Tuesday 31 March 2009

Bathroom Designs - Incorporate Bathroom Cabinet Knobs

The way you decorate your bathroom says a lot about you and your personal style. You want to create a space that is comfortable and inviting, since the bathroom is a room that you and your family must spend a good amount of time in, but you also want to have that space reflect who you are as a person and as a family. If you are getting ready for a bathroom remodeling project, it's time to think seriously about what you want the room to look like.


You have likely already worked up an image in your mind of what you want your new bathroom to look like. Perhaps you want to make it a spa retreat with cool blues and greens and natural fibers, or you want a stark, clean, minimalist look to create a modern bathroom space. Those are not your only choices, of course - traditional, rustic, playful and fun - whatever your tastes, you can find products out there on the market to help you create it. So in addition to the major components of your bathroom remodel, like a new tub, new flooring, or a new vanity with faucet and sink, think about other things that will really make the place look like "home," like the new rugs, window treatments, knick knacks, and more.


It's the details that really pull the look of any room together when it comes to interior design, and the bathroom is no exception, so do not forget to pay some attention to your bathroom cabinet knobs. Even if you are not planning on replacing the cabinets themselves, new knobs and pulls will freshen things up completely and make the cabinets look different and new. Incorporating cabinet knobs that complement the décor of the room is an easy way to give bathroom designs an extra kick and also helps pull the look of the room together and give it a finished appearance.


Even better, installing new cabinet hardware is one of the easiest and most inexpensive home remodeling projects you can take on. New hardware comes in plenty of different styles, and it is inexpensive to purchase. It is also easy to install, so you do not need to bring in a professional to get the job done. You can do it yourself in just a few hours, and it is even easier if you purchase some of the templates your local hardware store carries to make sure that each piece is lined up and even on your cabinet doors and drawers. So make sure to pay some attention to your bathroom cabinet hardware during your next home remodeling project - it's easy, and by matching the hardware to the décor of the room, you will end up with a polished, pulled-together look for your new bathroom makeover.


Amanda works for Your Home Supply (YHS) the definitive website for home improvement tools, and gardening supplies. Your Home Supply offers a wide range of cabinet hardware to help customers create and love their new bathroom designs. Visit them now at http://www.YourHomeSupply.com


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amanda_Bashore

Saturday 21 March 2009

Hookless Shower Curtain

A hookless shower curtain is a very unique item that can offer a large amount of convenience in stopping many of the problems that can sometimes arise when you have the regular style selections in curtains for the showers in your home. Most of these regular choices in curtains that are available on the market today require that the individual also make an additional purchase of buying specially designed hooks that are made to fit into the top of the curtains for hanging them up. After a long time of use it can become quite easy for these hooks to begin chipping and breaking and then you would have to think about replacing them. When this happens it can often be very hard to find a duplicate replacement that will perfectly match the remaining hooks that you still have. Another very common frustrating problem that simply using a hookless shower curtain can avoid is when many of these hooks can become lost or misplaced when your family is moving to another location. These well-known problems can be a worry of the past simply by making the choice to use this unique design in curtains for your showers.


You will be pleasantly surprised at the wide and varied selection of beautiful and stylish choices that are available in this convenient and handy design. For any specific style in design that you may like the best, you can be sure that you will find the perfect choice in a hookless shower curtain that can add a large amount of enhancement and overall beauty that can turn your bathrooms into a warm and more inviting area of your home. There are many amazing selections that can be found in stylish designs that are made in bright and bold color shades, as well as those that offer a softer look in pastel colors. Whether you are looking for the perfect solid color to enhance the décor you have chosen, or if you are looking for a specific style such as antique choices, designs that offer a rustic look, elegant Victorian styles, a popular themed choice, or if you prefer the look that can be achieved with contemporary and modern selections, you will find a dazzling array that will suit your individual taste as well as your budget. You also have the ability to choose just the right hookless shower curtain from a variety of different materials that appeal to you the most.


If you would like more information on Hookless Shower Curtain try my site. And I also have a page on Extra Wide Shower Curtain


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Angie_Atkins

Wednesday 18 March 2009

The Bathroom Sinks

Bathroom sinks provide an endless amount of individuals with the convenient ability of being able to perform a wide variety of different and necessary tasks. These tasks would include the ability of being able to brush your teeth on a routine and daily basis, fixing your hair, washing your hands every time you are about to sit down and enjoy a delicious meal, shaving your face and trimming your mustache or beard, and a variety of other practical uses that this item is so well known for providing on a continuous basis.


Another benefit that numerous individuals enjoy being able to take advantage of is in the wide range of beautiful designs and unique styles that can be found available in bathroom sinks. Many of the choices that are available on the market today offer a high level of decorative style and character that can enhance the choices in appealing décor and the specific color tone selections that you have decided to use for the decor of the bathrooms in your home.


It was not so very long ago that an individual only had just a few bland and very boring choices that they could make in the selections that were available in bathrooms sinks. However, this is a frustrating problem that has changed a great deal over the past few years and now numerous people have the benefit of being able to choose from a wide variety of appealing color tones, as well as having several choices they can make in the specific types of materials that are used in their making. There is a wide and varied selection that is available today in such durable materials as porcelain enamel, metal, vitreous china, stone, painted terracotta, cast resin, fireclay or ceramic selections, granite, marble, onyx, travertine, glass, lime, copper, brass, brushed nickel, and stainless steel. As you can easily see, homeowners and businesses alike are certainly not limited in the wide variety of stylish choices that have been made available to them when it comes to being able to select the style that works the best for their individual needs.


It does not matter what specific style or design it is that you plan to use for the bathroom sinks in the bathrooms of your home, you can be assured that you will have numerous to choose from that will offer just the right amount of convenience and enhancement to the design choices you have selected.


If you would like more information on Bathroom Sinks try my site. And I also have a page on Contemporary Bathroom Sink

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Angie_Atkins

Monday 16 March 2009

Toilet Paper Holders - Change Your Life

Many people have often said that duck tape can mend any thing - for example you can utilize duck tape to fix a airplane or an broken leg or even a relationship and one of the most popular - duck tape sustains the universe. We know this really isn't real but we place a plenty of considered into it, for a moment lets take a looks at other things that seem small an unimportant for toilet paper.


Toilet paper is a important part of our daily life - only think about what you would do without toilet tissue - I bet the thoughts that ran through your mind require hand sanitizer. With toilet paper existing as an significant part of our daily life there are our numerous things that we should take into thought - like the atmosphere of your restroom. It is important that your restroom has a cozy coming comfortable feeling to it.


One item umpteen individuals are converting in their restroom is there toilet paper holder. Changing out your toilet paper holder can really change many things about your bathroom. It can increase the amount of room - particularly if your are using a recessed holder, it can give your restroom style - especially if you use a free standing holder.


Make time to research local shops or the internet for the many unique types and trends of toilet paper holders and I believe you will be able to significantly change your bathroom particularly if you get corresponding towel rack, robe hooks, shower curtain rod, and that just a few there are several matching items and accessories that you can purchase for your water closet.


Toilet Paper Holders are very simple things - but come in handy when we need them the most. There are many different Types of Toilet Paper Holders.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Naomi_West

Friday 13 March 2009

Building a Shower Pan an Easier Way

Building a shower pan the traditional way is a risky deal. Did you know that even experienced professional tile setters argue about the best way to build a shower pan? Get it wrong and it's a huge mess. Here's the problem.


See a tile shower floor is not waterproof. Water goes right through the grout between the tiles. Some water even makes it through the tile itself. Here's the hidden secret to a tile shower. There's a waterproof membrane built in to the shower floor. The trick is getting that membrane built into the masonry shower. It isn't easy to do.


There is an alternative. The alternative completely eliminates the masonry in a shower pan, but you still get a solid feel to the floor. This alternative is actually what many professionals are using now instead of the old masonry shower pan.


Schluter-Kerdi makes these shower kits. The kits include several pieces that most anyone can install. Instead of a masonry base, you use a foam base and curb sloped just right for proper draining. You put the base down first. Over the base you install a preformed shower pan that's ready for tile installation right on the base. The other piece to the kit is the special drain made to work right with the other pieces.


So you get:

  • a leak-proof shower,
  • a solid feeling base,
  • a tile ready shower pan,
  • no mortar,
  • no puzzles about installation.


No need to learn all about building a mortar base to do a shower pan installation yourself. Just follow the instructions and build a pan like many pros do now. It's easier, less mess and no great hidden mysteries to figure out.


Learn more details about building a shower pan on our website.

Al Bullington invites you to visit http://InstallingCeramicTile.net for answers to your tile questions.


Thursday 12 March 2009

Bathroom Water Damage - Using the Wrong Bathtub

A couple of years ago, me and another contractor were working on a whole house remodel and this involved removing the exterior stucco on the home, so that we could install siding and stucco around the entire home. We had no plans to work on the master bedroom. These plans were changed after the stucco was removed, from behind the bathroom shower walls.


Even though we were remodeling the entire house, we were making a single story into a two story and it was a pretty extensive project. The homeowner had mentioned to us, that the bathroom was completely remodeled less than two years ago. Standing inside of the master bathroom, everything looked beautiful and in good shape. We were shocked to find the damage, only after we removed the exterior stucco and it was bad.


The water damage ruined the sub floor underneath the bathtub, the lower wall framing and even some of the plywood sheeting in the master bedroom. The homeowner needless to say was very unhappy with the additional expenses to the project, but nevertheless wanted us to remove and repair of the damage.


I want to make a very important point, whether you're a contractor, handyman or homeowner. All it takes is one small hole or a little crack to cause an enormous amount of damage in a short period of time. I have seen a hole the diameter of a triple a battery, ruined an entire ceiling. The water damage in this bathroom was caused from cracks in the grout and using a bathtub with no flanges. Always make sure you purchase the correct bathtub.


This damage could have been prevented by using an experienced contractor or the right parts. If the right tub would have been ordered, I would imagine that very little damage would have been done to the wood framing. Here's a little bit of advice from a building professional. If you're thinking about remodeling a bathroom yourself and have very little experience, I would advise you to find some helpful bathroom remodeling books or hire someone who knows what they're doing. Sometimes these books or contractors can save you more money in the long run.


Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He has just finished a Home Buyers Guide to take some of the frustration out of home shopping.


If your looking for some more bathroom remodeling or home building ideas.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Greg_Vandenberge

Wednesday 11 March 2009

Modern Bathroom Vanities Add Elegance

If you are interested in adding elegance consider looking at modern bathroom vanities. The main focus aside from the vanity is the mirror.


The reason the mirror is such an important part of the bathroom is because your guests and family members will appreciate checking their appearance before leaving the bathroom.


A helpful tip to remember when choosing your vanity notice the mirror of modern bathroom vanities you see in public bathrooms. You don't want to end up using and already used style when creating your own elegant bathroom. Keep the mirror in mind when choosing your vanity because the mirror can add to the elegance or take away from it.


If you are looking into introducing a new style in your bathroom consider replacing the fixtures with a silver toned style. There are many different fixture tones to choose from when looking at modern bathroom vanities. Adding a silver tone to your bathroom décor will add a fresh new, look which is also very easy to clean. Silver accents will add the personalized touch you've always been looking for.


While looking at modern bathroom vanities keep in mind that adding silver accents can be versatile in the future when you decide to redo your bathroom décor. The underwater theme in bathrooms is becoming a very popular trend. Choosing to use silver toned accents will make this easy and bring the theme together.


Another way to add your own special touch when looking at modern bathroom vanities is considering one that has silver etching within the glasswork. The silver etching adds character to the mirror which gives your bathroom an elegant touch. Silver etching will not only attract your guests' attention but will leave a lasting impression time and time again.


The first step when looking at modern bathroom vanities is to begin by thinking about the ways you can personalize the bathroom to your own design. By adding accessories such as a towel hanger, pictures, or even candles can make the design your own.


Adding glass shelving can add a unique elegant touch to your bathroom décor. Many modern bathroom vanities come with glass shelves included in the set. Consider adding more than one which will not only add elegance but also give you extra room to store things.


Another personal touch that can be considered is drapery. When looking at modern bathroom vanities try to keep in mind that you will be adding accessories that should complement the vanity. There are many unique styles and colors to choose from when it comes to the drapery in your bathroom. Sticking to regular blinds may seem a bit plain but if your bathroom décor is so loud sometimes it's a good idea to just have plain blinds which seem quiet and calming.


In the end the decision is yours on how you want your bathroom décor to look. With so many modern bathroom vanities on the market today it may seem difficult to choose the perfect one to fit your needs. Remember that the mirror is the main focus of the bathroom so keep this in mind while decorating your bathroom.


Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/modern-bathroom-vanities-add-elegance-810031.html

Monday 9 March 2009

Wheelchair Accessible Bathroom - The Basics You Need to Know

One of the questions that I'm asked most often is "What must I do to make a bathroom accessible?" Well the first thing you must do is make sure that the disabled person can get into the bathroom, or any room for that matter. So let's start with the door. Ideally you want to use a 36" door. I understand that when remodeling, it is not always going to be possible to fit a door that size without some major tear out. However try to use a door no smaller than 30" if you can. Sometimes a pocket door is the answer. In new construction, it is always going to be 36" doors throughout the house. Next, in new construction we need to consider the size of the room. In bathrooms, other than the master, we sometimes lean toward smaller rather bigger when it comes to the second or third baths.


A 6'-0" x 8'-0" bathroom is going to be cramped, especially when there needs to be room for a wheelchair. You need to consider that a wheelchair requires at a minimum 48" to turn around and by standard it is 60". So if you consider this, then the minimum size bathroom becomes 8'-0" x 10'-0". In remodeling it may not always be possible to expand the bathroom in both width and depth. The most critical dimension is the width or area in front of the sink and toilet which must be 60", so in this cases we need 8'-0" perpendicular to these fixtures. Also with a wheelchair bound person counter top height is important.


So, as with the kitchen counters, use 32" maximum height counters and at the sink or anywhere else a person in a wheelchair must face a counter, in order to use the counter top area or sink, because knee space must be provided. For the toilet itself, keep in mind two things: height and shape. The fixture needs to be chair height and it should have an oval shaped bowl. Now, we come to the tub and shower area of the bathroom. In the master bath where you sometimes have both a shower and a bathtub both have to be considered. Let's start with the tub in the master bath where there is a separate shower. If the wheelchair user is planning to use the tub, then a device to raise and lower the individual will be required. Depending on the device to be used, some consideration may be needed during construction. As for the shower in the master bath, a roll-in shower will be needed along with a fold-down seat. These units take up no more room than a standard tub enclosure would. Grab bars will have to be installed around the tub and toilet areas as well as the shower area.


Additional reinforcement in these wall areas will need to be provided to support the grab bars. The grab bars for the toilet need to be installed both behind the tank and to the side opposite the counter or on both sides where the toilet is enclosed. The grab bars need to be installed at a height just above the tank. While we are on the subject of an enclosed toilet area, we need to be sure that the opening to the toilet area, or the door, is 36"and opens out of the enclosed area. You also need to allow space for 60" of turn around area. If this is not practical, then you might want to reconsider enclosing the toilet. The grab bars in a roll-in shower, as well as the fold down seat, are usually installed by the manufacturer. In the case of a custom shower enclosure, refer to the manufacturer's instructions on placement height for the grab bars. The seat, whether built-in or a fold-down, must be of chair height.


For bathrooms other than the large master, the tub will either need to be replaced with a roll-in shower, or you will want to make accommodations for raising and lowering the client. Whichever one you choose, the same rules regarding dimensions and fixtures apply here as with the master bath. Other things to consider here as well as elsewhere in the house are door handles, water valve levers in the sink and tub, temperature control in the shower and tub, and lighting. Door handles throughout the house should be a lever type, as these are easier for those with limited use of their hands to operate. The same is true of the levers on the sink and tub or shower controls for the same reason. Temperature control should be provided to prevent scalding for those individuals who lack, or have diminished, feeling or sensation. And lastly, you must consider the height and placement of switches and outlets.


Height must be in accordance with ADA specifications and you need to consider the ability of the individual to reach them when deciding the placement of outlets. Consider placing a GFI outlet, a Ground Fault Interrupter, on the front or side of the cabinet. Lighting is not something that you would normally consider important when designing for accessibility, but to a person in a wheelchair who can't reach the light switch, it is very important. Switches, as I mentioned before, must be at an easily reached height. We also must consider changing the bulbs in these fixtures. Consider using florescent bulbs or LED's for long life as the handicapped individual is going to require help in changing bulbs. And sometimes if we have to ask, too often we won't because we feel as if we are imposing on others, or we simply can't afford to have someone do it. Well, I hope I have answered some of your questions regarding accessible bathroom design. If you have other questions, don't hesitate to ask. Breath Peace and God's Love.


My name is Gary M Renick and I am a 55 year old retired engineer. I have be handicapped since the age of three when I was stricken by polio. I have spent the last 37 years confined to a wheelchair. The last five in a power chair as I now suffer from Post Polio Syndrome. My experience as a wheelchair user helps me to write about accessibility problems and solutions. My blog is called "Ask Gary ADA" and it deals with answers to accessibility problems and other handicap issues and changing government policy. You can visit my site at http://www.askgaryada.com


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gary_Renick

Saturday 7 March 2009

Japanese Soaking Tubs - An Escape From the Stress

One of the greatest aspects of living in a world as diverse as ours is the varying culture and way of looking at life many people adopt. In Japan, for example, the everyday practice of bathing goes beyond simply a means to cleanse the body; but rather becomes a cleansing of the mind and spirit. The primary way these quiet, dedicated people practice their bathing rituals is with a Japanese Soaking Tub.


For centuries, the Japanese have been bathing in these small, compact, and deep bathing tubs typically manufactured out of aromatic, native woods a such as cedar and hinoki wood. A bathing experience in one of these tubs is often considered to be in tune with nature; especially as the water gently laps near your shoulders. You are in sense, encapsulated in the tub; which is indeed a very semi-intoxicating experience. If you've ever had the pleasure of soaking away the troubles and stresses of the day in a soaking tub, then you understand why the Japanese have enjoyed this method of bathing for so many years.


Within the last few years, these unique soaking bathtubs have become more and more popular in western countries such as The United States. Many people, on a way-too-often basis, tend to neglect the inner part of themselves needing to be re-energized and cleansed. A soaking tub is the perfect way for this tendency to be reversed. Experience the Japanese way of bathing and you'll agree this way of bathing is truly invigorating, often surreal, and always calming.


Although the traditional Japanese tub has been made from the aforementioned woods, today's tubs, like the Sorrento, and Americh brand tubs, are being fabricated from more modern construction materials such as ceramic, stainless steel, and fiberglass. What makes this type of soaking bathtub construction so exciting is that much of the semi-demanding maintenance involved with a wooden tub is eliminated. To care for one of these more-modern styled tubs, all you need is a mild cleanser and soft cloth. That's it.


There are many styles and shapes for a Japanese tub ranging from the traditional ofuro heated with natural wood to the more modern tubs previously mentioned that can be heated with more efficient methods such as electric, propane, or natural gas. No matter which style you choose, there's sure to be a Japanese soaking tub available to fit your needs. Buy one today. Your body and mind will be the better for it.


Carl Formby owns and operates japanesetubsreviews.com, a site filled with information on the Outdoor Japanese Soaking Tub and the Wooden Soaking Tub


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Carl_Formby

Wednesday 4 March 2009

Bathroom Vanity: Why You Need Bath Vanity in Your Bathroom

Bathroom vanity fixtures have come a long way since their old counterparts. While these used to be staid old structures in the earlier days, today bath vanity cases are stand alone pieces that deserve their own recognition.


Things to look for
If you plan to purchase a bathroom vanity then you need to ensure certain things. You need to assess your own personal design style for your bathroom. The kind of vanity you purchase will largely depend on this aspect. In addition to this, the overall bathroom size will also have a large impact. The bigger the bathroom the larger the vanity can be! The kind of vanity you purchase will also depend on the amount of storage space required by you. You should also decide if you will be using the vanity space for self grooming on a daily basis. If so, then more attention to detail and comfort is needed. Other aspects that require attention include if the vanity will be the main focus in the bathroom as well as if you want double or single glass sink installed inside the vanity.


Remodeling choices
There are plenty of choices in terms of designs, available in bathroom vanity selections. You can browse online to see some of the common design choices that are available. Many people like to decorate the bathroom as lavishly and expensively as other parts of the home. After all, people do spend quite a bit of time here!


Works of art
Bathroom vanity selections are varied and unique in nature. You can find hand painted versions, which offer a unique style statement inside any bathroom. In addition, you can also opt for comprehensive kits, which include mirror as well as countertop. However, most of the time, accessories will need to be bought separately.


Space measurement
Before purchasing a bathroom vanity you need to measure available space in the bathroom. This will determine the size of the vanity that you can accommodate in the bathroom. Commercial versions of vanities range in size from 18 to 50 inches. You should also consider the height of the vanity as this is often neglected. You need to invest in a vanity, which is the right height to ensure optimal comfort.


Customized vanities
Bathroom vanity can also be ordered as per customized design choices. There are many materials used in such vanities ranging from stone, MDF as well as wood. You can get these vanities made as per the designs, colors and shapes that you want for your own bathroom.


About The Author:
For the finest range of bathroom vanity and fittings visit us at http://www.vigoindustries.com. Our expertise in this segment, coupled with the high quality of our vanities and exclusive designs will complement your bathroom perfectly.

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Sunday 1 March 2009

Kitchens And Bathrooms Are More Subject To Mold In A Home

In your home there are numerous places that water damage is capable of thriving. You already know that mold can gather in places that are hot and have moisture. But do you know the places in your home that are the biggest hotbeds for mold growth? Well, those two areas would be the kitchen and the bathroom. Here are some tips on how to detect water damage, and even how to prevent further damage from being done to your home.


The first and most high profile hotbed for water damage is your kitchen. The kitchen is the place where you prepare your meals for your family and there is a lot of water going through this one little area. You wash your dishes in the sink and while it may be the area where things get cleaned, you may want to check underneath because your sink cabinet may be hiding a dirty little secret in the form of mold. Underneath your kitchen sink, you may be surprised to find that mold is growing its own little nasty civilization and you have not even realized it. If the damage done is not too extensive, then you can simply use a chemical cleaning agent to clean up the mold.


Another place in the kitchen that is a hotbed for mold attraction is your dishwasher. Let us say, just for the sake of argument, you have not been raking out your plates before putting them in the dishwasher. And let us also say that you have not done the dishes in a day or two. The food that gets caught in your dishwasher is becoming a food trough for unwanted mold and other assorted bacteria. As with the mold underneath the sink, you can easily remedy this with the use of chemical cleaning agents.


The next area of interest for mold in your home is the bathroom. The first place to start, like in the kitchen, is underneath the sink. Employ the same methods used to deal with any mold as you did with the kitchen sink. The next area to inspect is outside of the tub, where it is very easy for moisture to gather. You can use chemical cleaners here, as well. The positioning of your shower curtain may also be a factor in how water is escaping, so always have the curtain inside the tub. The shower curtain, walls, and ceiling are also places in the bathroom to check because of all of the humidity that is so common in bathrooms.

About the Author

Aydan Corkern is a writer, water damage restoration professional, and promoter of water damage texas and water damage kentucky.

Article Directory: http://www.articlerich.com