Bathroom remodeling: the first five things you must do
(BPT) - So you've decided it's time to remodel your bathroom. Whether you're excited at the idea of creating a new look that will add value to your home, or simply relieved that you'll no longer have to look at dated fixtures and cracked tile, you'll be facing a lot of decisions about materials, colors, fixtures, flooring and more. The options are vast, and you may wonder: What is the best way to get started?
"Whether you're creating a new master suite, refreshing a powder room, or building a new home, it's an exciting time to contemplate a beautiful new space," says Gray Uhl,-director of brand education for American Standard. "Shopping for fabulous new bathroom products is a highlight of the experience, but it can get a little overwhelming."
Bathrooms continue to be a remodeling priority for many homeowners. The average mid-range bathroom remodel costs $15,782 and returns more than 65 percent of that investment at the time of resale, according to Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value Report. An upscale bathroom remodeling project costs about $50,000 and returns more than 58 percent when you sell. Doing some or all of the work yourself can save thousands in labor charges - money you can put into choosing the best materials - as long as you know how to do it correctly.
In a free e-book, "The How to Buy Guide for the Bathroom," American Standard offers information on everything from how to get started to how to choose the toilet shape that's right for your space and lifestyle. The guide says homeowners should begin by considering five key points:
1. Consider how you will use the space and allow it to guide your renovation plans. Do you want your bathroom to be a spa-like retreat for the masters of the house? Or is it more important that the room be able to handle more intense use from the whole family? Gather input from everyone who will use the room, and evaluate what's already present that works - and what doesn't.
2. Will you hire a professional or attempt to do the job yourself? While DIYers may save on labor costs, professional designers and licensed contractors may be better able to help you maximize your space and stay on budget. Ultimately, hiring professionals may save you time and money.
3. Measure - everything! Nothing's worse than falling in love with a vanity or jetted tub only to find neither fits in the space you have for it. Before you begin shopping, determine how much space your bathroom has for key fixtures such as the sink, toilet, shower and furniture. And mentioning tubs - be sure the one you choose will fit through the bathroom door before you buy it.
4. Get educated before heading to the store or showroom. Compare products and prices and check out product reviews. Decide what materials to look for and identify how you want installations to be done.
5. Set a budget and establish priorities. A professional can help you best determine how to achieve your objectives within the framework of your budget. Remember to allow yourself a budget cushion in case surprises crop up during the process - and they almost always do.
For more ideas and information on shopping for bathroom renovation products, download the free e-book at www.americanstandard-us.com/promotions/ebook.
Bathroom Design
Three weekend-friendly DIY bathroom upgrades
(BPT) - How much time do you spend in the bathroom each day? Whether it's where you prep the kids for bed or step away for some alone time, the bathroom is one of the most frequently used rooms in the home. It's also one of the best areas in which to invest; renovating or simply updating this space can lead to a 62 percent return on investment.
Luckily, making upgrades doesn't have to require a lot of time or money. Follow these simple DIY steps to improve your space on a pocket-friendly budget in just a weekend or less.
Swap your showerhead
Make bath time more enjoyable by replacing your basic
builder-grade showerhead with one that's designed with
the whole family in mind. For less than the price of a day
at the spa, you can transform your entire shower experience
with an In2ition two-in-one shower from Delta Faucet.
Featuring H2Okinetic technology, this shower manipulates the
flow of water for a luxurious bathing experience that feels like
you're getting more water than a standard shower, without
actually using more. The embedded hand shower, which can be
used simultaneously or separately from the showerhead, makes
it easy to accomplish everyday tasks, such as bathing children or
washing pets. Plus, it's easy to install. The In2ition simply threads
onto your existing shower arm - no behind-the-wall work required. It is perfect for busy families or home renters who want to enhance their shower experience.
Pick out new paint
Paint is a cost-effective way to transform your room. Pick colors that express the feeling of the space, whether you want it to seem soothing and calm or lively and welcoming. Rich grays and navy blues can serve as a nice neutral in either case when punctuated with colorful accents, like patterned shower curtains and bright soap pumps or toned down with earthy accessories, like bamboo bath mats and beeswax candles. A quick tip: when working with lighter tones, carry your wall color onto your bathroom's ceiling to help make the space feel larger.
Also, be sure to think beyond just walls. Painting cabinets can help make an outdated bathroom look new again. Choose neutral hues, like cream or charcoal, that work with nearly any color scheme.
Change your toilet
According to a recent survey commissioned by Delta Faucet, the average American's toilet is used for more than just "going." Rather, people are spending their time on the pot checking emails, posting updates or surfing the Web. If your toilet is outdated, consider switching it out for one that's more comfortable and efficient.
Delta toilets, available at The Home Depot, are offered in round and elongated shapes and come in chair height dimensions for a comfortable fit. Included pre-installed tank-to-bowl connections promote easy installation, making them an affordable weekend update.
Most importantly, says expert craftsman Chip Wade, host of the HGTV show, Elbow Room, and Delta spokesperson, when it comes to making bathroom improvements on a budget, consider function before form.
"While decorative accents, like sconces and ceramic cabinet knobs, may be beautiful, it is more important to concentrate your money on the items required to perform a task, like your faucet or toilet, by investing in materials that will withstand the wear of everyday use."
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Choose quality over quantity to create the bathroom of your dreams
(BPT) - While your dream bath may be a sprawling space, the reality is that the typical bathroom is 100 square feet or less. According to recent home builder statistics, the average home size has seen a 6 percent decline in recent years. That doesn't mean you need to give up on your dream bath. A large bathroom footprint isn't always the answer to a better bath. Focusing on quality products can create a luxurious look, even in a small space.
Free up floor and counter space
You may not be able to create more space but there are many ways to create the illusion of more space. Adding a pedestal sink or a furniture-style vanity with legs gives an increased line of sight, making the space appear larger. Similarly, clutter takes up valuable space. One way to free up extra room on the countertop is with a single-handle or wall-mount faucet. Doors can also make a room feel constrained. Rather than a traditional swing or hinged door, opt for pocket doors; which frees up approximately 10 square feet of floor space.
Focus on fabulous fixtures
We all need storage in the bath, but don't limit yourself to the horizontal surfaces. Make the most of your vertical space by adding bath accessories, as well.
"When updating the bathroom, many homeowners take inspiration from upscale hotels," says Tim Bitterman, director of marketing and new product development, Moen Accessories. "Moen offers a variety of unique 'hotel-style' accessories to add functionality and enhance the style of your bath."
Adding a hotel shelf, which combines a towel bar with a shelf, offers an excellent storage spot for towels. A wall-mount hair dryer holder, a pivoting wall-mount makeup mirror, a curved shower rod and robe hooks are all excellent hotel-inspired accessory options.
Dominate with dual-function
Dual-function products are perfect for smaller baths because they offer added benefits without taking up more space. Update your toilet paper holder, towel bar and in-shower shelves with newer versions that integrate a grab bar. Moen Home Care offers stylish grab bar designs featuring a paper holder, a towel bar and two shelf designs; all in a variety of finishes to help you update these bathroom basics while adding storage, safety and style.
Swap soaking for a sensational shower
Sixty-three percent of Americans shower at least once a day. Since we tend to shower more than soak, creating one sensational showering space and possibly eliminating the tub, is a wise use of surface area. For an easy upgrade, swap your showerhead with a new, high-quality model. Or, for a more luxurious remodel, install a vertical spa complete with components like body sprays and a hand shower on a single wall.
And, no matter how large or small your shower, there's always room to add seating, which increases safety and ease while shaving and washing. The fold-down teak seat from Moen Home Care is a great option since it features a unique wall-mount design that folds down for a comfortable and secure shower seat to avoid slips and falls. When not in use, it folds up to a thin, compact profile.
It's all smoke (and light) and mirrors
There are more benefits to mirrors in a bathroom other than a place to check your hair and make-up. They can actually make a room appear twice as large as the actual size. In addition to your vanity mirror, consider hanging a full-length mirror on a door. Similarly, bringing in more light will open up the space and make your bathroom come to life. A skylight is a unique addition, since it utilizes the often unused ceiling space. Lighting fixtures are also an ideal way to brighten the space, but don't settle for boring basics. Try more stylish options, like sconces, which can add a more designer, upscale feel.
Remember to shop for quality over quantity when updating your bath and soon you'll enjoy the serenity of a stylish and organized space. For more information, visit moen.com or call 800-BUY-MOEN (800-289-6636).