Coloured tapware: the timeless appeal of brushed PVD finishes

What are brushed PVD finishes?

Voda Plumbingware's 'Storm' basin mixers in copper.

"When we talk about brushed PVD tapware, we refer to the brushed finishes and colours that have become hugely popular," Jon Doherty, Managing Director of Voda Plumbingware, explains.

Brushed PVD tapware undergoes a finishing process to enhance its functionality and appearance. Quite simply, the metal is 'brushed' to create an ornate texture composed of fine lines and coated using the advanced method of physical vapour deposition (PVD).

The PVD finish can be applied to various metals, for instance, at Voda Plumbingware, their tapware colour options include brushed nickel, gunmetal, brass, stainless steel, and, most recently, brushed copper and soon-to-be-released, brushed black tapware.

With three decades of experience in the plumbing industry, Jon Doherty founded Voda Plumbingware after identifying the need for a new direction that focused exclusively on specialist products optimised for New Zealand's varied water pressures.

"In New Zealand, we have three different water pressures, which is quite unique. We make sure our all pressure tapware works on all of these three different pressures to provide optimum performance," Jon explains.

In the last seven years, the company has established itself as a leader in the tapware industry, with products designed in New Zealand and inspired by the latest European designs. "We were one of the first to introduce matte black finishes in plumbingware about eight years ago when it wasn't very common," Jon adds. "None of these colours were in New Zealand, or very little. They were starting to appear in Europe at that stage."

A more traditional interior design style may choose the warmer tones of brushed brass.

What are the benefits of brushed metals?

Brushed metal finishes have become a timeless favourite due to their aesthetic appeal, durability, and easy maintenance.

Characterised by fine lines or grain patterns, the textured finish adds an elevated layer of detail that complements an array of design styles, from traditional to modern. While a modern aesthetic may lend towards brushed stainless steel or brushed matte black, those favouring a more traditional interior design style may choose the warmer tones of brushed brass.

As tapware is used daily, a resilient product is a necessity. The durability of PVD brushed metals has undoubtedly contributed to their enduring popularity, as the texture effortlessly blends with modern bathrooms and design trends.

To further enhance its resistance to tarnishing and corrosion, Voda Plumbingware's brushed metal tapware is coated using the advanced method of physical vapour deposition (PVD). "In a nutshell, it's baked in a hot oven to really high temperatures, and it bonds to the metal, so it's very strong. A lot of aeroplane parts and car parts are PVD-coated," Jon explains.

The technology allows Voda Plumbingware to extend its comprehensive colour tapware warranty to five years for all PVD-coated products, which includes their brushed metal tapware.

The maintenance of this finish is as simple as it gets: soap and water. "There's a lot of cleaners out there now that are full of citrus. They can be quite harmful to taps, especially black taps. So just try and avoid those as much as possible," Jon advises.

In New Zealand, there is no regulated tapware standard, but Voda Plumbingware guarantees the quality of its products through the Australian standard. "We're a WaterMark approved supplier, which means we are audited every year on our processes and the materials we use in our products," Jon explains.

To meet WaterMark standards, tapware must not release certain metals, such as lead, beyond minute quantities. Only a handful of New Zealand suppliers have voluntarily engaged in the scheme. "We feel it's the right thing to do."

To further enhance its resistance to tarnishing and corrosion, Voda Plumbingware's brushed metal tapware is coated using the advanced method of physical vapour deposition (PVD).

A lasting impact

With consumers becoming increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of their purchases, the appeal of brushed metal finishes can only continue through conscientious business practices.

"We provide flow restrictors inside all of our products so that you can reduce water consumption, as well as energy if you use less water," Jon shares. "Last year, we received an environmental award recognising our efforts to reduce waste and minimise our ecological footprint"

"We're exiting all plastics out of the business where possible. We're 90% there now. A lot of the products we sell come in a plastic bag or bubble wrap. We're getting rid of all that."

This measurable approach to sustainability in business ultimately ensures that the classic design of brushed metal tapware remains timeless.

Learn more about Voda Plumbingware