Creating a Bathroom Shower Built for Two

December 7th, 2012 Posted in Bathroom Remodeling
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One the more popular features in many new master baths is the shower built for two. These spacious showers offer showerheads and controls on two opposite walls, allowing two people to comfortably shower at the same time. When both of you are trying to get ready to leave the house at the same time, having the ability to both take a shower at the same time can be a real time saver.

Having a dual shower in the master bath, means that you also have the convenience of not leaving the master suite to shower in the main bathroom or guest bathroom, which may be needed by other members of the family or your guests. It also allows for his and hers shower toiletries to be separated to their respective ends of the shower, instead of all being crammed into one shower caddy.

When you’re designing the shower space, be sure to leave plenty of room for movement within the shower, so that the two individuals aren’t bumping into each other as they shower. Built-in shelves on each side of the shower for the shower toiletries is also a good choice.

If the shower area is large enough, some couples design the shower to incorporate a large overhead rain showerhead in the center of the shower for those times when you’re seeking a more relaxing shower experience. Adding a built-in seat or bench to the shower can make it much easier for the lady who shaves her legs in the shower.

Your  plumber can help you design and install a dual shower for your new home or for a bathroom remodeling project.   Convenience and comfortable enjoyment are the two main reasons people give for choosing to include a shower built for two in their master bath design.

 

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Choosing the Right Faucet for Your Shower

November 20th, 2012 Posted in Bathroom Remodeling
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If you are upgrading your bathroom or are in the process of bathroom remodeling, you will want to pay special attention to the fixtures since they can add to the design of the room or just look out of place.  Besides the design, you will have to think about function with the shower faucet.  Here are some tips to help you decide on the right shower faucet for your new bathroom.

The Finish

You have several finishes to choose from with the fixtures.  Besides the traditional chrome or stainless steel, you also have bronze, nickel, and brass.  Select one that will fit in with the rest of your décor; also look for high-end options to prevent scratches.

The Water Flow

No longer do you have to get that unpleasant burst of cold water in the middle of your shower.  Today’s faucet has controls that affect both the water flow and the temperature for a more precise, comfortable shower.  Another benefit is that they often have scald protection for safety with children or the elderly.  You can also purchase an energy efficient low flow shower head and faucet that uses less water and will save you money on your water bill and on your energy bill.

Other Options

You can choose from a fixed showerhead or one that is hand-held.  The hand-held kind can also function as a fixed head with the option to hold for bathing children.  Another decision is if you want one control for hot and cold water or two.  This is a personal decision as to which you prefer.

When you select a shower faucet, you need to know what size to buy to fit your current pipes.  Installation of a new shower faucet is usually beyond the skills of the homeowner.   For best results, ask your plumber to help you with your selection and to install the faucet for you.

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Jetted Tubs: Air Jets Vs. Water Jets

November 7th, 2012 Posted in Bathroom Remodeling
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Nothing beats climbing into a hot bathtub that has pulsating water to soothe away the stress of the day. Both air and water jetted tubs can give you wonderful massaging benefits, but there is a big difference in how they work and need to be maintained.  

Air Jets

The air jet tubs are a great option for families with small children and for those who want a tub with less maintenance. Although they do not give as vigorous of a massage and can be noisier than their water jet counterparts, they do have other benefits. 

  • Less maintenance. Air jets do not need extra cleaning as often, as they come with an automatic blow dry function that removes moisture.
  • Safety. Air jets do not use suction so small toys and even your hair will not get pulled into the system. You can also have a small amount of water in the tub and not worry about damage to the system if you need it to bathe a small child.
  • Bath Oils. You can use bath oils and salts with most air jet tubs. 

Water Jets

For adults that want a deeper massage, water jets are the way to go. However, there are some drawbacks. They do need to be cleaned every two to three weeks with a jet cleaner and you cannot use bath oils or salts with these tubs. They also use suction, which can pull small items into their system. But they do have some great benefits: 

  • Hydrotherapy. These are the types of tubs that would be used in hydrotherapy by a physical therapist, making them wonderful if you have regular aches and pains.
  • Quiet time. Water jet tubs are not as noisy and have less splashing then air jets, making it a more relaxing experience. 

Once you decide on the tub that is the best option for your home, a professional plumber can help you with your bathroom remodeling and install the tub for you. Then get out your rubber ducky and enjoy your water massage!

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Replacing a Tub with a Walk-in Shower

October 16th, 2012 Posted in Bathroom Remodeling
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Some homeowners like to update their bathrooms and replace a tub they no longer use with a spa shower that they will appreciate.  They may think about selling their home and want to add to the home’s value or a spa shower may simply appeal to them.

If your bathroom remodeling project includes a spa shower, keep in mind a few things.  First, you will want to use a glass panel instead of a solid wall if you have a small to medium size bathroom.  This will allow the room to look bigger even with the addition of a shower.

It is also recommended that you skip the shower door and leave one end open to also make the room seem bigger unless you plan to install a steam generator.  Using the same tiles in the shower that are on the floor of the rest of the bathroom will extend the room into the shower.

The finishing touches are important, too with high-end fixtures and a rain showerhead adding a unique touch to the new shower.

If you decide to renovate your bath area, you do not need to call a general contractor to do the work.  You can hire your local plumber to remove your old tub and install the new shower.  They can even advise you on the best designs and ensure you get the right size for your room.  Whether you are adding a touch of luxury to your space or getting your home ready to sell, a spa shower can be the perfect addition to your bathroom.

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Low Flow vs. WaterSense

June 14th, 2012 Posted in Bathroom Remodeling
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If you have been shopping for new plumbing fixtures for your bathroom remodeling, you may have noticed the WaterSense label on many faucets, toilets, showerheads, and other bathroom fixtures.  If you assumed that WaterSense products were water efficient products, you were right!  But there is more to the WaterSense label than just water conservation.

Since the 1990s, government regulations have set standards for water usage for a wide variety of plumbing fixtures and other products.  Most homeowners are familiar with low flow toilets, showerheads, and other fixtures.  Many of these fixtures earned a well-deserved reputation for poor performance.  Low flow toilets in particular earned the ire of homeowners because they performed so poorly that they often had to be flushed twice which defeated the purpose of a low flow toilet in the first place.

Since then, plumbing fixture manufacturers have redesigned their products to meet federal standards while performing far better than older low-flow products.  To encourage manufacturers to take it to the next level, the WaterSense program was developed.  Before it can display the WaterSense label, the product must be certified to perform as well as its counterparts while using 20 percent less water.

What this means for consumers is that they can enjoy even greater water efficiency without sacrificing performance.  WaterSense products are tested by independent third party labs so consumers can depend on the results and easily identify high-performing water efficient products.

The WaterSense program includes faucets, showerheads, and toilets.  It also includes controllers for irrigation systems and plans are in place to add other products such as water softeners.  For the best combination of performance and conservation, look for the WaterSense label.

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