There’s no hard rule written in stone, but for most normal homes, every 7–10 years is a good rhythm for updating basic fixtures like taps, cabinet handles, and door knobs. Of course, if something breaks, leaks or rusts badly, you don’t wait for the calendar – you replace it then and there. But if we’re talking about style and usability, ten years is about the point where things start looking dated or tired.
Taps and handles get touched dozens of times a day. Over time the coating wears off, they lose shine, screws loosen, and they can start to feel flimsy. You might not notice it day to day, but when you finally change them, the difference in look and feel is huge.
Another sign is cleaning: if you constantly scrub but they still look old, pitted or stained, it’s probably time. When you do replace, don’t go for the cheapest thing on the shelf. Pick mid-range items from a half-decent brand, in a finish that matches your overall style – like brushed nickel, matte black or classic chrome. It’s a small upgrade in the big picture, but it makes your kitchen and bathrooms feel more “current” without a full renovation.
