Why remodel a bathroom?
Remodeling a bathroom is very much like renovating a kitchen, as the bathroom is a key part of the home. Old homes have bathrooms rarely larger than 5 feet by 8 feet. Investing in older homes can be tricky if it is grade 2 listed or it has tricky or awkward spaces. Lower ceilings and beams may result in bespoke showering areas at reduced widths and a more compact bathroom suite. The reason people choose to remodel a bathroom is largely due to the fact it will increase the resale value of the property. If the location of the bathroom is the same this will help the process as pipework etc will already be in situ to work with. Any radical changes to the layout will have to be considered carefully if it involves any large structural changes.
The cost of a bathroom remodel
Remodeling a bathroom can be costly and one of the more expensive projects you will ever do. This largely depends on the amount of work you wish to carry out and the budget in which you work too. A complete bathroom remodel project will cost around the same as a small car, if not more depending on personal preferences. If money is an issue you can always update the bathroom with new faucets and accessories to update a traditional design. Hiring a contractor for larger design projects can increase the overall cost, so take this into consideration. The best steps when finding a reliable plumber/contractor is too listen to friends and family’s recommendations. Always ask for samples of there work so you can see their workmanship.
First Step – Clean and Unclutter
Before anything the best option is to have a good sort through the bathroom. Clean the bathroom and rid yourself of any clutter and tired elements of the bathroom design. This will give you a clear definition in your mind of what you want to achieve. Consider the best storage solutions in the bathroom especially if you have plenty of toiletries and a small space.
Energy Efficiency
Traditional homes which have not been modernised in any way are not as energy efficient as newer builds. A bathroom remodeling project enables you to add all those energy efficient measures like lighting, windows and ventilation fans. Larger bathroom projects may result in opening walls which will give the opportunity to add insulation and air sealing materials which will benefit the whole house. Bathroom suites that offer pop up wastes and water saving features will create a more eco-friendly bathroom design.
Research the options
If it is a large remodeling project consulting with professionals may help you to realise the bathrooms full potential and how you can maximize the available space. The internet is a valuable tool so use it to gain design ideas and prices.
WDBathrooms
Archive for the ‘Bathroom’ Category
D.I.Y Bathroom remodeling in older homes
Saturday, July 3rd, 2010Bathroom Ensuite Design
Saturday, July 3rd, 2010A single bathroom just isn’t enough for many families in today’s households. Gone are the days of our grandparents using the outside loo and sharing their bath times. No longer do larger families have to put up with arguments over the one bathroom. Ensuites are great investments that don’t necessarily need an extension although it may encroach on valuable living space. Designing an ensuite to add into a bedroom may result in less room but the rewards are far greater.
Creating an ensuite doesn’t need to be a stressful project as long as the planning is correct right from the early stages. If adding an ensuite onto an existing bedroom make sure the two rooms are coherent to make it work successfully. An ensuite isn’t meant to be as large as the main bathroom so think of products that will fit nicely into a compact space. Many ensuites tend to be a square design as they are usually built into a corner of an existing room. If you want a bath as well in the ensuite consider the dimensions of the bath carefully as a standard 1700mm x 700mm may be too big. Smaller baths are available on the market so shop around, don’t just squeeze any bath in and spoil the design. Bathroom Manufacturers are now creating smaller sizes in every product in order to make them work in compact bathrooms. Water pressure may be another point to consider as your ensuite may be higher than the hot water tank in your home. If this is the case then it may mean moving the existing tank or installing a pump system. If you are not sure about the plumbing of your new ensuite consult a professional. As with any bathroom ventilation is important but more so when installing an ensuite. This is because the ensuites are usually built against internal walls rather than external, so a duct must be installed. Newly built houses commonly have an ensuite leading from the bedroom or alternative room. If you have an existing property and wish to add an ensuite, the possibilities are there if you have enough space and imagination. At the very early stages consult a professional who will be able to advice you of plumbing issues that may need to be considered. Start as you mean to go on so plan and consider every eventuality, this way it will be a smooth process for everyone.
Calling All Busy Mums! Quick Cleaning Tips for Your Bathroom
Thursday, June 3rd, 2010
Hard Water Stains on the Bathtub : Use Vinegar and Baking Soda to get rid of all marks. Don’t use on fibreglass bath tubs, it works a treat on cast iron and porcelain bath tubs!
Cleaning Chrome in your bathroom: Use that left over baby oil to wipe away that entire residue with a clean cloth it works wonders, nice and sparkly once more!
Shower Tray not draining correctly : Invest in a Vortex shower waste to reach the trap in next to no time removing any unwanted hair in seconds.
Shower Head Cleaning : To cure this common problem then soak the head in hot vinegar, leaving it to soak for 12 – 14 hours. Afterwards rinse it under some hot water giving it a thorough clean.
Get rid of moisture : A good way of ridding your bathroom of all moisture is too hide away charcoal ridding your home of nasty smells and odours.
Toilet Cleaning : Pour white vinegar into the pan and leave for one hour, after give your toilet a good wipe and flushing away. Simple.
Shower Enclosure Water Marks : A shower blade can be an eco – friendly way to rid of all streaks and marks. A quick wipe can be a great alternative to spending hours scrubbing away.
Avoid Bathroom Mat Mess : After every bath time hang your mat in a dry and high place to keep it clean and ready for the next bath time.
Baking Soda : is a great way to save those pennies on expensive cleaning products and can be used on all sorts of bathroom items.
Get everyone involved: What better way to get a job done? Get the whole family involved in the cleaning of your bathroom, quick and efficient team work to make your bathroom shine!