Is brushed nickel tapware better than chrome? Which finish is more durable and will suit your bathroom better?
Tapware trends have seen various finishes become a main feature in bathroom design over the years but if there was a trending finish for 2021, it would be brushed nickel.
The appeal for brushed nickel tapware has been due to its similar tone to chrome, however its appears more matte than shiny. It’s been a popular tapware choice in bathrooms and kitchens as its pared back appearance works with most colour palettes and designs.
It can also be a durable finish depending on how the tapware manufacturer has applied the coating.
PVD Brushed Nickel Tapware
PVD stands for Physical Vapour Deposition and it’s a process in how the brushed nickel finish is applied to the tapware. The method requires an intense application process and involves vaccum deposition shifting from a solid state to a vapour which is applied as a thin film to the tapware and condenses into a solid state.
The process of applying the finish means it’s one of the most durable tapware finishes available on the market. Physical knocks or scratches can’t diminish the surface of PVD Brushed Nickel tapware, which makes it a more durable choice against chrome.
The quality also means there can be a significant price difference between brushed nickel tapware and chrome if PVD is the preferred choice. But if you want to get a lot of years out of your tapware, PVD is the way to go.
Benefits of installing Brushed Nickel Tapware
There are plenty of reasons to choose brushed nickel tapware for your bathroom. Here are a few to consider for your own bathroom space.
- Works with most colour schemes
- Suits most bathroom, kitchen and laundry styles
- Can be installed with stainless steel sink and accessories for a cohesive look
- Easy to maintain and clean
- Won’t overtake a striking splashback or compete with other focal points in the room
- Durable finish
- A finish which is becoming more readily available by tapware manufacturers
- Won’t show fingerprints or scratches
- Can be used to replace chrome taps for an instant and modern update
Cons to installing Brushed Nickel Tapware
- Can be expensive to purchase
- In some lights, the tapware can appear yellow
- Not as readily available as chrome or matte black tapware
- While stainless steel accessories can be installed together, it won’t be a perfect match
One consideration is the availability of purchasing spare parts to match your tapware. If you choose from a reputable brand, this shouldn’t be a problem.
Tapware trends will be different in 10 years time and you may opt for a different trending finish to update your bathroom. This is what makes PVD finish so appealing as the quality of the finish should withstand many years of use.
