Q: I'm planning to have a new kitchen faucet installed. I'm thinking about getting the new style, with the spray hose built right into the faucet spout. I know they are fancy and cost a little more. So, other than style, what benefits will I get for spending the extra money?

— Jenn, Florida

A: You're describing what is called a "pullout" or "pull-down" kitchen faucet. The pullout style pulls straight out from the spout, while the pull-down has a candy-cane-shaped spout and the spray head pulls down. These faucets give kitchen sinks a very clean look, because the spray-head assembly is removed from the sink rim.

So, with an extra sink hole available, a soap dispenser can be installed, giving the user an additional kitchen-sink feature. An extra sink hole is just the start. With one spray/spout unit, the faucet is a lot easier to control than having a separate spray head and separate faucet spout.

Plus, whenever you want to do a wash-down or fill a pot, the faucet head is usually in your hand and can be pulled out a few feet.

Finally, pullout faucets offer normal or spray-flow water settings for filling or washing.

With all these features, it's easy to see why many homeowners pull out their wallets and spend the extra money for a pullout faucet.

Master plumber Ed Del Grande is the author of "Ed Del Grande's House Call," the host of TV and Internet shows, and a LEED green associate. Visit eddelgrande.com or write eadelg@cs.com. Always consult local contractors and codes.