Friday, April 30, 2010

Plumbing - Leaky Faucet

Though leaky faucets are not as serious a problem as leaky toilets, it can waste a significant amount of water as well as cost you money. Leaky faucets are caused by old gaskets or O-rings and corroded valve seats. If you are planning to conduct a faucet repair, make sure you take along the faucet parts when going to buy the replacements. If you do not know how to fix a leaky faucet, then getting a plumbing specialist to do it for you is a good way to go as they can provide you complete faucet repair services on very affordable prices.

There are several types of faucets from compression ceramic disk faucets, rotary ball faucets and cartridge faucets as well as two handle tub faucets. Services on faucet repairs include fixing leaky pipes, repairs the sinks and installing water lines. Plumbing specialist can correctly identify and diagnose just about any leak on any type of faucets. Sure there are DIY guides on tackling faucet repair, but isn't it better to get the job done by a professional? While sometimes it really is as simple as replacing a worn washer, the problem is frequently more complicated than that. A faucet leak can be because of other reasons and professionals will be able to efficiently identify the cause of the problem and replace the malfunctioning part.

If you bought faucets and bathroom fixtures and plumbing from a certain company or brand, it is best to call the customer support services to get your faucets fixed. If it is still under warranty, you can get your faucets fixed with no cost or minimum payment as possible. Also, the faucets will be fixed with the correct replacement parts from that company itself. If you plan on repairing and replacing by yourself, make sure that you have a little bit of knowledge concerning this area as you do not want your faucet to be leaking again after some time. This will only waste time and energy spent on repairing it yourself.

Thursday, April 29, 2010

Cast Iron Soaking Tubs Are Pure Bathing Luxury

For many of us, cast iron soaking tubs are a holdover to Victorian Era luxury. The first enameled cast iron tubs were developed in 1883. Developing the process that allowed enamel to adhere to the cast iron was a big step toward the tubs acceptance. Prior to that, tubs were mainly made from wood or sheet metal.

Cast iron tubs are made in several different configurations. Probably most familiar, especially to those of a certain age, are claw foot tubs. This is a tub that has a leg at each corner. The part of the leg that contacts the floor looks like a clawed foot clutching a ball. It's fairly common for this type of tub to have a rolled rim. Some of them will also have what's referred to as a slipper back. This makes it easier to slightly recline in the tub.

The most contemporary models still tend to be a rectangular type of shape. Even though cast iron is molded, much like an acrylic or fiberglass tub, you rarely see any other type of shape. These tubs are only available as soakers. That means that you can't find them in with air or water jets or with a whirlpool. This is probably due to how hard it would be to mold the holes for the jets or how hard it would be to cut them after the tub is molded.

The enamel that covers cast iron tubs has been one of the things that has made them popular. The enameling process creates a surface that is very low maintenance. It's also a material that doesn't scratch, dent, or crack easily. If it does become scratched or damaged, it's relatively easy to repair. Another attractive quality to cast iron is that it retains heat well. This helps keep the bath water hot. Their low maintenance is also a real plus. The most basic way to clean the tub is a little soap on a rag.

Cast iron tubs do have some disadvantages when compared to other types of tub materials. The first and foremost is that they're extremely heavy. They typically weigh 350-400lbs. In comparison, an acrylic tub of similar size will weigh 80-100 lbs. Because of their weight, it's important to know how much weight the floor where you're going to place the tub can handle. The size of your water heater may be a factor as well. A typical 30 or 40 gallon water heater may not be big enough for a large tub.

After weighing the pros and cons of cast iron soaking tubs, you may find that one of them is your best choice.

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Plumber in North Hollywood, Ca 818-341-5804

Looking for a Plumber in North Hollywood, Ca? Need a water heater in North Hollywood, Ca? Weshow up on time, fix it right, clean up, and we guarantee our work. Whether you are having a plumbing emergency or you are just looking for a new plumber, give us a try. We can repair that old water heater or install a new energy efficient tankless water heater. Does your toilet or sink have a slow drain or do you have dirty water coming up in your kitchen sink or shower? We can repair that too. Do you need rooter service or a clean out installed. We carry a safe foaming root killer to control tree roots. Is water coming up through your floor? Maybe you need leak detection. We have top of the line equipment for electronic leak location and slab leak repair. Maybe you want to install a new shower valve or put a new handle on the old valve, or just get a new showerhead.If you want to replace your kitchen faucet or bathroom faucet or maybe get a new lifetime warranty garbage disposal. Is your water pressure safe? We can check your water pressure and install a water pressure regulator if needed. And if you want to save money on you water and water heating bill we can install an ladwp submeter or a pump to deliver hot water to your kitchen or bathroom without wasting water, time or money

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

A Brief Look at the New Eco Toilets - Part II

In part I of this 2-part series, I talked about the reason why there was a recent surge of interest on the part of toilet manufacturers in producing so-called "eco toilets". Basically, this was sparked by a 1992 law that stated that a toilet was required to use less than 1.6 gallons of water for flushing.

In the first article, I gave a brief explanation of some of the types of eco toilets that were introduced in response to the law. The toilets mentioned were only the varieties that still use water for flushing. However, there are more radical toilet designs that use little or no water at all.

A compost toilet compacts and dehydrates solid waste, and turns it into compost. This can safely be used as a fertilizer for home gardens.

The urine-separating toilet is a modification of the compost toilet which separates liquid and solid waste. This allows the urine, which is rich in nutrients, to be used directly as fertilizer.

An incinerating toilet allows all waste material to drop into a holding tank, where is it burned up immediately. ( There are safeguards to ensure that the incinerator does not cause any personal injury. ) This process, however, renders the residue useless as a fertilizer.

The biological toilet, or biolet adds a small amount of water to the waste, which is then slowly passed through a bacteria-containing substance. This decomposes the waste matter into non-toxic substances. At the present time, this type of toilet is quite expensive, so it is not very widely used in the United States.

Squat toilets, just as the name suggests, require the user to squat over a hole in the floor. A small amount of water is used to flush the waste out of the hole, using a siphoning effect. This kind of toilet is quite common in third-world countries, and is actually quite sanitary, since no part of your body actually touches the toilet itself.

Although you may be somewhat repelled by some of the features of these waterless toilets, they have been thoroughly tested, and pose no threat to either the user of the machine, or the user of the resulting products. Hopefully, the cost of some of these new eco toilets will go down, as they come into greater use.

For lots more information on these and other green toilets, please check out the author's website, shown in the next paragraph.

Monday, April 26, 2010

As the Water Drips Trailer

As the Water Drips-A new Tisime Films short show. COMMENTS ARE WELCOME!

Sunday, April 25, 2010

Do You Want a Cheap Bathroom Suite?

Finding a cheap bathroom suite is nowhere near as easy to do as most of us would like it to be. Why should this be the case? It should certainly be possible to find bathroom suites and accessories at discount prices, but it's important to take the right approach to making any purchase.

There have been big changes in the way that companies sell bathroom suites. Newer designs have increased the amount of choice available to consumers and there has been increased competition here, with more and more retailers hoping to catch the eye of those interested in home improvements.

In theory, such changes should have led to price drops. If that's not your experience then it may be that you've been looking in the wrong places. Are you, for instance, relying on traditional bathroom showrooms?

It's understandable if you are and such stores certainly do offer some advantages. Low prices, however, may not be among these advantages. That's not because shop owners aren't willing to offer better deals to customers - it's simply that they may be restricted by higher overheads.

Why should they have high overheads? There are a number of reasons for this, including the fact that they tend to maintain premises in central locations. They want to be located in places where plenty of people will be passing, helping them to attract customers.

Maintaining these premises is, unfortunately, not cheap. The combination of high rents and salaries to be paid to sales staff mean that overheads are almost inevitably higher than they might be. What does this mean for customers? In many cases it leads to higher prices.

As you'll see, visitors to such showrooms may not have seen much evidence of bathroom suite prices falling. You can see lower prices by looking online, but it really is a matter of spending a bit of time doing your research.

You need to make use of price comparison sites, independent reviews, discount vouchers and directories listing the latest deals. By making use of all of these tools, there's absolutely no reason why you can't get some better prices.

Friday, April 23, 2010

Bath Caddy Ideas For a Relaxing Bath

Having a long, relaxing soak in the tub is a favorite leisure activity for millions of water loving Americans. It is no wonder that they go to so much trouble to achieve the luxury bathroom of their dreams, with a whirlpool tub, beautiful vanity unit, stylish faucets and blissful shower. That dream may never be realized, but does it really matter? If you are really relaxed in the bath, with your eyes closed or the lights low, does it really matter about the fittings and décor? Even the tub itself can be old and ugly, but if it's comfortable to lie in, why does it matter?

Even a simple thing like a good bath caddy can transform your bath time experience. Once you are in the water, and you have the lighting just right, the only thing left really is to ensure everything you will need while in the tub is within reach. One of the main bath accessories for just that purpose is the bath caddy.

How can a bath caddy contribute to the perfect bathing experience? The primary purpose of the caddy, of course, is to ensure you have the soap and other toiletry needs to hand. After all, you will spoil your bath if you have to stand up every time you want to find soap, or the loofah. But it is not just those most basic of items that you may need while you soak. You may have other needs for your perfect bathe.

Fortunately, manufacturers of bath caddies are very much aware of what some people love to do in the bathtub to relax. Little touches can make all the difference to the depth of relaxation some people can achieve while soaking in the tub. For example, many people love to read while lying in the tub. You can just hold the book or magazine, but for a taste of cheap luxury, you can buy a bath caddy with a book rest on.

Do you enjoy a glass of wine while you are bathing? Many do, and here too there will be a bath caddy to make it convenient for them. You can buy bath caddies that include a wine glass holder; some of these have the book rest as well. Fragrances are also important to some in the bathroom, so aromatherapy candles are popular too. You may be surprised to learn it is also possible to buy caddies with candle holders attached; just perfect for that aromatherapy candle.

These little accessories for caddies can be a touch of luxury at a low cost. So, enjoy your next soak in the tub that much more; but be careful not to drink a glass of wine too many, and set light to the book with the candle!

Thursday, April 22, 2010

Types of Jetted Bathtubs

Jetted bathtubs are gaining in popularity. Almost everyone likes the idea of relaxing in a jetted bathtub and allowing the jets to massage out any aches and pains they may have acquired throughout the day. Jetted tubs are usually a bit bigger than your average bathtub and they make a great looking addition to any bathroom. There are a couple of different types of jetted bathtubs. Before purchasing a jetted bathtub you will want to decide which type best suits your needs.

There are two types of jets used in jetted bathtubs, water jets and air jets. Both types create a massaging feeling as the water is moved in the tub but there are pros and cons to each one.

Water Jets

The jetted bathtubs that use water jets force the bath water through the jets. This creates a stronger massage than tubs with the air jets. The bath water is recirculated through the jets, which keeps the water a bit warmer than air being forced in the bath. One downside is that you cannot use bubble bath, bath oil or bath salts in a jetted tub with water jets. This type of tub also requires quite a bit of cleaning. Some of these come with a self cleaning system though, so you will need to check the features when you are making your decision.

Air Jets

The other types of jets are air jets. These jets actually push air into the tub instead of water causing a gentle massaging feeling. You can use bubble bath and bath salts in this type of jetted bathtub. There are often more jets in an air jetted tub than there are in the water jetted tubs. The forced air through the water may make the water cold faster, which can be annoying. The health benefits from increased circulation and such that you get from the water jets you do not get with an air jetted bathtub.

Both types can give a great feeling, relaxing bath. It is really a matter of preference when it comes to the type of jets you want. If you want to add oils, crystals, and/or bubbles to your tub you will want to go with the air jets. If you are wanting a therapeutic invigorating massage then water jets may be your best choice. Jetted tubs can cost between $1500 and $10,000 so there is a huge variety of types, sizes, and models to choose from.

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Sprite Shower Filter - A Difference in the Way You Shower

Sprite shower filters offer a clear difference in the water you shower with. This is especially true in areas where the water is very hard. Shower filters purify the water as it comes through the filter, meaning that the water that touches your skin is much cleaner than the water that entered the filter.

There are many contaminants that enter everyday tap water without our knowledge and we pay for those contaminants each time we shower. By using a filtered shower head we're offering ourselves a better less unhealthy way of getting clean.

Chlorine and Your Body

No contaminant is as damaging as chlorine. It causes us to prematurely age and damages the cells of the body through constant exposure. It believed that this common additive may be responsible for heart problems, skin damage and even some cancers. The trouble is that chlorine is commonly added to our water supply and we take it in through breathing, ingestion and absorption of the skin. You may have felt that your hair or skin didn't feel as fresh as you had hoped or that the fresh feeling of a shower lasts for a very short time after you've showered. This is caused by the presence of chlorine.

Sprite Filters Make a Difference

Sprite filters use a non-carbon media to filter several contaminants from your water among them are things like chlorine, sediment, iron, trace metals, hydrogen sulfide, and chlorinated hydrocarbons. These filters also reduce the risk of exposing yourself to substances such as bacteria, E.coli, mold, and other impurities, which are present in the shower. All of these changes allow you to reduce the incidence of dry, flaky skin; oily, lifeless hair and any leftover feelings of buildup. Sprite shower filters offer you a better, cleaner shower thus making you feel more refreshed and healthy.

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

9 of 9 Hot Water Heater Install No Basement

Install Hot Water heater no basement These " How to" Plumbing videos are a must. Even if you feel you know everything there is to know about plumbing repairs, there is something in these videos for you. Just imagine if you could watch a plumber install and repair plumbing day by day, hour after hour. Could you imagine what you would learn? Yes, you could learn enough to start your own plumbing repair service. Not only would you save money, but you can make money. Well, your wish has come true. On these videos you will find and learn all the tricks of the trade that the pros already know. No more biting your nails when you call the plumber. No more taking off from work, staying at home waiting for the plumber to show up only to have him / her call you to say he or she may have to reschedule. With these plumbing videos you will be impressed and happy to know the knowledge is just an arm's reach away. Pick up any one of the videos; toilet, bath, sink, tub and shower, kitchen sink, hot water heater and the sump pump. The list goes on. Every video has been created by a licensed plumber with over 25 years experience in plumbing repairs services. You will be watching a real plumber doing service, not someone that can just talk the talk, but can walk the walk. There are no plumbing videos out there like these. It took years to develop these videos. We know there is a need out there for these plumbing repair videos. After years of plumbing service, we have come across many people ...

Monday, April 19, 2010

Style and Space-DIY

Josh and crew help make a master suite wheelchair accessible. This video is part of House Crashers show hosted by Josh Temple . SHOW DESCRIPTION :DIY Network builds on the success of its hit show Yard Crashers by taking this series inside. House Crashers is ambush renovation at its best. Host and contractor Josh Temple stalks a big-box home improvement store looking for unsuspecting weekend warriors, then follows them home with a large crew of experts in tow. Watch as stunned homeowners who journeyed into the store to fix a simple leaky faucet end up winning the remodeling lottery with dramatic, eye-popping room transformations.

Saturday, April 17, 2010

How to adjustment a faucet

www.1stchoiceplumber.com Plumber demonstrates how to repair or fix a leaking or dripping faucet

Friday, April 16, 2010

WTF? Steampunk Sprinkler Faucet?

My landlord had the plumbers come out to replace my broken faucet and this is what they replaced it with. I asked if it was a temporary fix until they went out and bought the actual replacement and the plumber said (in very broken English), "No? Dis es new. See...I have box." Wow. Kudos on honing in on the recently popular steampunk trend but seriously, I need a sink that doesn't look like a sprinkler system just transformed into an armored martian space dude. WTF, plumber?!

Thursday, April 15, 2010

Bathroom adjustment in Philadelphia area

Scope of work: The customer wanted to replace the two bathrooms in her 125 year old house in University City. The project ended up being extremely complicated due to an unexpected situation we were faced with upon striping the bathroom walls to the framing. The structural integrity of the framing was questionable. There was nothing supporting the weight of the floor above. Then we discovered huge cracks in the brick in the exterior wall and realized there needed to be a complete retrofit of the old structure. The solution was to rebuild all the framing and fix the cracks. With the structural problems behind us, we were able to focus on the bathroom upgrades to which the customer wanted to see a complete transformation. We decided on a high end modern bathroom. We installed carrera marble on the floors and 1x1 blue glass tiles on the walls, floor to ceiling. The tub is a Whirlpool jacuzzi tub with Danze faucets. The standalone vanity has a modern look with marble top and Natural Marble Stone Vessel Vanity SinkThe beautiful glass tiles are unique because the glass reflects the light, which in turn highlights every tile.

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Avoid These Bathroom Renovation Blunders!

Renovation experts say you should renovate your bathroom every 17.9 years. Our house is 18 years old and it is time to renovate the guest bathroom. We started a picture file and narrowed the ideas down to the ones we liked best. Then we met with the construction representative. "We'll have to talk about this," he said, following us upstairs to the bathroom.

After looking around, he told us why some ideas should be deleted. We chose renovation ideas that matched our budget. Two weeks later the representative returned with product photos, design specs, and costs. This experience has made us more aware of bathroom renovation blunders.

1. Lighting that is too high or too low. By today's standards my husband and I are short people. A few years ago we installed a new brushed nickel light over the vanity mirror. "It's a beautiful light, but I can't see myself," the representative said. We could see our faces but he could not because he was the same height as the light. The company will remount the light to correct this blunder.

2. Mis-matched lighting and faucets. To save money we are having our existing maple vanity raised a few inches. According to the representative, bathrooms with matched faucets and lighting look best. We are installing a brushed nickel faucet to go with the vanity light. Wodden drawer knobs will be replaced with brushed nickel ones.

3. Choosing the wrong vanity mirror. You may find inexpensive mirrors at home and discount stores. The mirrors may be attractive, but may not go with your home. We bought new towel bars and a matchng mirror for our guest bathroom.

4. Hard to clean tile. Because I love mosaics (I made them in my college days) I chose glass mosaic tile for the tub surround. They would look lovely, the representative said, but so much grout would be hard to keep clean and mold-free. We chose larger tiles for the tub surround.

5. Trendy colors. Colors that were popular years ago, like aqua and brown, are back in style again. These colors may not be in style when you need to sell your home. That is why realtors recommend neutral colors. We chose tan and creme to keep our house market ready.

6. Inadequate water heater. The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) says you should check the capacity of your water heater. "If you are going to add a large jetted tub to your project, consider adding a water heater dedicated to that tub," advises NARI.

7. Old, inadequate ventilation. Though your bathroom fan works, it may not ventilate well. Spending money on a new ceiling fan is money well spent. Avoiding all of these blunders will ensure a successful and long-lasting bathroom renovation. Just think of all the time you spend there!

Copyright 2007 by Harriet Hodgson

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

Three Types of Power Shower Systems

If there is one extremely valuable thing that you can't buy with any amount of money, that is time. While you may come up with many potential places where you can save your time, your bathroom shower probably won't be anywhere on top of that list. Nevertheless, if you think for a moment about it, it can make or break the day for you on several occasions like when you need to take a quick 2-minute shower before joining an important meeting. So spending some time or money to solve this problem can come in handy at times. The best option for this purpose would be to install a power shower, or to get it installed from an expert plumber if you are afraid of handling the job yourself.

Typical power showers come with a mixing valve that blends cold and hot water from the gravity fed lines and a built-in pump pushes up water so that you will get good water pressure at the shower head. So first thing to note is that power showers require both a hot water and a cold water supply line so that you can enjoy your bath in all weathers. Ideally, you should connect the lines using gate valves so that you won't need to open up the whole system in case of a shower maintenance job. One could have both a manual power shower and a thermostat power shower; those with a thermostat would keep the temperature constant even if the supply feeds water to another line in your house. Once you have installed the shower correctly, the pump will start automatically whenever you open the shower.

Now there are three types of power shower systems currently available in the market. The first one is the typical power shower we discussed earlier, the one that has a built-in pump and mixer in a single unit. The mixing valve combines cold and hot water to bring water to the required temperature, while the pump pushes this water towards the shower.

The second type of power shower comes with a single impeller pump, which is positioned between the shower head and the mixer. You won't find many of these nowadays primarily because of their lack of adaptability and also because a better option comes at only a slightly higher price. Anyway, in these systems, cold and hot water lines feed the mixer, from where water moves upwards towards the shower head. The single-impeller pump then brings water to the showerhead, but this kind of pump requires installation close to the shower head for optimal usage. And since the pump has to be situated between the mixer and the shower head, the ideal place for it is the loft. But in extremely cold weathers, it can result in frozen water inside the lofts, and since the pump needs free air flow, the loft cannot be insulated.

The double-impeller pump, the single most versatile system, was made to bypass this difficulty. The cold and hot water lines separately come into the pump, from where water is pushed with pressure towards the mixer separately in both lines. The mixer mixes warm and cool water to arrive at the necessary temperature and a single line then outputs to the showerhead. Since hot and cold water is pushed upwards, the resulting pressure at the shower brings a fast water flow.

Whichever system you choose, it will need some electricity to run the pumps. Also, it can't work with combination boilers as it requires the availability of separate hot and cold water pipes. A problem, however, is that they would result in lots of vibrations within the walls. So make sure that you have fitted the surrounding tiles smoothly in order to avoid damage to them.

Monday, April 12, 2010

How Much Does it Cost to Remodel a Bathroom?

I am asked this question at least ten times a day, answer, what do you want? What materials do you want to use?  Most people do not know what is available and what the options are; therefore they don't know what they want so I can not give them an answer. Are you looking for a permanent solution? Or a quick fix? All the problems in the bathroom are caused by water, if you cannot control the water you cannot control the problems, you control the water, you control the problems. When it comes to remodeling a bathroom most homeowners think that there are a million ways you can do, there are only a 5 ways you can remodel a bathroom. The first question you must answer is how long do you want it to last? Remember, you get what you pay for

The Most expensive Bathroom is the one you have to do over and over again!!!!!!                                               

5 Ways to Remodel a Bathroom   The first four solutions are a quick fix.

1. The first option is to re-glaze, painting over, usually done for tubs; I have seen it on tiles as well. The tub cost $400-$600, walls are about the same.Most companies will give a 3- 5year warranty, but if you leave anything that is wet, like a shampoo bottle or wet towel, it will crack, chip and peel sooner, it can last from 3 months to 3 years. New tubs are baked after painting, this cannot be done in the house.   2. Wall system only, vinyl walls from the home center, cost $400-$800, if you do it yourself it will cost you nothing, if you hire a contractor it will be double the cost. It is adhered with liquid nail. Liquid nail dry's after a period of time, it cracks, pull away from the wall. It can last 1-3 years. Hiring a contractor will cost $800-$1,200.00  

2. Fiberglass costs to purchase from $1,200- $2,000, 1 piece tub and wall, this is still a porous material, it has a jell-coat on it, it will wear away in about 3-5years. Ounce it wears away it will expose the nooks and crannies in the fiberglass, and when that dirt gets inside, it will become difficult to clean. It cannot be installed in most homes due to existing framing; generally they are installed in new homes before the walls are framed. First remove existing tiles, tub. To install a fiberglass unit you must remove everything including sheet rock, this unit installs into the wall studs. You need a plumber to install drain and valve, after installation the walls need to be repaired. The total time to install is 3-4 days, the warranty on the fiberglass is 1year, from the contractor none. Total cost with a contractor approximately $4,500.00. This will last approximately 5-7 years.

3. Total Remodel in Tile, this is the traditional way of remodeling. Update an existing 9-by-6-foot bathroom. Replace all fixtures to include 30-by-60-inch porcelain-on-steel tub with 4x4-inch  ceramic tile surround; new single-lever temperature and pressure-balanced shower control; standard white toilet; solid-surface  vanity counter with integral sink; recessed medicine cabinet with light; ceramic tile floor; vinyl wallpaper. Tile is a good material, the problem is not the tile it is the grout. The grout is sand and cement, it is porous, water will penetrate it sooner or later. This will take up to 2 weeks, According to Remodel Magazine Mid-Range in 2007 cost is $16,830.00. Now the most important question after spending all that money, what is the warranty? lifetime? I don't think so.

Ask your tile contractor how long is the warranty? If he is a good contractor he will give you about 1- year, for labor, no warranty on tile, that's it!    

Luxury Bath solution is a Permanent Solution- do it right the first time and Never do it Again.   Acrylic tub,walls and shower systems will control the water, because it is non-porous material, water will not penetrate it, mold and mildew will not grow on it., easy to clean and maintain.  

5. Luxury Bath acrylic tub, this is the only material that is non-porous, the wall and tub system comes with a lifetime warranty, you will never do it again. The Acrylic system will cost less than the total remodeling, from 1/3 to 1/2 of the traditional remodeling. Price will depends how much work needs to be done before we can put up the system, colors and styles you choose from. The estimate is free of charge, we will measure, and you pick and choose, then we will give you a quote.   visit our website http://www.luxurybathremodeling.com

Sunday, April 11, 2010

Where to Find Tub and Shower Faucet Deals

The tub shower faucet is more than simply a functional item that turns the water on and off in the shower enclosure. In many cases, it is a defining part of the bathroom that really sets the entire decor and something that many of us spend a lot of time choosing. A tub and shower faucet can be rather inexpensive, provided you are only getting something that is stock or perhaps construction grade. If you would like to upgrade to a better item, however, you're going to end up paying a premium price as a result. That is, of course, unless you look at some of these areas in order to find your tub shower faucets.

One of the first places that you should look for these items, and something that will often give you the options that you need is the Internet. There are a variety of different websites that specialize in the tub shower faucet and related items. A simple search on some of the more popular shopping sites on the Internet is generally going to turn up enough options to give you an overall picture of the price range that you are looking at. You can then go to the individual websites in order to determine if they are actually going to save you money or not.

Another thing that you may want to consider is looking for a tub and shower faucet in your local area. Many of us live within driving distance of one of the larger home decoration stores, such as Bed Bath and Beyond. These stores have a wide variety of options that may be available and can help you to choose something by also being able to see it and hold it in your hands. You should also check out some of the larger hardware stores, as they not only tend to carry a large variety of these items but they also have a display, in many cases which will allow you to see it for yourself.

Perhaps the best thing that you can do in order to save yourself money when shopping for one of these items is to do a variety of both. Take a little bit of time shopping in your local area in order to see some of the items that are available and of interest to you. You can then browse the Internet in order to see if they have the same, or perhaps a comparable item for less of a price. The only thing that you should be concerned about, however, is the possibility of losing all of your savings in shipping and handling costs.

Don't underestimate the necessity of choosing a tub shower faucet that is really going to look nice in this area of the home. Not only is it something that will help to pull the decor of the bathroom together, it may also be able to define it in many ways. The tub and shower faucet is probably going to cost you a little bit more than what you would like to spend, but once you own it, it will really look nice in the room.

Saturday, April 10, 2010

Shower Screen - Keep Your Showers Private

Most people think of the good old shower curtain to keep water from splashing all over the place, but a shower screen is quickly becoming a popular option. These screens do exactly what a curtain would do, except there is no risk of tearing and they are kept clean much easier.

Everyone has seen them in movies, but not many people have actually considered having a shower screen installed in their homes, at least not in the United States. It is a popular European style, and it is slowly leaking over to other parts of the world. There are a few reasons for this growing popularity, ranging from maintenance all the way to style.

These screens are much easier to keep mold-free than curtains are. Shower curtains can be difficult to keep clean and often need to be sprayed with mold disinfectant to even make any sort of impact. This is something that becomes a problem after a few months of ownership in many cases. The screens that are installed in showers are easily cleaned with miniature squeegees. The person finishes taking a shower and simply wipes the water away from the screen. Disinfectants are also an option, but even without it is easy to keep a shower screen nice and mold-free.

The style is also a big factor in their growing popularity, as they are much more modern than a curtain could ever be. Often they are installed at the base of the floor up to near the ceiling to ensure that no water gets out. This is useful and attractive as there are many different styles to be had, including those that are stained, plain like windows, or tinted. Different brands offer various kinds, and there are plenty out there these days for you to choose from.

Installation of one of these screens is best left to a professional as it is a large job. As previously stated, it must run from the floor up most of the wall, which can take days to install in your own. Not only that, but there are several things that can go wrong in an installation that a professional would have to handle themselves and you would not be held accountable for.

More European home and clothing styles are making their way over each year, and this is just one of them. While they are great looking, they are also very effective and cleanly. Whether you are considering getting a shower screen installed because of the look or the ease of upkeep, one thing is for sure: your bathroom is going to look better than it ever has. Sometimes the extra cost is worth it in style.

Friday, April 9, 2010

Update That Plain Bathroom Mirror!

Is it time to update your bathroom? In today's economy, there probably aren't too many homeowners that are itching to start an expensive remodeling project. But what can you do to add a sense of style to your bathroom without breaking the bank?

With residential construction costs on the rise, many contractors and homeowners choose to install basic sheet glass mirrors in bathrooms and living spaces.  While functional and economical, these mirrors lack the unique style and décor enhancement of a hanging mirror with a custom frame.  But due to the cost of traditional mirror framing, this is a compromise that most homeowners have been willing to make.

Now several companies offer the opportunity to add a custom mirror frame to an existing sheet mirror. With a wide selection of styles and colors to choose from, you are sure to find the look that's right for you. The frames are custom cut to fit your mirror dimensions and the finished frame tapes right to the glass.  No special tools or talents are needed!  The manufacturers include everything you need to start enjoying your bathroom mirror frame right away.  Do you have clips or a strip holding your mirror in place?  Does your mirror sit directly on the backsplash or run into a corner?  No Problem!  Since the frame attaches to the surface of your mirror, it covers those ugly clips and mirror edges giving your bathroom a whole new look in minutes.

By visiting a manufacturer's website you can get information on selecting and measuring your new mirror frame. You can even find video instructions describing the installation process step-by-step. And because you are using the existing glass mirror and only ordering the frame, the prices are amazingly reasonable.  

Want to change the look of your bathroom without spending a fortune? Consider the addition of a custom mirror frame to your plain, lifeless mirror. Your mirror is the focal point of your bathroom. Shouldn't it be an accurate reflection of your taste and style?

Thursday, April 8, 2010

When to Use a Wall Mount Tub Faucet

Even though there are several different types of tub faucets on the market, some situations call for a specific style. One of those styles is called a wall mount tub faucet. Here is one situation where you would need to use one, and one situation where you would not be able to use one.

When to Use a Wall Mount Tub Faucet

First, a situation where you would use a wall mount tub faucet is with a bathtub that sits flush against the wall of the spout. That is to say, if the edge of the inside of the tub is flush with the wall from which the spout is affixed, then you would need to use a wall mounted faucet. The main reasoning behind this is because there is no lip on the tub where you could attach the faucet.

When Not to Use A Wall Mount Tub Faucet

There are some situations where you could not use this style of faucet. For instance, many people enjoy using bathroom tubs that are not set up against any walls. This type of freestanding tub would make it impossible to use a faucet that is mounted to a wall. The best solution in this type of situation is to use some type of center set faucet that is attached to the lip of the tub and rises from the floor.

Modern Flair, Aesthetic Beauty, and Practical Functionality

If you do find that you are in a place where you could use any one of several types of faucets, you may still find that it would be best to use a wall mount tub faucet. This would likely be an aesthetic choice rather than a merely functional choice. Wall mounted styles add a modern flair to the room that you are sure to appreciate. They have a nice clean look and are becoming ever more popular in new homes. While it may take a little bit more work to install, it is well worth it for the aesthetic beauty and practical functionality it will provide.

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

How to Solder chestnut Pipe and repipe home Part 9

How to solder copper pipe and re pipe home. www.coolplumbingvideos.com These " How to" Plumbing videos are a must. Even if you feel you know everything there is to know about plumbing repairs, there is something in these videos for you. Just imagine if you could watch a plumber install and repair plumbing day by day, hour after hour. Could you imagine what you would learn? Yes, you could learn enough to start your own plumbing repair service. Not only would you save money, but you can make money. Well, your wish has come true. On these videos you will find and learn all the tricks of the trade that the pros already know. No more biting your nails when you call the plumber. No more taking off from work, staying at home waiting for the plumber to show up only to have him her call you to say he or she may have to reschedule. With these plumbing videos you will be impressed and happy to know the knowledge is just an arm's reach away. Pick up any one of the videos; toilet, bath, sink, tub and shower, kitchen sink, hot water heater and the sump pump. The list goes on. Every video has been created by a licensed plumber with over 25 years experience in plumbing repairs services. You will be watching a real plumber doing service, not someone that can just talk the talk, but can walk the walk. There are no plumbing videos out there like these. It took years to develop these videos. We know there is a need out there for these plumbing repair videos. After years of plumbing service ...

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

Home Depot kitchen faucet, broken

We bought this less than 6 months ago, and the end of the faucet already broke off. Home Depot usually takes everything back, especially if it is faulty. I suppose this is what you get for $99.

Monday, April 5, 2010

How to Fix a Leaky Faucet-DIY

You can repair a leaky faucet without having to call a plumber! Thisvideo is part of DIY-FYI show hosted by Narrator . SHOW DESCRIPTION :DIY FYI offers tips and ideas through step-by-step and video instructions for home improvement projects. This show is only available on diynetwork.com.

Sunday, April 4, 2010

The ultimate plumber challenge

we have a leaking faucet problem in our house. Please take a look at the video and help us fixing the problem (as 2 plumbers already gave up on this challenge). Description of problem: Warm water faucet in sink is dropping/leaking every 30 seconds when I turn on the warm water faucet of the adjacent bath tub the pipes underneath the house are banging very loudly and the faucet in the sink is now having running water despite that it is closed. If I close the faucet of the sink via the shut of valve the banging stops. Yeap, we thought about permanently closing the warm water supply to the sink but that shouldn't be the answer ;-) thanks for your help

Saturday, April 3, 2010

Why You Should Design Your Own Bathroom

The most basic answer to this question about designing your own bathroom, is that it is your home, it is a personal space, and you are best qualified to determine your specific needs in a bathroom design.

You may be planning to contract the work out, but even so, you should formulate a rough design, a list of what you want in your bathroom, and you should do some shopping to find out what fixtures and materials are likely to cost. By doing this, you can better convey to a contractor just what it is you want, and you are more in control of your remodeling budget because you have a grasp of what materials should cost and when you are being charged too much.

Your plan will vary depending on whether it is a main bath used by both family and guests, or whether it is a private master bath. Consider the space you have, and if it is adequate. If your current space is not large enough, is there other space you can incorporate into your new bath? Look at how your house is laid out and see if there isn't space in a room that would be better used as an addition to your bath. Sometimes a closet will be located in just the right place to make a good addition.

Rearranging an existing bathroom can add to the cost, when you consider that changes in the plumbing may be necessary, however in some older homes where the original bath was poorly planned in the initial design, making a change can sometimes pay off handsomely in the addition functionality it adds to a small room. Sometimes just rearranging fixtures and cabinetry in the existing space can add a more roomy feel and make the room much more functional.

Decide if any of the existing fixtures are still in good enough condition to use, and make a list of what you will need. Bathtub-shower combinations are less popular these days, but if you want both and space is limited, it can be a solution. This is just one of the decisions you will need to make. What upgrades do you want? There are many new amenities available for bathrooms, and you should do a lot of browsing before you make any final decisions.

Before you invest in a whirlpool bath or a two person tub for your new bathroom, do some serious thinking about whether you will really use it enough to make the investment worthwhile. You may be better served with a great new shower head and a temperature control device that prevents fluctuation in water volume and temperature.

Whirlpool baths use a lot of water as do two person tubs which may require special size piping and a larger hot water tank. Also before installing a whirlpool research the installation thoroughly and ask questions. You will need access for maintenance and you also want to consider the noise factor.

Bathrooms, for a small room, need quite a bit of planning so you get the best of what you want. And who knows what you want better than you? Planning your own bathroom design is essential if you are doing the remodeling yourself on a do-it-yourself basis, and can be a great help and money saver if you decide to contract the job out.

Friday, April 2, 2010

Plumber in Van Nuys, Ca 818-341-5804

Looking for a Plumber in Van Nuys, Ca? Need a water heater in Van Nuys, Ca? Weshow up on time, fix it right, clean up, and we guarantee our work. Whether you are having a plumbing emergency or you are just looking for a new plumber, give us a try. We can repair that old water heater or install a new energy efficient tankless water heater. Does your toilet or sink have a slow drain or do you have dirty water coming up in your kitchen sink or shower? We can repair that too. Do you need rooter service or a clean out installed. We carry a safe foaming root killer to control tree roots. Is water coming up through your floor? Maybe you need leak detection. We have top of the line equipment for electronic leak location and slab leak repair. Maybe you want to install a new shower valve or put a new handle on the old valve, or just get a new showerhead.If you want to replace your kitchen faucet or bathroom faucet or maybe get a new lifetime warranty garbage disposal. Is your water pressure safe? We can check your water pressure and install a water pressure regulator if needed. And if you want to save money on you water and water heating bill we can install an ladwp submeter or a pump to deliver hot water to your kitchen or bathroom without wasting water, time or money

Thursday, April 1, 2010

American Standard Faucets - A Perfect Fit For Your Bath and Kitchen Decor

American Standard faucets offer a wide range of faucets that can fit perfectly with you bathroom and kitchen decor. From their famous Berwick Faucet Collection to their well-known repair parts online system, they are a pleasure to do business with. This classic collection has a sleek and streaming design to bring that renewed appearance to any bathroom or kitchen. The numerous faucets products of American Standard would be highlighted in this article. They are as follows:

- Bathroom Faucets: American Standard Bathroom Faucets are categorized into the following: sink faucets, tub and shower faucets, deck mounted tub filters, shower faucets, shower systems, diverters, shower valve trim only, thermostatic valve trim, volume controls, bidet faucets, tub only, speed connect faucets. These bathroom faucets come in a variety of styles, shades and shapes for you to choose from and their price may vary according to the model.

- Bathroom Fixtures: their featured bathroom fixtures are as follows: toilets, bathtubs, bathroom sinks, pedestal sinks, bidets, urinals, lavatory consoles, vanities, shower doors, shower receptors, shower walls, storage cabinets, and vanity tops. American Standard also has a redesigned, revolutionary 'champion flushing system' that is virtually 'clog free'. So the need for plunging is out the window. This flushing system is available in eight of their model toilets so when choosing a toilet for your bathroom, ensure that it is clog free.

- Kitchen Faucets: include double handle, Pullout spray, single handle, wall mounted, bar faucets, and laundry faucets.

- Kitchen Fixtures: range from bar sinks, kitchen sinks and utility sinks.

- Bathroom Sinks: come in a variety of models for you to choose from such as the Studio 21'' Undermount Lavatory sink, the Retrospect 27''Pedestal Top with 8'' Centres, The Studio 23.5'' Undermount Lavatory Sink, and many others. Their prices range depending on their model type.

- FloWise Faucets and Fixtures: such as the Multi function shower head, one-piece elongated toilet, single function shower head, the two-piece elongated toilet and many others.

- Tub and Shower Accessories: include shower heads, hand showers, tub spouts, body sprays, tub wastes, bath caddies, grab bars, claw feet, slide bars, shower arm diverters, soap dishes, and wall supply elbows.

- Bathroom accessories: are categorized into mirrors, robe hooks, soap dispensers, soap dishes, tank lever, toilet seats, tissue holder, towel bars, towel ring, and tooth brush holder.

- Kitchen Accessories: include the following- basin racks, basket strainers, colanders, cutting boards, filters, rinse baskets, sidesprays, and soap dispensers.

- Popular Collections: such as bathroom collections, kitchen collections, acrylux, amarilis, arch faucets, cadet, ceramix, Copeland, dazzle, evolution, flowise, green team heritage, reminiscence, town square, studio, Savona, standard, and many others varieties.

When choosing an American Standard faucet, it is important that you choose a long lasting and 'low maintenance finish' that would complement and fit your decor. American Standard faucets come in a variety of styles, shades and size for you to choose from. Don't deny yourself any longer from attaining any of these amazing faucets.