HighqualityPlumbing
Member
I notice that all major manufacturers except Moen supply gaskets with their bathroom faucets. Moen requires messy use of putty or silicone for faucet and handles, for all models that I looked at (Banbury, Align widespread models, ...) - no gaskets; metal on granite sink. Also, Moen is ca. 50 to 100% higher priced than the major competitors for seemingly comparable models (e.g. Moen Banbury vs. Pfister Courant, Delta Porter widespread models).
My question is whether there is a conceivable engineering rationale (not cost) for using putty vs. EPDM gaskets. I can't believe that one of the top manufacturers (Moen) tries to save additional money on rubber. Even the most basic big box store no-brand faucets have EPDM gaskets, which never leaked in my house. My understanding is that EPDM gaskets are the superior, modern, safe way to install faucets. Please correct me if I'm wrong.
Another question is about the warranty support of Price Pfister (or Delta). Are they equally easy to deal with as Moen? Do they ship spare parts for free, free shipping, no (or not many) questions asked, like Moen does? If yes, I am considering returning my Moen faucet and getting a Price Pfister. (On another note, Pfister's push-and-seal popup assembly is also 100% superior for ease of installation, 100% more solid and heavy than Moen, requires no putty, and no leaks. It appears that Moen may have focused more on their profit margins lately, rather than on innovation or on their customers.)
Your input to my questions is much appreciated.
My question is whether there is a conceivable engineering rationale (not cost) for using putty vs. EPDM gaskets. I can't believe that one of the top manufacturers (Moen) tries to save additional money on rubber. Even the most basic big box store no-brand faucets have EPDM gaskets, which never leaked in my house. My understanding is that EPDM gaskets are the superior, modern, safe way to install faucets. Please correct me if I'm wrong.
Another question is about the warranty support of Price Pfister (or Delta). Are they equally easy to deal with as Moen? Do they ship spare parts for free, free shipping, no (or not many) questions asked, like Moen does? If yes, I am considering returning my Moen faucet and getting a Price Pfister. (On another note, Pfister's push-and-seal popup assembly is also 100% superior for ease of installation, 100% more solid and heavy than Moen, requires no putty, and no leaks. It appears that Moen may have focused more on their profit margins lately, rather than on innovation or on their customers.)
Your input to my questions is much appreciated.