Bathroom Upgrades You Should Consider

Published on: 09 May 2018 Last Updated on: 10 June 2021

Whether you’ve just moved into your home or have been there for some time, odds are you need bathroom upgrades.

If you’ve recently moved into a new home, the bathroom probably showcases an outdated style or a look that just doesn’t suit you. Or, if you’ve been in your home for a while, the wear and tear of everyday life have taken their toll.

Either way, making upgrades to your bathroom will have a positive effect on how you feel about your home and, if you’re considering selling, will increase resale value.

Your renovation projects may fall into one of three categories.

Let’s take a look!

Cosmetic New Look :

This is often the remodel that many homeowners tackle themselves.

It gives a very functional bathroom an updated image with minimal expertise and inconvenience. Think paint, pictures/wall decor, new window coverings, new shower curtain, new mirror, new towels.

Switching Out/Switching Up :

Usually, this involves replacing some or all of the bathroom fixtures – toilet, sink/vanity, tub, lighting, faucets, and hardware.

It may also tie into a cosmetic update too once this has been accomplished.

Switching a dated vanity to a modern unit with glass sink and new sleek faucets can really change the look and feel of a bathroom.

Include an upgrade to one of today’s one-piece water-conserving toilets and you’re moving your bathroom into the 21st century.

At the same time, consider the lighting as it may be a good time to replace vintage light fixtures with LED fittings that will give a nice bright look and save you money on your electric bill too.

Another small but easy change is adding a curved shower rod to your tub or a European style shower door – both can be a great addition if your tub is in good shape.

At the same time consider switching bath faucet and shower fixtures to complement any other fixtures you are replacing.

Total Renovation :

Redoing the whole bathroom can be overwhelming. So many choices, so many styles. What will work, what won’t?

For this, you may need professional help to give you some great ideas and guidance that will help you choose just the right elements for your new space based on your lifestyle and today’s current trends.

Is your bathroom in need of a quick pick-me-up well here are some easy bathroom upgrades you need to look into.

Lighting Fixtures :

Nothing dates a home quite like its lighting fixtures. If your bathroom feels like a time warp to the past, find new ideas to revamp it.
Whether you’re going for a more modern or rustic style, browsing through pictures of what others have done can give some inspiration.

Faucets :

Truth be told, the faucet in your bathroom should be a statement piece. Depending on the look you’re going for, the sky’s the limit when it comes to available options.

As long as it ties in with the lighting fixtures and the theme, a unique faucet adds character.

Bathroom Floors :

Outdated and plain can be given a new look by simply installing innovative vinyl plank flooring which is resistant to water and wear. It sits atop an underlying cushion that fits perfectly above any existing floor.

Shelving and Vanity :

These can quickly become outdated and worn, so updating the shelving and vanity in your bathroom is a must.

While the purpose of shelves and vanities is completely utilitarian, it is important that they tie in with the rest of the features in the bathroom to complete the desired look and style you are going for.

Toilet :

If you think a toilet is just a toilet, think again. Do your research and you’ll quickly notice the variety of styles available.

If you’re going with a theme for your bathroom, don’t exclude the toilet. For professional help, read more.

Get Your Bathroom Upgrades Today :

Ready to upgrade your bathroom?

Give your bathroom a new look by installing your lighting fixtures, toilets, faucets, and new flooring.

If you need help make sure to get in touch with the right people to make your vision into a reality. For more information, contact us today.

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Top myths about PVC

Impact of PVC vs non-PVC towards the environment: Polyvinyl chloride, also known as PVC or simply as vinyl, is a plastic composed of carbon, chlorine, and hydrogen. It’s a common material found frequently in packaging, wire coatings, furnishing, construction materials, pipes, electrical wires, and also in the graphics industry. The reason that PVC is such a popular material is that it’s incredibly versatile. It’s also resistant to UV rays, chemicals, weathering, and flame resistant. Many people, however, believe that PVC has a negative impact on the environment and avoid using any products that contain this material. It’s true that there are many complaints about PVC and its effect both on people and the environment, so let’s take a look at the main issues, both for and against. 1. The manufacturing process releases highly toxic carcinogenic dioxins into the environment: There are two main pieces of evidence that debunk this belief. First is that over the past 30 years, the production of PVCs has increased 300%, whilst at the same time the amount of dioxins in the environment has reduced. Therefore, if the manufacturing process was the major cause of dioxins in the environment, you would expect that the number of dioxins would have increased accordingly. In fact, if we stopped producing PVC, the levels of dioxins in the environment wouldn’t noticeably diminish. Second, that the main cause of dioxins in the environment is not the inefficient combustion of PVC, it’s mainly due to landfill fires and to a lesser degree, the inefficient combustion of medical and urban waste. 2. When incinerated or burnt in house fires, PVC releases dioxins, chlorine, and other carcinogenic chemicals into the air: First of all, PVC doesn’t burn very well, in fact, if the source of fire is removed, PVC doesn’t continue to burn, because it contains a fire-resistant polymer. Also, many PVC products are treated with additional flame retardants after the manufacturing process and release less smoke and less heat when combusted, compared to other plastics. Second, when PVC is correctly combusted the number of toxins released into the environment is insignificant. In fact, the most harm derives from the release of carbon monoxide, which is released from numerous other materials when burnt. 3. PVC can’t be recycled therefore it accumulates as plastic waste: In most scenarios, PVC is actually highly recyclable and can be recycled many times over without degrading. In fact, many plastic products in use today contain components of recycled vinyl; some proponents believe that due to its high recyclability, PVC is actually a zero-waste material. Also, since PVC lasts longer than other materials, it doesn’t need to be replaced as often and hence, appears in landfills less often than comparable materials. In addition, the durability of PVC has led to it being used to line landfills with no evidence that the vinyl breaks down and releases toxins into the groundwater. In the graphics industry, however, PVC is currently difficult to recycle due to contamination from adhesives, additives, and print. Avery Dennison is looking to overcome this with innovative technology to separate products into raw materials, through their Liner Recycling Program. 4. PVC is expensive to manufacture: PVC is made from chlorine and ethylene, both of which are inexpensive to a source (chlorine comes from salt and ethylene from natural gas), resulting in a very inexpensive manufacturing process. In fact, when you consider that PVC products are very cheap to buy, between the retail cost of the product and the profits made by the manufacturer and reseller, the actual production costs are minimal. The result is that vinyl products consume less energy, generate fewer emissions, and save more energy during the manufacturing process than many other products. Why is PVC popular in the graphics industry? All the benefits of using PVC in the graphics industry have been stated above however, more specifically, PVC is extremely cost-effective when compared to alternative polymers. Its long life, durability, resistance to the elements and flame retardance are also major factors, but for our customers, the lower costs are a huge benefit. One of the most popular applications is for car wraps, where the vinyl provides maximum versatility. Vehicles can look like a work of art after being wrapped with a vinyl film. The fact that PVC is readily available is another factor that cuts down costs, as well as its versatility because we can manufacture numerous products using the same materials. PVC is also an ideal material for use across all print platforms, both porous and heat stable. In summary, PVC is not the villain that it has been made out to be. Many companies manufacturing it are not only committed to sustainability but focused on using innovative techniques combined with the responsible sourcing of materials, to reduce the impact of their operations and supply chain on the environment. Read Also: Replacement Windows – Benefits Of Vinyl Windows Five Ways To Improve The Air Quality Inside Your Home

3 Home Upgrades to Make Your Property Unique

Your home is one of the most valuable things you’ll ever buy. Whether you plan to stay long-term or sell soon, making your property unique is worth considering by Home Upgrades. While upgrading the kitchen or bathroom adds value, it won't always attract attention. These basic changes may not transform your lifestyle. That’s why we’re exploring clever ways to make your home the talk of the town. Invest in Fun and Relaxation: Having the most modern kitchen or bathroom on the block is great, but it doesn’t make your home much different from any other on your street. On the other hand, investing in the things you enjoy the most could be a great way to make your home stand out, and improve your lifestyle at the same time. For instance, if you’re the kind of person who loves movies, why not turn a spare room or basement into an entertainment center for you and your friends. If you love taking trips to the spa with your loved ones, why not invest in having your own luxury spa experience at home, by installing your own sauna or hot tub. It might seem indulgent at first, but this is one of the best ways to ensure that you get the house of your dreams, and it could mean that you could sell your property for more too. Spend on Long-Term Convenience: Have you ever considered installing awe-inspiring residential elevators into your home? Many people assume that they should only begin thinking about a home elevator when they’re getting older or having trouble with their mobility. However, these investments can also make it much easier to get around the house and move things between floors too. You can carry huge amounts of shopping and laundry up and down stairs without having to worry about hurting your back or dropping things along the way. What’s more, as you do get a little older, you’ll find that having your own home elevator protects you from a range of accidents. All that, and you’ve got a fantastic way to make your home stand out. Experiment with Tech: These days, we're all adding more technology to our homes. Smart speakers and AI-enhanced devices are becoming more common. If you want to join the tech revolution, consider upgrads your home’s tech solutions. One option could be a security system with facial recognition or biometric scanning. Forget about keys that are easy to lose. Another option is smart lighting and entertainment systems controlled by your smartphone or voice. The number of smart home upgrades is increasing every day. Home Office Enhancements: Elevate Your Remote Work Experience With remote work becoming the norm, transforming your home office into a functional and appealing workspace is essential. While many focus on basic furniture, upgrading your home office can significantly boost productivity and comfort. Here’s how to make your home office more effective and enjoyable. Ergonomic Furniture: Comfort Meets Functionality The foundation of a great home office is ergonomic furniture. Start with a high-quality, adjustable office chair. Look for one with lumbar support to reduce back strain during long workdays. An ergonomic chair promotes good posture and helps avoid discomfort. Next, invest in a desk that suits your needs. Whether you prefer a standing desk or a traditional setup, ensure it’s the right height and provides ample space for your work essentials. Adjustable desks offer flexibility, allowing you to switch between sitting and standing throughout the day, which can improve your overall health and comfort. Soundproofing: Create a Quiet Work Environment Noise can be a significant distraction, especially if you live in a bustling household. Soundproofing your home office can enhance concentration and productivity. Start by adding acoustic panels to the walls. These panels absorb sound and reduce echoes, creating a quieter space. Consider using a white noise machine or noise-canceling headphones to further block out background noise. Heavy curtains or blinds can also help minimize outside disturbances. If possible, choose a room away from high-traffic areas to create a more serene work environment. Tech Integrations: Upgrade Your Workspace Modern technology can greatly enhance your home office experience. Begin with a high-quality monitor or dual monitors to expand your workspace and reduce eye strain. Ergonomic monitor stands or adjustable arms can help you position your screens at the right height and angle. This is also known to increase the overall productivity of your day. Upgrade your keyboard and mouse to ergonomic models designed to reduce strain. Consider investing in a docking station to keep your workspace tidy and streamline connections between your laptop and peripherals. Smart home technology can also be a game-changer. Use voice-controlled assistants to manage your schedule, set reminders, or control smart lighting. Adjustable lighting is crucial; choose a desk lamp with customizable brightness to reduce eye strain and enhance focus. Personal Touches: Make It Your Own Finally, personalize your home office to make it a space you enjoy spending time in. Add some artwork, plants, or personal items that inspire you. A well-decorated workspace not only boosts your mood but also makes working from home more enjoyable. In conclusion, upgrading your home office involves more than just buying new furniture. By investing in ergonomic pieces, soundproofing, and advanced tech, you can create a workspace that enhances both productivity and comfort. Read Also: Home Remodeling Tips 3 Trendy Lighting Ideas for Your Kitchen Island Small Kitchen Storage Ideas Top 5 Trending Home Renovation Ideas For Australian Families

Why Kiln Dried Wood is Better for Furniture

The process of kiln drying or drying logs in a heated chamber produces high-quality wood for furniture. It is because it results in less moisture in the wood, thus making it better and stronger. Problems such as cracking and warping are also less likely to happen. Proper dryness of wood is important to do furniture making a right. Types of wood used for furniture: There are three main types of wood used for furniture, namely hardwood, softwood, and engineered wood. Hardwood. This wood comes from maple, oak, cherry walnut, and other deciduous trees. It is strong, so it is suitable for making furniture. Softwoods. They come from pines and other evergreen trees. They can dent or bend easily, so they are not recommendable for use in furniture. Engineered wood. As the name suggests, this type of wood is engineered to achieve a particular form. Plywood and particleboard are two forms of engineered wood. Plywood is stronger than particleboard and suits weight-bearing furniture. What is kiln dried wood? This type of wood undergoes the process of kiln drying, an artificial way to dry wood. A kiln is like a huge oven that controls air circulation, humidity, and temperature and heats the wood directly or indirectly. Direct heating uses natural gas or electricity while indirect heating makes use of heat exchangers and solar energy. This process makes it highly effective for use in furniture. It can remove about 93% of the moisture. What makes kiln dried wood different? Kiln drying makes the process of drying faster. Wood is hygroscopic, meaning it continually interacts with moisture for balance until it is completely sealed. It is natural for wood to be that way for a living tree has pathways inside to absorb moisture and nutrients from the roots up. The chopped logs lose moisture content as they dry and kiln drying makes that easier. The significant reduction in the moisture content of wood is essential to avoid warping or shrinkage with changes in temperature and humidity. When used in furniture, it can destabilize or lose shape. Air-drying is also good when done right, but by using kiln dried logs, you can be sure, because the process is highly controlled. Benefits of using kiln dried wood Air-dried logs are also good for furniture, but you cannot really be sure if they are dry enough even if a supplier tells you so. With kiln dried logs, variable conditions are controlled, and drying takes place in a shorter time. Additionally, it kills harmful insects, mould, and fungi, making it safer to use. Kiln dried wood makes the best quality furniture. Less moisture makes the furniture stronger and better looking. Problems such as cracking and warping are less likely to happen. Drying can be difficult when done the natural way, especially in a wet climate. When buying furniture, it is best to know what type of wood they used to have a picture of how long it will last. The use of a moisture meter is important for manufacturers to address moisture-related problems. Modern times have made it possible for mankind to understand nature better, which is why the relationship of wood to moisture can now be understood and measured. Read Also: What You Must Know About Wood Flooring? Furniture In Utica: Benefits Of Buying Locally-Made Products Hardwood Timber Flooring: Gives A Classic Look To Your Home