Choosing Between a Bathtub or Shower in a Small Bathroom

Bathtub or Shower

This is an important question when planning a bathroom remodel. If you have a small space, a bathtub/shower combination may be the answer.

For a number of years, bathtubs were almost out of vogue. Many homeowners with their busy lives opted to have a shower which could take care of their bathing needs in a short amount of time.

The trend is changing, and many homeowners are rethinking the shower only train of thought. A bathtub not only serves needs for cleanliness, but can be a very relaxing time for anyone who has a busy daily life. And, who these days is not very busy?

In a small bathroom where space is a very valuable comodity, there comes a time when a choice has to be made between a bath tub or a shower, because the size of the room will just not accomodate both. In many of these situations the prudent choice will be for a shower/bathtub combination.

In a home with very small children...read full article on bathtubs and showers

Laminate Wood Flooring For Longevity

Laminate wood flooring is an excellent choice for a floor with longevity. The appearance of a wood floor is one that a homeowner can look at for a very long time without tiring of it.

Laminates come in many wood tones from the lightest to very intense wood tones, so there is something for every taste and every decor choice.

The look of a wood floor adds warmth to a home, and it is a timeless product that does not suffer from the whims of style and change. Wood floors have been in style for generations and will continue to be popular for eons to come.

If the look of wood flooring is your preference, the wood laminate flooring is a very practical decision. Laminates, if properly installed, and of good quality will be very durable and easy to maintain. Unlike hardwood floors, they are easy to maintain and will hold up well to children and pets.

Laminates are also a good choice for bathroom flooring. Hardwood floors do not hold up well in moist areas, but a laminate with it's tough surface is the better selection if a wood floor is what you want in a bath.

Do be sure to tell your supplier you are installing the laminate in a bathroom. Some laminates are better than others for this type of application, and it is important to heed installation instruction to the max when installing in a bathroom. Read the warranty and make sure to fulfill what is called for in this type of installation, and you should have a floor to fulfill your needs and that you find pleasing for many years.

Selecting a Shower Stall

In many homes a bathtub does double duty as both a bathtub and a shower. This can be a good solution for a small bathroom as it conserves space while allowing you to choose between using the fixture as a shower or as a bathtub.

However, you may be thinking of updating or remodeling your bathroom and either making the choice to have only a shower, or you may have decided that adjusting your space will allow you to have two separate fixtures.

It is important to plan your space carefully. Measure carefully before you purchase new fixtures to be sure your bathroom will accommodate both a shower and a bathtub. Sometimes rearranging fixtures and changing placement in a bathroom can make better use of the space you have and actually make it seem roomier. Sometimes changing the placement of items in a small room is a good solution. It is much like moving the living room furniture. Different placement can sometimes open a small room up and make it more usable.

Once you have made the decision that your bathroom will accommodate what you want in fixtures and you have decided on what size will be workable it is time to shop.

If you are fortunate you will be able to find all you need in one place, but this is not always the case. Many of the large home improvement stores sell stand alone shower kits. If your home improvement center does not offer everything you need you may need to purchase separately from different sources. Some of the parts you will need are Read full article

Bathroom Faucets Can Add a Dramatic Look to Bathroom Decor

Since a vanity is such a focal point in a bathroom, the selection of the right faucet can add a very striking and dramatic look to your vanity.

Today there are many styles and finishes to choose from whether you want a vintage look or something more contemporary.

If you are installing a new faucet assembly to an existing sink then you will need to select the right type to fit whether it is a centerset, widespread or a wall mounted version.

If however you are installing a new sink, you can match up the faucet and sink of your choice.

Finish choices in bathroom faucets are very diverse including polished brass, polished nickel, aged pewter,venetian bronze, chrome, oil rubbed bronze, satin nickel and many more.

Faucets also come in centerset which is the spout and handles centered on a base as a single unit, widespread where handles and spout are installed separately, and wall mounted version that are generally used with the new vessel sinks. there are also faucets with a single lever type handle for both hot and cold water.

Some feature Old World charm while others have a very sleek and contemporary appearance. Spouts vary in reach and length from compact to the very far reaching longneck versions.

Whatever your style and finish preference, there are many attractive faucets to choose from.

Contemporary Tile Floor

A tile floor can be a real addition to any home. If you are in the process of remodeling a bathroom, tile could be a very good choice for flooring.

The look of a tile floor can take on most any decor style depending on your choice of tile and how it is installed.

If contemporary decor is your style preference you will find some tips for giving your ceramic tile floor the clean smooth look you desire.

Marble and Granite Bathroom Floors

Natural stone, such as marble and granite need special care. Water and a soft non-abrasive cloth can u sed for routine clean up, but general cleaners should not be used on these surfaces because they may cause etching or dulling. When more heavy duty cleaning is needed for marble , granite or other natural stone, care should be taken to get cleaners for this specific purpose, to clean but do no harm.

A household with children may not be the place for marble or granite unless...Read more about marble and granite floors.

Shower Curtains and Bath Decor

Shower curtains can add a touch of warmth to a room with many cold fixtures, and be the element that sets the tone for the overall decor.

They can also add a friendly element to a bathroom that is used mainly by children. Many children have a fear of the bathroom, and the addition of shower curtains featuring characters that they find a delight in will give the bathroom a more child friendly feel... Read more about shower curtains

Bathroom Remodeling and Decor Ideas

Bathroom remodeling and decor ideas are all around us if we just know where to look, and keep an open mind.

Bathroom remodeling, or updating our ideas in bathroom decor is a great way to add value to your home since it is the second most popular remodeling project for homes. Not only does it add money value to your home should you decide to sell in the future, but it is also a factor in how fast your home will sell since it is the second most looked at factor by most home buyers.
But unless you are currently considering selling your home, the most important thing to think about is how much it will add to your enjoyment in your home. Being a room in your home that is much used, updating decor and adding amenities by remodeling can add much pleasure to your daily life.

Appraise your current bathroom carefully:

Sometimes it is just hard to know where to start gathering ideas for either remodeling or updating the decor of your bathroom.

First decide whether you really need to remodel, or whether you just need to refresh the decor in your bath. Take a good long look at your bathroom. Sometimes it is easy to just want to throw the whole thing out and start fresh. But wait. If remodeling is what you have in mind, then give it a good look, and determine if there are fixtures or elements that could stay and reduce your remodeling budget.

For example: If your bathtub is in good condition, and you are planning to keep a tub in your bathroom, maybe just replacing those grubby looking shower doors with new ones would give it a whole new look and for less money and hassle than removing and replacing the tub.

What about the cabinets? If they are basically in good shape, but a little dated and doggy, then consider sanding them down, applying stain in a non wood color, and new hardware. Usually a new vanity top is needed after a number of years, because they get so much use, but if you can salvage the supporting cabinet, you've just saved some money.

Where to get ideas for bathroom remodeling and decor:

Start a folder where you can begin and continue to gather ideas for either remodeling of redecorating your bathroom.

Get out of your own head for a while and see what is available. We all get in ruts, and sometimes this can filter into our decor ideas. You are looking for something new, so find other sources for ideas besides the inside of your own head.

Many home improvement centers have model bathrooms and kitchens set up, and can provide a source for some new ideas.

Look at the bathrooms of friends or those in decorated model homes for ideas (just don't get caught up and buy a whole new house).

Go online and surf around and see what is offered in the way of decorating and remodeling your bathroom.

Decorating books can be good if they are current. Even better are periodicals because they are published frequently and reflect what is current in decorating themes. When checking periodicals don't limit yourself to just those featuring bathrooms, many ideas can be gained from living spaces.

When looking through periodicals consider decor elements in other living spaces besides the bathroom. This can be a mine field of ideas for color pallets, storage ideas, and accessories that can be incorporated into a luxury bath.

Tear out articles and pictures whether they have only one element that inspires an idea or several new ideas. Continue to gather ideas until you have a firm plan of action.

The Right Bathroom Flooring Choice

There is no one right choice for bathroom flooring. Every situation is going to be different depending on how busy your household is, the ages of the members of your household and your own personal preferences. Money, and how much you want to spend will also factor in to your choice.

Tile has always been a popular choice for a bathroom and for good reason. It is very durable, easy to clean and will hold up to moisture if installed correctly. The only downsides are that it is not as easy on the feet as other flooring, and if a very heavy object is dropped, it could crack.

Slate is becoming more popular all the time. Slate is a little more costly unless you install it yourself. Slate tiles are probably the best choice for a do-it-yourself project.

Marble floors are beautiful...Read more about bathroom flooring

Bathtub Refinishing

Tips on How to Reglaze a Bath Tub
By Claire Bowes

Bathtub not looking as good as it should? Are you stuck with one of those outdated colors of the 1970’s? With a few simple preparations and a lot of patience, you can learn how to reglaze a bathtub and save yourself the hassle of buying and installing a new tub.

Of course, you’ll want to make sure that you work safely. Since refinishing a bathtub involves chemicals, some of which are toxic, make sure that you ventilate the area well before beginning. Also, protect yourself with a ventilator, safety goggles and gloves. Once protected, gather your supplies and get going! Give your tub a cursory cleaning and remove any loose caulking and gaskets.

Most bathtub refinishing kits come with several chemicals. The first two are chemical cleaning solutions that will remove soaps and oils from the surface of the tub and prepare it for the primer. Most kits require you to clean the tub with the first solution, scrubbing the tub with sandpaper, usually 220 or 240 grit. Once the tub is thoroughly scrubbed, rinse away any residue.

The second cleaning solution is applied next, usually with a specially designed cleaning pad that also scores, or roughs, the surface of the tub. This second step removes any remaining oil or soap and also provides “grab” for the primer. Rinse the tub again and dry with an old towel or paper towels.

The third solution in the kit is a primer reducer, a solvent that removes any remaining residue and prepares the surface for the primer. Carefully apply the reducer with paper towels. After this, repair any damage to the tub’s surface and drain area with putty and allow to dry. After about 30 minutes, sand the repaired areas smooth with a fine grit sandpaper, clean with the primer reducer and dry.

It is time to mask the area around the bathtub that will not be refinished. Carefully apply tape and paper to the areas around the tub, burnishing any tape with your fingernail or a credit card to assure a good seal.

Next, you’ll apply the base coat to the tub. Remember to wear your respirator for this part of the process, and make sure that your area is properly ventilated. Following the manufacturer’s directions, mix the primer’s components exactly and use a spray gun to apply to the bathtub. Allow the primer to dry for at least 30 minutes before applying the top coat.
Mix the paint for the topcoat following manufacturer’s instructions. Apply the topcoat using the spray gun with even strokes. This topcoat will take about 48-72 hours to completely cure. Reglazing your bathtub can be a cost effective way to dramatically update your bathroom!
Claire Bowes is a successful Webmaster and publisher of bathtub refinishing. Claire provides more information on her site about bathtub refinishing and designs.

Find other information about bathtubs, and how to select a bathtub.

Bathtubs-Back In Style

Bathtubs have enjoyed a lengthy history in one form or another. We think of bathtubs as a fairly new invention in relation to human history, but if you dig a little you can find many references to bathing in one type of vessel or another back though thousands of years.

It is true that bathing as it is enjoyed in these modern times is much different than in the past. At one time, when water had to be heated and added to a bath by hand, a bath was a real and infrequent luxury.

In more recent history when bath water was heated in a water tank heated by a cook stove, hot water was a sometimes thing, and a weekly bath was considered quite sufficient.
As bathrooms moved indoors and included furnishings for ....Read more about bathtubs

Bathroom Remodeling-Shower Stall

Selecting a Shower Stall

In many homes a bathtub does double duty as both a bathtub and a shower. This can be a good solution for a small bathroom as it conserves space while allowing you to choose between using the fixture as a shower or as a bathtub.

However, you may be thinking of updating or remodeling your bathroom and either making the choice to have only a shower, or you may have decided that adjusting your space will allow you to have two separate fixtures.

It is important to plan your space carefully. Measure carefully before you purchase new fixtures to be sure your bathroom will accommodate both a shower and a bathtub. Sometimes rearranging fixtures and changing placement in a bathroom can make better use of the space you have and actually make it seem roomier. Sometimes changing the placement of items in a small room is a good solution. It is much like moving the living room furniture. Different placement can sometimes open a small room up and make it more usable.

Once you have made the decision that your bathroom will accommodate what you want in fixtures and you have decided on what size will be workable it is time to shop.

If you are fortunate you will be able to find all you need in one place, but this is not always the case.....Read more about selecting a shower stall

Ceramic Tile Floor with a Contemporary Feel

Ceramic Tile Floor with a Contemporary Feel

If you love the look of ceramic tile it can be a great choice for a bathroom floor. Ceramic tile will raise the value and selling appeal of your home if you should decide to sell in the future.

Take some time before selecting tile. Think about the colors you find yourself usually including in your decor. Recognize that whatever the color of your bathroom is now, it will probably go through some color changes in the future. Since tile is a long wearing flooring which is not likely ever to go out of style, this floor will be with you far into the future. Choose your color and pattern with future changes in mind.

To give your tile a more contemporary smoother look Read more about tile floors with a more contemporary look.

Installing a Tile Bathroom Floor

Tile Bathroom Floors

Tile can be a very good choice for a bathroom, and if you install it yourself, you can save a lot of money.

Tile has many good features:

1. It is very durable.
2. Tile is easy to clean.
3. Tile is classic, and won't go out of style.
4. Tile is not that expensive, when you consider how long it will last and remain looking good.

Do some comparison shopping before you take the plunge. There are many sizes, patterns, and colors to choose from. Since tile is a floor covering that will last many years, you want to choose a style and color that won't wear out it's welcome.

Installing tile is not difficult, if you plan, educate yourself, and have the right tools and supplies in place before you start the installation.

Nostalgic clawfoot Tubs

For Classic Style, Go For A Clawfoot Tub By: jerrybrecken

Clawfoot bathtubs have a unique, instantly recognizable style. You've seen them - they look old-fashioned with smooth rolled rims, resting on four legs with the "feet" resembling claws. We will examine these tubs, related styles such as pedestal bathtubs and the major brands making them.

The original clawfoot tubs, made of cast iron with a porcelain finish, started becoming popular in the mid 1800's. European style clawfoot tubs typically have wall-mounted hardware and faucets, while the American style mounts the hardware on the tub itself.There are two main hardware mount styles: the American style has the hardware and faucets on the bathtub, while the European mounts them on the wall.

While the original cast iron style is very solid, more modern materials like acrylic give you the same great look, but they make the tub lighter and easier to maintain.

Some have a slanted back, which makes it very easy to ease back and enjoy the soaking comfort.* On the other hand, a slipper bathtub has a high back.* Pedestal tubs have the same features, except that they rest on a pedestal, or platform, instead of feet. They truly have an elegant style.

Clawfoot and pedestal bath tubs are freestanding, and thus are relatively easy to install, since no carpentry or masonry has to be done, and the exposed pipes make maintenance and repair easy.

Here are the top brands to look at:

Barclay Products designs Victorian style clawfoot tubs made from both cast iron and acrylic, but with very modern accessories. Barclay combines the best of the old and the new in their products.

Cheviot bathtubs is another top maker of clawfoot and pedestal bathtubs, with styles like the Traditional Roll Top and Slipper Bath Tubs.

Vintage Tub and Bath is an online retailer whose main focus, in fact, is selling these classic styles of tubs.
A beautiful old-fashioned Victorian clawfoot tub can give a classy touch to your bathroom.

Jerry Brecken writes for Bathtubs For You, a consumer guide to helping you select, buy and maintain bathtubs, covering styles such as clawfoot tubs and pedestal bathtubs, and brands such as Barclay Tubs.

How A Bathroom Remodel Will Benefit You

If you are thinking about a bathroom remodel, you may be wondering just how it will be of benefit to you and to your home. Bathroom remodeling is one of the more costly home improvement projects and you want to think it through carefully and get the most you can from it.

Remodeling your bathroom can greatly increase the value of your home, especially if it has been a number of years since anything substantial was done to your bathroom. While you may have no immediate plans to sell your home, in this day and time, few homeowners stay in any one home for long....More benefits of bathroom remodeling

Installing a Tile Floor In Your Bathroom

Installing Ceramic Tile on a Dime

Ceramic tile is a wonderful addition to any home, and installing this as a flooring material, on countertops or in shower stalls can raise your home's value substantially. Not to mention the enjoyment and pride it gives to you, the homeowner.

If you love the look of tile floors, but have priced the installation cost, then have you thought of .....Read More

Bathroom Remodeling cost

Cost for a do-it-yourself bathroom remodel is estimated to be between $5,000 and $12,000. This figure can vary greatly depending on how extensive the bathroom remodel will be and many of the choices that are made in materials and fixtures.

Before setting up a budget or taking out a loan for a bathroom remodel refine the amount you really need to get a close estimate of your financial needs.

This is best done by doing a lot of research, comparison shopping, and drawing up at least a rough plan of just what you want to do in terms of remodeling your bathroom.

Bathroom remodeling cost can often be trimmed by making trade offs in your choices of fixtures and materials, and also by saving and using whatever you can from your current bathroom.

Planning a Bathroom Remodel

Before getting too far into the process of planning a bathroom remodel you need to do an assessment of what you already have.

Each bathroom remodel is different. In some cases you will need to just gut the bathroom and begin again from scratch. Other situations are not nearly as serious, and perhaps only a partial remodel and update will be necessary.

If the latter is true, a bathroom remodeling project can be accomplished at a greatly reduced cost and still provide a shiny new bathroom space within your household.

Take a good look at your current bathroom and see what can be reclaimed and possibly reduce your bathroom remodeling cost.

Bathroom Electrical and Wiring

When beginning a bathroom remodel it is wise to take stock of your electrical and wiring needs. Many times older bathrooms are not well equipped with outlets where they are most needed.

In addition to the outlets you should consider if you are updating the lighting, or possibly adding an efficient ventilating fan if your wiring is up to the task. While you already have the bathroom in a state of disarray you might as well address the wiring and electrical needs for your new bathroom.

Diverse Styles in Bathroom Showers

Bathrooms are high on the list of home improvement priorities for the homeowner of today. Bathrooms and kitchens top the list of remodeling and home improvement projects.

These are the two most scrutinized rooms for new home buyers, so remodeling not only adds to the level of comfort and convenience for the current owners, but it makes their home more valuable and likely to sell quicker should they decide to sell in the future.

With all the available choices today, a bathroom can definately become one of the most favored rooms in the home, and often a place of retreat and rejuvination.

Just taking a look at all the available choices in bathroom showers can spark a lot of remodeling ideas. It goes without saying, that the more ample your budget, the more choices you have.

The showers of today can be equipped with sound systems, phones, jet massage, steam and more. Styling is also very diverse. Showers have reached beyond the square little box in the corner.

Although showers do still come in the square version, there are many corner showers that offer a wide diversity in shape and size. For those with a larger bathroom, there is even a round shower that can sit out in the center of the room. One of these has a round, deep china base with the plumbing coming up through the floor and a pleated watertight screen.

There is also an elongated bath/shower combination. The tub is square where it meets the wall, and rounded on the exposed side. When it gets about two thirds toward the end it bubbles out a bit wider and features a shower which is mostly glass and open to extend the bathing area when taking a bath. This makes for a very attractive and updated look.

If you are considering a bathroom remodel be sure and do some extensive window shopping so you are aware of all the possibilities available.

Decorating a Small Bathroom

Decorating a small bathroom can be a real challenge. The best advice is to adhere to the less is more theory.
Good light can make a small bathroom seem roomier whether it is natural light or light from a window. Getting light into a bathroom is another challenge because of the privacy factor. One idea is rather than using a blind or curtain for a window covering, use an alternate method to let in light while providing much needed privacy.
Most home improvement centers stock film that can be added to a window that gives a stained glass effect. this allows light to come through while giving privacy. There are different designs, many of them light and airy.
Check out your local home improvement center and see if this could be a solution to admiting more light into your bathroom while still addressing the privacy issue.
This will have the added benefit of taking up less space in your bathroom. Everything that protrudes into the room, including a curtain, takes up both physical and visual space.

Give Your Bathroom A Minor Tune-up

If your bathroom doesn't need a full or partial remodeling at this time, or if you just can't work it into your budget right now, think about a minor tune-up.

Maybe your bathroom just needs a new paint job. Paint is a very inexpensive way to spruce up a dingy bath.

Make sure the walls are clean. Primer first. This will not only make the paint last longer and hold better, but it will help to get a smooth, even all over look.

Look at the elements in your bathroom that cannot change right now. Try choosing a new color for a change of pace. Select something new, but that will co-ordinate with the unchanging elements. Try a vibrant color scheme for a change. It's only paint, if you don't like it after a month or two, change it.

Do remember that paint is sometimes like coloring your hair. When you make a major change the first few days of getting accustomed to the change can be somewhat of a shock. Then after you settle in, you may decide it is just the change you needed.

Making some inexpensive changes in a bathroom can make the wait more pleasant if you are working toward a time when you can plan and finance a full bathroom remodeling project.

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