Beer tap handles are essential accessories for any brewery, as they are customers' first point of contact. They are the first impression of a brewery and, therefore, play a significant role in establishing a brand's identity. 

Choosing the right material for beer tap handles is crucial, as it can either make or break the overall aesthetic of a brewery. 

This blog will explore the different materials used to make Beer Tap Handles Australia, their characteristics, and which factors to consider when choosing the right material for your brewery.

Different Beer Tap Handle Materials and Their Characteristics

A. Wood

Wooden beer tap handles are popular among breweries for their natural aesthetic appeal. They come in different types, such as oak, maple, and cherry. Wood is versatile, and breweries can carve them into various shapes and sizes, giving them a unique look. Some advantages of using wood tap handles are:

1. They are eco-friendly and biodegradable, making them environmentally sustainable.
2. Wood is durable and can last for years with proper maintenance.
3. They are easy to personalise, allowing breweries to add logos or any other design to the handle.

On the downside, wood tap handles can be expensive, especially if made from high-quality wood. Additionally, they require regular maintenance to prevent rotting and cracking. Some examples of breweries that use wood tap handles are Dogfish Head, Sierra Nevada, and Founders Brewing.

B. Acrylic

Acrylic beer tap handles Australia are famous for breweries due to their versatility. They come in different colours, shapes, and sizes. They are also known for their clarity, allowing for easy beer viewing on tap. Some advantages of using acrylic tap handles are:

1. They are lightweight and inexpensive, making them an affordable brewery option.
2. Acrylic is a durable material, resistant to cracking or breaking.
3. They can be easily customised using decals or labels, allowing breweries to add their branding.

The downside of acrylic tap handles is that they can scratch easily, and when exposed to heat or direct sunlight, they can become cloudy. Some examples of breweries that use acrylic tap handles are Brooklyn Brewery, New Belgium Brewing, and Bell's Brewery.

C. Metal

Metal beer tap handles are known for their sleek and modern aesthetic appeal. They are made from different metals, such as brass, stainless steel, and aluminium. They are a popular choice for breweries that want to create a high-end or industrial look. Some advantages of metal tap handles are:

1. They are durable and resistant to wear and tear.
2. They are easy to clean and maintain, as they do not absorb moisture.
3. They can be personalised with etched designs or raised lettering, giving them a unique look.

On the downside, metal tap handles can be expensive, especially if made from high-quality materials. They can also be heavy and difficult to handle, causing fatigue for bartenders over time. Some examples of breweries that use metal tap handles are Stone Brewing, Lagunitas, and Rogue Ales.

Choosing the Right Tap Handle Material for Your Brewery

A. Considerations when choosing a material

Several factors must be considered when choosing a suitable material for your brewery. These include durability, cost, and branding. For instance, if your brewery is in an area with high humidity, you may want to avoid using wood tap handles as they can quickly rot and weaken over time. Similarly, if you are looking for a more economical option, acrylic tap handles may be better than metal or wood. Finally, if you want to create a unique and memorable brand identity, you may opt for a material that allows easy customisation, such as wood or acrylic.

B. How to match your brand’s aesthetic with the suitable material

Matching your brand's aesthetic with the suitable material is critical to creating a cohesive brand identity. For example, wood tap handles may be the best option if your brewery has a rustic or vintage aesthetic. On the other hand, if your brewery has a modern or industrial feel, metal tap handles may be more appropriate. Additionally, it's essential to consider the overall design of your taproom, as your tap handles should complement the decor.

C. What role do beer tap decals play in determining which material to choose?

Beer Tap Decals play a crucial role in determining which material to choose. Decals are adhesive stickers that can be used to customise tap handles. They are easily changeable, allowing breweries to switch up their branding or design without replacing the entire handle. Decals can be applied to all tap handle materials, but acrylic handles are the best option as they allow for easy customisation. Additionally, decals can help protect the tap handle from scratches and damage, extending its lifespan.

Conclusion

Choosing the suitable material for your beer tap handles Australia is essential to creating a unique and memorable brand identity. Each material has advantages and disadvantages, and it's essential to consider factors such as durability, cost, branding, and aesthetics when choosing. Wood, acrylic, and metal are the three most common materials used for tap handles, and each offers a unique look and feel. By considering these factors and using beer tap decals to customise your handles, you can create a cohesive and memorable brand identity to set your brewery apart.

Source : How to Explore the Best Beer Tap Handle Materials for Breweries?