How to Add a Touch of Warmth to Every Home: It’s as Easy as 1-2-3
by: ARA
(ARA) - It seams that as we spend more and more time in our homes we are always looking to make our quality of life better. We are constantly seeking new ideas that embody both form and function. It is no surprise that people remodeling and upgrading their homes look to the bathroom to add luxury. The bathroom is quickly becoming one of the most lived in rooms in your house. After all, everyone wants to have that warm feeling when they are spending time in their living space. With the right changes you can create a spa like feeling with products such as heated tile, impressive baths with multiple shower heads, and towel radiators. Here are some tips for warming up your bathroom -- literally.
Start with a wall full of shower heads, to provide a pampering, steam-filled, hot shower. These days you can find all of the luxuries that you could possibly want, from multiple massage settings to the water coverage area; you can specify everything right down to the size of the water drops. These products can be found at any of the major bath fixture companies or your local kitchen and bath showroom. They start at under $100 and can be an inexpensive way to make a big splash in your new spa-like space.
Second, beautiful tile floors can give you that instant spa feel, but no one likes to step onto cold tile when getting out of a warm shower. Heated tiles systems can change the entire feel of your floor and your room. They come in two systems, electric and hot water. Your kitchen and bath professionals can help you decide what would work best for your space. If you’re doing even the smallest renovations, a system like this can make a large impact in your comfort level.
Lastly, there is a new product reaching the American market that has been a staple in Europe for years. Towel radiators differ from towel warmers in that they actually heat up the bathroom, as well as offering the added luxury of warming and drying your towels. If you are short on heat in your bathroom, this is an easy way to take it up a notch. The best part is they fit anywhere that you would put up your normal towel bar. “If you have to have heat in your bathroom it might as well be pleasing to the eye and give you the added benefit of a warm towel,” says Kate Bosley of Zehnder, a towel radiator company.
These unique products even come with programmable controls that give you the ultimate in flexibility, convenience and efficiency. You can set the radiator to turn on before you get up in the morning and shut itself off so you don’t waste energy. Wake to a warm bath and towel with no worries, because it only costs pennies a day. On top of that there is the count down timer. “Say it’s been a stressful day and all you want is a long soak in the tub. Well, you hit the timer function before your bath and by the time you get out you have a wonderfully warm towel to wrap up in. After 1 ½ hours the unit shuts itself off and returns back to its original program,” says Bosley.
Homeowners can easily install a towel radiator themselves. They can be hung on the wall with four screws and the proper wall anchors. After that, they just plug right in to your standard bathroom outlet. Check with your local professionals or the manufacturer about the appropriate installations on the new showerheads and radiant under floor heating systems. It is always best to do your homework and purchase top quality products that will last a lifetime.
As winter sets in the trend is for people to start to retreat to their homes and these days the house is not just a place to live, it is our sanctuary. Just imagine a long hot shower, stepping out onto a heated tile floor into a room that is cozy and warm, and grabbing that fluffy towel. Could you ask for more?
For more information on Zehnder’s towel radiators please call (888) 778-6701 or see them online at www.zehnderamerica.com.
Courtesy of ARA Content
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Courtesy of ARA Content
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Showing posts with label Bathroom. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bathroom. Show all posts
Monday, July 7, 2008
Bathroom Remodeling Made Easy
Bathroom Remodeling Made Easy
by: ARA
(ARA) – These days, you can’t turn on the TV without viewing a new episode of home improvement shows like “Trading Spaces” or “Hometime.” A report issued this year by Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies calls home improvement the new “great national pastime.” In 2001, Americans spent an estimated $214 billion on home improvements, maintenance and repairs. All indicators point to this remodeling-mania continuing for sometime.
Take a look around your own home. Is what you’ve been referring to as your “time-honored home décor” really just old fashioned? If so, maybe it’s time for you to join the remodeling parade. The good news is: there are lots of easy, low cost ways to give your home’s look a nice pick-me-up.
The bathroom is one of the most popular targets for home improvement. While any project involving plumbing tends to intimidate the average homeowner, there is a lot of new product technology designed with the do-it-yourselfer in mind.
One of the easiest and most cost efficient ways to spruce up a bathroom is to replace the faucets. “Improvements like this have a huge impact on the functional and aesthetic value of the space. You can create an entirely new theme for your bathroom -- such as contemporary, old world, or European -- based on the design of your faucet,” says Angie Coffman, director, Delta product marketing for Delta Faucet Company.
Before purchasing a new faucet, it’s a good idea to do some preliminary research. You may also want to consider a budget before beginning your search, as prices can vary widely. You will find that there are many different styles and designs in bathroom faucets. Consider ahead of time whether you want a single-handle or a double-handle faucet. Notice how the handles feel in the palm of your hand. Do you want something that is delicate or more heavy-duty? Explore different spout designs and finishes as well. Decide whether or not you want an escutcheon, the decorative plate beneath a faucet. An escutcheon will also cover extra holes that might be drilled in the sink.
Look for a faucet that installs easily -- you may notice language like “quick connect ” or “no adjust,” indicating that minimal tools are required. Pay close attention to the existing hole configuration on your sink. How many are there and how far apart are they? Do you need a single-hole, 4-inch center-set, or a wall-mounted faucet? Your single-handle faucet may have three holes underneath, but you don’t necessarily have to replace it with another single-handle. There’s a design, called a “mini-widespread,” which provides flexibility for customers who have a single-handle faucet, but are looking to switch to a double handle, widespread look. The Victorian Mini-widespread from Delta is an example of a faucet that offers intricate, old-world styling in a smaller sink setting.
Make a Lasting Improvement
Look for a design that won’t soon be outdated and one that will complement the rest of your bathroom, “one that will stand out without sticking out,” according to Coffman. “Keep in mind that you will probably be using this new faucet for years, so choose something that is durable, versatile, and a brand that is considered reliable.”
Installing high quality products in a bathroom will result in a high return on your home remodeling investment. That is why it is important to choose a faucet that offers long-lasting, worry-free performance. You want to look for things like solid brass construction and a company that offers a lifetime limited warranty, along with customer support, in case you have questions while installing the faucet yourself.
Now that you are ready to give your bathroom the facelift it has been waiting for, have a few tools handy for the installation. A pair of adjustable pliers, along with an Allen wrench and basin wrench, will probably be necessary. Also pick up some silicone or caulk, and Teflon tape. Always double check the instructions on your faucet for any other tools or supplies needed.
If you are looking for additional support, try consulting your local home improvement store. Or, check out manufacturer Web sites, such as deltafaucet.com, for installation tips. As you join the millions of Americans remodeling their homes this year, choose your projects wisely and remember that even seemingly small changes, like a bathroom fixture upgrade, can add value to your home.
Courtesy of ARA Content
About the author:
Courtesy of ARA Content
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by: ARA
(ARA) – These days, you can’t turn on the TV without viewing a new episode of home improvement shows like “Trading Spaces” or “Hometime.” A report issued this year by Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies calls home improvement the new “great national pastime.” In 2001, Americans spent an estimated $214 billion on home improvements, maintenance and repairs. All indicators point to this remodeling-mania continuing for sometime.
Take a look around your own home. Is what you’ve been referring to as your “time-honored home décor” really just old fashioned? If so, maybe it’s time for you to join the remodeling parade. The good news is: there are lots of easy, low cost ways to give your home’s look a nice pick-me-up.
The bathroom is one of the most popular targets for home improvement. While any project involving plumbing tends to intimidate the average homeowner, there is a lot of new product technology designed with the do-it-yourselfer in mind.
One of the easiest and most cost efficient ways to spruce up a bathroom is to replace the faucets. “Improvements like this have a huge impact on the functional and aesthetic value of the space. You can create an entirely new theme for your bathroom -- such as contemporary, old world, or European -- based on the design of your faucet,” says Angie Coffman, director, Delta product marketing for Delta Faucet Company.
Before purchasing a new faucet, it’s a good idea to do some preliminary research. You may also want to consider a budget before beginning your search, as prices can vary widely. You will find that there are many different styles and designs in bathroom faucets. Consider ahead of time whether you want a single-handle or a double-handle faucet. Notice how the handles feel in the palm of your hand. Do you want something that is delicate or more heavy-duty? Explore different spout designs and finishes as well. Decide whether or not you want an escutcheon, the decorative plate beneath a faucet. An escutcheon will also cover extra holes that might be drilled in the sink.
Look for a faucet that installs easily -- you may notice language like “quick connect ” or “no adjust,” indicating that minimal tools are required. Pay close attention to the existing hole configuration on your sink. How many are there and how far apart are they? Do you need a single-hole, 4-inch center-set, or a wall-mounted faucet? Your single-handle faucet may have three holes underneath, but you don’t necessarily have to replace it with another single-handle. There’s a design, called a “mini-widespread,” which provides flexibility for customers who have a single-handle faucet, but are looking to switch to a double handle, widespread look. The Victorian Mini-widespread from Delta is an example of a faucet that offers intricate, old-world styling in a smaller sink setting.
Make a Lasting Improvement
Look for a design that won’t soon be outdated and one that will complement the rest of your bathroom, “one that will stand out without sticking out,” according to Coffman. “Keep in mind that you will probably be using this new faucet for years, so choose something that is durable, versatile, and a brand that is considered reliable.”
Installing high quality products in a bathroom will result in a high return on your home remodeling investment. That is why it is important to choose a faucet that offers long-lasting, worry-free performance. You want to look for things like solid brass construction and a company that offers a lifetime limited warranty, along with customer support, in case you have questions while installing the faucet yourself.
Now that you are ready to give your bathroom the facelift it has been waiting for, have a few tools handy for the installation. A pair of adjustable pliers, along with an Allen wrench and basin wrench, will probably be necessary. Also pick up some silicone or caulk, and Teflon tape. Always double check the instructions on your faucet for any other tools or supplies needed.
If you are looking for additional support, try consulting your local home improvement store. Or, check out manufacturer Web sites, such as deltafaucet.com, for installation tips. As you join the millions of Americans remodeling their homes this year, choose your projects wisely and remember that even seemingly small changes, like a bathroom fixture upgrade, can add value to your home.
Courtesy of ARA Content
About the author:
Courtesy of ARA Content
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Home Improvement Ideas
Home Improvement Ideas
by: Dan Noyes
There are many home improvement projects that you can carry out to make your home a more comfortable space and to add to its value as property. These home improvement projects include remodeling the basement, kitchen, and bathrooms, and painting both the exteriors and interiors regularly.
Whenever most people think of home improvement projects, they think in terms of doing up the living areas, such as the bedrooms, drawing room, and dining room. However, there is just so much that you can do in a bedroom—maybe add a comfortable bed, a reading lamp, a table or ceiling fan, a bookshelf, and a study table. Most people seldom entertain formally, so areas such as the drawing room and dining room seldom get used. You can, however, put in some comfortable sofas, chairs, end tables, and coffee tables, and put in an expandable dining table, chairs, and breakfront in the dining room. You are most likely to use your kitchen as an area to not only prepare and cook food, and wash utensils and laundry, but also to serve family meals and entertain informally.
You can add electric floor warming systems for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements to make these areas of your home more comfortable. If you waterproof and ventilate your basement and use glass blocks to let in natural light, you can use it as a gym, study, home office, or home entertainment room. You will need to put in an intercom system so that you can not only make and receive calls in the basement, but also keep in touch with other family members.
To make your kitchen a visually appealing space, you can add countertops that complement or match the cabinetry, floor, or walls. Your countertops could be of granite, marble, wood, or stainless steel. To bring in more light into the kitchen, you can place a large ceiling fixture in the center of the kitchen, with track lights near the sink, range, and counter tops. You can also use warm colors for the kitchen walls and floor, add recessed lights and dimmers, and highlight your cabinets. You can use tiles, laminates, and hardwoods as flooring. Your cabinets can complement or match the colors used in the walls and flooring. You can even use stained glass panels for kitchen cabinets.
To make your bathroom a truly relaxing space, you can always add a steam shower, a body spa, or a comfortable bathtub where you can soak for hours and allow the tensions of the day to flow away from you. See that your bathroom is well-lit. If you are interested in chroma therapy, you will find several products, such as bathtubs, shower systems, and sinks, which feature chroma therapy options. You can also install multiple shower heads and a waterfall in the bathroom to get a spa-like experience. You can also include a large bathtub, fog-free mirrors, and a towel warmer for more comfort. The tiles and walls in your bathroom should be in warm colors. You can also put plants and pictures in the bathroom to give a lived-in feel, and replace the sink sunk in a counter top with a pedestal sink. Nowadays, sinks come in a variety of materials, such as glass, stainless steel, stone, and copper—you can select a material that suits you. Your vanity cabinet could be of stone, wood, or glass. You can select from a wide variety of faucets, including single-hole and single-lever, widespread, center set, and wall-mounted faucets.
At Total Remodeling, we can help you with home improvement ideas and projects. We can improve your home in line with modern trends, thus adding to its comfort and value.
About the author:
Dan Noyes
http://www.totalremodeling.com
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by: Dan Noyes
There are many home improvement projects that you can carry out to make your home a more comfortable space and to add to its value as property. These home improvement projects include remodeling the basement, kitchen, and bathrooms, and painting both the exteriors and interiors regularly.
Whenever most people think of home improvement projects, they think in terms of doing up the living areas, such as the bedrooms, drawing room, and dining room. However, there is just so much that you can do in a bedroom—maybe add a comfortable bed, a reading lamp, a table or ceiling fan, a bookshelf, and a study table. Most people seldom entertain formally, so areas such as the drawing room and dining room seldom get used. You can, however, put in some comfortable sofas, chairs, end tables, and coffee tables, and put in an expandable dining table, chairs, and breakfront in the dining room. You are most likely to use your kitchen as an area to not only prepare and cook food, and wash utensils and laundry, but also to serve family meals and entertain informally.
You can add electric floor warming systems for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements to make these areas of your home more comfortable. If you waterproof and ventilate your basement and use glass blocks to let in natural light, you can use it as a gym, study, home office, or home entertainment room. You will need to put in an intercom system so that you can not only make and receive calls in the basement, but also keep in touch with other family members.
To make your kitchen a visually appealing space, you can add countertops that complement or match the cabinetry, floor, or walls. Your countertops could be of granite, marble, wood, or stainless steel. To bring in more light into the kitchen, you can place a large ceiling fixture in the center of the kitchen, with track lights near the sink, range, and counter tops. You can also use warm colors for the kitchen walls and floor, add recessed lights and dimmers, and highlight your cabinets. You can use tiles, laminates, and hardwoods as flooring. Your cabinets can complement or match the colors used in the walls and flooring. You can even use stained glass panels for kitchen cabinets.
To make your bathroom a truly relaxing space, you can always add a steam shower, a body spa, or a comfortable bathtub where you can soak for hours and allow the tensions of the day to flow away from you. See that your bathroom is well-lit. If you are interested in chroma therapy, you will find several products, such as bathtubs, shower systems, and sinks, which feature chroma therapy options. You can also install multiple shower heads and a waterfall in the bathroom to get a spa-like experience. You can also include a large bathtub, fog-free mirrors, and a towel warmer for more comfort. The tiles and walls in your bathroom should be in warm colors. You can also put plants and pictures in the bathroom to give a lived-in feel, and replace the sink sunk in a counter top with a pedestal sink. Nowadays, sinks come in a variety of materials, such as glass, stainless steel, stone, and copper—you can select a material that suits you. Your vanity cabinet could be of stone, wood, or glass. You can select from a wide variety of faucets, including single-hole and single-lever, widespread, center set, and wall-mounted faucets.
At Total Remodeling, we can help you with home improvement ideas and projects. We can improve your home in line with modern trends, thus adding to its comfort and value.
About the author:
Dan Noyes
http://www.totalremodeling.com
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Designer Shower Curtains
Designer Shower Curtains
by: Max Bellamy
If you are looking for a quick and easy way to make over your bathroom, consider buying a new shower curtain. Shower curtains are available in a variety of styles, materials, and prices. Shower curtains can be whimsical, floral, traditional, or a host of other styles. And, of course, they can be designer.
Many of the big-name designers have taken part in shower curtain designs. Liz Claiborne, for example, offers a Cable Knit shower curtain in Ivory or Aloe. If you decide to have a Liz Claiborne master suite or guest room, matching accessories include duvet covers, towels, shams, wastebasket, lotion pump, and more.
Nautica offers a sophisticated shower curtain in classic colors. It is offered with matching sheets, duvet, and bed skirts.
Regent also offers shower curtains. Their embroidered shower curtain is multi-colored and offers many matching accessories, including wastebasket, lotion pump, tissue box, towels, toothbrush holder, soap dish, and tumbler.
Eddie Bauer offers a nice selection of shower curtains, including a denim curtain. They also offer towels and robes in coordinating colors.
Tommy Hilfiger has also entered the home décor arena. Their shower curtains have a retail price of $90. Hilfiger also offers many color-coordinated accessories like towels, lotion pump, wastebasket, soap dish, and tumbler.
Ralph Lauren, DKNY, and Hotel are a few other well-known designers now offering bathroom décor.
Many fine department stores such as Macy’s, JC Penney, and Foley’s, sell designer shower curtains. Specialty home stores, such as Linens N Things and Bed Bath and Beyond also carry a selection of shower curtains by well-known designers. While designer shower curtains can be more expensive than their non-name brand counterparts, you can sometimes find them at a discount. Overstock offers many products at deep discounts over retail. While their inventory changes regularly, it is worthwhile to visit their site and do a search.
Whether you pay full price or get them at a discount, the look of your finished bathroom is sure to be priceless.
About the author:
Shower Curtains Info provides detailed information about unique, designer, hookless, fabric, and kids’ shower curtains, and shower curtain rods and hooks. Shower Curtains Info is the sister site of Bathroom Vanities Web.
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by: Max Bellamy
If you are looking for a quick and easy way to make over your bathroom, consider buying a new shower curtain. Shower curtains are available in a variety of styles, materials, and prices. Shower curtains can be whimsical, floral, traditional, or a host of other styles. And, of course, they can be designer.
Many of the big-name designers have taken part in shower curtain designs. Liz Claiborne, for example, offers a Cable Knit shower curtain in Ivory or Aloe. If you decide to have a Liz Claiborne master suite or guest room, matching accessories include duvet covers, towels, shams, wastebasket, lotion pump, and more.
Nautica offers a sophisticated shower curtain in classic colors. It is offered with matching sheets, duvet, and bed skirts.
Regent also offers shower curtains. Their embroidered shower curtain is multi-colored and offers many matching accessories, including wastebasket, lotion pump, tissue box, towels, toothbrush holder, soap dish, and tumbler.
Eddie Bauer offers a nice selection of shower curtains, including a denim curtain. They also offer towels and robes in coordinating colors.
Tommy Hilfiger has also entered the home décor arena. Their shower curtains have a retail price of $90. Hilfiger also offers many color-coordinated accessories like towels, lotion pump, wastebasket, soap dish, and tumbler.
Ralph Lauren, DKNY, and Hotel are a few other well-known designers now offering bathroom décor.
Many fine department stores such as Macy’s, JC Penney, and Foley’s, sell designer shower curtains. Specialty home stores, such as Linens N Things and Bed Bath and Beyond also carry a selection of shower curtains by well-known designers. While designer shower curtains can be more expensive than their non-name brand counterparts, you can sometimes find them at a discount. Overstock offers many products at deep discounts over retail. While their inventory changes regularly, it is worthwhile to visit their site and do a search.
Whether you pay full price or get them at a discount, the look of your finished bathroom is sure to be priceless.
About the author:
Shower Curtains Info provides detailed information about unique, designer, hookless, fabric, and kids’ shower curtains, and shower curtain rods and hooks. Shower Curtains Info is the sister site of Bathroom Vanities Web.
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A Checklist for Bathroom Remodeling Plans
A Checklist for Bathroom Remodeling Plans
by: Ken Marlborough
Careful planning is the key to a successful bathroom-remodeling project. Before you begin any work in the bathroom, create a budget, a floor plan, a list of supplies, a timetable, and important legal considerations. Let's break it down by subject.
First, create a budget. Determine how much money you can comfortably spend, and save about 20 percent for emergencies. Get estimates for the work that needs professionals, and always include electrical, plumbing, heating and cooling, and drywall installation costs in your budget.
Second, design a floor plan. Ask yourself, will you be working with the existing space or will you be adding on or knocking down walls? Check to make sure you will not disturb the electrical wiring, plumbing, or zoning regulations. Next, measure the amount of space you have and draw a floor plan. In drawing the plan, first put in all the items that are fixed. For example, if the toilet must be in one place because of plumbing, it is a fixed item. Experiment with how you like your floor plan, using different arrangements, with different types of cabinetry, shelves, or even walls. You might try pocket doors to save space, and corner sinks, floating sinks, or pedestal sinks to save even more space. L-shaped vanities and alcoves also save space. In addition, corner showers conserve space, and clear glass in showers creates the illusion of even more space. You may want to add windows or mirrors to let in light.
Third, make a list of the supplies you'll need and make sure they are available when you need them. Some typical supplies include sinks, flooring, wall tile, countertops, lighting, medicine cabinets, showers, bath tubs, cabinets and cabinet handles, toilets, extra storage, faucets, toilet paper holders, paint or wallpaper, chairs, accessories (like storage containers and/or artwork), as well as tools you have or can buy.
Fourth, create a timetable. Talk to experts or people at home improvement stores to plan how much time you'll need. If you're hiring contractors, work with them to design a timetable you all can follow.
Plan projects according to the time you have available. Put in a new toilet and sink one weekend, for example, and paint another. You don't have to do it all at once, so plan sensibly. Don't paint the walls or install woodwork until the hardware is taken care of -- you don't want to damage work you've already done. Above all, be flexible and allow time for the unexpected or even emergencies to happen.
Fifth, keep in mind legal considerations. Get and post a building permit, pay any necessary fees, make sure you, your contractor, and any workers have insurance coverage, and keep children and animals away from the construction area.
By following these checklists, your bathroom remodeling plans will be a snap.
About the author:
Bathroom Remodeling Info provides detailed information on bathroom remodeling ideas, costs, plans, and checklists. Bathroom Remodeling Info is the sister site of Kitchen Remodeling Web.
Circulated by Article Emporium
by: Ken Marlborough
Careful planning is the key to a successful bathroom-remodeling project. Before you begin any work in the bathroom, create a budget, a floor plan, a list of supplies, a timetable, and important legal considerations. Let's break it down by subject.
First, create a budget. Determine how much money you can comfortably spend, and save about 20 percent for emergencies. Get estimates for the work that needs professionals, and always include electrical, plumbing, heating and cooling, and drywall installation costs in your budget.
Second, design a floor plan. Ask yourself, will you be working with the existing space or will you be adding on or knocking down walls? Check to make sure you will not disturb the electrical wiring, plumbing, or zoning regulations. Next, measure the amount of space you have and draw a floor plan. In drawing the plan, first put in all the items that are fixed. For example, if the toilet must be in one place because of plumbing, it is a fixed item. Experiment with how you like your floor plan, using different arrangements, with different types of cabinetry, shelves, or even walls. You might try pocket doors to save space, and corner sinks, floating sinks, or pedestal sinks to save even more space. L-shaped vanities and alcoves also save space. In addition, corner showers conserve space, and clear glass in showers creates the illusion of even more space. You may want to add windows or mirrors to let in light.
Third, make a list of the supplies you'll need and make sure they are available when you need them. Some typical supplies include sinks, flooring, wall tile, countertops, lighting, medicine cabinets, showers, bath tubs, cabinets and cabinet handles, toilets, extra storage, faucets, toilet paper holders, paint or wallpaper, chairs, accessories (like storage containers and/or artwork), as well as tools you have or can buy.
Fourth, create a timetable. Talk to experts or people at home improvement stores to plan how much time you'll need. If you're hiring contractors, work with them to design a timetable you all can follow.
Plan projects according to the time you have available. Put in a new toilet and sink one weekend, for example, and paint another. You don't have to do it all at once, so plan sensibly. Don't paint the walls or install woodwork until the hardware is taken care of -- you don't want to damage work you've already done. Above all, be flexible and allow time for the unexpected or even emergencies to happen.
Fifth, keep in mind legal considerations. Get and post a building permit, pay any necessary fees, make sure you, your contractor, and any workers have insurance coverage, and keep children and animals away from the construction area.
By following these checklists, your bathroom remodeling plans will be a snap.
About the author:
Bathroom Remodeling Info provides detailed information on bathroom remodeling ideas, costs, plans, and checklists. Bathroom Remodeling Info is the sister site of Kitchen Remodeling Web.
Circulated by Article Emporium
1-2-3-4 Never Scrub the Bathroom Anymore
1-2-3-4 Never Scrub the Bathroom Anymore
by: Carole Pagan
One of everyone's least favorite chores is cleaning the bath-
room. You put it off ... and put it off... until it takes
nothing short of an atomic bomb to get it clean. It doesn't
have to be that way.
4 steps, about 2-3 minutes a day- and you will never have to
deal with soap scum build up or scrubbing the bathroom ever
again.
The tools you will need-
* a shower squeegee
* paper towels
* glass cleaner
* Scrub Free
These should be kept in the bathroom. Splurge on the extra
bottle of glass cleaner and an extra roll of paper towels to
keep in the bathroom.
Here are the 4 steps-
1. When you get out of the shower, after you have dried off
and put on your lotion and such... do a once over on the
shower walls with the squeegee.
2. Take 2 pieces of paper towel and clean in this order-
mirror, counters, quick wipe over towel bars, chrome in
shower, and toilet lip. Throw paper towel away.
3. Do one of these chores each day or two-
*Spray tub with scrub free and do a quick wipe down with
wet rag or sponge, or
*Clean the toilet, or
*Do a quick wipe up of the floor, or
*Do a quick cleaning on your shower doors, if you have
them, or if you have shower curtains- spray any spots
with Clorox Cleanup.
Each of these only take seconds if you don't let it get
bad in the first place.
4. Watch for any mold, or discoloring of the grout.
Spray with Clorox Cleanup and just let it work.
That's it. Your bathroom will always look terrific, and
it'll be a lot healthier too.
Don't let build up happen in the first place. Keeping it
clean in the first place is so much easier than trying to
clean it later.
About the author:
Carole is the Author of Secret Confessions of a Clean
Freak. If you Love a really clean home, but Hate cleaning
it, you'll want Carole's time saving secrets. Get your own
copy here - http://CleanFreak.CommonSenseLiving.com
Circulated by Article Emporium
by: Carole Pagan
One of everyone's least favorite chores is cleaning the bath-
room. You put it off ... and put it off... until it takes
nothing short of an atomic bomb to get it clean. It doesn't
have to be that way.
4 steps, about 2-3 minutes a day- and you will never have to
deal with soap scum build up or scrubbing the bathroom ever
again.
The tools you will need-
* a shower squeegee
* paper towels
* glass cleaner
* Scrub Free
These should be kept in the bathroom. Splurge on the extra
bottle of glass cleaner and an extra roll of paper towels to
keep in the bathroom.
Here are the 4 steps-
1. When you get out of the shower, after you have dried off
and put on your lotion and such... do a once over on the
shower walls with the squeegee.
2. Take 2 pieces of paper towel and clean in this order-
mirror, counters, quick wipe over towel bars, chrome in
shower, and toilet lip. Throw paper towel away.
3. Do one of these chores each day or two-
*Spray tub with scrub free and do a quick wipe down with
wet rag or sponge, or
*Clean the toilet, or
*Do a quick wipe up of the floor, or
*Do a quick cleaning on your shower doors, if you have
them, or if you have shower curtains- spray any spots
with Clorox Cleanup.
Each of these only take seconds if you don't let it get
bad in the first place.
4. Watch for any mold, or discoloring of the grout.
Spray with Clorox Cleanup and just let it work.
That's it. Your bathroom will always look terrific, and
it'll be a lot healthier too.
Don't let build up happen in the first place. Keeping it
clean in the first place is so much easier than trying to
clean it later.
About the author:
Carole is the Author of Secret Confessions of a Clean
Freak. If you Love a really clean home, but Hate cleaning
it, you'll want Carole's time saving secrets. Get your own
copy here - http://CleanFreak.CommonSenseLiving.com
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Kitchen and Bath Solutions
Kitchen and Bath Solutions
by: ARA
(ARA) - Home improvement has become one of our country’s greatest pastimes. Americans spent an estimated $214 billion on home improvements, maintenance and repairs in 2001, according to Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies research report issued in February 2003. Just how and where that money is spent can make a big difference when it comes to investing in your home.
Of all the rooms in your house, bathrooms represent the greatest and fastest return on your remodeling investment. According to Remodeling Magazine, more than 80 percent of your bathroom remodeling expenses can be recouped within a year of resale. Not every room in the house offers such a return. Surprisingly, kitchens are sixth on the list with just over 60 percent of the costs returned. Only bathroom additions beat bathroom remodeling with returns over 90 percent.
Despite today’s homeowner remodeling craze, you should weigh the pros and cons of taking on an entire bathroom project alone. Knowledge -- including admitting your strengths and weaknesses -- is the key to successfully completing any project on time and under budget. Ask yourself the following remodeling questions to ensure you are making the best decisions for your investment.
Is it a Remodel or Makeover?
“The first consideration should be the scope of work,” says Rick Peters, remodeling expert and author of “MoneySmart Makeovers: Bathrooms.” He asks: “Do you understand your home’s plumbing systems, such as where the waste/vent stack is?”
If the remodeling project involves more than cosmetic fixture replacements or surface redecorating, it may be time to call in an expert to assess your home’s plumbing and pipe placement. Peters suggests the following checklist:
Call a remodeling contractor when:
* Moving a toilet, sink, tub or shower
* Removing or adding walls
* Installing venting that runs through the roof
All of these projects require specific skills and knowledge of your local building and plumbing codes.
Try the following makeover projects yourself:
* Replacing a faucet, sink or toilet using existing plumbing
* Installing shower or shower-tub combination doors
* Installing new accessories, such as shelves or light fixtures
* Painting, tiling or wallpapering
These projects require some skill base, but even a first-time do-it-yourselfer may be able to complete them in a reasonable timeframe.
What’s the Real Deal on What You Want?
Tempted by what looks good? Check out the quality. Does that new faucet have rubber washers or plastic valves? A client of mine bought a faucet five years ago with plastic valves and it lasted exactly four and a half years. Cheaper versions of the real thing are not repairable and have to be replaced entirely. This means you are spending twice as much in 10 years as you would once in a lifetime for a better faucet.
Look for quality fixture manufacturers such as American Standard. The company’s Champion Toilet featuring America’s Best Flushing System, includes a Worry-Free Decade Warranty that covers the whole toilet inside and out. American Standard’s faucets come with a lifetime warranty on the washerless watertight seal, the function and the finish. Most of its sinks and toilets are made of vitreous china that resists dirt and bacteria. Even the acrylic tubs are made tougher with a fiberglass bonding for extra strength.
Bottom line: “Your bathroom takes a daily beating,” says Peters. “Buy quality.”
Is There a Great Cover-up Waiting for You?
A number of times, I’ve ventured into bathrooms that have been madeover by covering damaged tiles or walls with acrylic panels. “Sure it looks better, but the problem is still there,” says Peters. “In fact, panels like these hold in moisture and mildew that was the problem in the first place, and now it will get worse. Make sure leaks and damage are repaired and not just covered up.”
Peters also suggests using a mildew resistant drywall. “Standard drywall can’t stand up to the moisture in the air, even with proper venting,” he notes.
What’s your pay-off in investing time to answer these important questions before you start? You’ll end up with a successful bathroom remodeling project that adds to the value and enjoyment of your home.
Courtesy of ARA Content
About the author:
Courtesy of ARA Content
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by: ARA
(ARA) - Home improvement has become one of our country’s greatest pastimes. Americans spent an estimated $214 billion on home improvements, maintenance and repairs in 2001, according to Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies research report issued in February 2003. Just how and where that money is spent can make a big difference when it comes to investing in your home.
Of all the rooms in your house, bathrooms represent the greatest and fastest return on your remodeling investment. According to Remodeling Magazine, more than 80 percent of your bathroom remodeling expenses can be recouped within a year of resale. Not every room in the house offers such a return. Surprisingly, kitchens are sixth on the list with just over 60 percent of the costs returned. Only bathroom additions beat bathroom remodeling with returns over 90 percent.
Despite today’s homeowner remodeling craze, you should weigh the pros and cons of taking on an entire bathroom project alone. Knowledge -- including admitting your strengths and weaknesses -- is the key to successfully completing any project on time and under budget. Ask yourself the following remodeling questions to ensure you are making the best decisions for your investment.
Is it a Remodel or Makeover?
“The first consideration should be the scope of work,” says Rick Peters, remodeling expert and author of “MoneySmart Makeovers: Bathrooms.” He asks: “Do you understand your home’s plumbing systems, such as where the waste/vent stack is?”
If the remodeling project involves more than cosmetic fixture replacements or surface redecorating, it may be time to call in an expert to assess your home’s plumbing and pipe placement. Peters suggests the following checklist:
Call a remodeling contractor when:
* Moving a toilet, sink, tub or shower
* Removing or adding walls
* Installing venting that runs through the roof
All of these projects require specific skills and knowledge of your local building and plumbing codes.
Try the following makeover projects yourself:
* Replacing a faucet, sink or toilet using existing plumbing
* Installing shower or shower-tub combination doors
* Installing new accessories, such as shelves or light fixtures
* Painting, tiling or wallpapering
These projects require some skill base, but even a first-time do-it-yourselfer may be able to complete them in a reasonable timeframe.
What’s the Real Deal on What You Want?
Tempted by what looks good? Check out the quality. Does that new faucet have rubber washers or plastic valves? A client of mine bought a faucet five years ago with plastic valves and it lasted exactly four and a half years. Cheaper versions of the real thing are not repairable and have to be replaced entirely. This means you are spending twice as much in 10 years as you would once in a lifetime for a better faucet.
Look for quality fixture manufacturers such as American Standard. The company’s Champion Toilet featuring America’s Best Flushing System, includes a Worry-Free Decade Warranty that covers the whole toilet inside and out. American Standard’s faucets come with a lifetime warranty on the washerless watertight seal, the function and the finish. Most of its sinks and toilets are made of vitreous china that resists dirt and bacteria. Even the acrylic tubs are made tougher with a fiberglass bonding for extra strength.
Bottom line: “Your bathroom takes a daily beating,” says Peters. “Buy quality.”
Is There a Great Cover-up Waiting for You?
A number of times, I’ve ventured into bathrooms that have been madeover by covering damaged tiles or walls with acrylic panels. “Sure it looks better, but the problem is still there,” says Peters. “In fact, panels like these hold in moisture and mildew that was the problem in the first place, and now it will get worse. Make sure leaks and damage are repaired and not just covered up.”
Peters also suggests using a mildew resistant drywall. “Standard drywall can’t stand up to the moisture in the air, even with proper venting,” he notes.
What’s your pay-off in investing time to answer these important questions before you start? You’ll end up with a successful bathroom remodeling project that adds to the value and enjoyment of your home.
Courtesy of ARA Content
About the author:
Courtesy of ARA Content
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Time Saving Bathroom Cleaning Tips
Time Saving Bathroom Cleaning Tips
by: Joy Jackson
The bathroom is often the most used room in the house and because of this the hardest to clean and keep clean. By incorporating a few time saving bathroom cleaning tips into your regular routine, you can cut your cleaning time, save money on cleaning products and enjoy a cleaner
bathroom for longer periods of time.
When cleaning the bathroom, always start with the mirrors and shower doors. By cleaning from top to bottom you will save steps. The dirt from the mirrors and wall can sometimes fall to the floor. If done first, the dirt can then be cleaned in one step when you sweep and mop the floors.
To clean the mirrors and shower doors, you do not need an expensive commercial cleaner. The best cleaner and one that doesn't leave streaks, is a simple solution of water, white vinegar and rubbing alcohol. Simply add water, 1/3 cup of vinegar and 1⁄4 cup of rubbing alcohol to a spray bottle and shake gently to mix. Spray on glass surfaces and wipe with a clean white paper towel.
To clean grime and soap scum off the tub and shower stall you will need to use a two step process. First scrub the area with a white bristle brush to loosen grime and score the area so that a cleaner can penetrate it more readily. Next, spray or wipe on a concentrated orange-based commercial cleaning product. Allow the product to set for thirty minutes and the grime and soap scum should rinse right off.
After cleaning the tub and shower stall, coat the surfaces with an expensive car wax. If you do this twice a year it will help to repel dirt and cut cleaning time in half.
Another great time saving bathroom cleaning tip for your shower stall is to wipe away all of the water after each use. This will keep the dirt and grime from building up and make weekly cleaning a breeze.
After you have cleaned the big surfaces, it is time to clean the toilet and wipe down the counters, sinks and faucets. White vinegar is an inexpensive and effective cleaner for these jobs. Simply apply the white vinegar with a cloth and allow it to set for a few minutes. Then rinse the solution and wipe down the surfaces.
Other simple bathroom cleaning tips include the use of a bath rug outside the shower to collect water and dirt, the cleaning of your plastic shower curtain by tossing it in the washing machine with your dirty cleaning rags and the use of toothpaste and a scrub brush to shine and clean your ornate metal faucets.
About the author:
Joy Jackson is a full time mother of 4 children and Cleaning Tip Wizard. Her website offers inforamtion, articles and resources so your time is better spent than cleaning your house. http://www.theonlinemaid.com
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by: Joy Jackson
The bathroom is often the most used room in the house and because of this the hardest to clean and keep clean. By incorporating a few time saving bathroom cleaning tips into your regular routine, you can cut your cleaning time, save money on cleaning products and enjoy a cleaner
bathroom for longer periods of time.
When cleaning the bathroom, always start with the mirrors and shower doors. By cleaning from top to bottom you will save steps. The dirt from the mirrors and wall can sometimes fall to the floor. If done first, the dirt can then be cleaned in one step when you sweep and mop the floors.
To clean the mirrors and shower doors, you do not need an expensive commercial cleaner. The best cleaner and one that doesn't leave streaks, is a simple solution of water, white vinegar and rubbing alcohol. Simply add water, 1/3 cup of vinegar and 1⁄4 cup of rubbing alcohol to a spray bottle and shake gently to mix. Spray on glass surfaces and wipe with a clean white paper towel.
To clean grime and soap scum off the tub and shower stall you will need to use a two step process. First scrub the area with a white bristle brush to loosen grime and score the area so that a cleaner can penetrate it more readily. Next, spray or wipe on a concentrated orange-based commercial cleaning product. Allow the product to set for thirty minutes and the grime and soap scum should rinse right off.
After cleaning the tub and shower stall, coat the surfaces with an expensive car wax. If you do this twice a year it will help to repel dirt and cut cleaning time in half.
Another great time saving bathroom cleaning tip for your shower stall is to wipe away all of the water after each use. This will keep the dirt and grime from building up and make weekly cleaning a breeze.
After you have cleaned the big surfaces, it is time to clean the toilet and wipe down the counters, sinks and faucets. White vinegar is an inexpensive and effective cleaner for these jobs. Simply apply the white vinegar with a cloth and allow it to set for a few minutes. Then rinse the solution and wipe down the surfaces.
Other simple bathroom cleaning tips include the use of a bath rug outside the shower to collect water and dirt, the cleaning of your plastic shower curtain by tossing it in the washing machine with your dirty cleaning rags and the use of toothpaste and a scrub brush to shine and clean your ornate metal faucets.
About the author:
Joy Jackson is a full time mother of 4 children and Cleaning Tip Wizard. Her website offers inforamtion, articles and resources so your time is better spent than cleaning your house. http://www.theonlinemaid.com
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Create a New Bathroom for Under $50
Create a New Bathroom for Under $50
by: ARA
(ARA) – What do you consider the most forgotten room in your house? For many people, the answer is the bathroom. It gets a lot of use, but many of us live in houses where the bathrooms are sorely outdated. Yet having an attractive and well-designed one can make your daily routine that much more pleasant.
Remodeling costs are high, and a lot of us don’t have the time or skills to do it ourselves. But you don’t have to tear up your bathroom to improve it. Here are some easy and inexpensive ideas for updating your bathroom from bgh.com, iVillage.com and Environmental Graphics.
* Add some new towels. You don’t have to buy a whole new set. Just buy a set of hand towels or washcloths in a new color that will complement your existing color scheme. You could get a mix of colors or just one shade. Try rolling them up and keeping them in a basket for an attractive decorative accent.
* Add decorative tile appliqués. “Too often people think they are stuck with the same old tired tiles in their bathrooms,” says Sue Kelley of Environmental Graphics, a company that specializes in decorative products for the home. Kelley’s company provides an easy decorating solution, Stick ‘n Stile, for up-dating your old tiles. Stick ‘n Stile is a decorative tile appliqué product for both the kitchen and bath. You can easily create a new tile design or border by applying the appliqué right over the existing tile. Stick ‘n Stile comes in a fun array of shapes and sizes from whimsical butterflies to contemporary geometric squares to popular palm leaves. In addition to tile, the appliqués can be applied to other surfaces such as plastic and mirrors. The adhesive-backed appliqués are simple to apply and can easily be removed with the heat of a hair dryer.
* Frame your mirror. Make a plain mirror more decorative by creating a custom frame. Cut your choice of molding to fit around the mirror and paint it, using neutral colors or a brushed gold or silver. The frame can be attached to the mirror with liquid glue.
* A new paint color. Have fun by choosing a color that complements your existing tiles, but is a bit unexpected. For instance, if you have 1950s green tiles, try pale yellow. Or if you have black or white tiles, highlight them by painting the walls sage green. If you don’t want to go beyond white, update your color with tone-on-tone neutrals like ecru, oyster, almond or biscuit. Then you can add colorful touches with towels, soaps and candles.
* Get a new shower curtain. For under $20 you can find a distinctive shower curtain with interesting shower hooks that will make a big difference in your bathroom. If the room is small, a clear shower curtain or one in the same color as your bathtub will create the illusion of a bigger bathroom.
* Get rid of an outdated medicine cabinet. You can make a dramatic difference in your bathroom by replacing an old cabinet with a simple, wood-framed mirror. Once the mirror is in place, you may want to add a matching, free-standing storage unit or small table.
* Change your hardware. An easy way to alter the look of your room is to update details like drawer pulls, towel bars, shower controls, robe hooks and soap holders. You could even splurge on a new faucet. If you just want to change a few things, mixing metals is perfectly acceptable.
For more information on decorative products for the home, including Stick'n Stile decorative tile appliqués, visit www.sticknstile.com.
Courtesy of ARA Content
About the author:
Courtesy of ARA Content
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by: ARA
(ARA) – What do you consider the most forgotten room in your house? For many people, the answer is the bathroom. It gets a lot of use, but many of us live in houses where the bathrooms are sorely outdated. Yet having an attractive and well-designed one can make your daily routine that much more pleasant.
Remodeling costs are high, and a lot of us don’t have the time or skills to do it ourselves. But you don’t have to tear up your bathroom to improve it. Here are some easy and inexpensive ideas for updating your bathroom from bgh.com, iVillage.com and Environmental Graphics.
* Add some new towels. You don’t have to buy a whole new set. Just buy a set of hand towels or washcloths in a new color that will complement your existing color scheme. You could get a mix of colors or just one shade. Try rolling them up and keeping them in a basket for an attractive decorative accent.
* Add decorative tile appliqués. “Too often people think they are stuck with the same old tired tiles in their bathrooms,” says Sue Kelley of Environmental Graphics, a company that specializes in decorative products for the home. Kelley’s company provides an easy decorating solution, Stick ‘n Stile, for up-dating your old tiles. Stick ‘n Stile is a decorative tile appliqué product for both the kitchen and bath. You can easily create a new tile design or border by applying the appliqué right over the existing tile. Stick ‘n Stile comes in a fun array of shapes and sizes from whimsical butterflies to contemporary geometric squares to popular palm leaves. In addition to tile, the appliqués can be applied to other surfaces such as plastic and mirrors. The adhesive-backed appliqués are simple to apply and can easily be removed with the heat of a hair dryer.
* Frame your mirror. Make a plain mirror more decorative by creating a custom frame. Cut your choice of molding to fit around the mirror and paint it, using neutral colors or a brushed gold or silver. The frame can be attached to the mirror with liquid glue.
* A new paint color. Have fun by choosing a color that complements your existing tiles, but is a bit unexpected. For instance, if you have 1950s green tiles, try pale yellow. Or if you have black or white tiles, highlight them by painting the walls sage green. If you don’t want to go beyond white, update your color with tone-on-tone neutrals like ecru, oyster, almond or biscuit. Then you can add colorful touches with towels, soaps and candles.
* Get a new shower curtain. For under $20 you can find a distinctive shower curtain with interesting shower hooks that will make a big difference in your bathroom. If the room is small, a clear shower curtain or one in the same color as your bathtub will create the illusion of a bigger bathroom.
* Get rid of an outdated medicine cabinet. You can make a dramatic difference in your bathroom by replacing an old cabinet with a simple, wood-framed mirror. Once the mirror is in place, you may want to add a matching, free-standing storage unit or small table.
* Change your hardware. An easy way to alter the look of your room is to update details like drawer pulls, towel bars, shower controls, robe hooks and soap holders. You could even splurge on a new faucet. If you just want to change a few things, mixing metals is perfectly acceptable.
For more information on decorative products for the home, including Stick'n Stile decorative tile appliqués, visit www.sticknstile.com.
Courtesy of ARA Content
About the author:
Courtesy of ARA Content
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Mirrored Cabinets Add Functionality and Fashion to Bathrooms
Mirrored Cabinets Add Functionality and Fashion to Bathrooms
by: ARA
ARA) - In today’s homes, the bathroom is becoming a symbol of luxury and relaxation as homeowners equip these spaces with spa-like amenities such as multiple-head showers, whirlpool tubs, plush towels, soaps and candles. But it is hard to maintain that feeling of spa serenity when the bathroom is strewn with all the necessities of day-to-day life and grooming.
Toothbrushes, makeup, toiletries, hair products and other such items have to go somewhere. But if they end up in a jumble on the bathroom countertop, the appearance is not very soothing. Especially in older, smaller bathrooms but also in many newer ones it can be a challenge to find enough conveniently located storage space.
Whether you’re looking for a design statement or are in need of a functional bathroom storage space, a good option is a mirrored cabinet. While once medicine cabinets were basically a hole in the wall with a mirror as a door, today’s products offer ample storage as well as enhance the design elements in the room.
For example, mirrored cabinets by Robern, a leader in stylish bath storage innovation, offer options such as a safety lock-box to provide security for personal items like prescriptions and jewelry; mirrored, lighted interiors, so you don’t have to close the cabinet to see yourself; and an interior electrical outlet where you can recharge and store small electrical devices such as a cell phone or an electric razor.
Because medicine cabinets can be recessed into the wall to achieve a flush, clean look, homeowners are not giving up any valuable space in the bathroom when they add one. And they don’t have to compromise their design sense, either. There are cabinets to complement a wide variety of styles and fit any décor, from traditional to modern.
Robern’s Fairhaven cabinet brings back the styling of the early 20th century. Inspired by the summer communities and seaside cottages in New England, this cabinet combines the benefits and functionality of a luxury cabinet with a traditional, relaxed look. Details like crown and foot moldings, a beaded door with a beveled mirror and round doorknob all add to the vintage appeal.
For those with more modern sensibilities, Robern’s Métallique cabinet reflects the Art Moderne movement of the ‘30s and ‘40s, an era when high style and beauty meant glamorous touches throughout the home. The cabinet has clean, simple lines in polished chrome, brushed nickel or Monaco gold finish. It is part of a collection that includes matching faucets, towel bars and other bathroom accessories of the same finishes.
For the ultimate medicine cabinet, consider Robern’s Cité, which embraces the 1920s decadence and sophistication, highlighted by its leather-wrapped frame. This cabinet adds romance and sophistication to any bathroom, but can also be used in other areas of the home. The cabinet is available in Ebony (black), Ox Blood (burgundy) and Parchment (tan), colors that can blend into just about any décor.
So instead of cluttering your bathroom with baskets of makeup and bins of shaving supplies, you can neatly stash them out of sight, but within easy reach. The clean, stylish surfaces will immediately make the space feel more tranquil and relaxing, so you can pamper yourself in peace.
For more information on Robern cabinets, visit www.robern.com, or call (800) 877-2376.
Courtesy of ARA Content
About the author:
Courtesy of ARA Content
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by: ARA
ARA) - In today’s homes, the bathroom is becoming a symbol of luxury and relaxation as homeowners equip these spaces with spa-like amenities such as multiple-head showers, whirlpool tubs, plush towels, soaps and candles. But it is hard to maintain that feeling of spa serenity when the bathroom is strewn with all the necessities of day-to-day life and grooming.
Toothbrushes, makeup, toiletries, hair products and other such items have to go somewhere. But if they end up in a jumble on the bathroom countertop, the appearance is not very soothing. Especially in older, smaller bathrooms but also in many newer ones it can be a challenge to find enough conveniently located storage space.
Whether you’re looking for a design statement or are in need of a functional bathroom storage space, a good option is a mirrored cabinet. While once medicine cabinets were basically a hole in the wall with a mirror as a door, today’s products offer ample storage as well as enhance the design elements in the room.
For example, mirrored cabinets by Robern, a leader in stylish bath storage innovation, offer options such as a safety lock-box to provide security for personal items like prescriptions and jewelry; mirrored, lighted interiors, so you don’t have to close the cabinet to see yourself; and an interior electrical outlet where you can recharge and store small electrical devices such as a cell phone or an electric razor.
Because medicine cabinets can be recessed into the wall to achieve a flush, clean look, homeowners are not giving up any valuable space in the bathroom when they add one. And they don’t have to compromise their design sense, either. There are cabinets to complement a wide variety of styles and fit any décor, from traditional to modern.
Robern’s Fairhaven cabinet brings back the styling of the early 20th century. Inspired by the summer communities and seaside cottages in New England, this cabinet combines the benefits and functionality of a luxury cabinet with a traditional, relaxed look. Details like crown and foot moldings, a beaded door with a beveled mirror and round doorknob all add to the vintage appeal.
For those with more modern sensibilities, Robern’s Métallique cabinet reflects the Art Moderne movement of the ‘30s and ‘40s, an era when high style and beauty meant glamorous touches throughout the home. The cabinet has clean, simple lines in polished chrome, brushed nickel or Monaco gold finish. It is part of a collection that includes matching faucets, towel bars and other bathroom accessories of the same finishes.
For the ultimate medicine cabinet, consider Robern’s Cité, which embraces the 1920s decadence and sophistication, highlighted by its leather-wrapped frame. This cabinet adds romance and sophistication to any bathroom, but can also be used in other areas of the home. The cabinet is available in Ebony (black), Ox Blood (burgundy) and Parchment (tan), colors that can blend into just about any décor.
So instead of cluttering your bathroom with baskets of makeup and bins of shaving supplies, you can neatly stash them out of sight, but within easy reach. The clean, stylish surfaces will immediately make the space feel more tranquil and relaxing, so you can pamper yourself in peace.
For more information on Robern cabinets, visit www.robern.com, or call (800) 877-2376.
Courtesy of ARA Content
About the author:
Courtesy of ARA Content
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Bathroom Organization
Bathroom Organization
by: Norman Fleming
If you're lucky enough to have a "guest bathroom", one that isn't used by the family and one where you can always keep clean hand towels hanging for the guests, good for you. For most of us however, we have one or two bathrooms, and they both get a lot of use from the family members on a daily basis. Let's see how you can organize your bathroom so that it's guest ready too.
The one thing that most of us have too much of is lots of bottles of "stuff" sitting around the sink and countertop. Go through these and discard what you don't use on a daily basis, and what only has a drip left in it. Go buy two decorative baskets and have a "his" and "hers". One for his stuff, and one for her stuff. You could keep your toothpaste, hairspray, brush and comb, moisturizer, etc., in a basket that can be simply picked up and moved when guests come, and then put back when you're ready to use them again.
If you like to have magazines in the bathroom don't let them just pile up in a corner next to the toilet, get a nice magazine rack for them.
Next take a look at the inside of the shower. How moldy is that curtain? They cost around $4.00 - buy a new one. Look at the bottles in the shower, they tend to get left in the shower even when they're almost empty. Throw them out and try to streamline the number of bottles in the shower. If you don't have built in shelves around your shower get an organizer that hangs over your showerhead, or one on an extension pole you can put in the corner of the shower.
A cheap way to make your bathroom like new is with accessories. Buy a nice shower curtain with a matching rug. You can also get matching towels. If you have limited towel space you can buy a towel rack that hangs on the wall, they come in many different designs. With a nice wall towel rack you can make a display of beautifully colored towels - that you can also use too! Purchase a set of matching bathroom accessories, soap dish, toothbrush holder, cup, liquid soap dispenser.
I think you're going to love your bathroom!
About the author:
This article courtesy of http://www.vac-facts.com
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by: Norman Fleming
If you're lucky enough to have a "guest bathroom", one that isn't used by the family and one where you can always keep clean hand towels hanging for the guests, good for you. For most of us however, we have one or two bathrooms, and they both get a lot of use from the family members on a daily basis. Let's see how you can organize your bathroom so that it's guest ready too.
The one thing that most of us have too much of is lots of bottles of "stuff" sitting around the sink and countertop. Go through these and discard what you don't use on a daily basis, and what only has a drip left in it. Go buy two decorative baskets and have a "his" and "hers". One for his stuff, and one for her stuff. You could keep your toothpaste, hairspray, brush and comb, moisturizer, etc., in a basket that can be simply picked up and moved when guests come, and then put back when you're ready to use them again.
If you like to have magazines in the bathroom don't let them just pile up in a corner next to the toilet, get a nice magazine rack for them.
Next take a look at the inside of the shower. How moldy is that curtain? They cost around $4.00 - buy a new one. Look at the bottles in the shower, they tend to get left in the shower even when they're almost empty. Throw them out and try to streamline the number of bottles in the shower. If you don't have built in shelves around your shower get an organizer that hangs over your showerhead, or one on an extension pole you can put in the corner of the shower.
A cheap way to make your bathroom like new is with accessories. Buy a nice shower curtain with a matching rug. You can also get matching towels. If you have limited towel space you can buy a towel rack that hangs on the wall, they come in many different designs. With a nice wall towel rack you can make a display of beautifully colored towels - that you can also use too! Purchase a set of matching bathroom accessories, soap dish, toothbrush holder, cup, liquid soap dispenser.
I think you're going to love your bathroom!
About the author:
This article courtesy of http://www.vac-facts.com
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Design Savvy Consumers Tackle Bathroom Decor
Design Savvy Consumers Tackle Bathroom Decor
by: ARA
(ARA) - Practically everywhere you look these days there’s a TV show or a magazine article devoted to home makeovers, decorating tips or remodeling. Not just for the professionals anymore, home design has entered the mainstream and consumers are a lot more sophisticated than they used to be.
“Interest in the home is definitely on the upswing, but I think it is more than just a trend,” says Ann Roever, product manager for Kohler Co., which designs products for the kitchen and bath. “I see it as a natural evolution of our culture and lifestyle -- 'design' is spreading into the home.”
All this attention to design has not only stimulated more interest in home decorating, but has also served to educate consumers. There is much more awareness about trends and what constitutes value. Consumers now have the confidence to choose what they want, and they know how to put it all together.
“Consumers are getting an eye for and a feel for design -- traditional, contemporary, eclectic or international,” says Roever.
This new design consciousness has even entered the bathroom. “Bathrooms aren’t just utilitarian spaces anymore, they are now extensions of the bedroom: a place you can go to relax or retreat,” explains Roever.
The bathroom decorations are now as carefully coordinated as those in other parts of the house. To assist consumers, Kohler develops complete design solutions that eliminate the guesswork and concerns about having to coordinate an entire bathroom. Called the bathroom suite, it offers an array of integrated products including fixtures, faucet choices and decorative bath accessories that are designed to coordinate well together.
“Bathroom suites take the worry out of the decision-making process,” says Roever. “A homeowner can fall in love with the look of a product -- say a pedestal lavatory -- and know that there are other products that go with that particular piece.”
Kohler’s bathroom suites are offered in a range of designs with numerous choices within each line. For example, the Memoirs suite, which is architecturally based and inspired by traditional crown molding, offers six different toilets, a bidet, a whirlpool, a cast iron bathtub, an acrylic soaker tub, two lines of faucets, pedestal lavatories and bath accessories. Homeowners can outfit more than one bathroom, and each will be completely different, yet the designs will be complementary.
Arguably, the most universal design of all the Kohler suites is the new Devonshire. "With the Devonshire suite, Kohler is offering more than one design at a competitive price point. Kohler knows that every consumer has different interests and tastes, and we’re offering many more design choices for every budget," says Roever.
Most suites at this entry price-point are ensembles -- they don’t include bathing or showering components. But with Devonshire, Kohler offers a bathtub, a whirlpool, a shower door, mirrored cabinets, bath accessories and, of course, faucets.
For more information about Kohler bathroom suites, call (800) 4-KOHLER or visit www.kohler.com.
Courtesy of ARA Content
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Courtesy of ARA Content
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by: ARA
(ARA) - Practically everywhere you look these days there’s a TV show or a magazine article devoted to home makeovers, decorating tips or remodeling. Not just for the professionals anymore, home design has entered the mainstream and consumers are a lot more sophisticated than they used to be.
“Interest in the home is definitely on the upswing, but I think it is more than just a trend,” says Ann Roever, product manager for Kohler Co., which designs products for the kitchen and bath. “I see it as a natural evolution of our culture and lifestyle -- 'design' is spreading into the home.”
All this attention to design has not only stimulated more interest in home decorating, but has also served to educate consumers. There is much more awareness about trends and what constitutes value. Consumers now have the confidence to choose what they want, and they know how to put it all together.
“Consumers are getting an eye for and a feel for design -- traditional, contemporary, eclectic or international,” says Roever.
This new design consciousness has even entered the bathroom. “Bathrooms aren’t just utilitarian spaces anymore, they are now extensions of the bedroom: a place you can go to relax or retreat,” explains Roever.
The bathroom decorations are now as carefully coordinated as those in other parts of the house. To assist consumers, Kohler develops complete design solutions that eliminate the guesswork and concerns about having to coordinate an entire bathroom. Called the bathroom suite, it offers an array of integrated products including fixtures, faucet choices and decorative bath accessories that are designed to coordinate well together.
“Bathroom suites take the worry out of the decision-making process,” says Roever. “A homeowner can fall in love with the look of a product -- say a pedestal lavatory -- and know that there are other products that go with that particular piece.”
Kohler’s bathroom suites are offered in a range of designs with numerous choices within each line. For example, the Memoirs suite, which is architecturally based and inspired by traditional crown molding, offers six different toilets, a bidet, a whirlpool, a cast iron bathtub, an acrylic soaker tub, two lines of faucets, pedestal lavatories and bath accessories. Homeowners can outfit more than one bathroom, and each will be completely different, yet the designs will be complementary.
Arguably, the most universal design of all the Kohler suites is the new Devonshire. "With the Devonshire suite, Kohler is offering more than one design at a competitive price point. Kohler knows that every consumer has different interests and tastes, and we’re offering many more design choices for every budget," says Roever.
Most suites at this entry price-point are ensembles -- they don’t include bathing or showering components. But with Devonshire, Kohler offers a bathtub, a whirlpool, a shower door, mirrored cabinets, bath accessories and, of course, faucets.
For more information about Kohler bathroom suites, call (800) 4-KOHLER or visit www.kohler.com.
Courtesy of ARA Content
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Why not add a Shower to your bathroom?
Why not add a Shower to your bathroom?
by: Mike Yeager
If you are thinking of remodeling your bathroom and redoing or adding showers to them, consider all of your choices. The age we live in has allowed us many choices in what we want in our homes. We can choose from high end, high quality items to comfortable old favorites. When looking to redo or install a shower in your bathroom, you have many things to consider.
Start by knowing the size of the area you wish to install the shower. Or, if you have a previous shower already installed, removing the old will tell you whether any of the existing elements there will need to be repaired or replaced. Consider where the drains are located and how stable the flooring is. Once this information is obtained, you can move onto the design stages.
Taking a trip to the nearest home improvement store will give you many ideas. Don't want to leave the house? Check online stores and even specialty stores that can give you many, many choices. Bathroom showers come in many shapes and sizes and are made from different qualities of materials. Consider whether you want to have an open area surrounded by walls or more of a bathroom shower stall which is more enclosed with a door. Some very nice ones can be made out of stone and ceramics. Others, more commonly used, are made from steal or plastics. Finding what suits you needs and tastes is important. Remember to keep in mind the costs and the installation fees if you will not be installing it yourself.
Now you have the bathroom shower installed. Looks great right? Did you consider shower curtains to match the bathroom? You can find many designs at a department store of your choice. Bathroom shower curtains are easy to find and in most cases an inexpensive way to provide privacy. Or, perhaps, you shower has shower doors? Doors can be a great way to keep the water in the shower itself. Doors made of glass will be much heavier then those made of plastics, but either choice will come with a film like surface to allow some privacy.
Got it put together? Do you like the outcome of your project? Remodeling or installing can be a great way to add value and comfort to your home. Finding things that you not can use, but that you like as well, makes the project an enjoyable experience.
About the author:
Mike Yeager
Publisher
http://www.a1-bathroom-4u.com/
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by: Mike Yeager
If you are thinking of remodeling your bathroom and redoing or adding showers to them, consider all of your choices. The age we live in has allowed us many choices in what we want in our homes. We can choose from high end, high quality items to comfortable old favorites. When looking to redo or install a shower in your bathroom, you have many things to consider.
Start by knowing the size of the area you wish to install the shower. Or, if you have a previous shower already installed, removing the old will tell you whether any of the existing elements there will need to be repaired or replaced. Consider where the drains are located and how stable the flooring is. Once this information is obtained, you can move onto the design stages.
Taking a trip to the nearest home improvement store will give you many ideas. Don't want to leave the house? Check online stores and even specialty stores that can give you many, many choices. Bathroom showers come in many shapes and sizes and are made from different qualities of materials. Consider whether you want to have an open area surrounded by walls or more of a bathroom shower stall which is more enclosed with a door. Some very nice ones can be made out of stone and ceramics. Others, more commonly used, are made from steal or plastics. Finding what suits you needs and tastes is important. Remember to keep in mind the costs and the installation fees if you will not be installing it yourself.
Now you have the bathroom shower installed. Looks great right? Did you consider shower curtains to match the bathroom? You can find many designs at a department store of your choice. Bathroom shower curtains are easy to find and in most cases an inexpensive way to provide privacy. Or, perhaps, you shower has shower doors? Doors can be a great way to keep the water in the shower itself. Doors made of glass will be much heavier then those made of plastics, but either choice will come with a film like surface to allow some privacy.
Got it put together? Do you like the outcome of your project? Remodeling or installing can be a great way to add value and comfort to your home. Finding things that you not can use, but that you like as well, makes the project an enjoyable experience.
About the author:
Mike Yeager
Publisher
http://www.a1-bathroom-4u.com/
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How To Save Money When Shopping for a New Bathroom
How To Save Money When Shopping for a New Bathroom
by: Kabwe Chomba
There are some ways to save money while shopping online for a new bathroom. You can save hundreds by comparing prices from various online stores before deciding to buy.
To make informed choices when buying products for your new bathroom, you need information on the price, quality and the types of products available. You can get this information by shopping around - either directly, or by going to a number of different websites and comparing what is on offer. Look at the prices and then weigh up what you will get for your money before you make up your mind.
1. Use shopping bots
Shopping bots are essentially search engines for gathering prices for products from a variety of vendors. They allow you to quickly search for merchandise across a wide variety of sites. They are an effective way to quickly get a feel for the available deals.
2. Use Discount Sites and Bargain sites
These are general discount sites where you'll find deals on many different products. They get excess merchandise from other retailers and sell the merchandise at bargain prices.
3. Use Coupon sites and Deal Aggregators
These sites provide a wide variety of coupons, promotional codes and discounts across the internet. They lead you to retailers, rather than selling you the merchandise directly.
4. Use Classifieds or Auction sites
With bathroom products, buying straight from the high street will add a considerable sum to the price tag. It’s possible to make vast savings by purchasing your item second-hand. You can buy most merchandise cheaper from auction sites such as EBay.
5. Drop Brand Names
You can easily get cheaper products by opting for lesser-known names in the market. These cheaper items are usually as good as some of the more expensive varieties from the big companies. In some instances, you’ll only be paying for the name because some of the products are manufactured by the same companies.
There are many other ways to save money while shopping online for bathroom products, but shopping around before you buy makes it easier to get the best value on many products and services.
About the author:
Copyright © 2005. Kabwe Chomba writes for Modern Bathrooms website at http://www.modern-bathrooms.co.uk/and he's also a regular contributor to the Ideas for Bathrooms website at: http://www.ideas-for-bathrooms.org.uk/
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by: Kabwe Chomba
There are some ways to save money while shopping online for a new bathroom. You can save hundreds by comparing prices from various online stores before deciding to buy.
To make informed choices when buying products for your new bathroom, you need information on the price, quality and the types of products available. You can get this information by shopping around - either directly, or by going to a number of different websites and comparing what is on offer. Look at the prices and then weigh up what you will get for your money before you make up your mind.
1. Use shopping bots
Shopping bots are essentially search engines for gathering prices for products from a variety of vendors. They allow you to quickly search for merchandise across a wide variety of sites. They are an effective way to quickly get a feel for the available deals.
2. Use Discount Sites and Bargain sites
These are general discount sites where you'll find deals on many different products. They get excess merchandise from other retailers and sell the merchandise at bargain prices.
3. Use Coupon sites and Deal Aggregators
These sites provide a wide variety of coupons, promotional codes and discounts across the internet. They lead you to retailers, rather than selling you the merchandise directly.
4. Use Classifieds or Auction sites
With bathroom products, buying straight from the high street will add a considerable sum to the price tag. It’s possible to make vast savings by purchasing your item second-hand. You can buy most merchandise cheaper from auction sites such as EBay.
5. Drop Brand Names
You can easily get cheaper products by opting for lesser-known names in the market. These cheaper items are usually as good as some of the more expensive varieties from the big companies. In some instances, you’ll only be paying for the name because some of the products are manufactured by the same companies.
There are many other ways to save money while shopping online for bathroom products, but shopping around before you buy makes it easier to get the best value on many products and services.
About the author:
Copyright © 2005. Kabwe Chomba writes for Modern Bathrooms website at http://www.modern-bathrooms.co.uk/and he's also a regular contributor to the Ideas for Bathrooms website at: http://www.ideas-for-bathrooms.org.uk/
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Warming up the Bath
Warming up the Bath
by: ARA
(ARA) - Of all the rooms in a house, family members most often find themselves trekking to the bathroom to begin and end their busy days. In today’s bathrooms, we find only the most standard of conveniences in an environment that demands solitude, efficient use of space and the desire to maintain a level of comfort. According to a study by the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), people are looking for larger, more luxurious bathrooms creating an aura of calm and peace.
With the cooler months looming around the corner, there are some savvy products and design solutions for any size bathroom that offer a simple approach to improving your bathroom’s needs, while giving your family a sense of comfort in a room not-less traveled. Many of these ideas were featured by top designers in the 2003 NKBA National Design Competition.
Towel Warmers
Whether it is a small, medium or even a large master-suite bathroom, towel warmers add a versatile approach to displaying your fabrics, while offering an added benefit to keep your towels warm and dry. Most major manufactures of bath products offer towel warmers in their product lines and they can easily be purchased at many local retailers and dealers.
Heated Tile System
If you prefer the look of tiled flooring in your bathroom but can’t get past the idea of stepping on that cool floor during the coldest of days, installing a heated tile system provides a desired level of comfort not to be overlooked. These systems can be easily installed by an NKBA professional when performing even the most basic bathroom renovation.
Insulating Windows
Windows in the bathroom often add to the appeal of inviting natural light into your sanctuary, but they also add to an unseen problem that is often overlooked. Probably the best location for losing heat from your bathroom, windows can conduct precious heat from inside right out into the cool air. This is especially a problem for those in older buildings with single pane windows. The easiest way to stop this free flow of your heat to the outside is to install a window insulating kit. These kits can be purchased from a number of local retailers and dealers and can be installed by an NKBA professional.
Temperature Control
To improve the safety of your shower area, installing pressure balances and control valves can minimize the scalding effect on children and adults of all ages. Pressure balance and control valves will prevent your faucet from spitting out water of extremely high temperatures in the event that cold-water pressure fails. This can happen if a sink or washing machine is being operated throughout the house while you are taking a shower.
Spa/Steam System
One of the more trendy developments in bathroom design is a spa/steam system. According to a study conducted by the National Kitchen & Bath Association, more than two-thirds of the respondents (66 percent) stated these style systems to be a hot bathroom idea. A system such as this can create a luxurious spa-like environment without leaving the confines of your home. An NKBA Certified Bath Designer will be able to design a retreat that matches your desires and budget.
For more information on bathroom remodeling, contact the National Kitchen & Bath Association at (877) NKBA-PRO or visit their Web site at www.nkba.org. Let an NKBA professional add value to your investment by applying their experience and expertise to the job.
Courtesy of ARA Content
About the author:
Courtesy of ARA Content
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by: ARA
(ARA) - Of all the rooms in a house, family members most often find themselves trekking to the bathroom to begin and end their busy days. In today’s bathrooms, we find only the most standard of conveniences in an environment that demands solitude, efficient use of space and the desire to maintain a level of comfort. According to a study by the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), people are looking for larger, more luxurious bathrooms creating an aura of calm and peace.
With the cooler months looming around the corner, there are some savvy products and design solutions for any size bathroom that offer a simple approach to improving your bathroom’s needs, while giving your family a sense of comfort in a room not-less traveled. Many of these ideas were featured by top designers in the 2003 NKBA National Design Competition.
Towel Warmers
Whether it is a small, medium or even a large master-suite bathroom, towel warmers add a versatile approach to displaying your fabrics, while offering an added benefit to keep your towels warm and dry. Most major manufactures of bath products offer towel warmers in their product lines and they can easily be purchased at many local retailers and dealers.
Heated Tile System
If you prefer the look of tiled flooring in your bathroom but can’t get past the idea of stepping on that cool floor during the coldest of days, installing a heated tile system provides a desired level of comfort not to be overlooked. These systems can be easily installed by an NKBA professional when performing even the most basic bathroom renovation.
Insulating Windows
Windows in the bathroom often add to the appeal of inviting natural light into your sanctuary, but they also add to an unseen problem that is often overlooked. Probably the best location for losing heat from your bathroom, windows can conduct precious heat from inside right out into the cool air. This is especially a problem for those in older buildings with single pane windows. The easiest way to stop this free flow of your heat to the outside is to install a window insulating kit. These kits can be purchased from a number of local retailers and dealers and can be installed by an NKBA professional.
Temperature Control
To improve the safety of your shower area, installing pressure balances and control valves can minimize the scalding effect on children and adults of all ages. Pressure balance and control valves will prevent your faucet from spitting out water of extremely high temperatures in the event that cold-water pressure fails. This can happen if a sink or washing machine is being operated throughout the house while you are taking a shower.
Spa/Steam System
One of the more trendy developments in bathroom design is a spa/steam system. According to a study conducted by the National Kitchen & Bath Association, more than two-thirds of the respondents (66 percent) stated these style systems to be a hot bathroom idea. A system such as this can create a luxurious spa-like environment without leaving the confines of your home. An NKBA Certified Bath Designer will be able to design a retreat that matches your desires and budget.
For more information on bathroom remodeling, contact the National Kitchen & Bath Association at (877) NKBA-PRO or visit their Web site at www.nkba.org. Let an NKBA professional add value to your investment by applying their experience and expertise to the job.
Courtesy of ARA Content
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Courtesy of ARA Content
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Ways to Make Your Bathroom More Energy Efficient
Ways to Make Your Bathroom More Energy Efficient
by: Chileshe Mwape
There are a number of design features and fittings that can improve bathroom energy efficiency and reduce energy bills and greenhouse pollution. Remodelling your bathroom to make it more energy efficient will improve your home because doing it right will reap the benefits of health, safety, comfort and will save you money and energy.
1. Energy Efficient Hot Water System
Select an energy efficient hot water system and place it as close to the bathroom and laundry as possible to reduce pipe length and reduce heat loss.
2. Energy Efficient Labelled Ventilation Fans
Bathroom moisture is often controlled by the use of an exhaust fan. The fan sucks out the moisture-laden air, which is then replaced by drier outside air.
Install properly sized energy efficient labelled ventilation fans to control moisture in the air while you shower or bathe. By removing moist air and drying out your bathroom, a ventilation fan will help prevent mold and mildew. Fans help remove moisture, which can increase the level of humidity in your house. High humidity can damage building materials. Worse, high humidity can cause mold growth and mold may affect your family's health. Install self closing exhaust fans to avoid heat loss or gain when not in use
3. Energy Efficient Labelled Lighting
Another easy way to make your bathroom more energy efficient is to install energy efficient labelled lighting (e.g., Light Fixtures: suspended lights, ceiling-mounted lights, cabinet lights, recessed lights, or compact fluorescent bulbs). Attractive, energy-efficient lighting adds value to your home and reduces home energy bills.
4. Insulation - Insulate Walls and Ceilings
The walls behind tubs or showers are often poorly insulated and air-sealed. Opening these walls as part of the remodelling project provides an opportunity to ensure comfort by sealing air leaks with caulk or expanding foam and installing insulation. Also make sure to air seal around plumbing and electrical penetrations.
5. Energy Efficient Windows and Doors
If you are replacing windows, doors, and skylights, consider those with the energy efficient label. New technologies in the glass and frame systems help make your home more comfortable, and lower heating and cooling costs too.
6. Energy Efficient Showerheads
The shower is the largest user of household hot water. Install an AAA showerhead to reduce the amount of hot water consumed. AAA showerheads are available at many bathroom supply stores and hardware stores. A flow rate of approximately 7L per minute is considered as AAA for showerheads.
7. Water Pipes and Water Saving Devices
Insulate hot water pipes to reduce heat loss and save energy. Install water saving devices like water saving aerators and flow regulators in your taps. Select water saving taps that have a similar water saving rating.
About the author:
Copyright 2005. Chileshe Mwape writes for the Designer Bathrooms website at: http://www.designer-bathrooms.org.uk/which features bathroom remodelling tips, ideas and supplies.
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by: Chileshe Mwape
There are a number of design features and fittings that can improve bathroom energy efficiency and reduce energy bills and greenhouse pollution. Remodelling your bathroom to make it more energy efficient will improve your home because doing it right will reap the benefits of health, safety, comfort and will save you money and energy.
1. Energy Efficient Hot Water System
Select an energy efficient hot water system and place it as close to the bathroom and laundry as possible to reduce pipe length and reduce heat loss.
2. Energy Efficient Labelled Ventilation Fans
Bathroom moisture is often controlled by the use of an exhaust fan. The fan sucks out the moisture-laden air, which is then replaced by drier outside air.
Install properly sized energy efficient labelled ventilation fans to control moisture in the air while you shower or bathe. By removing moist air and drying out your bathroom, a ventilation fan will help prevent mold and mildew. Fans help remove moisture, which can increase the level of humidity in your house. High humidity can damage building materials. Worse, high humidity can cause mold growth and mold may affect your family's health. Install self closing exhaust fans to avoid heat loss or gain when not in use
3. Energy Efficient Labelled Lighting
Another easy way to make your bathroom more energy efficient is to install energy efficient labelled lighting (e.g., Light Fixtures: suspended lights, ceiling-mounted lights, cabinet lights, recessed lights, or compact fluorescent bulbs). Attractive, energy-efficient lighting adds value to your home and reduces home energy bills.
4. Insulation - Insulate Walls and Ceilings
The walls behind tubs or showers are often poorly insulated and air-sealed. Opening these walls as part of the remodelling project provides an opportunity to ensure comfort by sealing air leaks with caulk or expanding foam and installing insulation. Also make sure to air seal around plumbing and electrical penetrations.
5. Energy Efficient Windows and Doors
If you are replacing windows, doors, and skylights, consider those with the energy efficient label. New technologies in the glass and frame systems help make your home more comfortable, and lower heating and cooling costs too.
6. Energy Efficient Showerheads
The shower is the largest user of household hot water. Install an AAA showerhead to reduce the amount of hot water consumed. AAA showerheads are available at many bathroom supply stores and hardware stores. A flow rate of approximately 7L per minute is considered as AAA for showerheads.
7. Water Pipes and Water Saving Devices
Insulate hot water pipes to reduce heat loss and save energy. Install water saving devices like water saving aerators and flow regulators in your taps. Select water saving taps that have a similar water saving rating.
About the author:
Copyright 2005. Chileshe Mwape writes for the Designer Bathrooms website at: http://www.designer-bathrooms.org.uk/which features bathroom remodelling tips, ideas and supplies.
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A Guide to Kids’ Shower Curtains
A Guide to Kids’ Shower Curtains -
by: Max Bellamy
Decorating a kid’s bathroom can be fun. There are so many possible themes, such as Disney characters, animals, the ocean, and geometric shapes, just to name a few.
When decorating a kid’s bathroom, an important consideration is color. Many children enjoy bright, bold colors such as bright blues, reds, and yellows. Others prefer more subdued colors such as pastels. Some prefer a mix of many colors, while others prefer that one or two colors predominate.
When deciding on a theme and color scheme for a children’s bathroom, you might want to first shop for shower curtains. In many bathrooms, the shower curtain is the most prominent feature. If you find a shower curtain you particularly like, it is usually easy to decorate the entire bathroom to match.
Kid shower curtains are available in most of today’s popular characters, such as Hello Kitty, Barbie, Disney princesses, Sponge Bob Squarepants, and Bob the Builder. If you do not wish to use character decorations, many other kid-friendly themes are available as well. Ocean themes are popular choices for bathrooms. They can be fun and funky or simple and elegant, depending on colors used and the types of prints. Other well-liked styles are jungle prints, sports themes, rainbows, clouds, and nature scenes.
Another consideration is how long you need the décor to last. If you plan to change the bathroom often, it is okay to use your child’s favorite characters and bold, vibrant colors. However, if you want a style that will last, you should probably consider more traditional décor. Floral patterns, polka dots, checks, and stripes in pastels or understated colors are style elements that can grow with your child.
Like their adult counterparts, shower curtains for children are available in many different materials, such as vinyl, fabric, and plastic.
Kid shower curtains are readily available at most department stores, bedding stores, home improvement stores, and many online stores.
About the author:
Shower Curtains Info provides detailed information about unique, designer, hookless, fabric, and kids’ shower curtains, and shower curtain rods and hooks. Shower Curtains Info is the sister site of Bathroom Vanities Web.
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by: Max Bellamy
Decorating a kid’s bathroom can be fun. There are so many possible themes, such as Disney characters, animals, the ocean, and geometric shapes, just to name a few.
When decorating a kid’s bathroom, an important consideration is color. Many children enjoy bright, bold colors such as bright blues, reds, and yellows. Others prefer more subdued colors such as pastels. Some prefer a mix of many colors, while others prefer that one or two colors predominate.
When deciding on a theme and color scheme for a children’s bathroom, you might want to first shop for shower curtains. In many bathrooms, the shower curtain is the most prominent feature. If you find a shower curtain you particularly like, it is usually easy to decorate the entire bathroom to match.
Kid shower curtains are available in most of today’s popular characters, such as Hello Kitty, Barbie, Disney princesses, Sponge Bob Squarepants, and Bob the Builder. If you do not wish to use character decorations, many other kid-friendly themes are available as well. Ocean themes are popular choices for bathrooms. They can be fun and funky or simple and elegant, depending on colors used and the types of prints. Other well-liked styles are jungle prints, sports themes, rainbows, clouds, and nature scenes.
Another consideration is how long you need the décor to last. If you plan to change the bathroom often, it is okay to use your child’s favorite characters and bold, vibrant colors. However, if you want a style that will last, you should probably consider more traditional décor. Floral patterns, polka dots, checks, and stripes in pastels or understated colors are style elements that can grow with your child.
Like their adult counterparts, shower curtains for children are available in many different materials, such as vinyl, fabric, and plastic.
Kid shower curtains are readily available at most department stores, bedding stores, home improvement stores, and many online stores.
About the author:
Shower Curtains Info provides detailed information about unique, designer, hookless, fabric, and kids’ shower curtains, and shower curtain rods and hooks. Shower Curtains Info is the sister site of Bathroom Vanities Web.
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Bathroom Vanity Sinks
Bathroom Vanity Sinks -
by: Max Bellamy
When shopping for a bathroom vanity sink, let both function and style be your guide. Bathroom vanity sinks must exist in unity with the cabinet and mirror. Ask yourself what this sink will have to endure and does it belong with in my bathroom design? Is it located in a place where there will there be lots of use, will there be a danger of scratching and chipping or is it located in a guest bathroom that rarely feels a splash of water? Stone is practically indestructible, in addition to some synthetics and metals like stainless steel. While porcelain can be easily chipped and scratched, it can also be more easily repaired and cleaned than metal or stone. Stone is a porous material and so can hold on to stains. Fiberglass is inexpensive but will sometimes dull with wear.
From the revival lavatory basin to green basin of tempered glass your choice of sinks is almost unlimited. Some bathroom vanity sinks will include faucets and drain assembly, releasing you from the task of matching fixtures with basins. Other basic options include under the counter construction or over the counter with lip, square, round, or oval sink counter console. There is also a growing popularity for basins that sit like a bowl on the counter, commonly called the “vessel sink”.
A wide variety of hand made sinks are now available that are both exquisitely beautiful and expensive. If price is a consideration you might want to look for clearance sales that include fixtures and drain assemblies. If you like to do it yourself, you can purchase an antique or used sink that will match your other bathroom furniture. Consider that the sink or the basin have been around since ancient times. You can pick and sort through a host of materials, styles, designs and concepts from various periods of history, each with its unique and specific aesthetic appeal.
About the author:
Bathroom Vanities Info provides detailed information on discount and contemporary bathroom vanity cabinets, sinks, tops, mirrors, lights, and more. Bathroom Vanities Info is the sister site of Shower Curtains Web.
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by: Max Bellamy
When shopping for a bathroom vanity sink, let both function and style be your guide. Bathroom vanity sinks must exist in unity with the cabinet and mirror. Ask yourself what this sink will have to endure and does it belong with in my bathroom design? Is it located in a place where there will there be lots of use, will there be a danger of scratching and chipping or is it located in a guest bathroom that rarely feels a splash of water? Stone is practically indestructible, in addition to some synthetics and metals like stainless steel. While porcelain can be easily chipped and scratched, it can also be more easily repaired and cleaned than metal or stone. Stone is a porous material and so can hold on to stains. Fiberglass is inexpensive but will sometimes dull with wear.
From the revival lavatory basin to green basin of tempered glass your choice of sinks is almost unlimited. Some bathroom vanity sinks will include faucets and drain assembly, releasing you from the task of matching fixtures with basins. Other basic options include under the counter construction or over the counter with lip, square, round, or oval sink counter console. There is also a growing popularity for basins that sit like a bowl on the counter, commonly called the “vessel sink”.
A wide variety of hand made sinks are now available that are both exquisitely beautiful and expensive. If price is a consideration you might want to look for clearance sales that include fixtures and drain assemblies. If you like to do it yourself, you can purchase an antique or used sink that will match your other bathroom furniture. Consider that the sink or the basin have been around since ancient times. You can pick and sort through a host of materials, styles, designs and concepts from various periods of history, each with its unique and specific aesthetic appeal.
About the author:
Bathroom Vanities Info provides detailed information on discount and contemporary bathroom vanity cabinets, sinks, tops, mirrors, lights, and more. Bathroom Vanities Info is the sister site of Shower Curtains Web.
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With a stylish bathroom vanity you can take pride in your bathroom’s appearance!
With a stylish bathroom vanity you can take pride in your bathroom’s appearance!
by: Caroline Smith
An easy way to instantly improve your bathroom’s image is to buy a stylish new bathroom vanity set. Bathroom vanity sets come in a huge range styles and finishes. They typically include a sink cabinet, a mirror and a stool or a chair. A vanity unit can become a stunning focal point of the room and also has a practical function. Combining practicality with elegance and style can be a surefire winner in any bathroom!
Your choice of vanity set can reflect your personality and individual style, as well as being a perfect fit with your bathroom’s character and design. There are so many different types of vanities out there that it helps if you have a general idea of the style you’re after. Perhaps you want a continuation of the theme from the adjoining room, be that a modern, antique or country look.
If your house has period features an antique vanity unit can add to its charm. There is a huge variety of vintage vanity sets available on the internet these days, including genuine Victorian sinks. If you are looking for a quintessential symbol of a bygone age, then the beauty and quality of an antique vanity can be a wonderful way to achieve this. Alternatively, there are many brand new vanity cabinets made in an old fashioned style and finished to suggest an aged look. Furniture styles with design features such as Queen Ann legs or decorative toe kicks are a popular choice.
Bathroom vanities can be tailor made to meet your specific requirements. For example, you can take you pick from a selection of different counter tops. And you can choose from a variety of sinks made from stone or porcelain, or even hand crafted from blown glass. You can select whether you want a polished wood, or a hand painted finish, as well as matching the hardware to your existing fixtures. The storage space inside the cabinet can also be adapted to your needs, by adding a door rack or hidden compartments for instance.
With some thought and creativity your bathroom vanity set can become a beautiful centerpiece of your room, something you can be really proud of!
About the author:
Caroline Smith is a successful freelance writer who has written many articles for www.showers-bathrooms.com-The experts when it comes to choosing stylish bathroom vanities, shower curtains, shower doors and other bathroom accessories.
Circulated by Article Emporium
by: Caroline Smith
An easy way to instantly improve your bathroom’s image is to buy a stylish new bathroom vanity set. Bathroom vanity sets come in a huge range styles and finishes. They typically include a sink cabinet, a mirror and a stool or a chair. A vanity unit can become a stunning focal point of the room and also has a practical function. Combining practicality with elegance and style can be a surefire winner in any bathroom!
Your choice of vanity set can reflect your personality and individual style, as well as being a perfect fit with your bathroom’s character and design. There are so many different types of vanities out there that it helps if you have a general idea of the style you’re after. Perhaps you want a continuation of the theme from the adjoining room, be that a modern, antique or country look.
If your house has period features an antique vanity unit can add to its charm. There is a huge variety of vintage vanity sets available on the internet these days, including genuine Victorian sinks. If you are looking for a quintessential symbol of a bygone age, then the beauty and quality of an antique vanity can be a wonderful way to achieve this. Alternatively, there are many brand new vanity cabinets made in an old fashioned style and finished to suggest an aged look. Furniture styles with design features such as Queen Ann legs or decorative toe kicks are a popular choice.
Bathroom vanities can be tailor made to meet your specific requirements. For example, you can take you pick from a selection of different counter tops. And you can choose from a variety of sinks made from stone or porcelain, or even hand crafted from blown glass. You can select whether you want a polished wood, or a hand painted finish, as well as matching the hardware to your existing fixtures. The storage space inside the cabinet can also be adapted to your needs, by adding a door rack or hidden compartments for instance.
With some thought and creativity your bathroom vanity set can become a beautiful centerpiece of your room, something you can be really proud of!
About the author:
Caroline Smith is a successful freelance writer who has written many articles for www.showers-bathrooms.com-The experts when it comes to choosing stylish bathroom vanities, shower curtains, shower doors and other bathroom accessories.
Circulated by Article Emporium
Contemporary Bathroom Vanities
Contemporary Bathroom Vanities -
by: Max Bellamy
Minimal, linear, often metallic and futuristic, contemporary bathroom vanities come in modern finishes such as brushed nickel and chrome, and are usually free of extraneous ornament and decoration. The result can be a synergistic blend of strength and beauty. A contemporary aesthetic does not exclude natural stone or natural woods. Natural materials will provide lasting endurance and timeless style, and because they are tough enough to withstand everyday wear, they will remain beautiful for years to come.
Coordinating fixtures according to a contemporary look is not a difficult task if you keep to these few basic concepts. Each piece of your bathroom vanity must be considered carefully. The mirror is often frameless in a contemporary setting, and an unusual sink design might centralize the aesthetic, complementing a clean-lined cabinet. In modern designs, sinks often look like bowls sitting on a tabletop, a design called the vessel sink. Sometimes faucets extend straight out from the wall. Cabinets fashioned of stainless steel, brushed chrome, transparent acrylic, unadorned unstained wood and glass are just a few of the many options the home designer has at his or her disposal when shopping for a contemporary bathroom vanity
Technology is partner to innovations in aesthetics, and so creative choices abound, especially in the field of contemporary design. Modern bathroom vanities are a great place to begin as they focus the design into four basic components of the vanity: the mirror, the sink, the top and the cabinet.
The contemporary one-piece bathroom vanity is one very popular option for homeowners. This releases the customer of having to match fixtures with sinks to cabinets. Other attendant items in the contemporary vanity are: stainless steel towel rail, and/or a uniquely designed trap. The trap though a small detail could be considered an object of beauty itself depending on its character.
Another quintessentially modern addition might be a pair elegant cylindrical glass diffuser lights with clean, perpendicular lines and a sophisticated brushed stainless finish with frosted white glass. It is important to add a soft light to the contemporary bathroom, with its potentially cool details. The lighting in the contemporary bathroom vanity can be relatively inexpensive, as there is a good deal of stylish modern lighting available. The modern bathroom vanity, with its brushed metal finishes and cool clean tones, will assist any homeowner on their quest to create a unique environment of modern fusion and timeless beauty.
About the author:
Bathroom Vanities Info provides detailed information on discount and contemporary bathroom vanity cabinets, sinks, tops, mirrors, lights, and more. Bathroom Vanities Info is the sister site of Shower Curtains Web.
Circulated by Article Emporium
by: Max Bellamy
Minimal, linear, often metallic and futuristic, contemporary bathroom vanities come in modern finishes such as brushed nickel and chrome, and are usually free of extraneous ornament and decoration. The result can be a synergistic blend of strength and beauty. A contemporary aesthetic does not exclude natural stone or natural woods. Natural materials will provide lasting endurance and timeless style, and because they are tough enough to withstand everyday wear, they will remain beautiful for years to come.
Coordinating fixtures according to a contemporary look is not a difficult task if you keep to these few basic concepts. Each piece of your bathroom vanity must be considered carefully. The mirror is often frameless in a contemporary setting, and an unusual sink design might centralize the aesthetic, complementing a clean-lined cabinet. In modern designs, sinks often look like bowls sitting on a tabletop, a design called the vessel sink. Sometimes faucets extend straight out from the wall. Cabinets fashioned of stainless steel, brushed chrome, transparent acrylic, unadorned unstained wood and glass are just a few of the many options the home designer has at his or her disposal when shopping for a contemporary bathroom vanity
Technology is partner to innovations in aesthetics, and so creative choices abound, especially in the field of contemporary design. Modern bathroom vanities are a great place to begin as they focus the design into four basic components of the vanity: the mirror, the sink, the top and the cabinet.
The contemporary one-piece bathroom vanity is one very popular option for homeowners. This releases the customer of having to match fixtures with sinks to cabinets. Other attendant items in the contemporary vanity are: stainless steel towel rail, and/or a uniquely designed trap. The trap though a small detail could be considered an object of beauty itself depending on its character.
Another quintessentially modern addition might be a pair elegant cylindrical glass diffuser lights with clean, perpendicular lines and a sophisticated brushed stainless finish with frosted white glass. It is important to add a soft light to the contemporary bathroom, with its potentially cool details. The lighting in the contemporary bathroom vanity can be relatively inexpensive, as there is a good deal of stylish modern lighting available. The modern bathroom vanity, with its brushed metal finishes and cool clean tones, will assist any homeowner on their quest to create a unique environment of modern fusion and timeless beauty.
About the author:
Bathroom Vanities Info provides detailed information on discount and contemporary bathroom vanity cabinets, sinks, tops, mirrors, lights, and more. Bathroom Vanities Info is the sister site of Shower Curtains Web.
Circulated by Article Emporium
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