Archive for August, 2009

How To Choose Quality Tile For Creative Bathroom Designs

Saturday, August 8th, 2009

Kohler Bathroom Sink
-

Nothing says “bathroom” like bright tiles in creative designs. While many have opted for cheap fixes like synthetic shower enclosures and linoleum floors or even carpet pieces, the traditional look of tile has the potential to make a bathroom stand out like none other. Tiles come in three main styles: harlequin pattern, natural stone with marble accents, and traditional tiles with color and pattern splashed throughout them.

The harlequin pattern distinguishes itself from the other styles simply by the diamond tile placement instead of the traditional square placement. This particular style appeals to me for several reasons, for one, it’s different. It distinguishes the bathroom as a canvas of creativity instead of just another place where a person has to spend time daily. The variety of colors and patterns available give a person endless options for expressing their personal tastes and interests.

Like I said before, I really prefer the harlequin style. And in fact, I most prefer this style in simple, stark black and white tiles. Precisely placed, black and white tiles with chrome accents throughout the bathroom have the potential to make this particular room stand out. No longer do you have to walk into a dull, beige room, but you have the classy look of a dichromatic style with shiny touches. Be aware, however, that if you indeed prefer this look, you’re going to be spending some time polishing. The shiny harlequin tiles in black and white and the chrome finishes easily show both water spots and finger prints. So if you don’t prefer spending lots of time polishing, you may want to consider other styles of tiles.

The stone tile works best for those who despise water spots. These natural tiles have a matte finish that does not reveal water spots or finger prints. Additionally, the traditional look of brushed stainless steel accents lends itself to a cleanable bathroom because it too does not show water spots or finger prints easily. Those who have a bigger budget can consider the classy look of marble fixtures that blend in well with their natural stone tile.

Many times priced by the piece, tiles can cost a bundle. And so if you’re working on a more modest budget, you’ll want to move right past the harlequin and natural stone tiles, and instead focus on the traditional tiles. You can still make your bathroom reflect your personal tastes thanks to the vast variety of colors and patterns available in these tiles.

Remember that once you have your style chosen, you should have a professional install your tiles. Sure, we’d all love to save a buck or two, but in the end, you’ll appreciate the professional finish that only a trained mason can create.

So expand your mind to the world of tiles, and consider the possibilities.

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach, Florida. Find more about this as well as bathroom tile at http://www.exclusivebathroomaccessories.com.


Kohler K-6519-7 Galleon wire rinse basket, Black
Kohler K-6519-7 Galleon wire rinse basket, Black Kohler K-6519-7 Galleon wire rinse basket, BlackThe right tools make all the difference, as every chef knows. This thoughtfully designed wire rinse basket is customized to fit snugly into Galleon sinks.Kohler K-6519-7 Galleon wire rinse basket Features:; For flat-rim sinks; 9-1/4″ x 14-3/4″ Kitchen – KohlerIntroducing The Kohler […]

Making the Most of Small Bathrooms

Friday, August 7th, 2009

Kohler Kitchen Sink
-

? 2006, All Rights Reserved

Early in the design process of renovating an older bathroom, the question invariably comes up: Is there room for a double sink? In many cases there is room if you use a little finesse and creativity. But the real question is what do you give up when including two sinks in a small bathroom? Double sinks are beautiful and stylish, but in too small a space the disadvantages outweigh the benefits.

Double sinks use a great deal of counter space. Counter space is usually at a premium. Where do you find the space for hair dryers, make-up, creams and shaving gear? Since time spent actually using the sink is minimal in comparison to time spent in front of the mirror, it only makes sense to install a single sink. Instead of that second sink consider a beauty bar with a cubby shelf underneath including lots of outlets and an additional mirror. If you install an enclosed vanity sink you have the benefit of even more storage space underneath the counter. Please note that it can make the toilet feel cramped.

Even with a very small 4- by 6-foot bathroom, you can easily accommodate a 3-foot shower stall and a toilet along with an extended sink counter.

Other sink options are the pedestal sink and the console sink. Pedestal sinks are elegant and offer greater floor space. Many pedestal sinks are now made with a small amount of space around the rim of the sink on which you can set toiletries.

Console sinks, fashioned after styles popular in the late1800’s, when water lines were first carried into houses, are supported by legs and, like pedestal sinks, are not enclosed underneath. Reproductions and new interpretations are available in most price ranges. However, the trend is the same: to get away from the motel-style double sinks so popular in the 80’s. Instead, the sink is made larger with space on both sides plus a shelf below.

If using either a pedestal or console sink, you can easily store towels in an attractive basket or directly on the shelf under the sink. If floor space is getting cramped and you’re still in need of more storage area, look toward the sky! Installing custom cabinets or shelving can solve the problem.

Should you give up the tub? There is something indulgent and relaxing about a tub. A long, hot soak with botanical salts, bath beads or body washes is very soothing after a long day.

What’s more, Realtors recommend having a tub in at least one bathroom of your home to maintain resale value. But the shallow built-in tubs found in most houses can be quite disappointing. If your budget allows for a custom tub as part of the shower by all means go for it. You may also choose a deeper yet shorter soaker tub inspired by Japanese baths. These are becoming increasingly popular and take up less space than a regular tub.

Planning is the most important step to making the most of small bathrooms. Before purchasing any new sinks, tubs, showers or fixtures, consider your lifestyle and usage patterns. In this way you can create a bathroom perfectly suited to your needs.

About the Author

Kaja Gam offers interior design in New York. Recently featured on HGTV.com, Kaja is famous for designing rooms that are comfortable, functional and make a distinct statement about your personality. Sign up for Kaja’s free e-zine today at http://www.kajagamdesign.com.

KOHLER K-649-VS Simplice Pull-Down Secondary Sink Faucet, Vibrant Stainless
KOHLER K-649-VS Simplice Pull-Down Secondary Sink Faucet, Vibrant Stainless Kohler Simplice 4” Centerset Bar Sink Faucets Customer Review: Best Faucet Ever… When my wife and I decided to remodel our kitchen, one of the little things we looked forward to was a new faucet. Our old faucet leaked around the handle despite numerous […]

Tips For Remodeling A Bathroom

Thursday, August 6th, 2009

Kohler Sinks
-

Many of us put up with dingy bathroom that may have leaky fixtures, peeling paint, stained floors, or poor lighting because it all still works and no one sees it but us anyway. That doesn’t have to be the case. Just because it works should be no excuse to leave it alone when you really don’t like the way it looks. It may work to keep a worn out but comfy pair of jeans, but you still would not wear them out to an important function. Your bathroom may be making a statement to your guests that you would rather not be saying. If you can’t do the work yourself, hire a professional that has good recommendations from people you know.

Decide what you would like in your remodeled bathroom. Everyone seems to be enjoying larger bathrooms recently. If the budget and surrounding area allows it, you could enlarge the bathroom by a few feet. In the past bathrooms were purely functional with just enough space to take care of business. Now, we have such busy lives that we like to escape in the luxury of a large bathroom to relax in a bubble bath.

You may decide to add light, whether natural or artificial. You could enlarge or add a window for more sunlight. You could also add a variety of lighting for different uses. Dim lighting would be nice for a relaxing bath, but bright lights will be needed for shaving. More light will also make the bathroom seem larger if you could not expand the room as much as you would like.

Consider refurbishing your old cabinets. If they are in good shape, you could just refinish them. Using a lighter color will add to that spacious look. You could also add a new top to replace stained, out dated counter top. Marble can add a beautiful look to your bathroom that will have guests saying, “Wow!”.

A really nice comfort to add is radiant heat. With the heat under the flooring, you never have to worry about stepping barefooted onto a cold floor first thing in the morning. This is a costly addition, but radiant heating is efficient and can save money after the initial sticker shock.

If you are now motivated to remodel that old bathroom, you are ready to start comparison-shopping at various home improvement stores. They may have displays that will give you an idea of looks that appeal to you and those that are not so appealing. You can also check out a few decorating and home improvement magazines to find more ideas. After doing your homework, you will have in mind exactly what you want to make it easier for your contractor to satisfy you.

About the Author:

Daniel Owens is the editor of a top DIY Advice website, and he also runs a site about Computer Repairs

KOHLER K-3366-NA Staccato Hardwood Cutting Board
KOHLER K-3366-NA Staccato Hardwood Cutting Board Kohler K-3366 Staccato hardwood cutting boardGet the most from your Staccato single-basin kitchen sink. Add this custom hardwood cutting board and create an instant workstation.Kohler K-3366 Staccato hardwood cutting board Features:; For use in K-3362, Staccato single-basin sink Designer SinksKohler has really revved up their latest kitchen and bath […]

Breaking The Bathroom Bottleneck

Wednesday, August 5th, 2009

Kohler Kitchen Sink
-

When there are two of you trying to get ready for work, the early morning bathroom bottleneck can rival the rush hour commuter traffic. The impatient knocking on the door is reminiscent of honking car horns. The steam from the shower is a precursor of the exhaust fumes you’ll encounter later. Tempers can grow short. Is this any way to start the day?

Of course, you could sit down and work out a minute by minute his-and-her schedule to make things go more smoothly. That can work out nicely if you’re both as precise as a Swiss clock and neither of you ever, ever oversleep. On the other hand, you might consider breaking the bottleneck at the source and giving yourselves a roomier, more luxurious bathroom where two can move as freely as one.

Creating a master bath to do double duty isn’t a remodeling project that’s particularly difficult or expensive. Depending upon the existing space in your bathroom, you may want to go all out and convert adjoining areas into part of the new master bath. Or you may opt to rearrange what is already there with an eye toward increased convenience and comfort. In either case, the working rule is to design it for two people with individual needs.

Form follows function in this instance and since no room in the house is more functional than the bathroom, begin with the basics. Two sinks with a double vanity will provide plenty of room for her to apply makeup while he shaves. An oversized mirror creates the illusion of a larger space for relatively little cost. Lighting fixtures attached to the side walls will add a dramatic, highlighting effect to help brighten up any morning.

A double-sized, walk-in shower with dual entrances makes for added convenience and a sort of tag team approach to washing for those occasions when you’re truly rushed. A separate, sunken bathtub can be outfitted with whirlpool sprays for more leisurely times. And the two toilets you put in can be compartmentalized for extra privacy.

Now if only the traffic cooperates, getting to work will be a breeze.

About the Author

Jim Norman is a Spokane Home Remodeling contractor that specializes in bathroom remodeling as well as other types of home remodeling for Spokane, Washington homeowners.
Kohler Caxton K-2205-G-47 Bathroom Undermount Sinks Almond
Kohler Caxton K-2205-G-47 Bathroom Undermount Sinks Almond Install this Caxton undercounter lavatory beneath solid surface countertops to combine the look of an integral basin with the benefits of durable vitreous china. The underside of this lavatory is glazed in the same color as the basin. Install Beneath Solid surface Countertops To Combine The Look […]

Home Improvement - Bathrooms (Part II)

Tuesday, August 4th, 2009

Kohler Sink
-

The more you understand about any subject, the more interesting it becomes. As you read this article you’ll find that the subject of home improvement bathrooms is certainly no exception.

Some bathrooms have tile walling and flooring areas. Over the years tile suffer deterioration and/or damage due to steam, heat, moisture, and even accidental hits.

Thus to repair tiles instead of buying new tile is relatively easy. The tiles have a bit more detail than simply tiles, including caulk and joints. The caulk sometimes need replacing, or renewed especially when water causes the material to fade.

It is important to work around dry areas when re-caulking bathrooms for improvement. You will need a scraper, since the old caulk and/or grout needs scraping before the new is applied. You can use an awl, which is a pointed tool that marks the surface, or else pierce smaller holes in the area. The rubbing alcohol is needed in this home improvement scheme, since the joints must be freed of debris and dirt and soaked in the alcohol for cleaning before reusing.

It is important that you follow steps when improving you home, thus, the next step is to fill the tub slowly before starting the new caulking process. Thus, the water will minimize or eliminate the possibilities of the caulk cracking.

It is important to clear the joints of spores or mildew before filling the joints in with new latex caulk. You can also use silicone to fill in the joints. Solutions for removing mildew are available at most hardware stores.

Note: Keeping a moist finger will help stop sticking from the silicone and/or caulk. You can use your fingertips to smooth out the area where the caulk is applied, using the fingers to figure the caulk into a bay form.

Once the caulk is applied, you will wait until the material dries before continuing to carve away any residue around the area.

Sound complicated, or are you feeling that the terms are frightening? Many homeowners shy aware from home improvement or repairs, simply because the carpentry or technical terms scare them into paying high dollars to fix or remodel their homes. If this method frightens you, you may want to consider using “performed peel-and-stick tub and tile caulk” which is easier than the preceding details to follow. The caulk only requires that you peel and stick.

If you have wallpaper in your bathroom, thus repairs may extend further than fixing tiles. Whoever comes up with the notion to add wallpaper in the bathroom was not thinking in my opinion.

Wallpaper is fragile, and when it is exposed to heat, moisture, and steam, it tends to deteriorate much faster than caulk on tiles. Some of the nicest looking bathrooms in homes are tiled walled and floored, and/or have a laminate flooring or wall that has sturdy materials.

Bathrooms with tiles or firm laminate walls and floors often clean better and will stand longer than wallpapered walls. Thus, if you are repairing your bathroom and it has wallpaper on the wall, then you may consider remodeling the entire wall area of the room.

Tips Bathrooms often have accessories. Bathrooms include towel hangers, toothbrush and soap dishes, and other lofty accessories. The accessories can make a bathroom look good, or else make it look bad. Thus, if you are improving your bathroom you may want to consider an entire make over. If you have broken accessories in the bathroom area, a few dollars will help you enhance the appeal of your bathroom.

A sophisticated carpenter may require that you have a pocket full of tools and materials to replace towel holders, or other accessories in the bathroom, but in most instances, a few tools and materials will suffice.

Repairing your home or else improving your home is an awarding experience. Our home makes a statement as to what type of person we are. Thus, when we take the time to take care of our home, we are telling others that we care about self and what others think about us.

For more information on home improvement, visit our article directory where a wealth of information is waiting for you to take the steps to improve your home without costing you a fortune.

About the Author

About the Author: Hans Hasselfors is the founder of http://www.SubmitYourNewArticle.com. Find varied home improvement bathroom articles in our article directory.
Kohler K-6070-ST Large bottom basin rack for left basin, Stainless Steel
Kohler K-6070-ST Large bottom basin rack for left basin, Stainless Steel Kohler K-6070-ST Large bottom basin rack for left basin, Stainless Steel Create a workstation for quick and easy sink tasks.Kohler K-6070-ST Large bottom basin rack for left basin, Stainless Steel Features: Turn on the Color: Kitchen & Bath Products (Interior Design) 1. HiRise […]