Tapware That Lasts: What You Need to Know Before You Choose

Tapware might seem like a small decision in the grand scheme of your renovation, but it’s one of those details you’ll use every single day, and it’s a detail I help clients get right.

Whether I’m designing a kitchen, bathroom, or laundry, I guide my clients toward high-quality tapware that goes beyond good looks, because what’s underneath matters just as much. From durability to daily function, your tapware should feel good to use and work hard for your home.

Choosing the Right Finish: What You Might Not Realise

The finish sets the tone visually, but how it’s applied determines how it holds up over time. This is something I often walk clients through, especially for high-traffic areas like kitchens or bathrooms in coastal homes.

PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition):
This is the go-to for longevity. It’s a highly durable, corrosion-resistant coating that’s ideal for coastal homes and areas that get a lot of use, like the kitchen sink or a family bathroom. It holds up over time, which is why I often recommend it for clients who want durability without the upkeep.

Electroplating:
Electroplated finishes are applied using a more traditional method. While they’re still widely used across quality tapware ranges, they typically require a little more care over time. That doesn’t mean they’re off the table; it’s just about knowing how they perform and what’s involved in keeping them looking their best.

For clients who love a specific colour or finish that’s only available in electroplated tapware, I recommend being mindful of how and where it’s used. For example, it may not be the best choice for coastal homes or high-use areas like kitchen sinks if you aren’t willing to maintain it.

If you do choose an electroplated finish, here’s how to help it age well:

• Gently dry tapware after use to prevent mineral build-up

• Avoid harsh or acidic cleaners

• Use a soft cloth to wipe clean and reduce spotting or corrosion

It’s not about ruling out a finish; it’s about making considered choices based on how you live.

Material Matters Too

Tapware isn’t just about the finish — what it’s made from matters just as much, especially in coastal locations or homes with hard water.

Here’s what I guide my clients through when we’re choosing the right internal material for their taps:

Brass

• Durable and naturally corrosion-resistant

• Standard brass can contain trace amounts of lead (within safe, legal limits)

• Can develop a patina over time — a feature some love, others don’t

• Lead-free brass contains zero lead and is a smart choice for kitchen or filtered taps where water quality matters

Brass is still widely used in high-end tapware, but it’s worth checking whether the brass used is lead-free, especially for families prioritising wellness, water purity, and long-term safety.

Stainless Steel

• Naturally lead-free

• Doesn’t require protective coatings

• 304-grade stainless is durable and rust-resistant, common for interior use

• 316-grade stainless (marine-grade) is ideal for beach homes and outdoor use due to its enhanced resistance to salt air and moisture

When it comes to materiality, there’s no one-size-fits-all; just the right one for your home, your lifestyle, and how much maintenance you’re happy to take on.

What to Check Before You Buy

There are two things I always double-check before confirming tapware selections for my clients, and they’re non-negotiable if you’re renovating or building in Australia:

WaterMark Certification

This symbol confirms the tapware complies with the Plumbing Code of Australia and has passed independent testing for safety, performance, and durability. If it doesn’t have a WaterMark, a licensed plumber legally can’t install it. It’s as simple as that.

WELS Rating (Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards)

Australia’s national water efficiency standard helps you choose tapware that conserves water without compromising performance. Look for at least a 3-star WELS rating to strike that balance between water-saving and good pressure, which is especially important in kitchens and showers where it matters most.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the choices, finishes, materials, and certification, this is exactly where I can step in. I’ll guide you through it all, so you can feel confident knowing you’ve chosen tapware that looks great and works hard for your home. Click here to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you.

Claire