Wall-Mounted and Deck-Mounted Bathtub Mixer – What Are the Key Differences?
Choosing between a wall-mounted shower mixer or a deck-mounted bathroom mixer largely depends on your bathroom layout, design vision, and installation possibilities.
Wall-mounted bathtub mixers install right into the wall, hiding all pipework and leaving the tub rim completely clear. It offers a neat, simple style. Because of this, wall-mounted shower, bathtub, and basin mixers are often chosen for modern, minimalist bathrooms, where saving space and keeping the design visually calm are key considerations.
Deck-mounted mixers are mounted on the tub deck or surround. A deck-mounted bathroom mixer or deck-mounted bath shower mixer is easier to access for both installation and future service, making it the preferred option for traditional, transitional, and most retrofit projects.
At EMPOLO, we manufacture both styles in solid lead-free brass with premium Spanish Sedal ceramic cartridges and luxury finishes (chrome, matte black, brushed nickel, brushed gold, brushed rose gold, and champagne gold).
Quick Comparison Chart
| Feature | Wall Mounted Shower Mixer / Bathtub Mixer / Basin Mixer | Deck Mounted Bathroom Mixer / Bath Shower Mixer Deck Mounted |
|---|---|---|
| Aesthetics | Ultra-clean, floating, luxury-hotel feel | Classic, elegant, substantial presence |
| Tub rim space | 100 % free | Uses 10–15 cm of rim |
| Installation | Requires pre-plumbed wall rough-in | Simple drilling on rim or deck |
| Maintenance access | Hidden connections | All connections visible and easily reachable |
| Splash | Slightly higher (70–80 cm drop) | Minimal splash |
| Best tub type | Freestanding tubs against wall | Built-in, drop-in, or thick-rim freestanding tubs |
| EMPOLO 2026 price range | $150 – $270 | $230 – $390 |
How Does Installation Affect Your Choice?
Wall-mounted shower mixers and wall-mounted bathtub mixers require concealed pipework inside the wall (standard 150 mm centres). They are therefore ideal for new construction or major renovations when plumbing can be planned in advance.
Deck-mounted bathroom mixers and bath shower mixers deck mounted are far more flexible and can be installed on almost any existing bathtub with just a few drilled holes — perfect for bathroom refreshes without structural changes.
Aesthetics and Space Efficiency
Why Choose a Wall-Mounted Mixer for a Minimalist Look?
A wall-mounted shower mixer, combined with a wall-mounted bathtub mixer and a matching wall-mounted basin mixer, creates a truly seamless aesthetic.
The tub rim remains completely clear, the finishes appear to “float”, and even compact bathrooms feel noticeably larger and more luxurious.
EMPOLO’s wall-mounted collections in matte black, brushed gold, and brushed rose gold are especially popular in five-star hotels and high-end residential projects.
Can a Deck-Mounted Mixer Still Look Luxurious?
Absolutely. A well-chosen deck-mounted bathroom mixer or bath shower mixer deck-mounted in brushed rose gold or champagne gold can become a beautiful focal point, particularly on freestanding tubs with wide rolled rims or classic clawfoot baths. Deck-mounted sets also make it easier to integrate useful accessories such as hand showers, soap dishes, or diverters.
Maintenance and Long-Term Durability
Deck-mounted mixers offer the easiest access for service — all connections are visible and reachable. Wall-mounted models hide everything, so any future work may require tile removal (though this is rare with quality components).
All EMPOLO wall-mounted and deck-mounted mixers use genuine Spanish ceramic cartridges, lead-free solid brass (>59 % copper), and high-pressure testing. This is why our fixtures are specified in high-traffic installations worldwide with virtually zero call-backs.
How to Choose Based on Your Bathroom and Needs
Freestanding or Built-In Tub?
- Freestanding tub placed against a wall → wall mounted shower mixer + wall mounted bathtub mixer for maximum drama
- Built-in or drop-in tub with wide deck → deck-mounted bathroom mixer or bath shower mixer deck mounted is the natural choice
Do You Want Extra Features?
Many EMPOLO deck-mounted bath shower mixers are supplied with an integrated hand shower and diverter.
Wall-mounted systems can be specified with concealed thermostatic valves and separate hand showers for accurate temperature control and user safety.
The Mondrian 5 Holes Bathtub Mixer 15 7003A offers a seamless blend of practicality and design. It allows durability and smooth hot-cold water control in a refined, modern form.
Why Choose EMPOLO for Your Bathtub Mixer Solution?
What Sets EMPOLO Apart from Other Brands?
Unlike many other manufacturers, EMPOLO manages all aspects of production in-house, including shaping, machining, polishing, coating, assembly, and inspection. This end-to-end control ensures consistent quality at every stage of the process.
Our products are crafted using designs from European creators, aligning with contemporary global bathroom aesthetics. Additionally, our faucets and fixtures hold international certifications such as cUPC, WaterMark, WELS, SASO, and TIS, demonstrating compliance with stringent standards worldwide.
What Other Products Does EMPOLO Offer Beyond Bathtub Mixers?
EMPOLO offers an extensive selection beyond bathtub mixers, including premium faucets and fixtures for both bathroom and kitchen applications:
- Brass basin faucets with strong finishes that work for homes and business places
- Nice kitchen faucets that mix easy use with good work
- Strong shower systems with hidden sets, rain showers, and thermostatic valves
All of these bathroom accessories can be seamlessly integrated into your own bathroom designs through our OEM/ODM services.
Why Is EMPOLO a Trusted Choice for Homes and Projects Worldwide?
With more than 23 years of experience in making bathroom accessories, EMPOLO has given custom bathroom solutions to fancy hotels, home builds, business spots, and fix-up works all over the world.
Our faucets and fixtures have been specified for landmark hospitality projects such as Wyndham Hotel Doha and The Lind Boracay.
These successful collaborations reflect our commitment to design excellence, reliable performance, and long-term trust.
FAQ
Q: What’s the difference between wall-mounted and deck-mounted bathtub mixers?
A: Wall-mounted mixers go on the bathroom wall. They give a simple look with hidden pipes. Deck-mounted mixers stick to the tub edge. They make setup and fixes easier. EMPOLO offers both in solid brass with many finishes.
Q: Are wall-mounted bathtub mixers harder to install?
A: Yes. Wall-mounted models usually need hidden pipes in the wall. So, they fit new builds or full changes better. EMPOLO gives clear setup guides to help with the right placement.
Q: Which type of mixer is easier to maintain—wall-mounted or deck-mounted?
A: Deck-mounted mixers let you reach fixes more easily. The pipe links are out in view. But EMPOLO items have a good build with Sedal cartridges. This cuts down on fix needs over time.
Q: Can I get a bathtub mixer with hand shower functionality?
A: Yes. Many deck-mounted models from EMPOLO have built-in hand showers. Wall-mounted models can get the same ads based on your setup preferences.
Q: Are EMPOLO bathtub mixers safe for daily use?
A: Yes. All EMPOLO faucets are made from lead-free solid brass (>59% copper). They also go through thorough testing. EMPOLO also has respected global approvals. These include cUPC, WaterMark, WELS, SASO, and TIS. Such approvals ensure that our products follow the toughest worldwide health and performance rules.