Thursday, August 12, 2010

Bathroom Scales

Load-cell based bathroom scale: Affected by th...

We live in a society that is becoming very health-conscious, a society that is more and more aware of a number of conditions affected by rapid urban development, such as allergies that are due to pollution or obesity caused by the lack of knowledge about nutrition and exercise. And what does this have to do with your bathroom remodeling, you may ask? Bathroom scales, of course! A little, often overlooked gadget that helps you to control at least some of the aspects of weight gain simply by informing you about what you weigh at a given moment.

Your bathroom plans don’t have to account for this useful object because most of bathroom scales are movable and can be stored or conveniently placed where they’re not in a way. Bathroom remodeling samples that deal with bathroom accessories don’t include scales but we should take a moment here and note some of the contemporary bathroom scales trends.

Doctor's Office Weight Scales
Want to be a trend-setter and health expert at the same time? Why not invest in doctor’s Health-o-meter, balance-beam scales that feature foot pads and durable baked-on finish? This type of a bathroom scale is the most accurate (and fun) scale out there!

Big, Stable Bathroom Scale
Bigfoot Scale from Bathroom remodeling ideas comes with a non-slip mat for extra foot space and weighing comfort, and a large dial that is very easy to read. It stands on sturdy feet that make it one of the most stable of all bathroom scales.

Body Fat Analyzers
Body fat analyzer is a bathroom scale with high tech digital mechanism that allows to weigh you and check your body fat at the same time.

Weight Loss Scales
Thinner Slim profile bathroom scales are very stylish-looking, super-slim scales that deliver most accurate weight readings with the most advanced technology.

Bathroom Rugs

Bathroom of the Brunswick II

Most bathrooms have a vinyl or tile flooring; bathroom rugs can save you from the cold shock and make your day more comfortable from the get-go. When thinking about bathroom remodeling accessories such as bathroom rugs, remember to get a rug that is washable and fares well even in the damp areas of your new bathroom.

Bathroom rugs can make your own private spa more luxurious; just imagine plush, piled area rugs. Bathroom rugs can also make the bathroom remodeling outcome fun for kids — there are number of designs that are playful in colors and or shapes. Bathroom remodeling sample pictures can provide you with a number of suggestions as to what works best for your bathroom; the most important thing is to remember that this room is as important as any other one in your house and its should reflect your bathroom remodeling ideas and your style.

When remodeling your bathroom, you may find yourself stuck for bathroom design ideas. Bath rugs are one of the best ways to make your bathroom its unique, stylish look. You don’t have to re-paint or re-tile your bathroom just because you’re remodeling your bathroom — update its look without updating your bathroom fixtures or bathroom floor pans. Bathroom rugs can also compliment whatever you’ve done so far when it comes to bathroom remodeling.

Your bathroom rug can be either of traditionally bathroom design or if you’re feeling creative try investing in a real rug such as an oriental rug.

Bathroom Furniture

Who said you can’t have furniture in your bathroom? Especially if you have a bathroom that is larger and has some extra space that could use… something. Perhaps a small cupboard, chest, cupboard, armoire or wicker chair can fit into that empty corner or along an unused wall. Furniture in the bathroom will add storage and style. It also warms up the space.Furniture can really make a difference to a small bathroom as well. There are many furniture manufacturers who offer a variety of stylish and carefully designed furniture items that incorporate smart space saving ideas that are often desperately needed in smaller or unusually shaped bathrooms.Consider adding the following to your bathroom to create that unique feeling of space that is comfortable, functional and original.

Wicker Chairs
Bathroom Design Ideas Wicker chairs are very popular addition to current bathroom décor. They are light and small and will fit in most corners. They look very pretty as well, adding that countryside feeling to your bathroom. You can replace your boring storage unit such as a shelf unit with a wicker chair where you can keep towels or linens – it looks more casual but also more homey. If you have a corner to spare and don’t need to compromise your storage space than a wicker chair is a perfect place to dry yourself on, do your manicure or pedicure. You can always use it to invite a bathroom buddy when you’re taking a bath.

Traditional Furniture
Some larger bathrooms can really benefit from more traditional furniture such as armchair or even a loveseat. Again, these seating furniture can serve as storage objects or resting places.

Bookshelves
Bookshelf is one piece of furniture that you don’t expect in the bathroom, right? Because who reads in there anyway. Well, everyone does. If you think about it, your bathroom is probably the only place where you have complete privacy, perhaps it is the only room in the house that you can lock. Naturally, this also makes it a perfect reading environment.

Bathroom Mirrors

An image of one of my bathroom lights in Laure...Image via Wikipedia

When remodeling your bathroom remember that mirrors are one of the most essential bathroom elements and can easily change the way your bathroom looks. As with other decorative elements, have a look at some bathroom remodeling pictures to see what works and what doesn’t.

A Mirror's Use
The most essential function of a bathroom mirror is to reflect light – artificial and natural. Assuming that you have your bathroom lightning fixtures figured out (three-way or four-way, for instance) and your bathroom vanity is all set in, it is time to take some pleasure in choosing the perfect bathroom mirror to reflect – in more ways than one – your bathroom remodeling ideas.

Mirror Rules
The general rule when choosing your bathroom mirror is that your bathroom vanity, the bathroom lightning fixtures and your bathroom styles should all match. Matching the bathroom mirror frame, for example, to the vanity gives a uniform, stylish look.

Mismatching these two elements is also an option but according to many bathroom remodeling how-to's, it is important to have a very clear idea on how exactly you plan to mismatch your bathroom décor. It shouldn’t just happen spontaneously – always keep in mind that your bathroom is less forgiving with space clutter and eccentric design. Some modern bathroom remodeling trends suggest circular, unframed or beveled mirrors.

Bathroom Shower Curtains

Hong Kong combination shower and bathroomImage via Wikipedia

You have all kinds of bathroom remodeling ideas. You’ve looked at some bathroom remodeling pictures and bathroom remodeling how-to manuals. You’ve filled your new bathroom with all kinds of technologically advanced amenities, got some nice bathroom mirrors and bathroom rugs. But what about your shower curtain?

Like your bathroom rug, a shower curtain is one of those items that is functional and decorative, therefore give it the attention it deserves. If you don’t have a glass wall shower cubicle, your shower curtain will be an essential element of your bathroom.

What the Experts Say
Bathroom remodeling gurus always complain that people choose their shower curtains so that they will blend into the background instead of letting their creativity impact such choices. It is not unusual for people to treat the bathroom shower curtain as a main bathroom design element. Far too often, the same patterns, colors and fabrics are chosen, often replacing whatever worked before. Many people don’t realize how important this bathroom accessory is until they consult some professional bathroom remodeling pictures where they can witness decorators unleashing all of their bathroom décor ideas.

Be Bold
Dare to try something different this time. Let your shower curtain dictate what kind of other bathroom décor elements you will allow into your brand new bathroom. For instance, match your rugs with window curtains, let your shower curtains match your bathroom towels or the art on the wall. If you do some online research, you will quickly discover some wonderful bathroom remodeling ideas that will present you with a variety of colors, patterns, fabrics and themes of modern shower curtains.

If you’re following a single theme for your entire bathroom space, consider the theme of your new bathroom and its color palette before purchasing your new shower curtain. For example, if your bathroom is designed in a countryside style, choose a shower curtain with light patterns. Perhaps something like a sunflower design. A picture of lush grasses and wild flowers could also work.


Lighted Bathroom Fans

New Light/Fan in New BathroomImage by actionhero via FlickrA popular bathroom fan models include bathroom designs with lights and/ or heating lamps. A fan that has lights has to be efficient as well; for example if a fan is attached to a ceiling, you have to make sure there aren’t any water leaks coming from above. Your bathroom fans need to be rated and checked for wet conditions.

Bathroom Fans

Although this home suffered only minor exterio...

Get Rid of Moisture
A bathroom exhaust fan helps to reduce or eliminate moisture in your bathroom. Moisture in your bathroom is a huge problem. Moisture can destroy your wall paint and rot wooden trimmings. Moisture also increases the level of humidity in your whole house, thereby damaging all the other building materials. Lastly, moisture promotes harmful mold growth.

Improve Your Air Quality
Bathroom fans will help to remove ugly odors and improve your new remodeled bathroom’s air quality.

Your Options
Bathroom exhaust fans range from simple models to more elaborate types with built in heaters, lights and timer switches.

When considering your bathroom design, see if you want your bathroom fan to be mounted onto the ceiling or on a wall – the different installation options are available in most fans.

Proper Functioning
Your bathroom fan may seem fine to you, but it is important that you check to make sure the following conditions are met – this to ensure your bathroom air quality is at its highest level:

  • Your bathroom fan moves lots of air
  • Your bathroom fan is energy efficient
  • Your bathroom fan is quiet
  • It uses low-wattage lighting
  • It doesn’t cause backdrafting of combustion appliances
  • Size Matters
    Your fan’s capacity is graded in cubic feet per minute or liters per second — check your bathroom fan to make sure it draws at least twenty-five liters per second or fifty cubic feet per minute; if your bathroom fan doesn’t generate enough air, it gets too noisy and is not effective. It should also consume between twenty to eighty watts, no more.

    Naturally, if your bathroom remodeling involves a bathroom that is larger than the average, your bathroom fan should also correspond to its size.

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    Benefits of Bathroom Remodeling

    Benefits of Remodeling
    Since bathrooms usually aren't that large, you don't need to invest a lot of money to change the room. Even doing simple upgrades, like changing the bathroom vanity, installing new fixtures or even just putting in a new sink, can make a huge impact on the little space.

    Bathroom Design Ideas
    Want to make a change but are short on ideas? Then consider some of these:

      Your Bathroom Design
    • Go for a countryside-inspired bathroom by painting the walls in a soft yellow, using rustic-looking wooden cabinets. Perhaps even place an old pitcher and washing bowl on top of the counter.
    • For a more modern look, use glass and chrome accents throughout the bathroom. Small halogen lights help to make the chrome sparkle while creating a soft, intimate feel in the bathroom.
    • If your budget will allow it, then consider turning your bathroom into your own personal spa. Make your shower into a steam shower, complete with massaging shower head and multiple shower jets. Put up heated towel racks and install heated floors. If you feel very extravagant, then you may even want to put in a stereo and television.

    Big Ideas, Small Budget
    When your wallet doesn't seem to agree that your bathroom needs a complete overhaul, here are some easy ways to get that new bathroom with very little cash.

    • Change one major thing about your bathroom. Whether it is putting in new bathroom tiles, painting the walls or installing a different tub, making just one big change can completely revamp the overall look of your bathroom.
    • Add color to the room by changing your accessories. It may not seem like much, but new window curtains, different colored towels or a bright new shower curtain can instantly change the your bathroom's appearance.
    • Find innovative new ways to hang your towels. Whether it is using a wine rack to hold your towels on the counter or putting up antique doorknockers instead of the usual towel ring, breaking away from the ordinary will help the room come to life.

    Basement Bathroom

    Red bathroomAssuming that you have some sort of a bathroom facility in your basement already and are just looking to remodel a bathroom, the first thing you’ll need to do is create a remodeling plan and draw a floor plan or layout. Then you’ll need to measure the space you have and figure out the space you need to install all of your fixtures. If everything fits like it should, great! But, if there are any questionable areas, make sure you go over the design and follow the general outline of your basement bathroom. Some things you will need to consider include:
    • Bathtub: How large should it be? Will it be convenient to take baths in your basement? Will you perhaps have to invest in heating if you decide to install a tub?
    • Sink: Do you want a built-in vanity sink? How about a hanging sink which is slightly more expensive and more difficult to install?
    • Toilet
    • Cabinets and storage area: It is a good idea to have them in a basement instead of your main bathroom. But will you have enough space for them?

    Unique Features of a Basement
    Most basement bathrooms don’t have windows. When remodeling a bathroom in the basement, your most important element is lighting. Deciding on bathroom fixtures and the remodeling design is very important, but putting the right lights in, to maximize your space, is essential. One suggestion is to include light bulb strips above the mirror and adding spotlights throughout the area.

    If you're feeling claustrophobic, then one of the best bathroom remodeling tips is to invest in mirrors. They maximize the space by creating an illusion of having more room in there.

    You may also use your basement bathroom to store linens and towels. In that case, make sure that your bathroom remodeling ideas involve making up some extra space and adding cabinets and storage units without jeopardizing the use of the facilities. As with all the other objects in the basement bathroom, you’ll need to measure the cabinets and storage units, prior to installing them.

    Small Bathroom Design

    Most houses have small bathrooms. Yet, often bathrooms are not seen as a space where one can spend quality time. Thus they are usually just designed to be comfortable and efficient enough.

    Bathroom remodeling ideas are not limited to big, luxurious bathrooms that perhaps have more leeway with space and moving around their bathroom fixtures and remodeling plumbing and electrical outlets.

    Sure, you may need some help from a plumber, but there’s no rule that says your small bathroom can’t be a nicely designed room where you can still relax and find privacy. You don’t want to always be leaving your bathroom, as soon as possible, because what’s the point of spending a whole afternoon in an ugly, cold bathroom?

    Well, it doesn’t have to be ugly and cold. Put your bathroom remodeling hat on now and take care of your small space; we have some fantastic bathroom remodeling tips and great bathroom remodeling how to suggestions.

    Small Bathroom Design First of all, did you know that mirrors – especially positioned facing each other if possible – give a fantastic illusion of a larger space?

    A sexy small bathroom feature is adding a full-length mirror especially if it’s anywhere the bathtub or the shower area.

    Another great bathroom remodeling idea is to invest in mirror tiles; basically, the more mirrors, the better.

    Another thing to remember when one is remodeling bathroom – especially if it’s a small bathroom – is to consider its colors. As with any other room you probably won’t want to make this limited space too dark, dark will make the walls seem as if they’re closing in on you, plus it gives an impression of cold.

    The best color is definitely off-white, you may notice in most of bathroom remodeling photos (usually available online) that small spaces tend to be pale, not clinically white but rather soft and gentle in their shade. It is always good to add flowers, or geometrical or flower designs (tiles, prints, trimmings) to accentuate the style of your bathroom. Make sure that these are small and also pale in color.

    Lightning too, is important. One of the best bathroom remodeling ideas is to combine the mirrors with the lighting fixtures and the color for the best illusion of space. Your lights should be spaced out well, the fool-proof suggestion (according to bathroom remodeling for dummies series) is to invest in a strip of light bulbs above your main mirror.

    Finally, you may to consider – instead of bumping into your bathtub and always striving for space and style – a bathroom remodeling shower. For example, a nice see-through glass cubicle with white trimmings or mirrors inside it will be a beautiful – and functional – asset to any small bathroom.

    Bathroom Ideas

    There are three main remodeling ideas to consider when talking bathroom projects. Are you hoping to remodel completely and save yourself some hassle, are you looking to upgrade what you already have or are do you want to make your bathroom a place worthy of a king?

    First of all, it’s a good idea to look at some remodeling photos (you know, those 'before' and 'after' photos); this is not only to motivate and inspire you but also to provide some insight into how remodeling a bathroom works out in the real life. You are often limited by space and the plumbing; not all your plans may be doable, especially if this is a do-it-yourself bathroom remodeling project. One thing that you can do is add some creative touch to it so bring on those accessories. Some of the examples you may want to consider are: Bathroom Ideas

    1. Plants : opt for silk plants if you don’t have access to a window. They create that calming feeling and add texture to even the barest room. They are easy to take care of and can be placed in interesting vases that will also make this space feel homey and beautiful. Otherwise, choose plants that thrive in a warm, moist environment such as ferns.
    2. If your budget is tight, invest in nice shower curtains, towels, mats. As an additional touch, hang a decorative shelf where you can store your perfume bottles or spa essentials.
    3. Instead of buying new cabinets paint or stain your old ones and replace knobs.
    4. Frame your mirror, add a decorative rug, put in a skylight… Don’t be afraid to let your bathroom remodeling move outside of the box!
    5. Invest in one "fancy" item such as heated towel rack or multitask shower head for that spa-like feeling.
    6. Finally, think about painting. Maybe your bathroom could use another coat of paint or perhaps it’s time to do something totally different. If you’re a creative type, painting your bathroom can turn bathroom remodeling into an exciting project. You can accessorize to go along with the new color, add new trimmings and move lights and mirrors around to create a totally new look.

    Bathroom Design

    Sure, bathrooms could be just functional spaces that need little or no decorating attention…but imagine a bathroom that not only serves its function but is also a place where you can relax and take care of yourself in beautiful surroundings!

    Picture a large, comfortable bathtub, a full-length mirror, floor that is warm and welcoming on those cold, shivery days. You don’t have to spend a fortune on spa visits if you can create your own unique space (with some help from the plumber) that is as private and as convenient as you desire. Imagine a bathroom that makes you feel happy and relaxed whenever you’re in it.This could be future you: You lying back in your tub filled with fragrant bubbles, listening to your favourite CDs, closing your eyes and feeling good and taken care of, after a day of hard work, you’re in a space that is beautifully designed with gorgeous tiles, lovely walls decorated with art or mirrors. With all the new materials, design styles and innovative products becoming available, the bathroom of your dreams can finally turn into something more than just a sink, toilet and a shower combo. We will tell you about all kinds of design elements necessary to make your bathroom picture perfect, such as:Bathroom Design

    • Bathroom plans and layouts
    • Designs for small bathrooms
    • Bathroom decorating ideas
    • Cabinets, vanity and other bathroom furniture
    • Shower and / or bathtub ideas
    • Bathroom mirrors

    Some of the new inventions in bathroom design include ultra-thin electric floor heating systems that are installed under tile, body spa — customized showering with multiple water jets — or a system that will slightly warm your mirrors so they remain crystal clear despite the steam.Besides these luxuries we’ll introduce you to many other ideas such as the proper lighting, the length of a perfect bathroom or how to remodel a bathroom if you have limited space.

    Bathroom Design Ideas


    Most of all we want you to be satisfied with your bathroom design; use some of the following suggestions to get started once you are done your planning and bathroom remodeling:

    Bathroom Design If there is room, add a piece of furniture — a wicker display case or a wicker chair.Mixing or matching bathroom colors is also fun. There is no rule that says that your bathroom has to be white or black and gray. Have fun with colors – invest in nice, bright towels, funky toothbrush holder or an antique shelf.Introduce potted plants, fresh flowers or cut branches to your bathroom. You won’t believe what difference a simple leafy branch in a tall glass vase can make!Finally, get inspired by what you see outside of your house; think of the nicest bathroom that you’ve ever been to – be it in a hotel or a fancy restaurant or a friend’s house – and borrow some ideas.Designing this particular space of your home is not just a bathroom remodeling project. It can be an artistic endeavor where all your ideas and flare for style can shine!

    Remodel Ideas for a Bathroom

    Ceramic tiles flooring in Istanbul streetImage via WikipediaYesterday's bathroom floors were limited to vinyl or ceramic tile. Today, just about any material is up to the task of bathroom floor replacement. These bathroom remodel ideas can ensure that your flooring is as chic as it is waterproof.
    • Wood. Hardwood floors have long been a popular choice for home remodeling. But can they withstand the test of bathroom moisture? Yes--with the right precautions. Home remodeling experts recommend filling the cracks between the boards with wood putty, and applying several extra layers of oil-based polyurethane to seal the wood.
    • Bamboo and Cork. 'Green' materials are more hip than ever. Environmentally-conscious home remodelers can choose bamboo and cork, two renewable resources, for their bathroom floor replacement. These materials offer the appearance of wood, but also naturally repel water and resist mildew. Cork flooring is an increasingly popular bathroom remodel idea because it offers a soft and warm surface for bare feet.
    • Carpet. The luxurious feel of carpet beneath your feet...when you step out of the shower? Carpet would seem to have no place in the moist environment of your bathroom. But new high-tech carpet materials feature an antimicrobial, low-toxicity backing that resists mildew and bacteria. The modular tiles can be removed, cleaned and dried with ease. And removable carpet tiles make bathroom floor replacement a breeze.
    • Glass Mosaic. For a breathtaking effect, consider installing a glass mosaic bathroom floor. You'll find every color in the rainbow, even special tiles that change color with temperature. Recycled glass also offers an environment-friendly option.
    • Rubber. For the ultimate in low maintenance and hip style, consider a rubber bathroom floor. Rubber floors offer easy installation and replacement choose between modular tiles or a single rollout mat.

    Costs Of Bathroom Remodeling

    So what are the average costs of bathroom remodeling? This is a hard question to answer as prices range anywhere from $5,000 up to $30,000 depending on the amount of work and change you want to implement into your bathroom remodeling project. Even with your basic small bathroom, a full bathroom remodel can run to up to $8000 in expenses – this is usually the cost estimated if you’re hiring a contractor to do the work for you, which may seem like a lot but in the end it does save you a lot of time and frustration.

    Do It Yourself Costs
    Average Costs Of Bathroom Remodeling A do it yourself bathroom remodeling project within the $5,000 range could include new drywall, upgrade of all the bathroom fixtures and tiles for the shower (use porcelain ones and the cost goes up); upgraded shower enclosure and or / bathtub re-touching and new trims or wood-stain around your bathroom windows and bathroom doors. This bathroom remodeling estimate does not include labor which is your own so if you must, do it when you have some time to spare.

    When you hire contractors the costs range between $7,000 to $10,000 – you supply bathroom fixtures and bathroom tile (tiling labor is extra so add a couple more Ks). Electric and painting are extra as well – you can probably save on painting – most bathroom remodeling how to manuals will give you excellent bathroom remodeling tips on how to paint your bathroom.

    If your bathroom remodeling involves changing plumbing bathroom fixtures, this ranges between $1,000 and up if the job is more complicated for example if you have to change and / or move the plumbing around.

    You have a 10 x 20 master bathroom and you decide to make this a do it yourself bathroom remodeling project where you replace everything except for the bathtub but where you do install a new shower. You shop for your materials for quite some time – especially if you have a particular bathroom design in mind – acquiring different bathroom accessories such as bathroom vanities, bathroom cabinets, tiling for the bathtub (we’re not replacing it but we’re still making it more beautiful) as well as new bathroom faucets and tools. Your costs should range anywhere from $10,000 to up to $13,000 – if you find yourself spending more I’d suspect you’re not resourceful enough – there are tons of bathroom remodeling resources available to you such as bathroom remodeling software or free consultation with bathroom remodel contractors. Any demolition and construction will add extra – for example a typical shower re-construction will cost you about $5,000.