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.

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.

The Manhattan Collection: Combining styles for a unique design approach

The Manhattan faucet is developed to portray transitional style in faucet design.

With the usual options of choosing modern or traditional arrangements, the whimsical flair for blending new and old will give people a moment to visualize the Manhattan look.

The idea of this particular collection was to think rich, smooth, elegant and comfortable. Its contemporary appearance and graceful curves equates to a pleasant washing experience with its standard 2.2 GPM / 8.3 LPM (60 PSI) water flow.

The T-shaped double handle levers are sleek and admirably designed; the handles easy to grip and turn for water control. The small but wide escutcheons harmonizes with the different array of traditional style spouts (C-spout, J-spout) in various lavatory faucets.

The kitchen faucets have a common feature with the high goose neck spout design for ample reach and washing experience. Some of the faucets come with a non-metallic side sprayer (available in different colors).

The lavatory and bathroom faucets also function using a ¼-turn hardisc ceramic cartridge.

With four different finishes provided (polished chrome, polished brass, oil-rubbed bronze and satin nickel), the use of color enables people to engage deeper on color coordinating with their surroundings.

“By adding the choice of colors with the Manhattan’s handsome architecture is the primary element in a good collection,” said James Choy, Marketing Manager. “We’ve received positive comments on all of our contemporary collections but we feel the Manhattan offers a transitional blend of old style and new. The layout of this particular design is different. We feel it will allow people to take a second and think how their surroundings will appear with its versatile look.”

The tub and shower faucets feature an array of uniquely-designed shower heads each possessing multiple water spray modes to allow you more than one way in enjoying your wash. The wall plates come in the traditional-styled circular pattern while the square-shaped plate expresses a modernistic discrete design (especially with T-shaped handle complementing it).

The tub and shower faucets are equipped with a safebath type washerless cartridge and delivers a maximum of 2.5 GPM / 9.5 LPM (80 PSI).
The KB4651CML is available only in polished chrome and satin nickel.

The Nuvofusion Collection: New-age style with a lot to choose from

The look inside a home defines everything a homeowner makes it to be.

By acquiring a certain look and feel using different patterns and styles, there are certain elements that help centralize the overall design in the home from top to bottom.

The NuvoFusion collection fills that void as the perfect centerpiece solution.

Providing different ways in decorating the home is important for the homeowner. By offering various design options, it allows homeowners to choose which products work best for the surrounding furnishings.

The Nuvousion line is a new-fashioned construction that aims for those looking to jazz up their home with a modernized mentality.

The collection is arranged in three divisions: kitchen faucets, lavatory faucets and tub and shower faucets.

One would notice the Nuvofusion look by the flat-surfaced rectangular lever handles and round cylindrical escutcheons on each of the faucets.
To offer multiple stylings, each faucet consists of various spout shapes: C-spouts, J-spouts and goose neck spouts.

The faucets also come in different setups. Whether centerset, widespread or mini-widespread, you have a number of choices to choose from.

For a more distinctive look – the Euro high rise spout accentuates a state-of-the-art flat, rectangular anatomy with smooth wide curves —a kind of futuristic feel that makes your home surreal and beyond advanced.

The tub and shower faucets feature the same flat handle lever design with the option of regular tub spouts and tub spouts with diverter.

The tub and shower faucets’ most apparent feature is its immensely large 7-1/8” shower head. This shower head appears as a smoothly designed, thick and very wide cylindrical 2-1/4” headpiece that delivers two different spray functions: a saturating shower spray flow and a pulsating massage spray flow.

The massage spray flow is a strong concentrated flow of water only surging from the jets at the central most part of the shower head. On the other hand, the saturating shower spray flow expels a rainfall-like stream flow. This flow is also the standard spray setting for most shower heads. The tub and shower faucet have a maximum water flow rate of 2.5 GPM/9.5 LPM at 80 PSI.

The lavatory and kitchen faucets are measured to save water with a 2.2 GPM/8.3 LPM at 60 PSI. All of the faucets come with a ¼-turn washerless cartridge (including tub and shower faucets which feature a pressure-balanced washerless cartridge).

Available in four different finishes (polished chrome, polished brass, oil-rubbed bronze and satin nickel), the color of the NuvoFusion faucets will definitely enhance the senses with its new-age dazzle and cutting edge features.

The appeal of NuvoFusion equates to its functionality offering homeowners with countless possibilities in personalizing their kitchen and bathroom.

FAQ SERIES 2: 10 questions/answers about pedestal and vessel sinks

Listed below are the most frequently asked questions sent by you regarding pedestal and vessel sinks from Fauceture: (More questions/answers will be listed in following months).

FAQ 1
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Q: How can a vessel sink be installed?
A: A vessel sink is a sink that rests partially (recessed installation) or completely above the surface (countertop installation) on the vanity. It does not install under the countertop. Vessel sinks are their own separate unit and need to be installed in a certain way.

FAQ 2
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Q: How do I pick the right sink for my bathroom?
A: Before choosing a sink, determine how much space you will need to install. Make sure the sink will fit to a countertop or cabinet base and leave enough room to install the faucet and any other bathroom accessory item.

FAQ 3
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Q: When do I choose a faucet for my new bathroom sink?
A: It is better to install the sink and the faucet at the same time. It will allow you to make all necessary alterations prior to installing any component.

FAQ 4
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Q: Do all sinks come with drains?
A: No, all sinks and drains are sold separately.

FAQ 5
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Q: How do I remove black marks that show up on my vitreous china sink?
A: Any kind of aluminum material rubbed up against vitreous china sinks may leave black marks. You may use a plastic scouring pad with a non-abrasive cleaner to remove black marks.

FAQ 6
—–

Q: How can I clean my sink on a daily basis?
A: No harsh cleaners or chemicals should be used to clean bathroom sinks. Simply use non-abrasive cleaners like soap and water will remove after each use. A small amount of lemon oil on a piece of cloth and wipe down the surface of vitreous china surface will make it shine.

FAQ 7
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Q: Why should I buy a pedestal wash basin?
A: Pedestal sinks are undeniably attractive and save space in the bathroom. All pedestal sinks provide pre-drilled faucet mounting holes and ease of installation. Pedestal style sinks come with matching pedestal bases. It’s a perfect choice for increasing the amount of open space in almost any bathroom.

FAQ 8
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Q: (Brief) How do I install a pedestal sink?
A: Pedestal sinks are wall-mount installations, so they are either hung on the metal bracket that is attached to the wall’s framing or bolted directly to the framing.

FAQ 9
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Q: What type of faucet should I get for my pedestal sink?
A: It depends on the number of pre-drilled faucet holes in the sink. Pre-drilled faucet holes are usually fit for 4″ or 8″ center-to-center faucets. Make sure the proportion of the faucet size and sink size are matched. You don’t want a faucet that doesn’t fit your sink or vice versa.

FAQ SERIES: 10 questions/answers in maintaining a Kingston Brass faucet

Listed below are the most frequently asked questions sent by you regarding the faucets from Kingston Brass: (More questions/answers will be listed in following months).

FAQ 1
—–

Q: What cleaning products should I stay away from while cleaning my Kingston Brass product item?
A: It is recommended that you only clean your faucet with a mild non-abrasive soap such as hand soap. Do not use any harsh or abrasive items to wipe down your KB item.

FAQ 2
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Q: If my KB item starts to develop calcium build or lime before it gets to severe, what can I do to clean it off?
A: We suggest that you use a water softener and then proceed to clean your item with a half-and-half solution of one-part vinegar and one-part warm water. You may need a toothbrush to clean those hard-to-reach spots.

FAQ 3
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Q: What should I use to clean my faucet?
A: As mentioned previously, you can use non-abrasive mild soap. The surface of the KB faucet is non-porous so there shouldn’t be any harsh cleaning agents. In addition, you may apply carnauba wax to the surface to help prolong its shine and extend the durability of your faucet.

FAQ 4
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Q: If my faucet is leaking, what should I do?
A: If your faucet leaks through the spout when the valve is closed, you very likely have a defective cartridge or spring and washer depending on the type of faucet you have. KB sells many different type of faucets. If you know the model number of the faucet, you can call us and we will gladly identify the correct part number to order. If you do not know the model number, you can take a picture of your faucet and send it via email to techsupport@kingstonbrass.com with your contact information. Please allow 24-48 hours for a response.

FAQ 5
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Q: How should I flush my faucet? And how often?
A: Debris in the line may be present even after flushing the lines.

With that, it is recommended that you flush your faucet a few days after installation and every time the water supply has been shut off for any service or repair.

The optimal method for flushing the lines is to shut off the water supply to the faucet:

a. Remove your cartridge and seats and springs.
b. Turn your water supplies on making sure to cover any surfaces that may be water damaged and deflect water into the sink.
c. Let the water run for about a minute.
d. Replace the cartridge.
e. Remove the aerator and open both hot and cold valves.
f. Let the water run.
g. Finally, rinse the aerator and replace.

FAQ 6
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Q: How can I avoid freezing set screw in the faucet handle?
A: It is recommended to lubricate the set screw before assembly to prevent calcium buildup from hard water.

FAQ 7
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Q: My faucet is showing signs of tarnishing (especially in high mineral water region), what should I do?
A: If you are just starting to see signs of mineral buildup, here is what you can do:

1. Mix a 3-to-1 water and vinegar solution.
2. Soak paper towels with this solution and place over the affected area.
3. Leave the wet paper towel in place overnight. You can also remove the aerator and handle and leave it soaking in the water/vinegar solution.
4. Wipe down the affected area and rinse with water.

FAQ 8
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Q: (RE: Tarnishing) what can I do with my brushed nickel faucet?
A: Tarnishing is caused by years of use, normal wear-and-tear and improper maintenance such as using various chemical agents for cleaning. Unfortunately, the only feasible remedy is to replace the tarnished portion of your faucet.

FAQ 9
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Q: For special finishes like oil-rubbed bronze, what is the best way to maintain that color?
A: Since oil-rubbed bronze is a living finish, special care should be taken beginning with the proper installation:

1. Do not use Plumber’s Putty when installing your faucet, as the fumes from the putty will breakdown the protective coating.
2. Do use a silicone base sealer such as poly seam seal.
3. After installation, keep your faucet dry after each use.
4. Periodically, apply a thin coating of Spray car wax. This will prevent the accumulation of mineral deposits on the surface of your faucet.
5. Clean with a mixture of a mild non-abrasive soap and water.

FAQ 10
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Q: I cleaned the faucet of mineral deposits but now I am noticing that the brass underneath the finish is exposed. What do I do?
A: If the top layer is coming off, the best solution is to purchase a Miniwax touch-up felt tip at a local paint store. Buy it in a color that matches your faucet’s finish and touch up the affected area.

If you have a question regarding anything with Kingston Brass products, send e-mail at techsupport@kingstonbrass.com.

Click HERE to read the next series of FAQ’s (Part 2).
Click HERE to read the next series of FAQ’s (Part 3).

Celebrity collection impresses in design

Throughout history, crystal has always been regarded as a precious material–often the symbol of elegance. The purity and radiance was the idea of conceptualizing the Celebrity collection from Kingston Brass.

The series is being introduced using the most popular spout styles.

KS3961WCL

KS3961WCL Celebrity Bathroom Faucet

This Restoration bathroom faucet features a timeless look with easy flowing lines and is one of our most popular faucets. The rounded escutcheons are a good complement to the Celebrity crystal knobs, harmonious in design.

KS3961WCL – Celebrity Widespread Lavatory Faucet with Crystal Handle (Also 3962WCL, 3965WCL, 3968WCL)

* Available in polished chrome, polished brass, oil-rubbed bronze, satin nickel
* Fabricated from solid brass material for durability and reliability
* Drip-free ceramic cartridge for long-lasting performance
* 2.2GPM @ 60PSI
* Includes Pop-up drain
* 3-1/2″ Spout height with 6-1/2″ spout reach

For the measurement chart click HERE.
For the explosion chart click HERE.

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KS4461WCL

KS4461WCL Celebrity Bathroom Faucet

The Metropolitan bathroom faucet consists of masculine lines, faceted escutcheons and spout–each with the distinctive hexagonal anatomy with the crystal glass knobs.

KS4461WCL – Celebrity Widespread Lavatory Faucet with Crystal Handle (Also 4462WCL, 4465WCL, 4468WCL)

* Available in polished chrome, polished brass, oil-rubbed bronze, satin nickel
* Fabricated from solid brass material for durability and reliability
* Drip-free ceramic cartridge for long-lasting performance
* 2.2GPM @ 60PSI
* Includes Pop-up drain
* 2-7/8″ Spout height with 5-1/2″ spout reach

For the measurement chart click HERE.
For the explosion chart click HERE.

Fore more on the Celebrity collection, send e-mail to info@kingstonbrass.com.

Green Eden Collection: Using Color to Bring Life and Harmony

Like music, color evokes specific emotions … and the purpose of the Green Eden collection was to select a type of color that would provide a sense of renewal and liveliness to our products, but at the same time give the user a sense of serenity.

The emerald green shade is the color of life and of the springtime. For centuries, the use of green has been characterized with beauty and love; also conveying with harmony and nature. In many different cultures and religions today, green is utilized as an iconic color.

With Green Eden, the use of the bathroom/kitchen is more than just a functional area of your house but moreover a place of refuge and rest. By adding the emerald green color, our faucets will exhibit a tranquil, peaceful elegance.

From the design perspective, the elements of the Concord look consists of a smooth, radiant contemporary theme. Its tubular spouts and cylindrical body work would benefit the most with the ‘green’ essence to bring together the artesian mood and environmental feeling within the home.

For those who are thinking of a ‘botanical’ look, the use of greenery like in-house plants (ferns, evergreens, palms or ivys) and flowers might be ideal to complement Green Eden. While green is not the most popular color for interior design, surrounding colors (and items) that match would provide a reasonable look.

Additional colors that blend/mix with Green Eden would suffice. By another example, an installment of marble white tiles/walls/countertops/cabinets with black and/or various shaded green patterns may comply with GE. Slight shades of silver or gray or even a light biege or faded yellow may work as well.

From a different view, a number of our green tempered glass vessel sinks from Fauceture, possess the same hue of GE and make an excellent two-piece set:

VIEW THE GREEN EDEN BROCHURE BY CLICKING HERE.

For any questions, comments regarding Green Eden, send e-mail to info@kingstonbrass.com.

Water Onyx brings the black back

One of the most ambitious projects of this past year was the successful launch of our Water Onyx series, which was received with accolades at KBIS and the National Hardware Show last year in Las Vegas.

Because of its depth of color and its versatility, the collection has generated interest among kitchen and bath designers looking for something different; and the initial product offering has grown steadily.

The design team at Kingston Brass made a bold move in introducing both traditional and contemporary designs in a finish (black nickel) that historically has been associated with strictly modern styles. We can safely say that this boldness has paid off.

Bathroom

The collection includes a selection of single-hole, 4-inch centerset and widespread faucets.

The centersets include a selection of both low spout and J-spout models, all of them possessing traditional lever and cross handles.

Water Onyx NB1970AL - 8"-16" Widespread Double Handle Lavatory Faucet

The single-hole faucets are mainly sleek tubular models designed to be used with a vessel type lavatory sink. The widespread offering gives us a few more options; from a Victorian style faucet with traditional lever handles as in the NB1970AL, or the clean tubular lines of the NS2960DKL.

The NS2960DKL features a J-spout and cylindrical handle bases and levers accented with neoprene handle inserts. The classical elegance of the NS4460 with its faceted spout is reminiscent of 1930s Chicago with its matching lever and cross handles.

To complement your faucet, Kingston Brass has also included a full line of matching tub and shower sets, Roman tub sets and bath accessories.

Kitchen

Kingston Brass’ selection of faucets for the kitchen is no less impressive.

Water Onyx NS8790DKLSP - 8" Centerset Double Handle Kitchen Faucet with Matching Sprayer

It consists of a traditional hi-reach, a traditional gooseneck and a very contemporary sleek tubular gooseneck faucet, all with side sprays.

You will also find both traditional and contemporary glass fillers used for your filtered water source.

The secret to the success of the Water Onyx series lies not only in the obvious aesthetic appeal, but also because this product line is backed up by Kingston Brass’ quality standards including its-triple plated finish process.

“Vintage” brings quality to the old

The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines vintage as: of old, recognized, and enduring interest, importance, or quality: classic. Those same words can be used to describe Kingston Brass’ Vintage Collection.

It is, of old … it is a true and improved replica of Old World styles … and it is of recognized and enduring interest, importance, or quality. In the process of developing the Vintage Collection, Kingston Brass was very discriminating in selecting the true classical styles of that era.

By being conscientious and to impress the true connoisseur of vintage style, all the details needed to be taken into consideration. After a painstaking process that took two years, Kingston Brass launched the vintage line in 2002. Since then, adjustments have been made and now Kingston Brass has what is now probably the most complete product offering of this type in the market.

KB’s product offering includes: cast iron and acrylic clawfoot tubs in four different finishes, decorative supply lines, decorative waste
and overflows, oval shower curtain rods, and a wide assortment of vintage faucets, both for tub and lavatory.

The best part of KB’s Vintage Collection is that although it keeps true to the original designs, it takes advantage of all the new technologies available in today’s market.

All the faucets are equipped with ceramic cartridges that will last a lifetime, barring any eventualities.

Another technology available to us now is the PVD finish process which will eliminate the need to polish your brass faucets ever again. This space age process will bond a metal substrate right into the surface of your faucet, making it practically impermeable to tarnishing
or pitting.

We invite you to browse through our Vintage catalog by clicking HERE … and explore the many possibilities available to you.