From the category archives:
Remodels
Related Posts:
Bath vanities are an important part of any bathroom design and come in many different styles. The decorating trends for bathrooms are endless, and the options for choosing a bathroom vanity are varied. Add to it that all of us tend to get caught in a decorating rut and these facts can make the decision difficult. So when deciding on a vanity, don’t be afraid to consider something new and daring within your favorite design style.
Traditional
Just because the style is categorized as traditional doesn’t mean it can’t be fresh. Whether it’s painted wood with a laminate top, or stained wood with granite, colors make a statement. Keep the traditional style, but go out on a limb with color.
Contemporary
This style is defined by clean lines and minimal accessories. But clean doesn’t have to mean dull. Translate boring into bang with unusual accessories. Look for items that tell personal stories or a single statement piece that pops with style.
Eclectic
It’s easy to go overboard when mixing styles and materials and that’s what this kind of design is all about. To cut out unnecessary clutter, keep in mind a theme, whether it’s color or something else, and this style can move from busy to intriguing.
Of course these aren’t the only design styles, but they are the basics. It’s easy to translate these three to all the other styles.
It’s also important to keep materials in mind when making your choice. Obviously a vanity with a laminate countertop will be less expensive than marble, but price points will vary even within a specific category. The key to finding the best option at the best price is research. Start the search on the Internet, but don’t skip talking to the experts. They have valuable insights on installation and durability.
Finally, when it comes to choosing bathroom vanities keep longevity in mind. Picking something that resonates with your lifestyle and using the accessories to freshen it up from year to year is always good advice, but particularly so in this economy.
Even if you’re working within a tight budget, price doesn’t have to be the dictator when it comes to eye catching style. Don’t be afraid of an investment piece for your vanity, it may make good sense when you consider the length of time you’ll be enjoying it. Remember, budget constraints don’t have to limit your vanity options to dull and boring. It may be necessary to work a little harder when the price points are lower, but the hunt is worth it.
Related Posts:
{ 0 comments }
Bathroom light can vary depending upon the layout, shape, color choices, and design of your bathroom, so be prudent in your decision of the types of light that are available as it can make or break the room and what you’re trying to accomplish.
There is nothing drearier than starting the day in a dark, cramped room. It can sometimes seem that your elbows bump the walls as you try to get ready for the day. While it isn’t possible to add physical space to a small bathroom, the proper use of light can bring life back to it.
The quality of bathroom light can also make a difference in the way you view yourself. Describing the properties of light is difficult and confusing if you aren’t familiar with the terms and what they mean. Below is a basic list that should help bring clarity to confusion.
Lumens – This is the light output. The higher number of lumens the brighter the bathroom light.
Watts – This is mistakenly known as how bright a light is, but it is actually the energy usage of a light. The more watts listed, the more energy the light requires.
Average Life – This number is expressed as a length of time and correlates to how long the bulb should last.
CRI- Color Rendering Index is measured on a scale of 0-100. The higher this number the more accurate the colors will appear. This can be important if you’re trying to apply make-up or decide if that tie really goes with that shirt.
Warm, Cool and Neutral – Light is referred to in terms of warm, cool and neutral. The scale for this index runs from 5,000 down to 2,000. The lower the number, the warmer the light. Warm bathroom light is generally best for general lighting, while cool is the best choice for task lighting.
When it comes to household usage, there are really only two types of bulbs.
Incandescent light – These bulbs are inexpensive to buy at the outset, but they usually don’t last more than a year at the most and are not energy efficient.
Compact florescent light – These bulbs are usually more expensive at the point of purchase, but are much more energy efficient and can last up to ten years.
The last set of terms necessary to know is the types of light.
General – This is just what the name implies, lighting for general use. A neutral light is best here, with plenty of lumens.
Task light– This type of light is usually smaller and more focused. Because of that, it’s possible to use a lower wattage bulb.
Accent or Mood – This bathroom light is more decorative than useful and it should accomplish what the name implies. It should set the mood of the room.
This information about the different types of bathroom light will make choosing the proper light for any new bathroom design easy.
Related Posts:
{ 0 comments }
Replacing bathroom lighting fixtures is a simple project that can dramatically increase the functionality of your bathroom. It can be an uncomplicated feat, if you consider that different lighting sources are needed for specific chores. For instance, ‘task lighting’ is directed to illuminate the head and face areas for grooming purposes, rather than installing recessed lighting directly over the sink and mirror (which would cast uncomplimentary shadows about the features).
Bathroom lighting fixtures each containing a 60 to 75 watt bulb mounted on both sides of the mirror, would produce a more even glow in that area. They should be mounted 36 to 40 inches apart on each side of the mirror, at eye level.
Larger mirrors pose an exception. In which case, bathroom lighting fixtures installed directly on the mirror (costing a bit more) will produce the desired effects for hair combing and shaving, etc.. Or a rectangular light fixture of no less than 24 inches installed over the mirror and holding bulbs of 100 to 120 watts, will produce similar lighting effects. Remember that florescent output calls for one half to one third of the wattage of incandescent bulbs. In smaller bathrooms, ceiling recessed lights can provide adequate lighting in designated areas of the tub or toilet. While a shower with clear glass sides might not even require dedicated lighting.
To install your new bathroom lighting fixtures on the wall, you will need a circuit tester. And if there is no existing light fixture in that area, you may also need to call an electrician. Otherwise, a screwdriver, wire nuts, and the corresponding parts that came packaged with your new lighting fixture, is about all you will need. But first!
“It is vital- to turn off the electrical supply before attempting to work on any electrical component!”
Do this, by turning-off the main circuit breaker for the whole house. Or by turning-off the electricity to that particular service line, before using a circuit tester to verify that there is no active current. Do all of this before you even ‘begin’ handling the wires!
The installation begins after you remove the old bathroom lighting fixtures:
#1. Remove the bulb, and the center screw securing the old plate to the mounting bracket.
#2. Pry the plate off the wall.
#3. Pull out and disconnect existing wires, examining whether they are color coded.
If your old house does not contain color coded wires, or if the existing wires or their insulation is cracked and brittle, you will need to contact an electrician. Otherwise from this point on, you can confidently follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Manufacturers design specific mounting arrangements for different models of bathroom lighting fixtures. It is in their best interests to provide complete installation instructions with their products.
Upgrading or replacing your bathroom lighting fixtures doesn’t have to be complicated. Just make sure you follow simple instructions.
Related Posts:
{ Comments on this entry are closed }
New bathroom vanity cabinets can be very expensive and because of this budget bathrooms are quickly becoming more and more popular, particularly modifications or updates from an existing cabinet instead of buying new cabinets. The hard economical times are hitting everyone from the rich to the slightly less well off. So more people are turning to budgeting when it comes to remodeling a bathroom, and making the most of what they have.
The saying goes that buying something new goes a long way to making a person feel better. So what if making something look new can help a person to feel much better?
As well as the obvious physical and psychological benefits of do-it-yourself, the payback to ones pocket through budgeting a new addition to your property is also very welcome.
With budgeting in mind, turning to how-to-improve the look of an old and beaten up bathroom vanity cabinets at low cost is something to consider.
Easy low cost improvements
Firstly to ensure that this do-it-yourself improvement you will need to make sure that your vanity unit’s frame is in good order, so have a good check inside and out for any water damage, rot or mildew.
1. If you do not have any damage then you can proceed to the next stage(2), however if you have rot then you will need to consider replacing the parts of the frame that are no longer good, or treat areas with mildew with a general household mildew remover and then prime the wood with wood primer paint.
2. Remove and measure your cabinet doors/drawer fronts and check the hinges and handles, if they are good then you should keep them. These can cost a lot of money to replace as new so can save you quite few dollars.
3. Is the counter top in good shape? If it is then consider keeping it (If no go to 3) and just giving it a good clean along with removing the old sealant/caulk with a utility knife. Then reseal using a good waterproof bathroom sealant. You will be amazed how new your countertop will actually look and will have saved you a small fortune.
4. Whether you counter top is in good or bad condition, the surface is usually where a lot of things can be done to improve the look and condition. You can add a sunken sink effect by sanding down the countertop surface adding some 2-3mm deep grooves/channels 1 inch apart. Then adding a mosaic of tiles to the countertop. The grooves are so that the tile grout has something to adhere to. You can be as creative as you want with your mosaic design, cheap end of line tiles can be found at a hardware store, or very cheaply on craigslist as unwanted items. You may even have some lay around yourself. You can get instructions on how to set/install tiles to a countertop with an online search.
5. There are two things you can do with your cabinet doors and drawer fronts. You can measure and replace them for new ones or some that are in good condition second hand. Ensuring you find the correct sizes and matching hinge placements. This is still much cheaper than replacing the full unit. Or you can sand, prime and paint the doors (making sure you have removed any handles and hinges first). You can be creative and choose any color of bathroom paint you want, you could have a contrasting frame color and doors, mix and match – you decide. Allow for paint to dry.
6. Remember to sand, prime and paint your frame first. Allowing for drying times then replace your doors and drawers.
Of course this is just a starting tutorial and you can be as creative as you want, but hopefully you will have ended up with a new looking set of bathroom vanity cabinets and saved yourself a good couple of hundred dollars in the process.
Related Posts:
{ Comments on this entry are closed }
Bathroom designs ideas ideas are usually flowing from a homeowner like water from a faucet, and for those that do not have many or want more they can easily be found with a quick search on the Internet or at your local home center. If you are going to do the work on your bathroom remodeling project yourself, be warned that it can be a nightmare if the right precautions aren’t taken.
Your bathroom designs ideas need to become reality. Why? Because they are YOUR ideas.
Bathroom remodeling can be an experience that you may never forget but the end result is always worth the wait. It doesn’t matter if you are replacing a bathroom vanity, installing a new faucets or installing a new toilet, having the right tools for the job makes your bathroom remodeling go a lot smoother. There is nothing worse than being in the middle of a remodeling project and discovering that you are short a tool needed to do the install of hardware, wiring or plumbing work.
As you begin work on implementing your bathroom designs ideas, you’ll find that a tool belt pouch is fine, but if you don’t like the bulk and extra weight around your waist then buying a good quality tool box is essential. Stocking your toolbox with the basics first is a step in the right direction. A straight and Phillip’s screwdriver, a pry bar, a level, plumbing tape, electrical tape, hammer, pipe wrench, vise grips and clamps are perfect starter tools. When considering screwdrivers, a magnetic screwdriver set can save you time from chasing after run away screws. Are you now seeing how important the right tools can be to making your bathroom designs ideas a reality?
Installing a toilet is a simple part of many bathroom designs ideas and may sound like a simple enough job but it can turn into a nightmare if you are not prepared for the installation. For example, if you plan to replace an old toilet with a newer or different model, be sure to take the proper measurements to be certain the new one you get will actually work in your bathroom. For example, measure the distance from the tank to the wall on the old toilet, then do the same on the new one. Also, you need to know where your water lines come in. If you try to force square peg into a round hole, or in this case a new toilet where it just won’t fit, then you’re setting yourself for leaks and constant problems.
The one tool that is essential is a small hack saw because if you ever run into a rusty bolt that just wont come off you can at least cut it off. If you are comfortable with air tools they can save you time when finishing up projects like laying down a new sub floor in your bathroom design project. Why torture your knees if a finishing brad nailer can help you lay that new bathroom floor instead of using a manual hammer? In bathroom remodeling projects we all have our favorite tools and it is up to you if they are hand tools, air tools or a combination of the two.
Do your research, study as many different websites, books, and home centers that you can in order to find the right bathroom designs ideas that match what you are envisioning, then make certain you have all the right tools to do the job efficiently and well or it could turn into a real nightmare.
Related Posts:
{ 0 comments }
With bathroom designs there are many different concepts to consider. The basic concepts in most bathroom design plans and ideas are, offshoot spin offs, architectural concept, individuality and originality among several neutral projects in which a designer may be basing his or her ideas on a functional plan from blueprints.
In this case we look towards your own individual style or ideas to be put in place when putting into practice a design concept in the bathroom.
How many ideas are going through your mind?
Of course you will have a multitude of ideas for bathroom designs, but where do you get started?
You could start by drawing up a rough plan of your bathroom either on your computer or in a sketch book then start adding your design ideas, colors and additions such as ornamental items and other accessories.
Some people might go through the services of a professional designer by handing over a few basic ideas then leaving the designer to come up with the designs.
What do I do when I have got my ideas together?
First off you will want to choose your favorite, of the many bathroom designs available, if you have drawn up a few sketches. A good way of doing this would be to view your designs with other family members or friends, but above all you will need to select a project that you can afford.
Your budget will have a big part to play in your future plans, so making sure that you have researched prices of individual items and materials is especially something that you will want to do. Things like paint, tiles, supplies, decor, accessories, new cabinets, vanities, lighting, and anything else you may be wanting to upgrade and replace.
Researching your ideas
One thing you do not want is any surprises half way through putting your best bathroom designs into action. Researching your options, materials and accessories will help you get the desired results in your bathroom design.
Some methods to research your bathroom designs and ideas might be as follows:
• Search online for items and materials that you might be using. You can find some good deals on the internet, but remember cheap does not always mean value for money.
• Try to stay with recognized brands where you can, simply because in most cases the quality of well known companies is much higher than some imported cheap products.
• Sticking to a theme is easy; you can find products along certain themes in one range from a particular brand or company.
• Make sure if you are using paints, bathroom tiles or any other products that will be being used as your base that you get slightly extra – you never know when an accident might happen it is always better to carry extra than to do a complete overhaul because you simply cannot buy the same paint or tiles. So plan to budget for just that little extra just in case!
• You can still get a good result from a limited budget; try places like Craigslist, eBay, Thrift Outlets and other second hand stores for bargains. There are some good items to be snapped up out there well worth purchasing at a fraction of the price of new.
It is not difficult to get those desired results in your bathroom makeover, once you have a set plan. All the best designers research their ideas thoroughly, just take your time and try to be confident that you can pull off a design coup that will be admired by your family and friends.
Related Posts:
{ 0 comments }
If modern bathroom designs are swirling around in your head, then it’s time to make those thoughts a reality. When organizing your thoughts for a new, more current look it can be a bit overwhelming, but also easily accomplished by sorting through all the various ideas you have, what’s important to you, and determining what you can afford and what you can’t right now.
Many things are usually needed for new, modern bathroom designs, depending on the level of remodel you are looking to accomplish. Needs such as new vanity cabinets, a vanity, paint, tile, and possibly even updating the sink or installing equipment designed to save water.
There are questions you should ask yourself before beginning a bathroom remodel, starting with a list of what you think needs changed. How “crowded” is your bathroom? How can you create more space if your answer was yes to the previous question? Could your lighting be improved? Is there a fan? If not, what kind would you like to have? Do you have laminate flooring or tile? Would it be worth it to upgrade if you don’t have tile?
Many modern bathroom designs can include a skylight that brings more natural light into the area and can be a big money saver with reduced energy bills. These are usually as simple as installing a small tube through the roof that allows natural sunlight to be reflected into the interior of your bathroom for a softer more natural appearance. These skylights even come in kits, so they can also be used for installing in dark closets to save on electricity while allowing you to use natural lighting. Any small or large home center will carry these small skylight kits that are relatively simple to install, closet or anywhere you want or need more natural lighting.
Vanities are another important aspect of modern bathroom designs and an area that consumes a good portion of the room and, thus, can really be a focal point. You have many choices here: finished, unfinished, drawers, doors, height and even painted vanities. The base of the vanity is just the first step. When installing any vanity the counter top should compliment the look of the vanity and create a flowing, comfortable feeling, and selecting the right faucet accessory is the finishing touch. If space allows, you may also want to consider installing a dual vanity sink. The bathroom in most master bedrooms offers a his and her sink with a large lighted mirror, a separate shower and a garden tub.
With bathroom flooring it is now more common for tiles or laminate to be used instead of carpet because of cleaning and replacement costs, and the frequency needed for both. As a space saver, corner showers can be installed instead of a tub or traditional shower. The tub and shower are often found in separate areas of the bathroom in regards to the master bedroom but still function together in a second bathroom. Exhaust fans can help control odors and humidity, so be sure to include them in your plans.
Using the “make a list” approach to modern bathroom designs is a quick way to save a lot of time with the process of remodeling your bathroom. Check out magazines and displays at different home centers and even online, while making a list of what items you would like to have remodeled. Take measurements to make sure that the changes you want to make will fit in your bathroom before purchasing.
Related Posts:
{ 0 comments }
Remodel your bathroom? Absolutely. Every year, thousands upon thousands of homeowners are making plans to remodel the bathrooms in their homes. If you are reading this article than you are probably fit into this category. Having plans is one thing but actually taking action is another. Many homeowners have plans to remodel our bathrooms but the truth is that few actually do. They wonder if there are really benefits to remodeling their bathrooms. This article will discuss a few of the benefits to remodeling your bathroom and help answer the question of why should you decide to remodel your bathroom.
Increasing Your Homes Value
One of the immediate benefits you will gain when remodeling your bathroom is the increase in your homes value. In some parts of the country, it’s been said that converting a half bath to a full bath can increase your houses value by almost ten percent. The overall increase in your homes value will of course depend upon the project that you are planning. Changing a half bath to a full bath will of course increase the value of your home more than simply installing a small vanity. For more information on how much the value of your home will increase relative to the remodeling project that you have in mind, please consult a local real estate agent. They would have a better idea on the local market and how to better increase the value of your home.
Sense of Pride
We all know that the bathroom is one of the most used rooms in the house. Knowing this, when you are in the bathroom you don’t want to feel unhappy with the way your bathroom looks. Since you are going to have to use this room each and every day, when you enter your bathroom you want to be happy and full of pride. If you are unsatisfied with you current bathroom decor, it’s probably time that you made a change. Make plans to change that bathroom sooner rather than later.
Beautifying Your Home
Of course, the main reason that homeowners enjoy remodeling their bathrooms is to beautify their homes. As stated before, you are going to use your bathroom everyday and you don’t want to be unsatisfied with it’s layout. This holds true for the master bathroom as well as for bathrooms that guests are going to be using as well. Have you ever been to someone’s house and the house is beautiful but their bathroom looks like something out of an old 70’s movie? That can be very embarrassing. Completing a bathroom renovation can beautify as well as modernize your home.
There are a number of different reasons why thousands of homeowners are planning to remodel their bathrooms this year. Some do it for financial gain and are looking to increase the value in their homes. Some remodel to have a sense of pride in their bathrooms and others are simply attempting to beautify their homes. Whatever the reason is, the main thing is to do it. Don’t be like the many homeowners who have been thinking about remodeling for years now and still have not remodeled their bathrooms. Sit down and construct a clear cut plan on how you will be able to remodel your bathrooms in your home. If it make financial sense and you can afford to pay to remodel your bathrooms be assured that you probably will not regret the decision.
Related Posts:
{ Comments on this entry are closed }
When it comes to bathroom remodels, there is no end to the amount of bathroom remodeling tips that you can find in today’s world. Just turn on the television and surf through the channels and you will probably find a few shows that are dedicated to the bathroom. Go to the bookstore and you will find rows and rows of DIY home renovation books at your disposal. There will probably even be a section or two specifically about the bathroom.
If you ask any real estate agent what makes houses sell, a good amount of them will probably say kitchens and bathrooms. This is why it is always a good idea to fix up your bathroom (and your kitchen) if you have the time and money to do so. Doing this will ultimately increase the value of your home, set your home apart from the rest in the neighborhood and ultimately give your home a great makeover.
This article will focus on two major bathroom renovation tips for bathroom remodels. Of course there are many more tips that we could have included in this article but we just wanted to focus on two here.
Color Splash
You may not even be aware of it but certain colors affect the way that you feel. In addition to that, the intensity of colors will further affect how you are feeling. These sorts of things are very subtle and they probably affect people on a sub conscious level. If you drive around to local fast food restaurants in the area, you may be surprised to see that some of them have the same color scheme and layout. Well, this may be because they want you to be in a state of mind to eat.
With that being said, you want to make sure that you choose the right color and intensity of color that you want for your bathroom. More and more people are designing their bathrooms to be relaxation rooms. A good bathroom painting tip is to find out what particular mood you want to set for your bathroom and research to see which color will put you in that state of mind. This is a very important tip in bathroom remodels
Lighting In The Bathroom
Just like color does, lighting too will convey a certain type of mood in the bathroom. Think about it, have you ever gone to a spa before. Usually, the spa is a place of relaxation. What type of lighting do they have in the spa? Many spas will have the intensity of the lighting set to low so that the patrons are put in a state of relaxation. Is this something that you would like to convey in your bathroom?
Is is a good idea to have multiple type of light in your bathroom so that you can adjust the lighting to whatever type of mood that you want to convey. Adjustable lighting is a very good type of lighting for this. When you are in a relaxation mood you can set the lighting to low and when you are simply trying to get ready in the morning, you can raise the intensity so that you can properly prepare for your day.
Bathroom remodels don’t have to be stressful and costly…just be certain to carefully consider everything that is important to you as you plan the project out.
Related Posts:
{ Comments on this entry are closed }
