in different height measurements.

The smooth geometric shapes of our tub and shower faucets features tubular-shaped handles with a distinct double-layered face plate design that coordinates perfectly with surrounding Claremont bathroom accessories.

KS8461CL
- Solid brass construction
- 9-1/8″ spout height with 5-1/8″ spout reach
- 1 or 3-hole sink installation
- 2.2 GPM / 8.3 LPM @ 60 PSI
- Ceramic disk cartridge
- Also available in satin nickel finish
- 1/2″-14NPS

Our square-faced rain shower heads deliver a relaxing flow of streaming water, not just for therapeutic purposes, but also for a relaxing, personalized shower.

KX4648CK
- Fabricated from ABS material
- Includes 100 water channels
- 8″ diameter head with 16″ shower arm

KX8221
- Fabricated from ABS material
- Square headpiece measures 12″ x 12″
- 130 rain jets embedded on circular face for wide coverage of rainfall water
- Also available in satin nickel finish

K408A1
- Made from solid brass
- Shower head is 8″ x 8″ in diameter
- Includes 49 water jets
- 1/2″ IPS inlets
- Also in oil-rubbed bronze and satin nickel finish

The multi-function hand showers give you the option of experiencing different spray modes from steady to pulsating providing a fulfilling and versatile shower experience.

Bathroom accessories like the 18” and 24” towel bars, robe hook, dishes, holders and shelf possess that distinct Claremont design making it an exceptional combo set with its lavatory faucets.

“This collection offers a new way in bringing ultramodern art into the home,” said James Choy, Marketing Manager. “We provide homeowners the option of choosing from our many contemporary collections in the Vilbosch series—the Claremont adds another possibility with its beautiful, sharp curves and angular layout.”

To see the entire Claremont catalog click HERE.

FEATURE: The Showerscape Victorian Shower Heads Control the Flow

Making the most of a fulfilling and relaxing shower comes from the type of wash we most desire.

Many homeowners find bathroom shower heads with “multi-functions” as the answer in offering more than one way for a complete shower.

However, as technology continually advances, we find that products can be created a step further from the current.

Our Victorian shower heads from Showerscape (A subdivision of Designer Trimscape) consists of three models. Each share a special function where the water spray setting gradually changes (a Speakman type shower head) with just a turn of a lever, located on the side of the head.

This water spray adjustment goes away from the ‘change-setting’ function (turning the lever from one setting to another) with a gradual metamorphosis from the needle-spray stream flow to a soft-drenching stream flow.

K137A1 – The Victorian 4-Jet Adjustable Spray Shower Head
- This shower head is the smallest of the three with a 2-1/4” diameter and water flowing from 4 water jets. With a water flow rate of 2.5 GPM (for all three), each of the jets spray an exceptional amount of water providing a satisfying wash.

K138A1 – The Victorian 6-Jet Adjustable Spray Shower Head
- The most popular of the three shower head models features a 3” diameter with 6 water jets providing a ‘strong-flowing’ shower. All of the shower heads feature a ½” IPS inlet connection.

K139A1 – The Victorian 8-Jet Adjustable Spray Shower Head
- Not only is this shower head the largest of the group, but the body itself weighs over 3 pounds in solid brass. The face measures 3-5/8” in diameter to accommodate its 8 adjustable jets—a powerful water sprayer that will likely give you the most coverage in a shower.

“These shower heads are great for the reasonable price value and quality,” said James Choy, manager of marketing. “Those who enjoy the combination of water pressure and water stream change will find it a convenient addition for their shower.”

For a demonstration of the K138A1, click HERE.

Send questions, comments to info@kingstonbrass.com.

FAQ SERIES 4: Kingston Brass Clawfoot Shower Tubs

Q: I see so many types of clawfoot tubs, which one is the best one to buy?

A: There really is no easy answer. It depends on how much space you have and what your personal preferences are. Please refer to our buying guide page by clicking HERE. We are confident that the information provided will give you enough information so that you can make an informed decision.

Q: I just bought an acrylic tub … what is the best way to maintain it?

A: Here are some do’s and don’ts to help prolong the sparkling finish of your acrylic tub.

Don’ts
• Don’t clean with any abrasive material such as brillo pad or hard sponge or brush. Since the surface is non-porous, there should not be a need for anything stronger.
• Don’t use any abrasive soaps or cleaning agents, such as Goof–Off, scrubbing bubbles, acetone or lacquer thinner or Windex.

Do’s:
• Do clean with any non-abrasive soap, or dish-washing detergent liquid soap.
• If necessary to remove a stain, you may use Fantastico or Formula 409.
• Do polish and protect your tub by applying a layer of Gel-Gloss. This will also remove fine scratches. If you have deeper scratches, they can be removed by giving it a light sanding with 600-grit sandpaper and then fine polish with Gel-Gloss.

Q: Should I get a faucet with a hand shower even if I have a separate shower stall?

A: Yes, a hand shower not only will help rinse off any bath foam or soap, but is also a handy tool for cleaning your tub.

If you have any questions regarding any of the information above, please send them to info@kingstonbrass.com

Understanding our four finishes

Kingston Brass makes every effort in offering kitchen and bath products that are both functional and glamorous.

The type of finish you choose is significant based on how you want your kitchen/bathroom to appear. When purchasing a Kingston Brass product, the finish is mandatory especially when coordinating tones and styles with other home décor. The information on our four main finishes (polished chrome, polished brass, oil rubbed bronze and satin nickel) will provide you the help you need before making your decision.

POLISHED CHROME

This finish is by far the most popular sold today in plumbing and door hardware products—especially in Europe, Asia and South America.

Part of the reason might be its durability—after all, it was not long ago when automotive bumpers and trim pieces were chrome-plated.

Polished chrome is an electroplated finish (part of the reason why it is durable roots from the plating the bumpers initially withy nickel and coating them with chrome).

Chrome is considered a cold color, that is, a stark silver color.

Many designers admire the finish because it is easy to work with and fits into most décor items depending on the style of the faucet or the accessory.

The biggest complaint reported is fingerprint smudge and the appearance of water spots.

When we talk about satin chrome (or brushed chrome), we see this finish as a safe compromise in some cases.

The color is originally polished chrome but is either wire-brushed or ‘satinized’ through the use of different techniques.

Satin chrome tends to look more industrial and is used mostly in commercial door hardware.

The finish is very easy to maintain due to its absence of water spots or fingerprints.

When we talk about polished nickel, some consider it as an alteration of the polished chrome finish (In reality it is a totally separate finish).

The color appears like chrome but with a slight yellow tint, making it a warmer option to your décor.

Although it gives a much richer look to your kitchen/bathroom, it is NOT categorized in the top five finishes.

The satin chrome finish is priced at 25-50% higher than chrome and unfortunately, most end-users do not see the value of paying a substantial up-charge for a finish that looks very close to chrome.

SATIN NICKEL

Satin nickel is one of the most popular finishes today, second to chrome.

It gained its popularity possibly due to its practicality.

The finish is easy to maintain as it does not show fingerprints or water spots easily (like the polished chrome).

From the designer’s point of view, it is easy to coordinate with most granite or marble colors.

You may still have the risk of tarnishing but if you follow common sense maintenance guidelines, you should be able to maintain it for many years.

OIL RUBBED BRONZE

This finish is by far the most problematic finish for most manufacturers because it is considered a ‘living’ finish.

‘Living’ is a code word for “forever changes.”

The ideal scenario is that it will mature with age and give the room a rustic feel.

In reality, the finishes doesn’t always mature the way you want It to.

If the end-user is aware of the characteristics of the finish and knows what they’re getting into, then it’s fine.

The problem originates when designers fail to educate the client and not give enough “Caveat emptor” information.

POLISHED BRASS

After the development of the PVD technologies in the 90s, the durability of the polished brass finish has ceased to be a problem or an issue.

PVD or physical vapor deposition is a metal finishing process that greatly increases the durability and wear resistance of standard brass finishes on plumbing fixtures. Independent test
laboratories have determined PVD to be up to 23 times more abrasion-resistant than chrome plating, the previous industry standard.

The finish was popular in the 80s and 90s, but because of the availability of so many finishes in the market, polished brass has recently lost its acclaim.

Despite the effects of its popularity (by geographic trends), the finish still has a great standing, especially in the northeast and Midwest. Polished brass will add a touch of rich elegance to any bathroom unsurpassed by any other finish.

For more questions regarding our finishes, send e-mail to info@kingstonbrass.com.