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What is a Thermostatic Shower Mixer?

Even the bathroom is not exempt from benefitting from advances in technology, as is proven by the thermostatic shower mixer. In case you are unfamiliar with this product, it makes use of new, energy efficient technology to enhance the showering experience. Basically it boils down to this – you get better showers while using less energy… Now who wouldn’t be interested in that?

The thermostatic bath shower mixer regulates and mixes hot and cold water supplies coming from the faucet to create a consistent water temperature. The temperature of the water in the home is determined by water pressure, but this product keeps the temperature constant even in situations of varying pressure. It is a bit like having a personal assistant within the bathroom who knows the perfect temperature for the best showering experience.

Thermostatic shower mixers adjust the supply of water based on the water usage, thereby regulating the temperature of the water. The device has a built-in thermometer that constantly monitors the water temperature. If the water begins to get too hot, the device lessens the amount of hot water and allows more cold water through the thermostatic shower mixer valve. This eliminates the need for the person showering to regulate the controls throughout the showering process.

A thermostatic shower mixer tap can be installed in new homes or when renovating the bathroom and the item does not require much skill to set up. These products can also be used in other areas such as the tub and the bathroom sink. All the user needs to do to sit back and allow the device to mix the hot and cold water to the perfect temperature. A nice bath of temperate water will be awaiting the bather within minutes.

This device is energy efficient because it will not use more hot water than is necessary. Having a bath or shower that is too hot is not efficient because it wastes energy unnecessarily heating the water. In the case of a bath, the bather often has to pour additional cold water into the tub, increasing the amount of water used for no reason other than to regulate the temperature. In this case, not only is hot water wasted, the overall amount of water used is excessive.

Danze Parma Thermostatic Shower Mixer

An affordable product is the Danze Parma Two Handle item that retails for approximately $150 online. It has a modern appearance and comes in an attractive bushed nickel finish. An accompanying valve will need to be purchased, but this can also be found online and in home improvement stores. These valves can also be bought at plumbing supply stores and the valve for this product costs around $259.

A thermostatic shower mixer provides a pleasant and energy efficient showering experience for all members of the household. The device, which can also be used in the tub and sink, regulates the combination of hot and cold water to achieve the perfect temperature. Individuals will no longer need to remove the soap from their eyes to reach for the faucet to adjust the water temperature while showering.

Filed Under: Bathroom, Featured, Showers Tagged With: , , , ,

The Toilet Brush Holder – An Often Forgotten Accessory

When accessorizing the bathroom, people purchase shower curtains, soap caddies and dispensers, tissue and toothbrush holders, and even baskets for toiletries. However, they often forget about one necessary, but only infrequently used, accessory. This is the toilet brush holder and it should be a part of everyone’s shopping list when redecorating the bathroom.

Toilet brush holders are no longer something relegated to the depths of the bathroom closet. They are a design piece in and of themselves and as such, they deserve a prime spot in the bathroom next to the commode. These come in variety of styles, colors, and designs, from the sophisticated to the silly. Do not just purchase the first one found in the store because you would be doing yourself, and your bathroom, an injustice.

This product usually includes both the toilet brush and holder in one package, but some items come with just the container. This leaves the consumer to search for brushes elsewhere, which is another shopping trip. The brushes come in different shapes and sizes, so be sure to select one that fits the container. It may be helpful to take the container to the store when shopping for brushes because this will eliminate a return trip. Another important consideration is space. For example, if you are using a corner toilet in your bathroom, you may prefer the wall mounted variety of brush holder instead of a standard one to help fit the space better.

When it comes to designs and styles of this product, the selection is almost limitless. There is the dog or cat toilet brush holder, shaped like the favorite family pet, complete with whiskers or a wagging tongue. Cats can be found from country style to the sophisticated Siamese and every breed in between. Never to be rivaled, it seems there are just as many dog breeds available to house the device used for cleaning the bowl.

Bird lovers will not be disappointed because they can find everything from swans, to parrots, to a bird dressed in a flowered shirt, straw hat, and sunglasses. Products such as these can coordinate with the theme of the room or just add some fun to the area. They can be found online en masse just by typing in the relevant keywords. Before the searcher knows it, a product in the shape of an actual commode can be found, an irony indeed.

Filed Under: Accessories, Bathroom Tagged With: , , , ,

Bathroom Blinds: What’s Your Style?

People who are lucky enough to have a natural light source in their bathrooms will need to find a cover for this window. This will prevent onlookers from gazing in while the family is indisposed. It will also keep sun from beating into the room during the summer, heating it up. There are different types of bathroom blinds perfect for this window that are both functional and stylish.

The real wood and faux wood style blinds for bathroom look nice in a seashore home or a bathroom that is modernly decorated. The faux style is made entirely from vinyl or from a combination of wood and vinyl. This kind is cheaper than the real wood alternative, is impervious to water, and is easy to clean. On the negative side, it is not as sturdy as the real thing, but at the same time, it can be quite heavy.

Bathroom BlindsThe wooden bathroom blind comes in numerous style and color options to match the existing décor in the room. These products are great at blocking light and are more lightweight than their faux alternatives. Homeowners who want a look that is just as classy without spending as much money should consider honeycomb shades. These are ideal for a room that gets a lot of sunlight because they contain small cells that insulate, reducing energy loss.

The traditional type of bathroom window blinds are the mini blind models. They are very inexpensive and can be found in most discount stores or online. These come in a wide variety of colors, are lightweight, and are easily cleaned using a dust rag, vacuum attachment, and occasional wiping with soap and water. These mini window coverings are also very sturdy within wet environments and their light-blocking ability can be adjusted. The drawbacks to these are that they have a rather cheap appearance and are not good insulators.

Bathroom roller blinds are even cheaper and provide great light-blocking within the room. They can be found almost anywhere and they have a rather simple design, though they may come in a variety of colors. Some types tend to mildew if water condensates on them but the mildew can be removed with a solution of bleach and water.  Some shades have fabric coverings, which may be more suitable for older homes because they often look dated.

Blinds for bathrooms can be found throughout the world and they can be purchased online from various stores. Those who reside in northwest Europe should do a search for bathroom blinds UK on the Internet to see what products are available in their region. However, the items can be acquired from anywhere in the world and free shipping is sometimes included.

Mini, roller, and faux or real wood are just a few types of bathroom blinds available for sale. Consumers should consider the design style of the bathroom prior to beginning the shopping process for these products. They come in many colors and sizes so it should be easy to find the perfect style at a great price.

Filed Under: Bathroom, Blinds Tagged With: , , , , , ,

A Retro Shower Curtain Adds Style to Your Bathroom

Bathrooms can be rather plain and dull, especially those in older homes. The area may not have been updated in a while and that becomes obvious to anyone who enters the room. Adding touches such as some new throw rugs and a retro shower curtain will liven up the room and give it a hip, fun appearance. Visitors will think that the entire area was redesigned because it has a fresh new look.

These products come in a variety of colors and patterns, but all are equally as fun. They may have bubble, block, ring, or wave designs in colors such as green, blue, gold and brown. Consumers can search for these items online and some sites even categorize them into the different styles, so the retro type can be easily located.

Looking at the online selection, consumers will find products that look like they came straight out of the 1960s and 70s. They have the classic colors such as bright orange, lime green, and baby blue, with block and link patterns. Other kinds have an urban appearance and make use of colors such as red, black, gray, and white. There are even styles that contain colors on a clear background, creating a dimensional look. Whatever their mood, consumers will be able to find a color and design to match.

There are so many varieties of retro shower curtains, no two seem to look alike. Some have bold colors, while others have a more cool appearance. They are so inexpensive, a consumer could easily afford more than one and change the look of the bathroom on a seasonal basis. They usually cost around $15 to $30 online or in stores and many of them contain compatible color schemes.

The Famous Home Kona curtain contains geometric circle and square designs in brown, gray, and white. The Famous Tempo curtain contains a small square pattern with shades of brown, beige, and gray. It has a nice look with soft coloring throughout, making it a contrasting style to the Kona, but still appropriate for a room with the same color scheme.

Those on a very tight budget should check out the Retro Rings fabric curtain and the Essential Home Retro Squares vinyl curtain because each retails for less than $16. A fabric curtain should have a liner behind it because it is not usually waterproof. Water can soak through the curtain and spray into the room and on the floors unless the liner is inserted between the curtain and the shower. Consumers also have a wide selection of hooks to choose from, made from materials such as metal, plastic, or rubber.

The retro shower curtain will never go out of style because it seems to get an updated touch on a regular basis. The colors are bright and playful and the designs are as entertaining as they are geometric. Consumers can find the perfect item no matter what their color and style preferences are and purchasing more than two different styles is not out of the question, due to their reasonable price.

Filed Under: Accessories, Bathroom Tagged With: , , , ,

Why Buy an Illuminated Bathroom Mirror?

Many bathrooms do not have the luxury of a window that can let in natural light, so homeowners must resort to using artificial sources to illuminate the area. In a large bathroom, this can present quite a dilemma because the homeowner risks overloading the power grid when installing an adequate amount of overhead lighting.  Once nighttime comes, the only available light comes from these sockets and that is often not enough.

Using an illuminated bathroom mirror will provide an additional source of light built right into the mirror itself. This allows people to see themselves clearly and in full detail when flossing, shaving, and getting ready for a night on the town. Hairstyling and applying makeup is done best in an adequately lit area, and this product will provide just that. Consumers can choose from models with lights across the top row or all the way around their perimeter.

The LED illuminated bathroom mirror contains lights built into the product rather than sockets for plugging in regular incandescent light bulbs. These have a more modern, sleek appearance that is perfect for the contemporary home. They come in many dimensions and shapes such as round, oval, rectangular, and even a cute square. The lighting is powered on and off using a light switch, motion sensor, or pull chain located at the bottom of the product.

Some styles of these illuminated mirrors for bathrooms contain an anti-fogging feature that keeps the surface free of moisture. This allows the woman of the home to apply her makeup while her husband is taking a shower, without the need to continually wipe the condensation off the mirror with a towel. The anti-fogging functionality is operated through either halogen lighting or a special misting feature. Halogen lights also tend to compliment the skin tones but they do not last as long as traditional lighting and can be costly to operate, so this should be taken into consideration during the shopping stage.

Homeowners who are interested in keeping their electric costs to a minimum will prefer the models that use fluorescent lights. These emit no flickering like the bulbs of the past and they have a longer lifespan than halogen bulbs. Like the LED variety, the bulbs in these models are located behind the glass, making cleaning very easy. Only the flat surface will need to be wiped down, eliminating the requirement to dust any bulbs or sockets.

When shopping for illuminated bathroom mirrors, consider the different models and styles available. Some are more modern in appearance, while others offer reduced cost of operation. Consider the décor in the room and then purchase a size, shape, and style of this product that will blend in well.

Filed Under: Bathroom, Mirrors Tagged With: , , , ,

Tin Backsplash 101

There are many ways that a homeowner can differentiate his or her residence from the others on the block. Painting and landscaping are two methods that are visible to neighbors and passersby. Redecorating the interior is one of the most fun ways to get a new look that the homeowner can enjoy every day. When redoing the kitchen, incorporating a tin backsplash is a unique touch and there are several styles available.

A pressed tin backsplash is a nice alternative to other popular styles like white tiles and hexagon tile that characterize this area in many kitchens. Best of all, you won’t need to spring for an electric tile cutter to work with this type of product!  The tin material is not very expensive and is easy, and less messy, to install. The product contains an oil base that is sealed with lacquer to provide durability and protection. Installing this material requires only scissors or snips, a drill, some adhesive, and a bit of time.

The patterns range from traditional to modern and they usually come in three, six, and twelve inch sizes. They also come in a wide range of colors, including the traditional gold, copper, and silver shades. This provides the homeowner with a range of options for any size and style of kitchen. The sheets of material can be ordered online or at a home improvement store. Stores and Web sites usually have a picture gallery of their products and will sometimes permit consumers to order samples of desired items. This will allow the person to see what the material looks like within the kitchen.

Tin BacksplashDuring installation, the panels can be overlapped to provide a fluid appearance and the edges can be trimmed using tin snips. Some of these products are of the peel and stick variety, allowing them to be installed in an instant. The backing of the material is treated with an adhesive, so the homeowner simply needs to peel the cover off the backing and press the product onto the desired location on the wall. These can be cut to fit the available space and can be mounted on ceramic, metal, wood, plaster, or drywall.

The material can be cleaned using a cloth soaked in water and a mild detergent. The backsplash is highly resistant to heat and fire, making it suitable for placement above an oven or microwave. The finish that coats the surface is more resistant to solvent, acid, abrasions, and impact than is paint.

To finish the redecorating, would molding can be used to cover the outside edges of the material. The spot where the top piece meets the kitchen cabinet can be covered by a thin beveled molding or left untrimmed. The area where the tin meets the countertop should be caulked in order to provide a sealing edge.

A tin backsplash will give the existing kitchen a new look without costing the homeowner a lot of money. The product can be purchased online or in stores and installed relatively easily. It is durable enough to withstand the spills, stains, and heat often present in the kitchen. The material can be wiped clean using a rag treated with soap and water, giving it a fresh new appearance.

Filed Under: Backsplashes, Tile Tagged With: , , , ,

Quadrant Shower Enclosure: Add Some Flair to Your Bathroom!

A quadrant shower enclosure is the perfect solution for a bathroom suffering from limited space issues. Alternatively, it is also the ideal choice for enlarging the showering area within the room. It has a more modern appearance than the traditional rectangular enclosure units installed in older bathrooms. This item keeps the faucet from spraying water all over the bathroom and no curtain or other decoration is needed to cover it.

These products come in different styles and finishes, but all are very durable and the units take up minimal space in the bathroom. The unit has a curved front and the edges butt up against the wall, making the area like a corner cabinet within the room. Some of these units are shaped to maximize the showering area, allowing for mobility within the unit that is not possible with a traditional enclosure.

Neo Glass Shower Enclosure

Neo Glass Shower Enclosure

The 900 quadrant shower enclosure is the middle size, measuring 900 mm. There are also an 800 and a 1000 mm version, so homeowners have a choice of sizes to meet different space requirements. There are quadrant shower enclosures designed for the elderly and these contain a walk-in feature, rather than a door. This enables those with mobility problems to use the shower without risk of injury.

The doors on most styles are usually made from glass that is clear or contains frosting or patterns. Those with themed bathrooms may be able to find a door with a matching pattern, such as a seaside scene. The framing on the doors is usually chrome, aluminum, or steel, because these are rust-proof and can be easily cleaned.

The offset quadrant shower enclosure is different from the standard models because it is designed to use more space within the bathroom. It provides the homeowner with a larger space within which to shower. These models range up to 1200 mm in length and 900 mm in width, providing a roomy showering experience. They come in either one or two door styles with right or left hand options. The doors usually slide on tracks, preventing water from dripping when the user opens the door. This product comes in many of the same glass and frame color and pattern options as the traditional quadrant model.

Key items to consider prior to purchasing one of these products are the available space within the room, the space inside the shower area, and the ease with which the doors can be closed. Consumers should search online and go to showrooms in order to see and walk in the available enclosures. There should be enough room inside to comfortably change position as one may do when shampooing, washing, and shaving.

A quadrant shower enclosure can be used whether the homeowner wants to maximize the open space within the bathroom or increase the showering area. The glass doors are available in clear, frosted, or patterned styles and there are several frame colors available. The unit is easy to clean, requires little maintenance, and will give the bathroom a unique appearance.

Filed Under: Bathroom, Design, Showers Tagged With: , , , ,

Illuminated Bathroom Mirrors: Brighten Up Your Room

Illuminated Bathroom MirrorHomeowners often have the desire to make improvements to their homes every few years. Redecorating the bathroom or designing a new bathroom can be a fun project because the homeowner will have the opportunity to give the room a new look. Painting, retiling, replacing outdated fixtures and cabinets, and adding new window treatments will lend the room a different appearance. During the overhaul process, homeowners should consider adding an illuminated bathroom mirror to complete the look.

Illuminated bathroom mirrors provide extra lighting to the area because they contain a light source. They are most often hung in front of the sink, but they can be located on any wall that has access to an electrical supply. The item comes in handy when shaving, applying makeup, or styling the hair. It not only allows an individual to see him or herself better, it provides the room with more lighting. Bathrooms do not always have windows to let in natural light, so adding an artificial light source in addition to that provided by ceiling fixtures can be helpful.

These mirrors contain lights either at their top or all the way around their perimeter. The led illuminated bathroom mirror contains a light source within its mirrored surface. These products are controlled by a wall switch, sensor, or a pull cord that hangs down from their bottom. Some models come with a de-mister pad that heats the mirror in order to remove any fog from its surface.

Other add-ons available for these products include shelves, shaver sockets, and storage cabinets. The model with the cabinet opens up to reveal shelves suitable for storing toiletries, medication, and the other frequently used items in the bathroom.  Individuals with limited storage space within the room may find this product to be the perfect addition.

Manufacturers produce these products in various shapes, sizes, and styles, so there is one for any size wall space. There are round and square styles that have a classic appearance, but there are also very modern versions, especially in the led variety. Some of them lay flat on the wall, while others have a three-dimensional appearance. Homeowners should measure the wall area prior to purchasing the product and they should not purchase an item that is too big for the room. Finding the right size will create the illusion that the room is bigger than it really is, which can add value if the home is sold.

These products are available outside of the United States and the UK is one of the large suppliers of these items. Illuminated bathroom mirrors UK sold online comply with the latest zoning requirements and bathroom regulations. The Tavistock Heat model is especially popular in the UK due to its ease of installation and no-touch infrared power switch. It can be hung either vertically or horizontally, providing added flexibility to the homeowner.

When selecting an illuminated bathroom mirror, homeowners should consider the room size and style. They should purchase a product that is an appropriate size for the space and includes any necessary added features like shelves or cabinets. Adding this item to the redecoration project list will enhance the look of the area and provide it with some much-needed lighting.

Filed Under: Bathroom Tagged With: , , , ,

Corner Toilet: Your Solution for Limited Space Bathrooms

Some bathrooms have limited space, while others have awkward open spaces that are not easily filled with any cabinet or closet. A homeowner that is faced with this situation should consider installing a corner toilet in the area. It will make use of the space while fulfilling a necessary function, freeing up flat wall areas for towel racks, shelves, and other items.

Corner toilets fit snugly into the corner of the bathroom, jutting out from the wall at a 45-degree angle. The flush handle is sometimes a button located on top of the tank and depressing this button will flush the unit.  Other models have the traditional left-side flush handle, so homeowners should calculate the amount of space between the wall and the unit in order to decide which one is best.

There are nearly as many sizes, styles and colors of these products as there are in the standard models. They can be found with decorative patterns, raised piping, and classic touches. They come in colors such as white, tan, and almond, and some models can be custom ordered in other colors. Some have a round or oval shape, while others appear more squared off. Homeowners need only to do a little comparison shopping in order to find the perfect size, style, and color. If price is no object, consumers should consider the sleek corner toilet suite styles available online and in stores.

Corner Toilet

One of the classic designs is the American Standard Titan White corner model. It has low water consumption with an elongated dual water-jet feed bowl. The flush handle is contained on the left side of the unit. This product measures 34×19.25×31.5 inches and is available online or in most home improvement stores for a price of approximately $300.

American Standard also manufactures a similar looking product in a bone color. This item features an extended footprint well-suited for bathroom remodeling jobs. It also has low water consumption, a ProOne flushing system, and is within the same price range. The ProOne flushing system is known for its excellent performance, as is noted in several consumer product reviews.

For those who do not mind spending more than $300, the Regent Dual Flush corner unit is the perfect choice. The top and bottom of the unit has rippled edges and the tank contains vertical piping. It has a pedestal-like appearance but it will still fit into small spaces. This model contains an inconspicuous chrome flush button on the top of the tank. It comes in either white or biscuit colors and is eco-friendly because it conserves water. This product comes with free shipping when ordered through certain online stores and it can be delivered in a few short days.

The corner toilet is a great item for bathrooms with limited space or for homeowners who want to give these rooms a unique look. The products come in a variety of colors and styles, from classic to very modern. Many of them are priced at $300 or less, making them affordable to most who are doing a bathroom redecoration.

Filed Under: Bathroom Tagged With: , , , ,

Husky Tile Saw – Best Wet Saw On the Market?

A tile cutting machine such as the husky tile saw is a piece of equipment designed to cut natural stone and ceramic surfaces. Most of these products use a blade with diamonds in its base to cut the hard material. The device makes cuts easily because the blade is cooled by water, which is why the product is sometimes referred to as a “wet saw.” The cuts made are very smooth and dust-free because the dust is controlled by the water, not spewed throughout the room.

Cutting tile is more difficult than cutting materials like wood or even metal. The substance is prone to breakage and there tend to be sharp particles that spin off the cutting device. A product made for this purpose contains a blade that is different from the blades containing teeth that are used to cut wood. The diamond-encrusted carbide blade cuts the material by grinding it down. The water used in the process keeps the material and the blade cool and reduces the amount of flying particles and dust.

MK Diamond 157222 MK-170

MK Diamond 157222 MK-170

This piece of equipment costs more than either the circular or table models, so it will not be worth purchasing if only one room needs to be tiled. The item can be borrowed from a friend or rented from an equipment rental company for either several hours or a day. If the project spans at least two rooms, purchase of this piece of equipment may be warranted.

The husky wet tile saw line is known for its durability and the prices of these products are very reasonable. The 9.5 amp model Thd11501 provides enough power for even the toughest jobs. The 6.5 amp Thd7501 model sites on a table top, making it a convenient choice when working within small spaces.

The husky 7 wet tile saw can be found in home improvement stores or online for under $300 and free shipping may be included if ordered on the Internet. The machine comes with a laser for making precise cuts and rotates to 45 degree angles in order to cut mitered corners. Replacement blades are available at a cost of about $25 each. These blades are high quality, lasting 150 times longer than regular abrasive blades.

This product can cut ceramic tiles for the floor or wall, marble, slate, granite, natural stone, and porcelain. Pieces measuring up to 22 inches can be cut using this machine and it will also diagonally cut a tile measuring up to 16 inches square. The moving table glides with ease and the eight amp, 1 ½ horsepower motor provides enough power for the most common cutting jobs. The included stand telescopes, folds, and contains locking wheels as well as a carrying handle.

A wet saw such as the husky tile saw line of products will quickly and easily cut tile and natural stone. These products use diamond-edged blades and a water cooling system to provide straight, clean cuts every time. They also contain the ability to cut on an angle, making them an essential piece of equipment for any tiling project.

Filed Under: DIY, Tile Tagged With: , , ,
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