Unlacquered taps offer many benefits for homeowners and landlords alike, and are becoming more popular with every passing year.
Unlacquered taps do not have a protective coating, and are designed to age gracefully and develop a patina over time. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to buy these kind of taps, and why every landlord should consider them.
Below are some of the best places in the UK to buy unlacquered taps, based on build quality, reliability and suitability for real-world use.
Why Unlacquered Taps Appeal to Landlords
Unlike coated finishes, unlacquered brass is designed to age and develop a patina as it does so.
This provides many advantages, such as:
- Solid brass construction with no surface that can be easily chipped
- A finish that developscharacter and looks better with age
- Easier long-term upkeep compared to plated taps
- This style can suit traditional and modern properties
For rental properties, this often translates into fewer cosmetic issues over the lifespan of the fixture.
1. Francone Bespoke Taps
Francone Bespoke Taps is one of the UK’s leading specialists in unlacquered brass tapware.
Their range focuses on solid brass construction, traditional manufacturing methods and finishes that are intentionally left uncoated to age naturally.
For landlords, the appeal lies in build quality and longevity. Because the taps are designed to develop a patina rather than maintain a fixed finish, minor marks or wear tend to blend in rather than stand out over time.
Francone Bespoke Taps also offers matching fittings, making it easier to maintain consistency across kitchens and bathrooms.
Another key benefit here is that they are happy to do any custom work, meaning you can get a tap designed for your space with ease.
2. Victorian Plumbing
Victorian Plumbing offers a wide selection of taps, including some unlacquered options.
Their range is not as extensive as Francone’s, however, and they tend to focus more on a wider range of taps and other plumbing-related items.
3. Lusso Stone
Lusso Stone focuses on premium bathroom fixtures with a strong design emphasis. Their brass tapware tends to suit higher-end properties or serviced apartments.
The main issue is that their unlacquered range is not as extensive, as this isn’t something they specifically focus on, which can make it tricky to know if one of their products is truly unlacquered or not.
4. The Cast Iron Radiator Centre
Known primarily for traditional heating solutions, The Cast Iron Radiator Centre also offers classic brass tapware designed for heritage or period properties.
Their unlacquered options are often chosen for restoration projects or older rental homes where authenticity matters.
5. Independent UK Suppliers
Smaller UK manufacturers and specialist bathroom retailers sometimes offer unlacquered brass taps in limited ranges. These can be suitable for bespoke renovations, though consistency and availability may vary.
Due diligence is important when sourcing from smaller suppliers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are unlacquered taps?
Unlacquered taps are taps made from brass that do not have a protective coating.
This may sound unintiuitive, but it is actually by design.
Unlacquered taps age gracefully, and actually improve over time compared to a ‘standard’ tap that looks worse through the years.
Are unlacquered taps suitable for rental properties?
Yes. Many landlords prefer them because they age gracefully and do not chip or peel like plated finishes.
Do unlacquered taps require special maintenance?
No special maintenance is required. Some owners polish them occasionally, while others allow the patina to develop naturally.s.
Are unlacquered taps more expensive?
They can cost more upfront but often offer better long-term value due to durability and longevity.
Final Thoughts
For landlords and property professionals, unlacquered taps offer a practical alternative to coated finishes. Their ability to age naturally makes them well-suited to properties that experience regular use.
