Frequently asked questions

• What payment methods do you accept?

  We accept credit card (VISA & Mastercard), PayPal and direct bank deposit. We do not accept American Express, however if you wish you can link your American Express card to your PayPal account and pay this way.

• What is your returns policy?

  Most of our items can be returned within 21 business days for a refund or exchange. Exceptions include special finish or custom made items – we will always let you know about this before processing your order. Sometimes there is a restocking fee charged by the manufacturer, depending on the brand. See more info on our Returns page, or contact us with any questions.

• Do you offer a discount for Trade customers?

  Yes, we do! We can offer discounts to relevant tradespeople including builders, designers, electricians, plumbers and more. Contact us for more info – we will require your ABN & Business Name to demonstrate that you’re a trade customer.

• What if I receive a damaged or incorrect item?

  Our team is here to help if there are any issues with your order. We ask that you check your order within 48 hours of receipt – ensure that you have received the correct products and that they are in good order. If there are any issues, please send us through photos and a description of the problem within this timeframe. If notice is not received within 48 hours of receipt (other than issues covered by normal warranty) then we may not be able to offer repairs or replacements.

• Can I change my order?

  If you realise you need to make any changes to your order, contact us straight away via phone, Live Chat or email. Let us know your order number & the changes you need to make. We can’t guarantee we can make any changes, it will depend on how long it is since you placed your order and whether it has been processed – but the sooner you let us know, the better chance we have of making any changes you need.

• How do I ask a question about my order?

  We have a knowledgeable team ready to answer any questions. Between 8.30am and 5pm on weekdays, you can contact us via phone on 02 6355 2003. One of our team members is also available on Live Chat from 9am-5pm on weekdays. You’re welcome to send us an email to sales@esalesgroup.com.au and we will respond within 1 business day. If you prefer, you can also use the contact form on our website.

• How is my order shipped?

  As we sell such a large range of items (from hinges and door handles to toilets and baths), the shipping methods and timeframes will vary depending on the item. We use a mixture of Australia Post, StarTrack and other couriers. Once you place your order, you will receive an email with your invoice attached. On the invoice, for each item there is an Estimated Ship Date listed. This date indicates the latest date we expect your order to leave our warehouse; it may be shipped earlier than this date. If you’ve ordered items from different warehouses, you may receive multiple parcels. We will send you a tracking number for each parcel as it leaves our warehouse so you can track it on its way to you. You can view more info on our shipping page.

• Can my order be shipped express?

  Some of our items have express shipping options online, and others are sent via courier which is already the fastes method available. If there is no express option listed and you require your order urgently, please contact us and we can let you know if there are any express options available for your order.

• Can I pick up my order?

  Depending on the item/s you have ordered you may be able to collect it. Our office is based in NSW but our items are shipped from warehouses across the country. Please get in touch with our team and we can let you know if pickup is available and where it can be collected from.
  

• Do you have a showroom?

  We are an online store only, which means we can offer a much larger range than if we were confined to a store or showroom. Some of our suppliers do however have showrooms of their own which you can visit. If you contact us with the model numbers for the items you would like to see, and your location, we can check if there is a showroom near you.
  

• Can Restoration Online restore my existing items?

  No, we cannot. We are an online store that sells new, reproduction items and restoration hardware, focusing on heritage and period styles. We do not restore items and we do not buy or sell second hand items.

• How do I make a warranty claim?

  If you purchased an item that you believe to be faulty, you can contact us to make a warranty claim if it is within the warranty period (this timeframe is listed on the website for each item).
  
  We will require:
  
  * Your order number/proof of purchase
  * A description of the issue and how long it has been a problem
  * A photo or video clearly showing the issue
  
  We can then pass this on to the manufacturer to review your claim. If the claim is approved, the manufacturer may offer either a replacement item, part or a refund. They may require collection of the faulty item.  

 

Door Handle FAQ's

• How do I choose a door handle?

  Choosing a door handle can be more complicated than most people realise! There are a number of things to consider such as handle type (knob, lever, pull handle or entry set), handle function (internal or external door, passage latch or privacy lock).
  
  The best place to start is always by working out what you like the look of. Do you prefer knobs or lever handles? Are you wanting something ornate or simple? Traditional or modern? Is there a particular colour/finish you are going for? This will narrow down your options.
  
  If you head to our Door Handles section, you will see we have categories listed for the different types of handles. You can then filter by finish, brand, size and more. Once you click on a handle, it will show you the different functions available and you can select the function and locks and latches you need.
  
  For brand new doors, you largely have a blank slate and don’t need to consider too many restrictions. If you have old doors with existing handles or large holes, you may be limited – feel free to contact us if you need help determining what options may suit your doors.
  
  We also recommend checking out our Door Handle Guide, which will walk you through the different options available with each type of handle.

• How do I choose my latch or lock?

  A door handle requires internal mechanisms called latches or locks to function.
  
  Some of our handle brands come with latches or locks included, and others need to be added on separately. Our website will walk you through this process and show you the options available.
  
  Any external handles will need a lock. Depending on the handle you choose and what your preferences are, this might be a separate deadlock, a Euro lock that uses a modern key or a Traditional mortice lock that uses an old-fashioned skeleton key.
  
  Regular internal handles are known as passage handles. These use what is called a “tubular latch”, which is simply the tongue that latches the door closed.
  
  Privacy handles are usually used for bathrooms. They usually use a tubular latch as well as a privacy bolt. Privacy bolts have an emergency coin release on the outside.
  
  For all of these options, you will need to measure your backset size (the distance from the edge of the door, to the centre of the door handle) to make sure you are choosing the correct size latch or lock for your door. Choosing the wrong backset size means your handle may sit off-centre, or the latch or lock won’t fit. For more info, view our instructions on how to Measure Your Backset.
  
  If you have a narrow backset size (44-46mm), we recommend using a lever rather than a knob. For more information on this, see our page on Why not to use 44-46mm backset locks with knobs.
  
  For more help choosing your locks and latches, you can view our Door Handle Guide. Once you choose the handle type and function, it will explain the different latch and lock options available.

• What is a Dummy handle?

  A dummy handle is a non-functional handle, usually used on wardrobes or linen cupboards, to match the rest of the handles throughout the house. No latch is required and they act as a pull handle only.
  
  Dummy handles are also commonly used as decorative handles on the non-active side of a pair of French doors. This gives the symmetrical appearance of handles on both sides of both doors.
  
  Most of our levers and knobs, and even some of our entry handlesets, can come in a dummy function.

• Can Restoration Online help me select the right handles for my home?

  We certainly can! If you’re feeling lost or unsure about which handles to choose, our knowledgeable team is here to help. We recommend having a browse first to work out the general style of handle you’re interested in. We can also help you work out if a particular handle will work on your door or with your existing locks or latches.
  
  You’re also welcome to take advantage of our Door Scheduling Service. Simply send us the handles you’re interested in as well as your house plans, or a list of the doors in your home, and we can put together a door schedule and work out the quantities of handles, locks and latches you require, as well as recommend any other matching hardware such as hinges, door stops and flush bolts for French doors.
  
  Contact us via phone on 02 6355 2003 or email us at sales@esalesgroup.com.au.

• How do I replace an existing handle?

  Replacing an existing handle is usually fairly straightforward – most handles can simply be installed after removing your existing handles.
  
  Internal handles are the most simple, as most will use a standard 7.6mm spindle, so you can keep your existing latches and just swap out the handles, or you can replace the latches too to keep everything matching.
  
  If you’re replacing an external handle and want to keep the existing lock, you’ll need to check the spindle-to-keyhole measurement is the same – ours are listed on the product page. Older doors with lots of holes from previous locks can sometimes be a bit tricky. If you need assistance working out if our handles will fit your old door, feel free to contact us.
  
  You may find that underneath your existing handle there is a large 54mm circular hole in the dace of the door. If this is the case, you will need to find a handle with a backplate wider than 54mm, or one of our rose options with a 60mm adaptor plate.
  
  For more detail, view our page on Replacing Existing Handles.

• What is the difference between Sheet, Cast and Forged Brass?

  You’ll notice that many of our handles are listed as being sheet, cast and forged brass. Each of these is a type of solid brass. Colours other than brass (such as Matte Black or Chrome) will have a plated finish on top.
  
  Sheet brass is also known as stamped or pressed brass, and is thin and light. These products are less expensive as they use less brass, which is always increasing in cost. Many traditional styles such as Deco and Bungalow handles were originally made in this way.
  
  Cast brass is made by melting brass and pouring into a mould, creating a heavier product. Forged brass has a smoother finish than cast brass and is created by heating a thick sheet of metal and pressing into shape. It is much thicker and more durable than sheet brass.
  
  For more detail, view our info page on What is the difference between Sheet, Cast and Forged Brass?

• How do I choose a sliding door handle?

  Most sliding doors slide into a cavity, which requires the handles to be flush and level with the surface of the door. We have a range of sliding door handles, also known as flush pulls.
  
  If the door simply needs to be opened and closed, with no locking required, you can choose any of our standard flush pulls. You’ll see that some of our sliding door handles come in multiple functions – with these options, you would select the “Passage” function for a standard, non-locking sliding door.
  
  If you require a privacy lock for a bathroom, then you can select any of the options that have “Privacy” in the name, or choose the privacy option from the models with multiple functions. These are low security locks with an emergency coin release slot on the outside.
  
  Lastly, we also have some entry set options which are suitable for external doors. Choose the “Entrance Set” handles or select Entry Set from the drop down list.

• What is an Entry Door Handleset?

  An entry door handleset is a unique option for a front door, which comes with everything included. Instead of having an identical handle on both sides of the door, these have a pull handle on the outside and a knob or lever on the inside. They use a high security deadlock, and a thumb latch above the pull handle, which enables opening of the door from the outside when unlocked.
  
  Dummy options are available if you have double doors and wish to create a symmetrical look. Our Entry Door Handlesets are available in a range of finishes, in simple and ornate designs to suit any decor theme.

• How do I choose handles for French doors?

  French doors are double doors, usually with glass panes, and can be either external or internal.
  
  We recommend levers rather than knobs for most French doors. This is because the stile (the vertical timber where the handle is placed) is commonly narrower than on a normal door, and having a knob too close to the edge of the door means you run the risk of scraping your knuckles.
  
  Once you have chosen the handle you like, you’ll need to select your handle function and choose your lock or latch. The website will walk you through these options. For external doors, you can choose a Euro lock or a Traditional Keyhole lock. For internal doors, you would choose a passage latch. Any of these can come in a rebated version. If your door is rebated, it will have a zig zag cut-out along the edge that overlaps when the door is closed. If this is the case, you will require a rebated lock or latch. If the edges are just flat, then you will just need a standard lock or latch.
  
  You’ll then need to check your backset size and ensure you select the correct sized lock or latch for your door. View our Measuring Your Backset info page for instructions on how to do this.
  
  Once you have added the handles and the lock/latch you have chosen to the cart, you’ll then need to add some dummy handles. Most French doors will have dummy handles on the non-active door – these are non-functional handles that act like pull handles, but look the same as the functional handles. You’ll want to add one left and one right hand dummy handle to the cart.
  
  Lastly, you will need to add some flush bolts. These are designed to keep the non-active door in place so that the active door can be latched and locked closed. These are installed into the edge of the door, one at the top and one at the bottom. We have flush bolts in matching finishes to complement your handles.
  
  If you have any trouble selecting handles for your French doors, don’t hesitate to contact our helpful team who can guide you through the process.

• Can I install door handles myself?

  We recommend a licensed tradesperson installs your door handles. Even on brand new doors when installation seems quite straight forward, it is important that the handles and lock or latches are installed carefully, correctly and completely level. Installation issues can cause problems later on, such as the door handle binding and the latch not retracting.

• What colour/finish options are there for door handles?

  At Restoration Online, we have a range of brands who each offer a variety of different colours and finishes in their door handle options. We have finishes suitable for both traditional and contemporary homes. Some of our options include:
  
  * Polished Brass
  
  * Satin Brass
  
  * Polished & Satin Chrome
  
  * Matte Black
  
  * Antique Brass
  
  * Antique Copper
  
  * Pewter
  
  * Polished & Satin Nickel
  
  * Unlaquered Brass
  
  * Oil-rubbed Bronze
  
  Some of our handles are available with glass knobs which come in a range of colours including clear, amber, black, green and pink.
  
  View our Finish Guide for more information on the different brands and their finishes.

• How do I care for my door handles and hardware?

  It’s very important to avoid harsh chemicals when cleaning your door handles. Certain finishes are more sensitive than others – finishes like Antique Brass, Antique Copper, Timeless Bronze & Oil-Rubbed Bronze are living finishes and can be damaged by things like masking tape and abrasive cleaning products. Generally a soft, damp cloth is enough to clean your handles. Mr Sheen can be used occasionally, as it adds a protective coating and will prolong the life of any finish.
  
  Polished brass is protected by a clear lacquer, but this will wear off over time and the finish will tarnish. If this occurs, you can use a product such as Brasso to polish the item, however note that this will take off the clear lacquer so it will tarnish quicker next time. You can relacquer them or continue to polish regularly to keep the finish shiny.
  
  Our Finish Guide outlines how to care for each finish. If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to contact us.

• What is a backset size?

  You’ll notice that most of our locks and latches mention something called a “backset size”.
  
  The backset is the measurement from the edge of the door to the centre of the door handle. Choosing the correct backset size means your handle will sit in the centre of the stile (the vertical panel of timber between the edge of the door and any glass or panels).
  
  If your door is completely flat with no panels or glass, and it is brand new with no existing handles or latches, then you can choose a standard 57-60mm backset size latch or lock. For any other doors, with panels, glass, existing handles or locks, you will want to measure your backset size first to ensure you purchase the correct sized lock or latch.
  
  View our comprehensive instructions on Measuring Your Backset.

 

Hardware FAQ's

• Which type of hinge do I need?

  We have a range of hinge types to suit all different doors.
  
  For external doors we recommend either fixed pin hinges, or ball bearing hinges. Both are secure, ball bearing a little more expensive as they are heavier-duty and smoother to operate. Fixed pin hinges will generally suffice, but if you have a particularly heavy door with a lot of glass, we recommend choosing the ball bearing option.
  
  Loose pin hinges are designed for standard internal doors. They have a pin which can be easily removed, making it convenient to take your doors off the hinges for repainting, rather than needing to unscrew each hinge. Some builders prefer to use easy-fit or hirline hinges for internal doors, as these do not require recessing into the wood. Lift off hinges are another option, popular with bathroom doors, as the door can be lifted off the hinges in an emergency. We do not recommend any of these options for external doors.
  
  For French or Double doors, we suggest Parliament or Broad Butt hinges. These are designed to allow the door to open around a large door frame, enabling the door to open 180 degrees and sit flat against the wall.

• What hinge size do I need?

  When it comes to hinges, there are a lot of variables involved, so we do recommend discussing with your builder or installer – they should be able to recommend the size and type of hinge you require.
  
  However, as a guide, for a standard internal hollowcore door, we’d usually suggest a 100 x 75mm sized hinge. If the door is particularly large or heavy, you might want a 100 x 100mm size or larger.
  
  Some doors may need Broad Butt or Parliament hinges – such as French doors or single doors that need to open 180 degrees against the wall. For help calculating the size of hinge required for these doors, see the below links:
  
  How to Calculate Broad Butt Hinges
  
  How to Calculate Parliament Hinges

• How do I choose window hardware?

  The first thing to decide is what the purpose of the hardware is. Are you wanting something that will latch the window shut? Or something that will hold it open? Does it need a key lock, or just to be latched closed?
  
  You’ll then need to determine the type of window you have.
  
  A casement window is a window that is hinged on the side, so it opens and closes like a door. We offer both Casement Fasteners, which hold the window closed, as well as Casement Stays, which are a long arm that holds the window open at a certain point. Both are available with a key lock if needed. Casement Stays can come as either side mounted or sill mounted.
  
  A sash window (also called a double hung window) slides open vertically and is made up of one or more movable panels (“sashes”). We supply Sash Window Fasteners to keep the window secure, as well as Sash Lifts, which are basically small handles used to open the window. You can also purchase a Sash Pulley, which is the mechanism that helps the window slide up and down (rope is not included), and a Sash Drop, to keep the window open.
  
  Awning windows are hinged at the top or bottom, and usually open outwards. The hardware you choose will depend on where they are hinged. For bottom hinged, outward opening awning windows, we recommend a Spur Catch. For top hinged outward opening awning windows, you can choose from either a Hopper Catch or a Wedge Fastener. Quadrant Stays are designed to hold the window open.
  
  The last common window type is a Fanlight or Transom window – these are basically awning windows but they are installed up high, usually above a door. Our Fanlight Window Operators are designed to be installed so that you can open and close the window without having to reach up or stand on a chair. An alternative is using a pole with a Pole Hook to operate a Fanlight Catch. To hold the window open, you can use a Fanlight Stop.

• What are the different types of doorbells?

  We have a few options when it comes to doorbells.
  
  Manual turn doorbells do not require any wiring or electricity. The turn is installed on the door and is connected to the bell on the inside using a metal rod. When the doorbell is turned, the mechanism creates the ringing sound on the inside of the house.
  
  If you prefer a more modern, electrical doorbell but with a traditional style, we have decorative doorbell buttons that you can use instead of the standard plastic button. These standard doorbells can be purchased at a hardware store, and an electrician can install them and swap the button over.
  
  Another popular option are our Ships Bells – these use a rope with a little dongle to make the ringing sound. They are a lovely statement piece for your entrance and come in a range of finishes to suit any style of home.

• What hardware do I need for French doors?

  As well as handles and locks or latches, French doors require a flush bolt to keep the non-active door stationary. This door can be opened when needed. We recommend installing a flush bolt at both the top and bottom of the non-active door. They are recessed into the edge of the door and slide into the door jamb to keep the door fixed.
  
  You may also want to consider a door stop for your French doors – especially if they are opening 180 degrees against an internal wall. This will prevent damage to the door handles and wall. We also supply cabin hooks which can be used to latch open a French door.

• How does a centre door knob work?

  A centre door knob is a decorative, non functional knob that is installed in the centre of an external door. It acts as a pull handle and is not connected to a latch or lock. They are commonly used on doors without handles, that use a deadlock and just need to be pulled closed. Centre door knobs are larger than regular door knobs, and come in a range of colours, both simple and ornate. They are often paired with a door knocker or letter plate.

• What is a Rim Lock?

  A Rim Lock is a traditional surface mounted style of lock, originally used in England and Ireland. It is screwed onto the face of the door, rather than being morticed into the edge. Rim Locks are not as secure as morticed locks, which means we do not recommend them for external doors. They are however still quite popular on internal doors in period homes, as a decorative piece or a functional low security lock.
  
  Rim locks use a large skeleton key and require a mortice knob to function. On the opposite side of the door, where there is no lock, you have a mortice knob as well as an escutcheon (keyhole plate). You can choose the colour and size of mortice knob to use with the rim lock. Some of our rim locks come with escutcheons included, others need them to be added on.
  
  For more detailed information view the below link:
  
  What is a Rim Lock?

• How do fanlight operators work?

  A fanlight operator is designed to use on a transom or fanlight window, which is usually installed above a door. They are mounted on the side of the window frame, and the long pole allows you to open and close the window without needing to reach up high. Fanlight operators are suitable for inwards or outwards opening transom windows, top or bottom hinged, as well as pivoting fanlight windows.

 

Lighting FAQ's

• What is an IP rating?

  An IP rating (Ingress Protection Code) is an international standard which rates the level of protection provided by a light fitting against dust, accidental contact and water. This will determine whether a light fitting is suitable for use outdoors, whether it needs to be under cover or can be completely exposed to the elements.
  
  IP ratings are measured in two numbers – the first number refers to solid objects such as dust, the second refers to liquid such as water. View more information about IP ratings here: What is an IP rating?

• Are your lights suitable for outdoors?

  At Restoration Online, we have a range of lights suitable for outdoors. We always recommend you check the IP rating to ensure the light you have selected is suitable for use outside – some may be suitable for use in the elements, others may need some level of protection (e.g. under a veranda). Choose from post lights, wall lights, ceiling and pendant lights in a range of finishes such as bronze and brass.

• Do I need an electrician to install a light?

  Yes. Any electrical work, including installing a light, legally needs to be undertaken by a licensed electrician. Attempting this yourself can result in installation problems and is dangerous. Improperly installed lights can cause house fires.
  
  The only exception to this is if you are installing a batten fix light fitting. A batten fix is simply a single lamp holder connected to the ceiling. A batten fix light fitting is installed over the globe in the ceiling, and no actual electrical work is required. These are safe to install yourself without an electrician.

• What are the different types of lights available?

  Our lighting range includes both indoor and outdoor lights.
  
  For indoor lights, pendant lights are a popular option, especially for higher ceilings. These are available on chains, rods or cords. Multi-arm lights and chandeliers are perfect as a statement piece. Wall lights and ceiling lights are ideal if you need to save space – they still come in a huge range of styles to suit any décor theme. Kitchen bench lights are a great option for providing light over your kitchen workspace. We also have a range of floor and table lamps.
  
  Outdoor lights are available in pendants (chain and rod versions), wall lights and under eave lights. Post lights and pillar lights are perfect for lighting up your garden and driveway.
  
  Our lights come in a range of finishes and styes to suit traditional and contemporary homes.

• Are your lights suitable for Australia and New Zealand?

  Yes – our lights are all designed to comply with Australian and New Zealand standards.
  
  For use in any other country, you will need to check with your electrician.

• What is a batten fix?

  A batten fix is a single bulb or lampholder which is installed directly into the ceiling. Our Batten Fix light fittings are designed to be simply installed over this globe. They do not include any electrical components and you do not need an electrician to install these. They are an easy DIY option to change up your space without needing to do any rewiring.
  
  Our batten fix lights can be found in our Ceiling Lights category.

 

Sink FAQ's

• How do I install my fireclay sink?

  A fireclay sink (such as a Butler or Belfast sink) should be installed by your cabinetmaker. These are usually undermounted, which means the benchtop slightly overhangs the edge of the sink, and with the front exposed.
  
  For more detailed information, view our guidelines on Installing your Fireclay Sink and discussing the installation with your cabinetmaker.

• How do I care for my fireclay sink?

  Fireclay is a durable material, resistant to impact, chips, stains and temperature changes. It is an easy material to care for, as it is non-porous and naturally stain and odour resistant. We recommend using a soft sponge and a non-abrasive cleaner such as a soap and water. You can purchase a rubber protective mat for the bottom of the sink – this is also useful for protecting glasses and dishes from being chipped on the hard fireclay.
  
  For more information on caring for your sink, view our Fireclay Sink Care Guide.

• Are Fireclay Sinks Durable?

  Yes – Fireclay is a reinforced clay, making it much stronger than porcelain or ceramic. All of our brands of fireclay sinks are covered by warranties that guarantee the quality of the sink.
  
  Fireclay sinks are:
  
  * Heat resistant
  * Impact resistant
  * Scratch resistant
  * Hypoallergenic
  * Non-porous
  * Chemical resistant
  * Easy to clean
  
  View more information on fireclay sinks here: Are Fireclay Sinks Durable?

• What is a waste fitting?

  A waste fitting connects the drain hole to the waste pipe. It consists of a plug or basket waste which allows you to fill up the sink with water. Once the waste fitting is open/unplugged, the water can drain away. A waste fitting also prevents large particles and debris from entering and clogging the drain pipes.
  
  Many of our sinks come with waste fittings included, but we also supply a range of fittings separately, perfect if you’re wanting to swap to a colour/finish that matches your tapware.

• Do sinks come with waste fittings included?

  Most of our kitchen sinks come with waste fittings included. Some of our bathroom basins may not, however the website lists a range of waste fitting options you can add on, depending on the colour and type of waste you would like.
  
  Our fireclay sinks generally come with a chrome or stainless steel basket waste, however we do have other finishes available if you are looking for something that will match your tapware.

• Do I need a plumber to install my sink?

  Your sink would usually be installed by a cabinetmaker. Your cabinetmaker will advise whether they require any assistance from a plumber but usually this is not necessary. A plumber is needed to install any taps.
  
  We do not advise attempting to install your sink yourself – this is a job best left to the professionals. Any damage caused by incorrect installation will not be covered by warranty.

• Can I use a kitchen sink in my laundry?

  Yes you can. There is no real difference between the function of a kitchen and laundry sink – the main consideration is the size of the sink. Our fireclay sinks are often used for both kitchens and laundries – you might want to use one of our larger single bowl options for a laundry.

 

Taps FAQ's

• Are your taps suitable for Australian and NZ plumbing?

  Yes. All of our tapware is specifically designed to suit plumbing in Australia and NZ. They are all compatible with standard Australian sizes and use standard taphole sizes.
  
  If you are an international customer, we advise checking with your plumber to confirm if our taps will be suitable for your plumbing. Feel free to contact our team if you have any questions.

• Do I need a plumber to install my taps?

  Yes. All of our tapware is specifically designed to suit plumbing in Australia and NZ. They are all compatible with standard Australian sizes and use standard taphole sizes.
  
  Yes. In Australia, any new tap installations are legally required to be completed by a licensed plumber. This is important for health and safety reasons, and any warranty can be voided if the tap is not installed by a plumber.

• How do I replace my old taps?

  You will require a plumber if you are swapping to new taps.
  
  To use the same tapholes or avoid drilling any new holes in your tiles, you will want to stick to a similar type of tap. You can choose a tap that uses the same holes but is in a new style and finish to completely refresh your space.
  
  You can change to a completely different type of tap, however this will require more plumbing work and possibly retiling, so this is something you will want to discuss with your plumber.
  
  If you need help finding something that will work with your existing plumbing, feel free to contact our team with some photos and measurements and we can assist you.

• What finishes/colours are available for taps?

  Chrome is generally the standard finish when it comes to tapware – most of our brands are available in chrome as well as a range of other finishes. Choose from anti tarnish brass gold, satin brass finishes, matte black, industrial brass, brushed nickel and many more.
  
  View our Finish Guide for more information on our tapware brands and the finishes available

 

Light Switches FAQ's

• Do I need a mounting block for my light switches?

  Mounting blocks are a decorative wooden block that a light switch can be mounted on. These are an optional add on, however can make installation easier on masonry and gyprock. Your electrician will be able to advise if you require these.
  
  Mounting blocks are most commonly used with our round switches, or our square bungalow switches. Our traditional rectangular switches cannot be used with our mounting blocks.
  
  Our bakelite switches have an option of a mounting bracket for plasterboard or gyprock, or a wall box for bricks/masonry.

• Does an electrician need to install my light switches?

  Yes – any electrical work in Australia legally needs to be carried out by a licensed electrician. Any issues caused by installation can be dangerous and will void the warranty on your switches.

• Can I purchase a light switch cover on its own?

  No, unfortunately our suppliers only sell the full item, with the switch mechanism as well as the cover.
  
  The only exception is if the cover is a replacement for one that was previously purchased from us and has been damaged – we will require a photo/proof of purchase.

• Can I use a dimmer with my light switches?

  Yes! Our switches can all be used with dimmers, as well as fan controllers. Keep in mind that all of these require a separate on/off switch for the light or fan, as well as the dimmer or fan controller.
  
  Our traditional rectangular switches also require an on/off switch for each dimmer or fan controller, but these can be combined in the one switch plate – for example, in a 2 gang switch plate you can have 1 light switch and 1 dimmer switch.
  
  If you have an LED light, we have specific LED dimmers. If you need help selecting the correct items, feel free to contact our team.

• Are your switches and power points suitable for Australia and New Zealand?

  Yes – our switches are designed to be used in Australia and New Zealand and are compliant with all Australian and NZ standards and regulations. International customers wishing to use our switches will need to check with their electrician regarding their suitability.

 

Finishes FAQ's

• What finish/colour options are available?

  At Restoration Online we have a large range of brands offering products such as door handles, tapware, lighting, sinks and hardware, in a variety of different colours and finishes. Whether you’re wanting to match items throughout your home or contrast colours, you will find an array of choices. Choose from chrome and polished brass, matte black and antique copper, brushed brass and nickel and more.
  
  View our Finish Guide to view information on each brand and the different finishes they offer.
  
  Keep in mind that finishes will vary across different brands – one brand’s brass gold may not be the same as the next. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to give us a call or email.

• Which finish is most durable?

  Across the board, chrome and satin chrome are the most durable finishes. Whether you’re choosing a door handle or a tap, chrome is a finish that will stay looking shiny and new and won’t tarnish or patina. Chrome is the best option for locations near the coast, where other finishes may be corroded by salt in the air.
  
  The next most durable finish is anything with a PVD coating – we have a range of handles and tapware with PVD finishes, such as lifetime brass, urban brass, gunmetal and brushed nickel.
  
  Our premium handle brand, Ageless Iron, is an extremely durable range of black door hardware, which is made of solid bast iron, multi-layer powder coating with UV and salt resistance.
  
  Electroplated items and anti-tarnish brass are designed to resist tarnishing however are not as durable as PVD coatings. Living finishes such as Antique Brass, Antique Copper, Industrial Brass, Polished Brass, Timeless Bronze and Oil Rubbed Bronze are the least durable – these finishes are designed to change, age and tarnish over time.
  
  Our Finish Guide outlines each finish and its durability.

• Does antique brass vary?

  Yes – antique brass is a living finish and is aged by hand using a chemical solution. This means that the tone and darkness of the finish can vary between batches, and each individual item is unique. If you are purchasing a large order of antique brass items, our warehouse will endeavour to choose items similar in colour, however sometimes there will be a variety, with some lighter and darker pieces. This is the nature of antique brass.

• Does brass tarnish over time?

  Brass tarnishes and develops a patina over time. A lot of our brass products such as polished brass handles have a clear lacquer to prolong their shiny appearance – once this wears off, the brass will tarnish fairly quickly. It can be polished again using a product such as Brasso.
  
  If an aged look is your desired outcome, some of our brass items come in an unlacquered version.
  
  Some of our tapware is available in anti-tarnish brass finishes. If you prefer a rustic look, we offer finishes such as Industrial Brass, Polish to Plate and Lea Wheeled Brass, which will tarnish quite quickly, especially when exposed to water.
  
  View our Finish Guide to view information on each brand and the different finishes they offer, including how they tarnish over time.