Benefits of Having a Basement Toilet
Instead of going all out in placing your bathroom in the regular spots in your house, there are a lot of unconventional choices that you should take advantage of. Why not choose to build it in your basement? Here are some reasons why:
Enhanced Privacy
Having basement toilets is like getting guaranteed privacy. You know that you can enjoy a relaxing bathroom experience without having to worry that your neighbors will see you through the windows. Since basements are commonly isolated places of the house, your basement toilet would surely provide you enough opportunity to take advantage of peaceful moments by yourself.
Space saver
Like it or not, basement toilets are great space savers. Opting to have a toilet in the basement ensures that you can very well devote the spaces above ground for more important things like additional rooms or more comfortable kitchen and dining areas.
Strategic Location
Basements can have various entry points from different parts of the house. This gives you the chance of making the area more accessible to all members of the household. To ensure that, constructing various entry points from different rooms leading to the basement is certainly a good idea.
Unique Concept
The installation of basement bathrooms is not a common concept. It is for this reason that it proves to be a good breather from the typical bathroom layouts. The idea of having a toilet in the basement allows homeowners to make good use of this commonly isolated area.
Easy to Decorate
Since the basements tend to have more available space, decorating it won’t be that hard. As a matter of fact, you can easily transform the area into one of the most appealing parts of your home. Lighting options are also very important in this kind of bath places. Play around with colors to provide your basement bathroom an attractive aura.
The Beauty of Adding Glass Shower Doors to Your Bathroom
If you are remodeling a bathroom you have probably considered the option of a glass shower enclosure or glass shower doors. Even a simple freshening up of the bathroom design can include replacing an existing shower curtain with a beautiful glass.
The addition of glass opens up the bathroom and provides a safer, more effective method of keeping the water inside the shower, or shower and tub area. The styles of shower doors include:
-Frameless shower doors, or enclosures: These have magnetic catches and pivot on hinges. See only the glass and the door handle, or not even this.
-Frameless tempered glass door: Excellent for a tub and shower combination, this frameless option is tempered for extra strength, and slides for safe access.
-Frameless corner shower door: Made to custom fit a space, corner doors offer an enclosure with a pivot door on a magnetic catch.
All these choices offer an advantage in being frameless and having tempered glass. While the frameless option may cost more than a framed shower door, it offers less of an obstacle on the way into the shower or tub. This is especially important for a tub and shower combo where one has to step over the high tub to get in.
Simple glass shower doors can be fitted to existing tile work as well. Although some may prefer a full glass enclosure to complement their door, it isn’t necessary. Retrofitting just a glass door to an existing bathing area is also easier on the budget.
When shopping for glass doors or enclosures for the shower area, don’t neglect to look into etched glass as well. Artistic glass with etched designs can add a personal statement to your bathroom, as well as creating a more beautiful space. If you do choose a framed door, be sure to choose a frame finish to match your existing hardware.
Wet Rooms are the Newest Trend in Bathrooms
The common bathroom hasn’t changed much at all over the years, but now with the newest innovation in bathrooms, there is a huge new change. A multi-functional shower room can provide an option to the traditional bathroom that most have been accustomed to for many years. Wet rooms are the newest trend in bathrooms, but just exactly why are they becoming more increasingly popular with homeowners everywhere?
A wet room can be made in any size, from a small, simple room to a large luxuriant one. They are fully tiled and completely waterproof with wall mounted sinks, toilets and hand rails, thus the whole room becomes a shower. Plus, with under floor heating, the entire room will stay warm and cozy while showering. Since they are convenient for the whole family to use, the other main conventional bathroom can be saved for guests, as it will stay neat and tidy at all times.
Some additional benefits to these types of bathing areas are that they are very accessible for every member of the family. They are ideal for the elderly and the handicapped, along with care givers, for these showers can accommodate people who need to be wheeled in to bath in shower chairs. The wet room shower also has no step-ups, or step-overs, for the elderly or people with reduced or limited mobility.
Unlike ordinary bathrooms, they offer many amenities that are useful for all family members; therefore all types of families are choosing these enclosures, including families with children, the elderly and the handicapped. Because the entire floor is clear of fixtures they are easy to clean and keep clean.
The whole room is a waterproof bathing area and they can take advantage of smaller spaces than a conventional bath. It is easy to see why wet rooms are becoming more popular and are taking the place of the traditional family bathroom.
Enjoy the Convenience and Value of a Corner Bath Shower
By and large, this modern generation is so fast-paced that it is common to see people literally hurrying. Everybody seems to be pressed for deadlines and time constraints. In connection to such, there are two generally-used words which are essential instant guides to make goods or services very ideal to purchase: convenience, and also value. Both words indicate wise solutions to daily situations, as well as practicality.
The mentioned pair of words can be very well applied to or used when renovating a home. For instance, when it pertains to the restroom, it is definitely convenient and valuable to let corner bath showers be installed in each of the ‘half bathrooms’ within the house, for easy simultaneous access by two or more family members or visitors. If there is no half bathroom yet, it is time to have one or more constructed during such renovation. These multiple restrooms will result to the extreme efficiency of the overall home, increasing its total value.
The corner bath shower, a dense shower unit, fits perfectly into a bathroom’s corner. By being able to occupy any corner, this unit does not take up much space, but still gives the luxury and ease of a quick-shower facility which is otherwise known as a ‘half bath’. A unit basically consists of a shower enclosure, a door, plus a base. There are many varieties of quality models, appealing styles, and different sizes of this product set, all of such are usually depicted by their overall simple installation, coupled with their reasonable prices. Indeed, even one unit is already a very significant addition to any home.
Corner bath showers’ prices vary depending on the respective features per model. Basic units are as low as $500 USD each, while the more luxurious ones are $1,500 USD each. These stated figures are only estimates, as they may actually differ among the hundreds of different manufacturers, and the retailers. For a potential purchaser to have a clearer understanding of the various brands and the expected price range, there should be detailed research on several leading brands’ exclusive and common features. There are many retail sites in the Internet which are quite helpful in this research. Also, it is good to visit the nearest home outfitter/s.
Each model’s features may definitely vary from the others. Styles also differ considerably from model to model. There are rounded types, geometric squares, or those that have sliding doors. Some wall panels might be frosted, or of clear glass. The more luxurious models today have massage jets. However, whatever the home’s model of corner bath shower is, the entire family will surely benefit from its overall efficiency, utmost convenience, and immense value.
A Guide to the Thermostatic Shower Mixer
A thermostatic shower mixer simply controls the amount of hot and cold water that comes out of the tap in the bathroom. This can keep bathers from being scalded when other water in the house or apartment is running at the same time. The worst feeling in the world is to be taking a shower or bath and have the water suddenly run hot or cold.
Thermostatic mixer showers keeps this from happening by adjusting the flow of hot and cold water automatically before it comes out of the tap. Many of the models are programmable so the user can adjust the temperature of the water when the mixer is installed. These can be used on existing shower heads or a thermostatic shower mixer valve with a shower head included can be utilized instead.
Those who want to add or remove water pressure may want to go with the entire unit to get the temperature and pressure that they want their water to be. Each shower needs to have its own unit so they can each be programmed at a different setting. The children’s bathroom should be at a lower temperature than the parents may want their own to be set at.
Some units can be self installed for those who are comfortable with do it yourself projects. Those who are not can always have a contractor come to their homes and have them install these units for them. Hiring a contractor is never cheap so try to find a unit that is easily installed to add savings to the purchase.
Being able to regulate the heat of the water is important especially for families with children. A thermostatic shower mixer is a great way to get a constant water temperature. These can be self installed or a contractor can be hired to put them in for you.
What Is The Best Electric Shower UK Residents Can Buy At A Good Price?
The best electric shower UK residents can buy will depend on a few factors, the first being what kind of water supply is in the home, is it gravity fed or high pressure.
Cheapest and Good Quality Regular Electric Showers
The easiest and cheapest systems to install and use without too much problem will be those that work with a regular water supply that is under high pressure. They are also the standard electric showers that use 9kW or less and will work fine with the current standard wiring in the home. So the cheapest of these models would be the Triton Caselona II Electric Shower that uses 8.5KW and costs just £59. However, the best electric shower that has thermostatic control and is safe for all people, even children, is the Triton T100e Care which uses 8.5kw and cost a lot more being priced at almost £258.
Best Power Shower For Gravity Fed Systems
Now, if you have a gravity fed system and need a pumped water heating system, then you will be best to go with an electric power shower because the power showers have built in pumps. These only work on gravity fed systems however. So, the best electric shower in this case will be a triton power shower that’s called the AS2000XT, and is considered one of the ultimate designs because it offers separate control of temperature and flow, giving as much as 14 liters of water with full thermostatic control. It means that you can set the temperature you desire and never touch the control again because all you need to do is touch the start/stop button and you’re ready to shower. It’s available in a white and chrome design and has an easy grip temperature dial and lots of other little details you’ll appreciate. It costs about £225, which is a good price for so many features and for a system with a pump.
Proper Bathroom Lighting
Most bathrooms do not have enough lighting for me. As I get older I need more light to make sure that my makeup is applied correctly and my clothes are straight and ironed. In updating your bathroom please take time to consider the effects of proper bathroom lighting.
One of my favorite styles I am seeing in bathrooms is the addition of sconces. The gentle light cast from the sides helps to fill in the light where other bathroom lighting is lacking. Recessed lighting is fine for overall illumination and is certainly needed as part of your lighting package. Pendant lights are another great feature and add some art and style to your bathroom decor. Make sure that you pay attention to the finishes on all of your fixtures since mixing chrome, stainless steel and oil rubbed bronze might not look very finished or high end.
Pendant lights can be hung a different levels, make sure and measure the correct height for placement so that it is not shining in your eyes but is beneficial for your overall effect. I have some pendant lights that it is easy to change out the globe should I ever want to change the color scheme in my master bathroom. Which I think is coming soon. I change up my bathroom decor every couple of years. It keeps everything fresh looking without breaking my budget.
My decorative mirrors are mounted on the wall making change out easy. I use to have the large one piece mirror and that was ok, I did update the mirror to a more sophisticated look by gluing some framing around it to make it look a little more like a high end bathroom instead of a builder grade install. It was simple to do, I just went to my local hardware store and picked out the molding, cut it to size, painted it, and attached it with a glue. Check with your local store to get the correct glue for attaching wood to a mirror.
Planning and Designing a Bathroom
For most homeowners, the design and planning of a new bathroom can be a very daunting process. However, it need not be. If you are renovating an existing space or building from scratch, it is useful to consider the following questions: who, what, where and how?
Who is going to use the bathroom may seem rather simple when it comes to bathrooms, but the answer can have a significant impact on project plans. A bathroom that is used from time to time, by guests, will probably be very different from that which is used mainly by children on a daily basis.
Once you have worked out who is mainly going to be using the bathroom, where is usually the next point to consider. This is often an easy question to answer. In a new construction, the master bathroom often adjoins the bedroom, with guest’s and children’s bathrooms often adjoining their respective bedrooms. In existing homes, the bathroom will often have to remain where it is.
One of the most important aspects of bathroom design is what, which certainly depends on the who and where. A master bathroom suite may contain a spa, toilet, his-and-her vanity units, and a floor made from more exotic materials such as marble or bamboo. A family room that receives a lot of traffic should be equipped with basic equipment and durable flooring.
Keep the proportion of the room in mind so as not to fill the space with a large bath only to find yourself trying to cram a vanity and toilet into the remaining space. Think about what equipment is needed (toilet, shower, wash basin) and what are the extra options you want to include (towel warmers, bidets, steam bath). Also a vital aspect to consider is do not forget to budget adequately!
Now we come to the question of how. This includes both the style of the bathroom and the technical aspect of the work required. Think about the style you prefer. Do you want a sleek contemporary room, or a cozy cottage style? Home design magazines and show homes are a good way to get ideas and inspiration. It is useful to take notes on what features and designs you like and features you do not like.
Bathroom remodeling should not be boring or stressful. Once you come up with a plan, it’s just a matter of following through with it and having fun.
Getting to Know the Stylish and Functional Shower Panels
Shower panels are vital components of a relaxing and efficient shower system. Bathing is undoubtedly an important part of people’s lives. The addition of a good shower panel in your bathroom can greatly help to create a more enticing bathroom environment. Indulging in an invigorating shower is one way of relieving the stress and tension that have accumulated in the body over the entire day. Remember that there is no better way to end the day other than immersing yourself into a warm and relaxing shower.
With the stressful life that people live these days, they surely would want to reward themselves with something that will allow them to reduce the burden of modern living. With that said, buying yourself a good set of shower panel is the best way to do that. They boast a sleek and functional design along with multiple shower outlets, which is a great added luxury that will surely appeal to everyone. Though ordinary showerheads or hand-held shower systems are more affordable options, they won’t be able to pamper you the way that a shower panel can. Therefore, what is stopping you from giving yourself the pampering you deserve?
The shower panels are undoubtedly one of the most unique plumbing and bathroom fixtures that are now widely sold in the market. They are purposely created to be affixed onto a bathroom wall. Unlike the standard shower, they offer more features such as varying handle options, different showerheads, and built-in shelves.
Their appeal is mostly attributed to their all-in-one design. They can also be easily fitted in any shower space due to their flexible vertical and rectangular form. In addition to that, one can conveniently replace a typical shower system with an efficient shower panel by just making a few alterations on the existing piping layout of the bathroom. This means that major bathroom renovation isn’t necessary in order to successfully integrate this kind of fixture.
Overall, shower panels offer an excellent way of revamping the look of the bathroom area while at the same time increasing its functionality.
How to Choose the Best Wet Rooms and Shower Enclosures
Wet rooms are showers which floor space is level with the rest of the bathroom. They are preferred by many people who would want their bathrooms to be cozy but have very limited options because of space constraints. Walk in shower enclosures happen to be great options when it comes to turning bathroom spaces into modern looking private areas where one can just relax and take a load off.
Choosing the best enclosures does not have to be as tedious as it seems because there are ways to pick out the most fitting elements depending on your budget as well as personal taste.
Available Space
There are shower options that leave out doors in order to save space and create an illusion of vastness. Glass would make for perfect shower additions because you will in effect create a designated area which has a definite demarcation sans the constricted look.
Aesthetics
This factor is also very important when choosing bathroom installations because beauty has a place in all parts of the house, even places which a lot of people think as inconsequential. There are great wet glass shower fixtures that would fit perfectly in a modern bathroom so make sure you consider all possibilities before you set your heart to just one design.
Cost and Installation
There really is not much work required when installing glass enclosures. In fact, you can even opt to do it yourself if you are familiar with the procedure. On the other hand, cost is a very valid concern especially if you have a limited budget.
There is no reason to back down though since you can go around the exorbitant cost of redoing your bathroom space. As soon as you set the budget, start pricing by visiting home improvement depots and even websites that feature the various products you are contemplating on purchasing.