Green Bathroom Renovation on a Budget

As the global economy reels, and foreclosure rates continue to set new records across the country, more Americans are using green bathroom renovation to save water and energy use as well as a reduction in sewage and gas production. Contrary to the belief by some that green remodeling is expensive. The initial cost may be expensive, but the savings in water and energy bills are immediate and the benefits, lasting. Here are tips on how to create your next eco-friendly bathroom on a budget.

Save money by installing a low-flush toilet
Think of this this dirty estimate. According to the EPA, about 4.8 billion gallons of water are flushed down the toilet every day. To break it down for your share of the billions of water going down the drain everyday, American Water Works Association, an average household uses 20-28 gallons per day just to flush the toilet. Therefore, toilets are the singular and most important way that water goes down the drain. That's why in 1999 the Energy Act, mandated residential toilets to use only 1.6 gallons of water per flush compared to 3.5-5 gallons of water per flush toilets. Cut back by installing an ultra-low-flush toilet.

Dual-Flush Toilets save water bills
As the name implies dual flush toilets offer two types of flushing modes, one mode for number one and the other mode for number two. One of the modes uses only 0 .8 - 1.1 gallons of water per flush.

Save water bills by installing low-flow shower heads
The next water guzzler after toilets and washing machines, are showers heads. By installing new low-flow shower heads and faucet aerators homeowners are reducing their consumption by as much as 50%. In addition and equally important is that the cost of the energy that is used in heating the water is also reduced. Reduction in water use benefits the environment and puts quite some green in your wallet.

Be thankful for a tank-less water heater
Here are reasons to be thankful for tank-less water heater after your eco-friendly remodeling.
1. Tank-less water heaters never run out of hot water- you save energy because of not losing heat in the water tank.
2. Immediate and constant flow of hot water
3. Low energy use means low carbon emissions.
4. Besides energy efficiency, tank-less water heaters take up less space, are easy to maintain, and more convenient to operate.

Use skylights or compact fluorescent lighting
Indoor air is more polluted than outdoor air. By installing skylights, you enjoy the twin benefits of fresh air and huge savings on energy bills. There are also available today, varieties of electric bulbs or compact fluorescent bulbs that save money and the environment.

Use recycled or recyclable materials
The complaint used to be that recycled and recyclable floor materials or even counter-tops are not available. Bathtub refinishing for instance, saves beautiful antiques, bathtubs and counter-tops from ending up at the landfills. Additionally, bathtub refinishing is about 20% of the cost of tub replacement.

Get greener cleaners
Now that you've taken the time to renovate your bathroom in the most eco-friendly way available, with the resources available to you, don't undermine your environmental gains by using cleaning products containing VOC's. We recommend that after your green remodeling, that your indoor-air quality by using non-toxic organic soaps and cleaners.

Wilson Uche Ukah, is the President of Refinishing Stars, a bathtub refinishing company serving the bathtub reglazing needs of homeowners in Atlanta, Chattanooga, Nashville and Knoxville. Refinishing Stars, refinishes bathtubs, sinks, and countertops for hotels and motels nationwide. He writes regularly on green remodeling. Wilson can be reached at http://www.refinishingstars.com or sales@refinishingstars.com

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

Tile a Shower - 3 Tricks You Must Get Right

To tile a shower you must get several steps right to make it work. A tile shower is a thing of beauty. There's just a look and feel of luxury to a well-built ceramic shower. It's not just looks either, these showers are practical and long-lasting too. Unless of course the construction isn't done properly. In that case a shower can be a leaky mess. Installing shower tile may be the most challenging tile project a handy person can tackle, but it can be done. There's one thing you must understand first.

You see a tile floor is not waterproof. Tile will not stop water from passing through. Grout is even worse. Regular masonry grout that covers the joints between tiles is not waterproof at all. Water goes right through the grout. So when you look at a tile shower floor, there's more than meets the eye. The important part of a shower floor is hidden from view.

Part of the hidden part is in the drain itself. You can only see a part of the drain when you look at the floor. The part you can't see is the second drain level that's below the surface. You see the water that leaks through the floor gets routed to the lower drain and then it goes on down the drain. Otherwise that water would go through the shower floor and ruin whatever is underneath the shower. In fact that's just what a "leaky" shower does. It ruins the adjoining areas around the shower. That's expensive.

And how does the water get to the lower drain? That's the actual shower pan itself. If you have a traditional shower pan, the pan is formed from mortar or concrete and is sloped toward the drain. Here's the real trick. The actual shower pan is usually a heavy vinyl sheet which fits around the drain and is glued to the drain. That forms a little pool actually within the shower floor. Any water that gets through the shower floor is caught by the vinyl pool and routed right to the lower drain.

There are several other types of shower pans, but they all have that little secret. The pan is beneath the shower floor. The pan must catch the water that passes through the floor and get it into the drain. Tile setters either get the pan built correctly or the shower leaks.

You can get access to video tutorials showing the professional tricks to tile a shower on our tile website.

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

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

Bathroom Styling Pointers

Lighting

Bathroom lighting can make a large distinction in a small bathroom or it can be used to make an old bathroom look newer than it is. Bathroom lighting can make a difference in your bath area too, it highlights curves and edges, making your bath look broader than it really is.

Storage

A large bathroom could use the storage space offered by a cupboard outside of the bathroom. But if you have the space then an internal storage area is often much more useful, when stocking up on toiletries etc. In general a stylish bathroom requires adequate lighting, good aeration, fitting and fixtures that are attractive, and plenty of storage space. For items that will stay on ledges and shelves, its always a good idea to find ornamental storage items to enhance the furnishings. Use turntables to lessen storage for tall bottles of toiletry ware.

Safety or Style?

Well hopefully we won't lose either but converting a bathroom into a safer place without losing style is difficult. Even a small chair would be a nice addition to a bathroom, but is it safe in a bathroom? Any piece of furniture will help to diminish the space of a practical bathroom and add fashion, colour, and affection. Many people spend time going over the latest styles on basins, countertop materials, and trying to find the perfect colours, without taking into consideration aspects of safety. This is the way it really should be, the idea is to make your bathroom look great without worrying about red-tape and rules. But it's always an idea to give safety a small proportion of thought.
Styles and Tones

Traditional or Contemporary?

Traditionally styled fixtures and fittings scare people often because there associated with being "old". However old is not always bad, the traditional ranges are often featured in a wide range of prices so it's possible to accomplish a high-end appearance without paying a fortune. Traditional styles have withstood the test of time. Contemporary designs are classed as fresh and clean while still informal and elegant, contemporary decorating balances a "new" look with traditional styles.

For more information on finding suitable bathroom items visit Bathrooms Cheaper.

Lee Tyrrell of Bathrooms Cheaper

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

Romantic Bathroom Ideas

Creating Romantic bathroom more often than not requires the Master Bathroom of the property to be transformed with a masculine touch, whilst keeping in mind that two people share the bathroom space and one of them may have more masculine tastes in decorating. Romantic usually comes hand in hand with old world decorating accessories and decorates, when placed in an old world style bedroom or master bath, exaggerate the room's comfort while crafting ambience, drama and style. Consider framed art, wall tapestry and iron work when decorating a romantic bathroom.

Like all rooms in your home, choice of wall colour and accessories determines the decorating style. Enhance a bathroom's romantic look by including scrolled iron wall art in your bathroom decorating equation. Enjoy casual romantic bathroom decorating by choosing storage and display accessories that compliment European classical and in particular french interior design. Moen's Kingsley line of bathroom solutions, including faucets and shower faucets, are sure to have the finish to match your decorating flare. Meeting the expectations of the couple desiring a romantic ambience in their master bath is challenging, but coming to the rescue are the Mediterranean Italian - French decorating styles. Create a beautifully well designed bath by decorating the walls. Decorating French Style with Italian Ceramics and Scrolled Iron.

Today, wall mounted bathroom accessories are fashionable and practical, and can be suited to compliment both contemporary and classic styles. Add a ledge of candles or a romantic French style wall sconce to provide ambience and luxurious style to your powder room. If you are looking for beautiful coloured reflections, in classic Mediterranean style the Celice oval mirror is a widely acclaimed choice.

For more bathroom accessories ideas, please visit bathrooms cheaper

Lee Tyrrell of Bathrooms Cheaper

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

Current Trends in Bathroom Remodeling

Like fashion or furniture, remodeling bathroom follows trends. Functionality and innovation in style sweep the nation. Trends keep changing within weeks or months rather than a year or two as they used to. This hardly gives trend conscious homeowners who are planning to start a bathroom remodeling project, the time to catch their breath. So what's new now? What's in, and what's out?

Homeowners prefer a more comfortable and personalized home. They would rather remodel their house than shift to a new one. In earlier days, remodeling was done only to improve the resale value. Now, people remodel their home for their comfort rather than thinking what a potential buyer would like. Main reason for bathroom remodeling project these days, is to increase value of the house and desire to make the home more modern.

Market trends

Compared to the last decade, average bathroom has tripled in size. Current trends in remodeling bathroom include cabinet holding sinks, which are taking on the look of furniture. Radius cabinets are increasing by the day. They add a subtle finish to the room. Wall hung cabinets are common. Shallow drawers are more useful for storage.

Key remodeling trends

Bathroom sinks have become brighter in the currents trends in remodeling bathroom. Bright colors are believed to brighten up a dull room in the house. One other popular method these days are the addition of acrylic or fiberglass sinks. Tub coverings also help in improving the bathroomís appearance. These are small tips to make the bathroom look good without investing a huge sum in a full bathroom remodel.

Wall papers or paints matching the color scheme of the bathroom are very popular these days. Current trends in remodeling bathroom include vinyl or concrete flooring instead of tile flooring. The concrete can be colored to suit the color scheme of the bathroom. This is particularly good as the there are lot of water exposure in floors and concrete flooring will last longer.

New Fixtures Can Make Fashion Statement

Changing fixtures is one of the current trends in remodeling bathrooms. Changing fixtures with gold and chrome are quite simple and popular these days. Clear plastic and resin handles which were very popular few years ago are out of trend.

Jacuzzi has replaced the regular tubs. Some also go in for a steam shower these days. It makes them feel refreshed and great right in the convenience of their home. Current trends in remodeling bathrooms have created a lot of innovation these days and are getting to be more affordable to a larger segment of homeowners. Many of them also install these items while constructing their house. There is lot more current trends in remodeling bathrooms which are optional and appreciated by few homeowners.

Not all current trends in bathroom remodeling suit everyoneís budget or taste. People who are keen in increasing the home value can consider implementing current trends in bathroom remodeling to increase the value.

If you're looking for more information about bathroom renovation or are looking for bathroom remodeling ideas come visit me at my bathroom remodeling blog.

You will find lots of information about bathroom tile design, shower and tub installation, bathroom remodeling tools, bathroom renovation ideas, bathroom remodeling pictures and even specific information about the topic of this article: bathroom remodeling trends.

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

10 Tips For Cheap Bathroom Remodeling Ideas

Are you set to remodel your bathroom but the cost is hindering your plans? This article on cheap bathroom remodeling ideas will help you to turn your bathroom into an enchanting delight from a dull one.

We often tend to visualize everything brand new and over look the fact that by simply replacing small fixtures can bring new life to an existing bathroom. Cheap bathroom remodeling ideas are a great for the do-it-yourselfer.

Cheap bathroom remodeling ideas

1. If you are a DIY person, you can save a lot of dollars by refurbishing items like cabinets, varnish, vanities with paint etc.

2. Space is an important factor. Try rearranging the bathroom layout.

3. Gather inspiring ideas from the internet.

4. Get creative and take a tip from your nearest bathroom shop.

5. Paint the wall instead of using wallpapers. Paper wallpapers cannot handle the moisture and will soon peel off.

6. Shower/Bath glass enclosures are easy to install and clean than cloth or plastic curtains. This is also a fashionable way of dressing up your bathroom.

7. Never touch any plumbing or electrical jobs as you may end up paying the plumber/electrician for repairing the damage.

8. Another cheap bathroom remodeling idea is that you can change the toilet seat or a toilet seat cover. With the help of couple of screwdrivers, a toilet seat can be easily changed. This is a very easy task compared to other fixtures in the home. Match the cover to a new rug. This will give a new and an elegant look to your bathroom.

9. Allow your children to display their creativity in the bathroom. Ask them to stick some fancy stickers in the walls. You will be amazed how it adds value to your bathroom. However, do not encourage children to stick them on the mirrors. This would take lot of time to clean and would be tough if you are planning to sell your house.

10. Consider some cheap posters .This will make the area look different and good. You can also cover the areas that are not appealing with posters, if you are not planning to paint currently.

Tips

Take advice from the experts and do some price comparison before purchasing. Remember to bring samples of the necessary items to avoid several trips to the store. Take a picture of your bathroom as this will give you a visual sense, and you will be able to select better. Carry the exact measurements and a floor plan when are you are shopping. Always balance your needs with your budget and try not to stray from your budget.

If you're looking for more information about bathroom renovation or are looking for bathroom remodeling ideas come visit me at my bathroom remodeling blog.

You will find lots of information about bathroom tile design, shower and tub installation, bathroom remodeling tools, bathroom renovation ideas, bathroom remodeling pictures and even specific information about the topic of this article: cheap bathroom remodeling ideas.

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

The Art of Buying Bathroom Sinks Online

Before you purchase your bathroom sink, there are a few things you should know. Will your bathroom have a vanity on which the sink will be mounted? Or, do you want a pedestal sink or simply a wall mounted sink with nothing hoisting it up?

If you need an above the counter sink for a vanity, you will need to know the dimensions of your vanity so that you can decide how big or small of a sink you can put on top. You will also need to know what type of sink you are looking for. If you need some help figuring out which type of sink you need, you can hire a contractor or a plumber to assist you. Another important thing you need to know about buying a sink is that the plumbing equipment usually does not come with the sink. The plumbing supplies, including the p-trap, drain, and stop valves, have to be bought separately. You also have to make sure you have enough in your budget to accommodate these both the sink and the plumbing supplies. A sink without plumbing equipment will be of no use to you.

After you gather all this information, the fun part begins. You can pick the shape you want, and there are many shapes to choose from: square sinks, oval sinks, round sinks, asymmetrical sinks, pedestal sinks, and more. You can also match your sink color with the theme of your entire bathroom. There are also many options for colors: white, black, pink floral, grey floral, platinum, Pergamon, and so forth. If you are truly looking for luxury, you can choose a ceramic sink with marble. Once you have picked out everything you want, you will need to find it online.

In order to find what you want online, you will have to do a search. If you just type bathroom sink you will find many sinks, but very few will match what you are looking for. You will need to know the size, color, and price of the sink in order to narrow your search down.

A great website to do such a search on is: TotalBath. All you have to do is go to the sinks page and you can search by price, size, finish, and so forth. They have great discounts and offer free shipping as well.

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

Getting the Most Out of Your Bathroom Design Project

In many new homes and in plenty of remodels, the bathrooms are no longer just spaces of functionality but are becoming personal relaxation spas, especially master bathrooms. People want a room where they can linger luxuriously in hot, bubbling tubs, and groom themselves for the day in the most pleasant and pampering ways possible.

With that said, there are still plenty of opinions on the matter as to what exactly transforms this particular space into that showering and primping paradise. The most important thing is to create a design that suits both your functional and aesthetic desires.

You can start by making a plan. Analyze the space you have available. How would you like to better utilize it? For some, a huge, jacuzzi tub is the main feature of their dream decor. For others, beautiful wall-to-wall tile with custom design work is most important.

For others still, the cabinetry is what they would most like to change. While you might want to consider a trained professional, a designer, to help you get the most out of your remodel, you will still need to have a clear idea of what you would like to be able to do in that space.

If you're not sure about the options and style trends available to you, you might do well to visit your local drug store and pick up a home improvement or remodeling magazine and look for ideas. You might discover that there are so many more ways to customize your "day spa" than you thought possible. For instance, you can have a linen tower bathroom cabinet positioned in such a way that you can hide a television inside to watch when soaking for exorbitant amounts of time.

Another good way to find out what amenities and features are available is by visiting a local showroom, especially one that lets you get in and have a hands-on experience. It's nice to be able to actually visualize what certain spaces could look like and how certain bathroom cabinetry will work with specific counter tops and other fixtures. Plus, the designer there will be able to give you all sorts of useful information about style and color.

Once you have surveyed your options and determined your plan, the best place to start may be to choose the exact bathroom cabinets you want and build the rest of the style around them. The cabinets are often one of the most striking features of the bathroom and certainly they set the tone for the entire room.

There are several types of bathroom cabinetry that you may need to decide on. First and foremost, there is the vanity. This is typically one of the centerpieces of the bathroom. After you have pinpointed the style and color you want, you can then decide if and where you need other bathroom cabinets like linen towers for storage, built-in hampers and storage units above the toilet.

In many new homes and in plenty of remodels, the bathrooms are no longer just spaces of functionality but are becoming personal relaxation spas, especially master bathrooms. People want a room where they can linger luxuriously in hot, bubbling tubs, and groom themselves for the day in the most pleasant and pampering ways possible.

With that said, there are still plenty of opinions on the matter as to what exactly transforms this particular space into that showering and primping paradise. The most important thing is to create a design that suits both your functional and aesthetic desires.

You can start by making a plan. Analyze the space you have available. How would you like to better utilize it? For some, a huge, jacuzzi tub is the main feature of their dream decor. For others, beautiful wall-to-wall tile with custom design work is most important.

For others still, the cabinetry is what they would most like to change. While you might want to consider a trained professional, a designer, to help you get the most out of your remodel, you will still need to have a clear idea of what you would like to be able to do in that space.

If you're not sure about the options and style trends available to you, you might do well to visit your local drug store and pick up a home improvement or remodeling magazine and look for ideas. You might discover that there are so many more ways to customize your "day spa" than you thought possible. For instance, you can have a linen tower bathroom cabinet positioned in such a way that you can hide a television inside to watch when soaking for exorbitant amounts of time.

Another good way to find out what amenities and features are available is by visiting a local showroom, especially one that lets you get in and have a hands-on experience. It's nice to be able to actually visualize what certain spaces could look like and how certain bathroom cabinetry will work with specific counter tops and other fixtures. Plus, the designer there will be able to give you all sorts of useful information about style and color.

Once you have surveyed your options and determined your plan, the best place to start may be to choose the exact bathroom cabinets you want and build the rest of the style around them. The cabinets are often one of the most striking features of the bathroom and certainly they set the tone for the entire room.

There are several types of bathroom cabinetry that you may need to decide on. First and foremost, there is the vanity. This is typically one of the centerpieces of the bathroom. After you have pinpointed the style and color you want, you can then decide if and where you need other bathroom cabinets like linen towers for storage, built-in hampers and storage units above the toilet.

And then of course, you can narrow down the details and the organization of the design, like built-in dividers inside the drawers, cabinets to easily store and hide your commonly used grooming appliances, and cosmetic slide-out trays.

With all the choices today, you can put together a princely bathroom suite complete with all the beauty and practicality your hope for.

And then of course, you can narrow down the details and the organization of the design, like built-in dividers inside the drawers, cabinets to easily store and hide your commonly used grooming appliances, and cosmetic slide-out trays.

With all the choices today, you can put together a princely bathroom suite complete with all the beauty and practicality your hope for.

Once you decide on the look your want for your bathroom, you can look for a firm that makes show-stopping bathroom cabinetry. Tampa remodeling company is an award-winning cabinetry firm that can exceed your expectations. Visit them here http://www.eurotechcabinetry.com.

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