Jacuzzis, if not already present in the desired bathroom, is often seen as a means of upgrading one’s bathroom and adding value to one’s home.

If you have completed the first step: and went out and bought your new Jacuzzi, congratulations! This article is comes in handy as it now takes you through the second step which is Installing your Jacuzzi:

Required Materials

• 4 x 4 post stock
• 2 x 4 stock
• Galvanized Screws
• Electrical Conduit
• Plumbing Conduit
• Cement
• Sand Water
• Post Anchors
• Bolts & Nuts

Required Tools

• Drill and the full drill set
• A Shovel
• Table Saw
• Hammer
• Tape Measure (in accordance to the units used in the specifications)
• Square

Instructions

1. Floor on which Jacuzzi is to be installed should be leveled and able to support the weight.
2. In the case of an uneven floor, this would need to be rectified, so as to allow the bathtub to sit on a leveled surface.
3. NB: If Jacuzzi is to be installed on an uneven surface, one runs the risk on encountering ineffective water drainage and even more so the inability of the jets to function properly.
4. Ensure that your floor is able to support 150 pounds (lbs) per square foot. If not you will require additional support under the floor.
5. A frame (supporting enclosure) for the bathtub is required to. The manufacturer, as it relates to the frame should provide the specifications. The frame is usually of a wooden nature, in which the tub will be placed.
6. The frame in which the bathtub is to be placed should be able to provide support along the full length of the bottom of the bathtub as well as it rim.
7. An access panel with dimensions 18×18 needs to be created to facilitate the pump or motor for the Jacuzzi. This panel should be placed in a reachable area in the event there is trouble wit the Jacuzzi. It should also be able to provide the necessary ventilation.
8. Now after the framework is completed, proceed to setting the Jacuzzi.
9. To ensure that the bathtub is level within the framework, use a level to check this requirement.
10. In the event the bathtub is not leveled, you will need to place shims under the bathtub until it is at the leveled position.
11. Now proceed to securing the bathtub to the framework along the sheetrock nailing flange.
12. Where the wiring the plumbing for the Jacuzzi is concerned, it advised that this part of the Job be left to the professionals. If the tub is not properly connected the warranty will be voided.
13. After all the necessary installation is done, clean up the construction area removing all debris.
14. Ensure that all connections and fittings are secured.
15. To ensure that everything is functioning properly, fill the tub so that water level is above the jets, that way checks for leaks can be done thoroughly.
16. Turn on the jets allowing the bathtub to run for at least 15 minutes. Any problems that may arise should be addressed before closing off the area.
17. The sheetrock is to be used to cover the framework. The sheetrock can be either painted or tiled. In the case that tile is to be added, you need to first check to see if your floor is able to support the additional weight.

Additional Installation Tips

• Caulk can be implemented at the edges of the Jacuzzi tub to help prevent water leaks.
• Always make reference to the manufacturer’s manual for instructions and specifications regarding the installation of your Jacuzzi tub.
• Ensure that you have taken the proper measurements especially before making your purchase, as the purchase of the incorrect tub will prove to be of great inconvenience.
• Before installing be sure to check for surface defects, plumbing defects and hardware defects that may have come with your new tub.
• Once again too much emphasis cannot be placed on checking that the floor is able to manage the weight.
• The tub should be sealed sufficiently with silicone to prevent water from leaking out down to the floor.

One commonly overlooked way to save money is to check your faucets and toilets. That’s right, your bathrooms and kitchens may be costing you hundreds of dollars a year without you even realizing it. When a faucet drips or a toilet leaks, it may not seem like a big deal. All that dripping water adds up money wise; if you have a faucet that leaks a drop of water per second, this means that after a full year of dripping, you will have paid $30 for around 10,000 liters of water that you never got a chance to use. To give you an idea of just how much water is being wasted, 10,000 litres is roughly equivalent to 70 baths.

Although $30 may not seem like a big deal, this isn’t the cost that will break your bank. The problem isn’t the loss of water – it’s what that dripping or leaking does to your pipes and fixtures. Constant drips and leaks can corrode the pipes or sink accessories and lead to even bigger plumbing problems or the need to replace things more often than usual.

A leaking toilet can cost you way more than a dripping faucet. An example of a leaky toilet is when after you flush the toilet, you can still hear it run for a while. If you constantly have the pleasure of listening to a toilet that takes five minutes to go silent after you’ve flushed it, you may be losing up to 200,000 litres of water a year. Those 200,000 litres of water are approximately equal to 1,400 baths or $580.

To fix a dripping faucet, you can either call a plumber or try to do it yourself. There are several great guides available online explaining the procedure. One essential thing you should always remember to do before fixing a faucet is to turn off the water supply to the house; if you don’t, you may find that in addition to the pool in the backyard, you’ve just created a new one in the bathroom.

Spotting a dripping faucet may be simple, but it can be hard to determine is a toilet is leaking. A great way to figure out if you have a leaky toilet is to take drip several drops of food colouring into your toilet tank. The toilet tank is located towards the rear of the toilet; it’s the part of the toilet with the lid on top. Do not flush the toilet. After you’ve let the toilet sit for 10-15 minutes, look inside of the toilet bowl. If you find that the water in the toilet has changed colour, you know you have a leak, and it’s time to call the plumber.

For more tips and tricks on saving money and other financial matters visit LifeCover and check our their resources section.

Find the Water Stopcock

This valve controls the flow of fresh water into your home. In the event of a plumbing emergency such as a leak or pipe rupture it is essential that you are able to locate the mains water shut off valve in order to stop the torrent. If you are going to attempt to fit a new plumbed fitting or fixture it is also imperative that you know where the water stop tap (or in some cases taps) are located in your home. Common locations include (but unfortunately are not limited to) the cloakroom, bathroom, cellar and under the kitchen sink – go and take a look when you next get chance so you’re prepared in case of a soggy emergency.

Fix a Dripping Tap

If a persistently dripping tap is keeping you awake at night and you can’t get a plumber or accomplished DIY-er round for a couple of days then fear not. Simply tie a piece of string around the end of the bath or kitchen taps spout and poke the other end into the plug-hole so that the water runs down the waste silently. This might not fix the drip as such but it certainly makes it a lot less irritating!

Stop a Clogged Toilet from Overflowing

If you find yourself facing that heart stopping moment when you flush the toilet and realize it’s clogged as the bowl begins to rapidly fill threatening to soak the bathroom floor then this tip could avert disaster. As the water level starts to rise, pop the lid off the cistern and lift the fill valve (floating ball part) until the water stops flowing – secure it into this raised position (by wedging with the nearest available object) while hunting for a plunger to unclog the u-bend. Set to work with the plunger to shift the blockage before releasing the fill valve to resume business as usual.

Unclog a Drain Using Supplies from Your Kitchen

If you find yourself without a chemical drain unblocker (or simply don’t want to utilise potentially hazardous chemicals) then a slow draining sink can be a serious irritant. It is however possible to combat the problem with the help of kitchen staples. Pour a hefty dose of baking powder down the plug hole giving it a few moments to travel into the murky depths of the plumbing. Once the baking soda is in place pour down a pint or so of vinegar and allow the frothy chemical reaction to work its magic – dislodging all of the accumulated drain gunk in the process. After a couple of minutes get to work with a plunger, blast with the hot tap and smooth and speedy plug drainage should be restored.

It can be said, that in the plumbing and heating trades, that your procedures are mainly determined by the kind of piping that you must tap into.  Start with the “drain stack”.  If you are installing back-to-back fixtures, remove the existing connection and cut out the TY fitting in the stack, replacing it with a sanitary cross. Otherwise simply cut out a stack sections and install a TY.  Cut a copper or plastic stack with a special pipe-cutting tool with a hacksaw, an older style cast-iron stack with a special specialized for that purpose pipe cutting tool.  The replacement fittings are easy to install, since they are clamped, soldered or cemented into position, then fitted with adapters if necessary.

Supply-line connections to copper or plastic risers are made similarly, by installing new T’s. If your home has steel or brass supply pipes, the procedure is more complex, requiring the removal of the entire length of a riser between the two fittings, and its replacement with a section of copper piping.  In most cases you will find such fittings close above and below the point that you wish to tap. However, if the nearest riser fittings are a floor above and a floor below, you may have to open walls in several rooms.

In some cases you can avoid such complications by tapping supply lines at a distance from the fixture – there is no restriction on the length of supply connections, as there is on drain connections.  For instance, you can take advantage of exposed connections in the basement where you use tap-on or compression fittings without concern about a hidden leak or leaks.

Finally the remaining steps are routine connections made in the open, where you have plenty of room to work. Keep hot and cold supply lines separated by at least 6 inches.  And take care to support all piping and pipings with appropriate hangers – those for copper should fit snugly to minimize vibration noise, while those for plastic is a bit loose to accommodate expansion and contraction.

This article provided by Maxwell B. Labby of Furnasman One Hour Heating Air Conditioning Winnipeg and Fort Garry Lindenwoods Wpg Manitoba Power Vac

1. Toilet of the Monks

This toilet is in a Monk’s chamber found in East Sussex. Many palaces and churches had toilets like this one, and if you tour these places you can see them, though they are usually roped off and most tourist locations have modern toilets for the public.

Credit

2. Fit for a King

This actually is a modern toilet with a medieval design. It is supposed to look like a throne, and unlike many of the other toilets on our list, this is flushable.

Credit

3. Outhouse in Poland

This is actually nicer than most outhouses you will find overseas or even in the parts of your town you would rather not know about. There looks to be a lock on the door, which is not that common and there is an ample amount of space to take care of business.

Credit

4. A HOLE lot of Nothing

What is literally a hole in stone, was found in Spain. This is probably most like the real thing people used in medieval times. There was no plumbing, everything just went into a pile outside. Most indoor bathrooms had to be against an outside wall for this purpose.

Credit

5. Cop a Squat

You didn’t think we would leave without the famous hole in the  ground, did you? There are many toilets like this abroad, still. Many of them are in what we consider public restrooms.

Credit

6. The Chamber Pot

The Chamber pot was usually kept under the bed and used as a urinal in the middle of the night. Some were built into cabinetry for more privacy.

Credit

7. The Oh So Questionable

Hopefully this was just for the men, possibly what we consider a urinal today. Some of these actually had what is like a plug that the user would have to pull to drain. They would actually have to stick their hand in the toilet to do this.

Credit

This concludes our list, in fear that if we go any further no one will make it to lunch. It is not completely understood why it too designers and engineers of medieval times and even victorian times, so long to make such a natural part of everyday life so difficult to take care of comfortably. If you know of any other crazy toilets or medieval ways of life, feel free to share.

Kristina Carpenter is a writer for Greenwell Plumbing, which specializes in commercial and residential plumbing.

Let’s face it, you probably don’t spend all that much time in the bathroom – so the thought of spending thousands on new fittings probably doesn’t fill you with the same excitement as the thought of getting a new home entertainment setup for the living room. So, why bother spending that much money? Bath repairs may well be all you need! There’s no sense in getting an entire new shower fitting if shower tray repairs will let you keep your existing shower.

Why not just replace everything?

Replacing your entire bathroom might sound like a good option in the short term – especially if you’re already in spending mode because you’re doing up the rest of the house. You may be tempted to just buy a new set of fittings and pay a specialist to install them. Stop and think for a moment. Why spend money on replacing something that still works when you could put that money towards an even nicer carpet, or a bigger TV, or a couple of luxurious options for the fitted kitchen? Unless your plumbing is from the Stone Age, there’s probably no good reason to re-do the bathroom completely. There’s also the environmental point to consider. The mantra of ‘reduce’, ‘reuse’, ‘recycle’ applies to everything – even home decorating.

You can fix a lot of problems by using a shower tray repairs service. Everything from cracks and chips to leaking taps can be fixed. Some bath repairs are easy enough that you can do them yourself, but bigger jobs may require that you pay a specialist. Even if you have to bring someone in to do the job for you, the savings should still be massive compared to buying an entire new set of fittings.

Breathe New Life into Your Old Tub

Granted, bath repairs are not the most glamorous subject, but if they are done well, and combined with some skillful decorating, they can make your old tub look brand new. You could even make some room in your budget to add a nice new shower curtain to your shower repairs plan. Sometimes a little accessory like that is all you need to make your bathroom look great again.

The great news is that some bath repairs are not expensive. An expert can fit a new bathtub liner in just a couple of hours, and shower tray repairs are often something that specialists can do to perfection – with invisible repairs that make the fitting look like it’s brand new again. If it’s the finish that needs re-done, then that may be a longer process, but it’s still something that a specialist can do in a cost-effective manner.

This article was written by Amy Fowler on behalf of Hometech UK. Amy writes on a variety of topics including how shower tray and bath repairs can save homeowners money.

Perhaps one of the most valued, yet taken-for-granted aspects of your home is its plumbing system. We never think about it until something goes wrong; yet, without a properly maintained system, your home’s overall value decreases significantly.

By taking a few simple steps, you can take help safeguard your system from expensive, stressful problems arising in your home’s plumbing.

1. Pay attention to the chemicals that are in your drain cleaning products.

Some drain products contain harsh chemicals that clear out pipes. However, these chemical can actually erode the inside of your pipe and cause long-term damage. If used repeatedly, these chemicals will continually be deposited on your pipes making it only a matter of time before a plumbing disaster is on your hands. For this reason, it’s important to take caution when selecting certain drain products. If you can find an environmentally friendly cleaner, these will often eliminate harsh chemicals and still help to troubleshoot any clogs that occur. Another option is to hire a professional plumber to snake the drain and remove the entire clog at once. Or, for a D-I-Y project, you can purchase one of these snakes from a hardware store.

2. Keep an eye on what goes down your drain.

It’s easy to become relaxed when it comes to what we allow to go down our drains. However, it’s important to limit what items we place down drains. In bathroom sinks, we must avoid hair. In kitchens, we must avoid food remnants, oil and grease. And, in toilets, we must flush only toilet paper and sewage.

3. Practice regular maintenance on your septic lines or tank.

If you have municipal sewers, it’s important to hire a plumber to snake your primary sewage clean out. Having this task done every few years will often suffice and will remove unwanted, problematic tree roots from inside your lines. For home owners who have a septic tank, it’s important to have the tank pumped every three to five years to ensure that prevent sewage from backing up.

4. Take extra precautions during cold weather.

When the weather outside gets chilly, start thinking about insulating your pipes and protecting them from freezing or breaking. If faucets or pipes are above ground, it is recommended that you keep them warm by using insulating wraps or foam. These faucets or pipes might be outside or they could be in your basement or attic. On extremely cold days, it is important to leave water dripping from faucets inside your home. This small task will protect the pipes inside your home from freezing.

5. Avoid high stress situations.

Summer time brings lots of sunshine and outdoor parties at home. While it’s fun to have gatherings for graduations, weddings or pool parties, the stress that these crowds have on our home septic systems is anything but pleasant. Excessive use causes stress to pipes, and the chances of having undesired objects going down drains certainly increases. To help troubleshoot these problems, consider hiring a portable toilet rental company before your big party or event. Not only will this give your home’s plumbing system a break, but it’ll also free you from having to clean up a messy bathroom.

By implementing these five easy steps, you can protect your home’s plumbing system and avoid those unwanted disasters. After all, a happy plumbing system makes for a happy home.

—
Happy Can is a Georgia portable toilet facilities rental company serving the greater Atlanta area and its surrounding communities. Many of our customers rent portable toilets for special events including deluxe restroom trailers for weddings and portable toilets for house parties in addition to hand washing stations, baby care stations, handicap units and more.

Technology

Everywhere you looked this year there were companies doing awesome things with technology in their products. Delta’s line of Touch2O faucets provide a simplicity that is welcomed in the kitchen faucet market, and is perfect for the avid cooker that always has food on their hands. This line of faucets comes in many different styles and finishes and works flawlessly to control the water flow with the touch of your hand. Delta has also expanded the product line to feature Touch2O faucets for the bathroom as well

Kohler was not to be outdone and used this platform to announce their NUMI toilet which has features including in toilet speakers, integrated bidet, light up bowl and a motion activated seat, just to name a few. This toilet drew a lot of attention and was always crowded with on lookers trying to get a better view.

Moen also introduced a new line of their ioDigital shower system which provides even more reliability and function to a system which already allows the user to digitally control water flow and temperature with the touch of a button.

Water Saving

The Toobi collection of bathroom faucets from Kohler  has multiple aerators of different colors that ship with the faucet. These aerators can be switched out seamlessly to match the look and feel of the room the faucet is being installed in while still allowing the faucet to control release of the water for ultimate efficiency. Toto has a whole new series of water saving toilets and shower systems to go along with it already large offering, while Danze showcased a new low flow showerhead which when positioned next to showerheads with up to a gallon more water a minute and it was hard to even tell the difference between the flows. It is great to see all of these big companies truly embracing green technology as it is increasingly important to the ongoing health of our planet.

Other Standouts

Moen also showcased their series of bathroom faucets that all are installed on the same M-Pact valve system. These Moen bathroom faucets allow the user to seamlessly switch the look and feel of their faucet with limited work whenever they feel a change is needed. With hundreds of faucet options available your faucet can change as often as you would like with no need to call a professional plumber

Rev-A-Shelf is a great organization company that had some interesting products that can help organize any home. From shelves that pull out to utilize blind corner space and auto slow close cabinets to customizable kitchen sink drip trays, be sure to check out their new lines that will help with your organization. Also, the American Standard Cadet toilet was showcased at their booth, and you could even fill it with golf balls and watch it flush them. I had seen this on video but never in person, and it worked well, flushing the golf balls with ease.

These are some of the takeaways I saw from attending KBIS 2011, what about you? Where you able to go? What did you see that you liked? Make sure to leave it in the comments.

Bathroom Luxury Shower Modern Design

Whether you want to add extra functionality to your bathroom or make the room more spacious, installing a new shower is the perfect solution.

A stand-alone shower is ideal in a busy family bathroom where water tends to be splashed everywhere, it helps save time and water when several people are using the bathroom everyday, and keeps the room dry and tidy. If your bathroom is cramped, replacing a bath with a shower will help make the room bigger, while the choice of shower heads and accessories on the market will allow you to create a luxurious spa in the comfort of your home.

However, there are a few things you need to take into consideration before purchasing a new shower.

Priorities for Shower Space

Like for every remodeling project, you need to start by pinpointing what exactly you want to achieve, and what are your priorities.

• Do you want an additional washing space in your bathroom?
• Are you dreaming of luxurious features?
• Do you need to save space and water?
• Do you require something more accessible?

The answer to those questions will help you decide whether you need both a shower and a bath and how much prominence you want to give to the shower. Deciding what is essential and what can be overlooked – whether it is design, functionality or accessibility – will also help you define a budget and direct you towards specialist retailers if necessary.

Identify Available Space

Once you have established what you want, try to visualize every possible space where the shower could be fitted, and measure the floor space available. Shower trays now come in all possible shapes and sizes, answering pretty much every requirement. If you want to optimize on space, quadrant or pentagonal shower trays will allow you to make the most out of corners.

You might not necessarily think about what type of doors you want for your shower, but this will have a huge impact depending on the space you have. If you have little space available, a walk-in shower will offer a practical yet stylish solution, but if you are adamant about having doors, opt for sliding or bi-fold instead of a pivot-styled one.

Overall Style

Are you after the “wow factor” when it comes to the design of your bathroom? Do you want something modern and sleek? Would you rather have the accent away from the shower towards more traditional features?

A frameless shower enclosure will be much more discreet than a framed one, and will not attract attention to the shower, especially if you have other strong elements in your bathroom, like a free-standing bath or a feature wall. If you want your guests to be blown away by your new bathroom, a contemporary walk-in shower or even a wet room will guarantee a good reaction. Add massage jets, aromatherapy facilities, built-in seats or teak shower mats and shelving, and your shower will make a real statement.

If you want to undertake the project yourself, make sure you get as much advice as possible before starting. There are a lot of DIY websites out there with step by step guides and even how-to videos. It is however advisable to get a professional to fit the shower tray, as it needs to be perfectly level and installed for the rest of the shower to fit properly.

Paul Hanson is the marketing and sales director at Bathrooms.com, online retailer of quality bathroom furniture and accessories at great prices.

Image: Gregory Szarkiewicz / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

We are not strangers to energy efficient appliances. Since the realization of our increasingly depleting resources, experts have taken it upon themselves to device new household appliances to help lessen the use of electricity and water.

How Much Energy Do Inefficient Appliances Consume?

Quite a lot, if you ask me. But since we are going for figures here, the following can give you a better idea.

1. Your heating and cooling appliances contribute 60% of your household energy consumption. Devices with heating and cooling elements such as refrigerators, washing machines, drying machines and air conditioners tend to consume more energy.

2. Clothes dryers, when used weekly, can consume up to $85 per year.

3. Your refrigerator, when used 24 hours a day, 7 days a week can contribute to the consumption of up to 13% more energy.

It depends on a lot of things such as the rate of electrical costs, the season and the number of times you are going to use your appliances.

Imagine an inefficient washing machine being used every single day. Even if you have the money to cover the costs of electricity, you have to think about the long-term effects of excessive energy consumption to the environment.

That being said, the quest for the most efficient appliances is on. Here are the latest trends in energy efficient appliances:

Bigger Capacity, Bigger Loads

This is the case with washing machines. A top loader might seem like it belongs to the dinosaur period but there are actually more efficient top loaders today. They are different in the sense that the agitator is missing and is replaced by a washer plate.

The washer plate will keep your clothes clean. What is great about this machine is that it gives more space for clothes. The agitator tends to take up a lot of space inside the washer drum.

But with it missing, you can now load more clothes. More clothes in one washing cycle mean more chances for you to maximize the use of your machine.

Sensors

Household appliances have been equipped with sensors. The washer with a sensor, for instance can now determine how much dirt is in the clothes so it can figure out a way to clean it more efficiently. The machine can pretty much determine the right level of water to use and the right time to clean the clothes correctly.

It reduces under washing or over washing. This is similar to the dryers that can sense the amount of moisture in clothes. It can prevent over drying and under drying.

Sensors can also be seen in air conditioners. Instead of cooling the whole room, which pretty much consumes a lot of energy, the air conditioners with sensors will sense the part of the room that needs cooling. It detects the presence of a person so it will cool only those areas.

Direct Drive Technology

The motor system that powers appliances, particularly washers, has got a lot to do with its efficiency. Excess energy is consumed because the washer motor breaks down in the middle of the cycle. The owner has to re-do the cleaning cycle in another way or using another washing machine.

Thankfully, the direct drive technology is here. It has fewer parts in motion when the washer is running so it does not wear out quickly. It also performs smoothly so the machine is less likely to vibrate.

Other appliances that have been incorporated with this technology include fans, wind turbine and sewing machines.

If you haven’t made your home a lot more energy efficient yet, you might want to start doing so. Make sure you also contribute to the reduction of energy consumption.

Check out LG washing machine reviews to find out why you should invest in those machines. For more relevant information, visit us at http://www.washingmachineadvisor.com.

In this economic time, it’s a priority to save money wherever possible. Unfortunately, whenever we have a few extra bucks to spend, it seems like something always gets in the way – including home improvement projects. Small problems, like leaky faucets, put an extra drain on your wallet.

Fortunately, leaky faucets are pretty simple to fix.

What Type of Faucet Do You Have?

It’s important to know what kind of faucet you have before attempting to fix it. If your faucet has two different handles for both cold and hot water, you more than likely have a washer-type faucet, also called a compression faucet. This type of faucet has an internal shutoff valve that has a washer at the end so that it stops leaks from forming.

Now, if you have a washerless type, you more than likely have one handle for temperature control. These usually have a disc, cartridge or ball to control water flow.

Step by Step Instructions

Regardless of your type, it’s usually pretty similar when fixing. Here are some step by step directions to follow:

1. First, turn off the water and remove the handle of the faucet by unscrewing the screw on the top or back of the handle. Sometimes you need some oil to help loosen it.
2. Now, remove the handle and start to remove the packing nut with a pair of pliers or an adjustable wrench. Twist the stem or spindle by turning it in the direction you’d turn to turn the faucet on.
3. Remove the screw that holds the washer. If you need to use oil to loosen it, that’s ok. Now check to see the condition of the screw and stem, and if it’s damaged replace it.
4. Replace the old washer with a new one that’s identical.
5. Tighten the new washer to the stem, and turn it clockwise. When the stem is in place, put the nut back on.

Reassemble the handle and replace the disc. Now, turn the water supply back on and check for anything leakage.

These steps should lead to a fixed faucet. If the leak continues, go through the steps again, and if it doesn’t work the second time around, you may want to call a professional to avoid any damage.

This is a guest post written by Gracie Roloff. Gracie runs MyGetRidOfGuide, a website that offers several ways to Get Rid Of anything from unwanted pests in your garden to acne.

Define Your Style

As stated above bathtubs come in so many sizes and options that the list can get frustrating. However, if you know what style you like, then you should be able to easily find a bathtub to work for you. So the first step in selecting a bathtub is to define the style you are looking to achieve with the bathroom.

The Modern Bathtub

The modern bathtub is defined by simple clean lines that allow it to complement the bathroom it is being installed in and not clash with the design. Modern bathtubs are often referred to as soaking bathtubs, and can add an undeniable beauty to the sleek look of your bathroom. These tubs can be installed in a three wall installation or in a drop in installation like the tub pictured. These tubs do require some type of walls for installation though so they are the type of tub that is generally used with bathroom remodels. These tubs can also have many add ones such as neck pillows and body jets.

Clawfoot Bathtubs

Clawfoot bathtubs are normally installed in bathrooms that are open and allow many different configurations for the way they can be laid out. The clawfoot bathtub adds an immediate look at me flavor to the bathroom it is being installed in, and works perfectly with a more vintage bathroom design. Another benefit of a clawfoot tub is that they have customizable feet to match both the style and the finish you are looking for. Make sure if you are selecting a clawfoot tub you realize they tend to be very heavy, so they are not a great option for upstairs installations. For a vintage look though, a clawfoot bathroom is the perfect selection.

The Freestanding Tub

If you love the look of the clawfoot tub but want to keep a modern design for your bathroom, you can consider a freestanding tub. These tubs are designed to be mountable in any location of the bathroom, but provide a sleek beauty that sets them apart from the vintage clawfoot tub look. They also do not require any walls for installation and can be more customized than a clawfoot tub.

Don’t Forget the Extras

The next extra you should consider concerns the type of bath faucet you would like to install. Most people go with a normal bathtub spout, but there are many other options like roman tub faucets with handshowers and wall mounted tub faucets that provide a better bathing experience. If you are installing a clawfoot or freestanding tub it is good to consider a faucet that has a hand shower so that you can easily use it for a better washing experience in your new tub.

These are a few of the considerations I would look into when selecting a new tub, but there are many other options available so if I left out something that you think is really important make sure you leave it in the comments!

Author Bio

Josh McNair works with PlumberSurplus.com, an online home improvement retailer, which you should consider for your next bathtub purchase.

It wasn’t until we sold that house and moved into our second home that we discovered how much we had come to rely on this simple piece of equipment in our daily lives. An instant hot water dispenser is a valuable addition to any kitchen. Once you’ve used an instant hot water dispenser on a regular basis, it can be difficult to go without one.

Why Instant Hot Water?

Conveniently located at your kitchen sink next to the main water faucet, a hot water dispenser provides instant, near-boiling water for a variety of needs, including:

These are many more uses for an instant hot water dispenser – this product soon becomes one that you take for granted!

What are Instant Hot Water Dispensers?

Instant hot water dispensers are like electric hot water heaters that are mounted inside the cabinet underneath your kitchen sink. The tank holds water that is approximately 190 degrees that is ready for immediate use at this temperature, although the temperature can be adjusted. Water is released through a fixture separate from the faucet, usually through a twist or lever mechanism.

The instant hot water dispenser heats water through an electric coil inside the mounted tank. Cold water travels from a cold-water pipe directly into the tank and up through the spout. Once the heated water comes out through the top of the tank and out of the faucet, more cold water fills the bottom of the tank.

What to Look for in an Instant Hot Water Dispenser

Not all hot water dispensers are the same. While they generally operate the same way, there are basic differences in options, faucet finishes, price, and warranty. It might help to start with a faucet and finish that complements your kitchen decor, then thoroughly research the brand and specific product, including reviews. Other elements to look for in an instant hot water dispenser include:

There are a few popular brands of instant hot water dispensers, including Waste King, Franke, Quick & Hot, and KitchenAid. These represent a range of cost and quality, so research your desired instant hot water dispenser thoroughly before making a purchase.

Some shady contractors wishing to cut corners in order to keep the bottom line low for their clients will leave out these options often, but pipe insulation is essential for the performance and long service-life of piping systems.

So it is often these kinds of additions that homeowners will want to consider doing themselves. Pipes and ductwork need insulation just as much as your exterior walls do.

Poorly insulated ductwork can lose heat, reduce air conditioning effectiveness and cost you money in heating and cooling bills. Not to mention the fact that if they freeze and burst, those repair bills are often astronomically high. Un-insulated pipes usually sweat, leave watermarks and make your water heater work overtime.

Naturally, pipe insulation is most important in areas where there is the potential for pipes to freeze and burst. But even in the southeast, where I live, we have days and nights below freezing and people’s pipes burst.

The cost of both piping and insulation is small relative to the damages when a pipe breaks. While it is obvious that outdoor pipes (under the porch, etc) need to be insulated, other pipes can still freeze even if they run in a temperature-regulated part of the house.

If the electricity goes out for several hours, or you go on vacation and don't expect the temperature to drop as much as it does, you may return to a huge mess. Proper pipe insulation can reduce, if not eliminate, the chance of your pipes freezing.

Insulation has a tremendous impact on your home's energy use. With rising energy prices, as well as environmental concerns, it is becoming even more important to pay attention to how you consume energy.

Proper insulation improves the thermal efficiency of your home, limiting heat transfer and providing a vapor barrier against moisture. Proper piping and insulation materials also eliminate condensation formation, which accelerates pipe deterioration.

Fortunately, insulating your pipes is a simple home improvement job that even someone like me can do.

To insulate your pipes, you will need:

• Pipe insulation
• Duct tape
• Rag
• Mild cleanser
• Scissors
• Utility knife
• Mask
• Gloves
• Safety goggles

Pipe Insulation Steps:

1. Begin by removing any dirt or grease from the pipes with a rag and mild cleanser. Make sure you allow the pipes to dry thoroughly before continuing with the installation.
2. Choose the insulation. Foam, foil or fiberglass insulation can be wrapped around the pipe with a 1/2" overlap. Secure each end of the insulation with duct tape. If you are working with Fiberglass insulation be sure to wear safety goggles and gloves.
3. Make sure to cover the entire pipe when wrapping around corners and bends and wrap with duct tape. When working with fiberglass insulation, wrap the fiberglass in plastic to keep the pipes from dripping condensation.
   The easiest pipe insulation to install is tubular sleeve insulation. It comes in a variety of sizes and is the easiest to install. Simply cut the sleeve to length and wrap it around the pipe. Be sure to duct tape the seam where the pipes meet.
4. When insulating around corners or T-joints, cut slits or make miter angles where necessary, and secure these areas with duct tape.

Insulating cold-water pipes will prevent them from dripping condensation, and insulating hot-water pipes will prevent costly heat loss and save on energy bills.

What to do if a Water Supply Pipe Bursts

The worst case plumbing emergency is when a pipe inside your house bursts and you have a flood on your hands; especially if the pipe is in an upstairs location. This is one reason it’s important to know where your water shut of valve is located; when you have water flowing down your hallway is not the time you want to be looking all over the house for the shut off valve.

Shut off the water supply as quickly as you can; what else can I say? You’re definitely going to be calling a plumber next and then your insurance agent after that. Hopefully you’ll never have to face this worst case plumbing scenario.

What to do when the Toilet Backs Up

There is no more annoying plumbing emergency than a stopped up toilet; most clogged toilets are caused by too much toilet paper or trying to flush something other than toilet paper such as paper towels, sponges or toys. Avoid these and you will be far less likely to need to follow these tips for unclogging a toilet:

1. First try clearing the toilet with a plunger; often if you’re lucky that does the trick!
2. If you can’t unclog it with the plunger a closet auger with a corkscrew point may do the trick; since this tool is flexible and can be turned inside the trap, you may be able to get at whatever is blocking the flow of water and dislodge it.
3. Be sure you remove as much of the bad stuff from the bowl before using a closet auger. Yah, major yuck!
4. Don’t push the blockage down into the trap; you have to get it out or you could end up making matters even worse.
5. If the closet auger fails and your toilet has a cleanout plug, your next step is to get a bucket, remove the plug and auger the pipe, letting all the bad stuff drain into the bucket.
6. If that fails or your toilet doesn’t have a cleanout plug, unfortunately it’s probably time to call Joe the Plumber.

How to Keep Drains Draining

Another common homeowner’s plumbing challenge is the clogged drain. Typically this is an unavoidable hazard we all encounter, but you can help keep it to a minimum with a little regular preventive maintenance.

Almost all bathtub and shower drains have strainers to keep soap and hair from getting into the drain. Simply keep these strainers clean to help avoid clogging and avoid letting large chunks of soap, hair or other debris from getting into the drain in the first place.

Lavatory sinks should likewise have filtering screens to keep the traps from clogging; regularly cleaning the filters will help prevent clogged traps.

Don’t treat your kitchen sink like its garbage can; yes you can throw large pieces of organic material in there and grind them up but don’t! Remember that even though the garbage disposal will grind it all up, it still has to go through your sink trap, so if you avoid putting anything more than necessary into the garbage disposal you won’t have as much chance of a clogged trap AND your garbage disposal will last longer too.

When you use your garbage disposal, be sure to use plenty of water to flush all that ground-up material through the disposal and not let it sit in the trap, where it will harden and stick to the sides … the beginning of a clogged sink trap for sure! And don’t pour grease into your kitchen sink; you’re just begging to have Joe the Plumber make a house call if you do.

What to do when a Bathtub, Shower or Sink Won’t Drain

Unclogging drains and traps are another fun plumbing nightmare. If your first inclination is to reach for the chemicals, think again. Not only are those chemical drain cleaners harmful to the environment, they can also damage your plumbing drain pipes. Try following these tips instead to clear a blocked drain:

1. Pour a quart of boiling water mixed together with one cup of ammonia into the drain and let it sit for thirty minutes
2. Use wet rags to plug all openings so you have created a complete vacuum in the drain and trap; block the overflow holes and any other openings in the sink, including the drain in the second basin if the sink is a double-basin model.
3. Time to try the old plunger; fill the basin with about 2 to 3 inches of water. You can put a little petroleum jelly around the rim of the plunger to help get a tight seal.
4. Put the plunger over the drain and push down and up, using a forceful motion to clear the drain; you want to keep that seal while you are stroking the handle of the plunger up and down.
5. If the plunger doesn’t clear the drain, you’ll have to try dropping and cleaning the trap.
6. If the trap is clear and the drain is still clogged, time to try clearing the blockage in the drain with an auger, running it down the drain hole and maneuvering it around the bends to clear whatever is causing the blockage.
7. If the auger doesn’t work, its time to call Joe unfortunately; you may have a blockage beyond the trap and that means you need a professional plumber.

How to Unclog Sink Strainers and Stoppers

If a drain strainer in your kitchen or bathroom sink is clogged, you can usually solve the problem yourself. Follow these steps to unclog strainers:

1. If the strainer is secured with screws, remove those and set them aside.
2. Carefully pry the strainer up with the tip of a screwdriver without bending or misshaping it in the process.
3. Clean the strainer, removing any debris, hair, etc. and replace it and secure it.

If your sink drain has a stopper, you can clean it by following these steps:

1. Some sink stoppers can be removed simply by turning the stopper by hand until it comes loose.
2. Other models have a pivot rod that must be unscrewed using pliers; pad the pliers with a cloth so you don’t scratch the finish.
3. Once you have removed the stopper, give it a good cleaning and replace it. Cleaning stoppers periodically will help keep your drains flowing strong.

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

As winter approaches and colder temperatures set in most plumbers see a nice increase in business; good for Joe the Plumber but not so good for Joe the Homeowner. Frozen pipes are one of the most common and costly plumbing problems many homeowners face, but here are some basic preventive steps you can take:

1. Don’t leave a garden hoses connected to an outside hose bib if you expect temperatures to drop below zero; residual water in outdoor hoses can expand and potentially break faucets.
2. Insulate outdoor faucet bibs to prevent them from freezing; look at Home Depot or Lowes for simple kits that make this a cheap, quick do-it-yourself job. Also check your outdoor faucets for leaks or drips which could lead to cracks during a freeze.
3. If you expect a cold spell with below-freezing temperatures it’s a good idea to turn off the water to your outdoor faucets and sprinkler system if your home has shut off valves inside the garage, crawl space or basement. It may be worth having these installed if you live in a colder climate and your home doesn’t already have them!
4. Consider insulating pipes in areas of your home that are not heated such as crawl spaces and the garage with heat cables controlled by a thermostat (most effective, but more costly) or heat tape (cheap but less effective).

Personally, I have the upmost respect for Joe and his plumbing brethren; plumbing repairs are never fun and, as with most crafts, they make the job seem like magic. But really a plumber can unclog any drain or pipe, install or repair pipes and plumbing fixtures with ease because he has years of experience and know how.

Major plumbing repairs and renovations are best left to the pros, but hopefully these tips will help you prevent and handle the simpler plumbing challenges that are bound to occur in any home!

There was a time when a shower faucet was nothing more than a functional piece of bathroom hardware, but no more!

Today you will find a shower faucet to fit any bathroom décor from modern to Tuscan, in finishes from shiny stainless steel to brushed nickel, handheld faucets to showerheads with fluting and other decorative design cues.

Even the function of a showerhead has changed dramatically over the last 20 years; with multiple sprays and mists, thermostatic and scald controls available in the latest high tech shower faucet innovations.

From style to function, major brands and installation tips, Rafter Tales is pleased to offer you our shower faucet buyer’s guide to help you select shower hardware that meets your budget, functional and design needs!

Luxury Showers More Popular than Bathtubs

Many people have eschewed the bathtub in favor of larger and more convenient shower installations that provide the relaxing feel of a spa in their home.

Others, who once thought an outdoor hot tub or Jacuzzi would be nice have opted for the convenience of a large jetted tub in the master bath or combined their tub and shower to convert their master bath to a home spa!

Either way, the emphasis on design and function has taken shower and bathtub fixtures a whole new level in the home.

But they’re Only Plumbing Fixtures!

True, shower and bathtub controls and faucets are only plumbing fixtures, but they can make or break your bathroom décor; updating older faucets can save water and money while also adding style and completing the look of your master bath, kid’s or guest bathroom.

While chrome can look great in a contemporary style bathroom, you may want to step up to a nickel finish to complete the look of your traditional bath with a softer, more upscale look.

Showers are possibly the most popular ways to bathe and one of the most relaxing areas of the home. The water temperature can be varied, the soap is washed away, and you feel refreshed and rejuvenated from the water as it sprays over you.

Like most things in life, we all have different preferences when it comes to water speed, temperature, and pressure. So it makes sense to carefully consider the fittings that control your shower experience. If you design the perfect soothing shower for the morning, you’ll be improving your mood for the day.

There are two main aspects to consider when choosing your shower faucet; the type of shower head you prefer (which determines how your shower feels) and the faucet fitting (which must be considered in terms of how your shower has been designed).

Shower heads, Body Sprays and Mists

These days you can choose the standard shower head or surround yourself with mists and sprays galore. Some of the types of shower heads available include:

• Wall-mount shower heads are affordable. The shower head adjusts via a ball joint where it joins the neck. Models that offer varying spray types fit the needs of most users.
• Ceiling-mount shower heads work well in areas where the ceiling is too low to accommodate a wall-mount head. Some are also quite large and produce a waterfall-like feel. Because the spray comes from overhead, it is difficult to avoid getting your hair wet when washing in this type of shower.
• Handheld showerheads clip on to a 3- to 6-foot-long hose that lets you spray the water where you want it. It’s a versatile choice that makes it easy to wash your hair, rinse off, or scrub down the shower itself.
• Sliding bar showerheads slide up and down on a bar mounted on the wall. Because the spray height is extremely easy to adjust, it’s a good option when the users vary in height.
• Body spray and body mist shower sprays are installed in vertical rows on opposite or adjacent walls, creating a crisscross water massage between knee and shoulder levels that lets you wash up quickly without getting your hair wet.



• Body spa shower panels are installed against one or more walls of the shower stall. The panels are equipped with water jets arranged vertically from knee to neck level. Similar to the jets in a whirlpool tub, the water jets pump out and circulate large quantities of water for a powerful massage.
• The fittings for the faucet you choose will depend on the space you are working within. In the shower there are four main types to choose from. A main determinant of what you can use depends on whether you have a bath/shower or simple shower because single showers tend to simply have wall-mounted fittings.

Shower Faucet Types

• Single-handle faucets have one spout and one handle that control the flow of both hot and cold water. They are generally safer and more convenient to use than their two-handled counterparts. With practice you can find the temperature you want on the first try. You can also turn the water on with your elbow or wrist when your hands are full or dirty.
• Center-set faucets combine a spout and handle(s) in one unit. These faucets have either single-handle or double-handle controls. Most are designed for a three-hole basin, with the outside holes spaced 4 inches from center to center. However, some have a single-post design that requires only one hole.
• Spread-fit faucets separate spout and handles. The connection between them is concealed below the sink deck. Installers can adapt them to fit holes spaced from 4 to 10 inches apart. You can individualize them even more if they are mounted on a countertop next to the sink. For example you can place the spout on a rear corner and the handles off to one side. These faucets are handy for tight installations that lack the room. They also are ideal for whirlpool tubs, so that the handles are accessible from outside the tub for filling. This type of faucet offers a more traditional look than single-handle faucets and you can combine different style handles and spouts for a custom look.
• Wall-mount faucets are attached to the wall as opposed to the sink or the counter. These faucets are the most common for showers that don’t double as baths.

Shower Fixture Finishes

Most faucets are manufactured of brass, plated with one of four materials; chrome, nickel, stainless steel or brass. Chrome is typically the least costly finish and you’ll find plenty to choose from, including many with an enamel finish in white or other colors.

Nickel is quite popular, with a brushed finish that gives a more muted metal finish that will not show fingerprints and water spots as much as polished chrome.

For even higher quality and a bit different look, you can go with stainless steel. Stainless fixtures may be polished smooth for a highly reflective finish or brushed for a softer look that is easier to keep looking clean.

For the ultimate in luxury and longevity, a brass finished shower faucet and showerhead will give your bathroom a true designer look; many fixtures may feature brass and stainless steel or nickel to give them an even more unique design pattern.

Shower Valves

Dedicated shower valve bodies are commonly used today; these may have a rubber disc that closes against a metal seat or a more expensive cartridge-style system with a plastic or brass cartridge instead for added longevity. The best units feature a hard ceramic disc that is almost indestructible.

Temperature Control

If you’re looking for something really cool, try one of the shower faucet units that incorporate temperature control; these models allow you to set a temperature ring, enabling the faucet to automatically adjust to that preset temperature. Of course, you and your partner may not always agree on where to leave the temperature set for your ideal showering comfort!

Scald Protection

If young kids will be using the shower, you might want to consider a unit that provides scald control; in this case you set the maximum temperature to a safe setting, above which the shower faucet will never rise.

Shower Faucet Brands

While there are literally hundreds of makes of bath and shower faucets, a few of the leading brands include:

Danze – Danze has quickly become a leading US manufacturer of bath and shower faucets, with over 1800 products available in many styles and finishes manufactured with a vertically integrated supply chain, all backed by strong customer service and a drip-free warranty.

Delta Faucet – With several brands including Delta, Brizo and Peerless, Delta Faucet Company is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of faucets, valves and hundreds of other home improvement products. Brizo is their premium brand.

Grohe – Offering a complete product line of kitchen and bathroom faucets, Grohe offers an extensive range of products including faucets, showers and faucets for every style of interior, from classic period contours to sculptural modern designs.

Kohler – Long known as a premium brand, Kohler offers a wide range of kitchen and bathroom faucets through a network of over 31,000 associates worldwide. Introducing new and innovative products with superior function and form has been a tradition at Kohler for over 100 years.

Moen – Since introducing the world to the single-handle faucet, Moen has become known throughout the industry for many innovations including a washer-less cartridge system to replaces seals and washers to ease faucet maintenance, pressure-balanced shower valves to reduce the risk of shower shock, lifetime warranties and toll-free consumer help to assist with installation and replacement questions.

 » Go Back to The Complete Bathroom Decorating Guide

Having a filter for your drinking water or showers is a good step toward ensuring proper health.

Bottled water sold in North America often isn’t filtered and may not be any cleaner or safer than tap water, according to a study conducted by the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC).

The NRDC tested more than 1,000 bottles of 103 brands of bottled water and found about one-third were contaminated with varying levels of synthetic organic chemicals, bacteria, and in some cases, arsenic.

However, there are many other benefits to be had from filtering all of the water that you use in your house.

One of the benefits that you get from using the best whole house water treatment system is relative to budget. When you use a filtration system for your entire home you will discover that clothes last longer.

You will also find that you require less of your household cleaners, shampoos, soaps, and laundry detergents to be effective in your cleaning. This is because the chemicals found in city water and well water contributes to fabric wear, and decreases the efficiency of the cleaning chemicals we use.

Another benefit that you get from using the best home water purifier is relative to your health, and the health of your family. Using bottled or filtered water is an important step in contributing to the water health of your household.

A good whole house water treatment systems can reduce these health concerns. The chlorine that causes chloroform gases to be released into the home will be eliminated from every faucet in your home. This puts you and your family at lower risk for various types of lung cancer and asthma.

Quality water purifying systems uses a carbon-based filter. This type of filter has been found to be the most effective in eliminating chlorine, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and triahalomethanes (THMs). This type of filter is the kind recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency for use in residential homes.

A high quality system will also use a multi-stage filtration process. It only makes sense that the more times your water is filtered, the cleaner and healthful it will be. It also makes sense that some types of filters will be more likely to clean water of certain contaminants than others.

For this reason, a high quality water purifier system will use a combination of carbon based filters that will process the water in multiple stages. There are typically at least two, if not three stages to the water purifier filtration systems.

Water purification system options available include:

Ultraviolet (UV) systems kill microbes by exposing them to intense ultraviolet light. UV systems don’t remove contaminants, so they are normally installed with additional filters. They need constant electricity and the bulbs must be changed regularly.

Distillation systems boil water to reduce contaminants, condense the steam, and then collect water in a storage tank. Some contaminants rise with the steam, remaining in the water. Distillation systems use lots of energy, produce heat, must be cleaned regularly and work slowly, producing only a low volume of water every day.

Filter pitchers and faucet-mounted filters improve the taste and odor of drinking water. The carbon filters in these products eliminate chlorine, sediment, calcium, and some metals, but do not kill bacteria or viruses. Filter cartridges must be changed regularly. Refrigerator filters aren’t any more effective than those in pitchers and on faucets.

Reverse osmosis (RO) systems are probably one of the most effective ways to protect drinking water. RO systems are generally installed under the sink and use a semi-permeable membrane to reduce contaminants. Water is forced through the membrane, removing impurities.

Reverse Osmosis is effective against dissolved salts, suspended solids, dissolved chemicals, and other invisible contaminants. The systems do not remove bacteria or viruses and work slowly.

Whole-house (or point-of-entry) systems hook up to your home’s water main so you can use filtered water for bathing, doing laundry, and washing dishes, as well as for cooking and drinking. If your tap water contains corrosive sediments, a whole-house system can protect your appliances.

Distillation, ozonation, and UV light are the most proven systems for protection against microorganisms and waterborne pathogens from drinking water. Filtration and reverse-osmosis systems are less effective.

Have your plumbing system checked to see what kind of garbage disposal unit is compatible with your sewer and other plumbing hookups. Nothing is worse than buying a unit only to find out you can’t use it!

Choose the amount of horsepower you need in your garbage disposer. Usually, in-home disposals have 1/2 – 1 horsepower.

The former is fine for a small family with moderate disposal use, while the 1-horsepower garbage disposal is designed for larger families or more trash.

Be sure the disposal has a dishwasher drain connection. This will allow food from the dishwasher to be ground up and flushed out through the disposal system.

Look for special features such as overload manual reset, corrosion protection shield, sound baffles, self-service wrenches and anti-splash baffles. Many people are concerned about noise level, and some units and noise mufflers on them.

Make sure you check local regulations regarding garbage disposals. In some areas, disposals are not allowed because the town or city sewage system can not handle the additional garbage.

If you have a septic tank, make sure it can handle the additional waste generated from a garbage disposal. The best way to do this is to have your septic tank inspected by a professional.