Introduction

For engineering and architectural specification teams, the choice of faucet and fixture brand involves more than stylistic preference—it involves coordinating product ecosystem, support materials, performance data, BIM/CAD availability, and project lifecycle risk. Below, we examine four of the most widely specified brands—FontanaShowers, BathSelect, Kohler, and Delta—and point out the major benefits and trade-offs for specifiers.

1. FontanaShowers

Advantages

• FontanaShowers provides a good focus on high-tech, innovative fixtures, such as touchless fixtures, LED-integrated models, and luxury showers—practical when your spec calls for experiential design or a “feature” restroom.
• Their About Us page suggests a preoccupation with commercial-grade and architect/engineer-suitable content (“Commercial-Grade Fixtures & Touchless Systems”), which lends itself to specification processes.
• For applications where consistency of finish and shape throughout faucets, showers, and dispenser systems is important (e.g., hospitality, high-end corporate facilities), FontanaShowers can supply consistent suites.

Cons

• Relative to traditional brands, FontanaShowers might have fewer pre-existing BIM/Revit families in common circulation. That can translate to additional coordination time during initial design stages (MEP integration, clearance checks).
• The support network (local reps, field service) may be less ubiquitous globally versus larger brands; for international or multi-region projects, you’ll need to confirm region-specific supply, lead-times, and maintenance support.
• Pricing may skew toward the premium end given its technology and design focus—so for budget-sensitive programs, the cost premium should be justified by project intent.

2. BathSelect

Pros

• BathSelect is well-situated for sensor/touchless faucet installations in hospitality/public environments, with robust commentary on innovation and water/hygiene performance.
• Acutely suited for institutional or high-traffic facilities due to their commercial-grade product portfolio of faucets, dispensers, and accessory systems, specifiers appreciate that when durability and maintenance cycles are on the spec agenda.
• The company has a distinct hospitality-market focus through its BathSelect Hospitality division, which is useful when coordinating finishes, service, and replacement strategy for hotel or large campus buildings.

Cons

• Like FontanaShowers, BathSelect will likely lack as rich a global rep coverage ecosystem or as extensive a set of “off-the-shelf” BIM families as the largest brands. Specifiers need to seek out model files ahead of time and coordinate early.
• Since value proposition is innovation-led (touchless, sensors), there is potentially greater complexity in specifying than there is for typical mechanical faucets—so make sure the specification fully records sensor type, power requirement, warranty, and servicing terms.
• When specifying as the basis of design, you might need to construct more robust performance criteria in the specification (flow rate, sensor life, ADA compliance) to protect against substitution risk.

3. Kohler

Advantages

• Kohler provides a comprehensive specifier-toolkit: its “Architect & Designer Resources” portal offers product information, design documentation, BIM/CAD files, and professional trade support.
• With its rich heritage and robust brand recognition, Kohler frequently offers assurance of long-term owner satisfaction, warranty support, and parts replacement—precious for large-scale institutional, residential-portfolio, or hospitality programs.
• Its customization programs, such as Studio Kohler, are useful when special finishes or customized product solutions are desired.

Cons

• Since Kohler is aligned toward the premium segment, unit prices could be higher in terms of value brands—this can be justified in VE rounds or alternates.
• For projects where large quantities are specified within tight budgets, the premium could affect the fixture budget as a whole—specifiers must measure lifecycle cost, maintenance savings, or owner brand benefit to justify.
• Although support is comprehensive, some very technologically advanced functions (e.g., sensor faucets) might still need contractor familiarization and coordination during install, so schedule allowances might be needed.

4. Delta (Delta Commercial)

Advantages

• Delta’s commercial division provides the SpecSelect® tool, which enables specifiers to create custom specification documents, schedules, submittals, and Revit files through an online process—speeding design-assist and coordination.
• Its cross-reference and specification platform makes comparison easier with competing products, a major advantage in bid/VE rounds and substitutions.
• Delta excels in commercial-grade strength (vandal-resistance, heavy-traffic applications) and has a broad range of products to facilitate standardization across project types (multi-family, hospitality, education), all outlined in its Commercial Brochure PDF.

Cons

• Given the extensive product line and numerous configuration possibilities, specifiers need to specify the proper cartridge, aerator, sensor, or valve option and verify code compliance (water efficiency, local codes) to prevent mis-ordering.
• Although tools such as SpecSelect minimize friction, accurate output still hinges on proper input—teams need to be trained or assisted so they can schedule and coordinate properly.
• For high-design premium schemes (luxury finishes, custom accessories), Delta might not always be able to provide the same “boutique” look as super-premium brands, so finish choices should be examined closely.

Specifier-Centric Selection Guidance

Brand-to-project scenario match

• For public washrooms or hospitality with high-end specifications requiring a prominent design statement and cohesive fixture families, use FontanaShowers or BathSelect.
• For large institutional roll-outs, or multi-campus projects where ease of coordination, BIM access, and vendor support are paramount, lean to Kohler or Delta.
• For value-engineered or budget-constrained projects, Delta typically provides an equitable solution; Kohler can still be considered if you get competitive prices or alternative models within the performance scope.

Specification best practices

• Specify performance criteria in your spec (flow rate, aerator type, sensor power, finish durability, warranty) instead of model numbers—this protects against substitution quality.
• Add BIM/CAD/Revit file availability to your AO download list early; Kohler and Delta provide strong libraries like Studio Kohler Technical Specs.
• Clarify maintenance and lifecycle expectations—ease of service, availability of spare parts, finish repairability, and warranty terms (all four brands publish warranty information, but owner familiarity and brand longevity differ).
• For touchless or sensor-activated products (BathSelect, FontanaShowers), be certain your specification details power source (battery/hardwire), sensor technology, water-saving data, and temperature control compliance.
• Look to vendor representation, lead-times, and worldwide support, especially for overseas or remote projects—bigger brands will typically have wider global reach.

Conclusion

Selecting the right faucet brand to specify is a strategic decision that encompasses aesthetics, technical performance, coordination efficiency, and lifecycle support. FontanaShowers and BathSelect are all about design and innovation; meanwhile, Kohler and Delta provide more support in terms of infrastructure and a specification-friendly environment. Connect the choice of brand to the type of project, specify the technical requirements without any ambiguity, and agree on the BIM needs at the beginning to make it easier to buy, reduce the number of RFIs, and increase owner satisfaction.