learning forever

One of the most common questions we receive from our clients is:
What material are your vanities made from?

Though the answer is a simple one, the response we get from clients can be at times frustrating. There are many myths about bathroom cabinetry material type. The goal of this article is to help educate you on this subject and provide clarification.

Bathroom vanity cabinets can be manufactured from many materials including solid hardwood, MDF (medium density fiberboard), laminate, and glass, just to name a few.

Here are a few advantages and disadvantages to each:

Solid Hardwood
You will pay a much higher price for a vanity made from solid hardwood. Solid hardwood needs to be laminated together matching grain and color. It must also be adequately dried to prevent warping. There is a higher waste factor in the manufacturing process. You can easily determine if a vanity is made from solid hardwood by looking at the interior finish; if the inside of the vanity has a stain finish, it is made from solid wood; if it is painted, it is made from MDF.

MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)
MDF is a composite wood product made out of wood waste fibers glued together with resin, heat, and pressure. MDF is used in many applications because it is smooth, uniform, and won’t warp with a quality paint or finish. MDF is appropriate for bathroom cabinetry because it is more stable with changing humidity levels (no swelling or shrinking). MDF has gained popularity because it has a lower impact on the environment as compared to lumber because it is made from leftover scraps that would otherwise be dumped into a landfill.

Laminate
Laminate comes in a wide variety of colors and textures: wood patterns, stone, marble and solid colors. Laminate is often used in commercial jobs because of its durability and ease of care. It is also used in post modern remodels and children’s rooms.

Glass
This very simple to care for; usually considered a contemporary look with limited cabinet space. Most glass vanities have open shelves for storage which require a focus on organization as it is visible to all. Glass vanities can be expensive, depending one the size of the vanity. Glass vanities are usually mixed with chrome for a clean line sophisticated look.

All of the materials mentioned above are considered acceptable materials to manufacture bathroom vanities. The more important factor is the quality of the manufacturer. I have personally seen solid hardwood vanity lines that are manufactured poorly, and have seen very high quality MDF bathroom vanities. Do your research when choosing a vanity retailer, and ideally ask others for recommendations when possible.

Julia Ritzenthaler is Owner of boutique online furniture stores, http://www.UniqueVanities.com, http://www.UniqeMirrorsOnline.com, & http://www.UniqueLightFixture.com. For more information about unique bathroom vanity ideas, visit us online or email us with your questions at uniquevanities@msn.com.

Related posts

• Why Wet Rooms Are An Ideal Way To Install A Second Bathroom (0)
• Why A Walk In Shower Could Be Perfect For Your Bathroom (0)
• Useful Tips On Bathroom Remodeling (0)
• Useful Strategies To Improve Your Home (0)
• Useful Bathroom Remodeling Ideas For You (0)
• Top Trends for 2008 In Kitchen Design (0)
• Ten Ways to Decorate Your Bathroom on a Budget (0)

The world of bathroom design is constantly evolving and changing to meet the demands of homeowners. One of the most recent trends is the installation of wet rooms to create bathrooms that are elegant, stylish and practical. The use of wet rooms is especially suited to smaller bathrooms where space is at a premium. This is because by tanking a small bathroom it is possible to install space saving features like wall hung corner toilets and small sinks as well as being able to do away with the need for a shower enclosure.

Wet rooms are rooms in which the shower is level with the floor. This means that all of the water in the room is drained to one point through one plug hole. Some showers in wet rooms utilise elegant screens and shower heads that massage the body from a number of different angles. By using this type of design feature it is possible to create showers where style and comfort are a prerequisite, leaving the washer feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. For larger bathroom it is normally the practise to only tank the shower enclosure, this means that no loss of luxury is incurred but the overall style of the bathroom is enhanced.

As previously stated wet rooms are great if you want to install wall hung appliances. One of the benefits of this type appliance is that as they have no contact with the floor, cleaning is made much easier. All that is needed to give the bathroom a clean is to wipe a mop around; a process that takes no time at all in a wet room. It should be remembered however that wet rooms are most suited to second bathrooms, if you decide to convert your main bathroom you may in fact harm the value of your property. This is because most wet rooms do not have a bath, and most buyers want to see a bath in the primary bathroom.

If you have decided on a wet room design the installation is the next big issue. A poorly installed wet room can be disastrous for a house. This is because if leaks do occur it is likely that they will seep into the very core of the property, rotting timbers and support struts and in some cases leading to total instability of the home. To ensure this does not happen it is vitally important to use an expert installer who knows exactly how to handle the waterproof membrane and slope the floor in a way so no water collects in pools. Do not be tempted by cheap wet rooms, while they are sometimes expensive to buy and install, the price should act as an insurance of quality workmanship and materials.

Smaller bathrooms can benefit the most from wet room installation. This is especially true if you want to create a second bathroom with a shower. This is because by having a waterproof membrane throughout the room the need for a shower screen is negated, saving a great deal of space. In the industry, the installation of this membrane is labelled tanking and is a process that should be always carried out by a professional. The DIY approach is a possibility but as the effects of having faulty tanking can be so dangerous to properties, it is better to be safe than sorry and pay to have it installed expertly. This means researching fitters and suppliers, looking at their past work and assessing their costs to ensure you not only get a good deal, but also quality workmanship.

So for contemporary, stylish, easy to maintain and spacious bathrooms, the only option is to utilise wet rooms. While the cost may be slightly more than a regular shower, the space saved can be seen as a major benefit that will add value to your property in the long run.

Interior design expert Thomas Pretty looks into the increased use of wet rooms and how they can make perfect second bathrooms.

Related posts

• Why A Walk In Shower Could Be Perfect For Your Bathroom (0)
• Useful Tips On Bathroom Remodeling (0)
• Useful Strategies To Improve Your Home (0)
• Useful Bathroom Remodeling Ideas For You (0)
• Top Trends for 2008 In Kitchen Design (0)
• Ten Ways to Decorate Your Bathroom on a Budget (0)
• Spruce Up Your Home With Round Area Rugs (0)

There are many simple and affordable ways to update the look of your bathroom. By simply changing the vanity, adding new mirrors and light fixtures is a sure bet on increasing the value of a home, while enjoying the benefits of an updated bathroom.

Style
Let’s begin with the room style. Are you going for a traditional or contemporary look, or possibly a mix of both, more transitional? This is an important first step in developing your decorating plan.

Vanity
The next step is to choose the vanity. The vanity will be the basis to build your decor around. Here are a few options to consider:

Custom Vanity
You can have a custom cabinet maker build a piece unique to your needs and size, finish, etc. This is ideal for almost everyone, though this is the most expensive alterative.

Pre-fabricated Vanity
Today’s trend is using furniture style vanity pieces. These come prefabricated with hand carved moldings and solid stone tops, under mount ceramic sinks, and are usually pre-drilled for a faucet. This is an ideal choice for the do it yourselfer. If you are replacing an existing vanity and do not need to make any adjustments to the plumbing, this type of vanity can be moved into the space, and you can attach the existing plumbing to the new faucet fixture.

If you are remodeling a master bath, be sure to maximize your counter top space, as this is invaluable, especially for women.

Mirrors
Vanity size will determine mirror size. The mirror should not extend beyond the outside edge of the vanity. If you have a double sink vanity and want a contemporary look, an unframed large single mirror that extends from the outer edge of the vanity will keep it simple. The best way to buy a frameless mirror is to have one custom cut from a glass company so that you can get the maximum size your space will allow. For a traditional look, use two single oval mirrors hung over each bowl.

To add character, consider choosing two different mirrors to hang over the individual bowls – this is a great way to express your individuality based on which side of the vanity you use.

Light Fixtures
How much natural light is in the existing room? The basic light fixture styles for bathrooms include over the mirror vanity fixtures and wall sconces, which are mounted on the sides of the mirror above a vanity. Recessed ceiling lights provide general lighting for the room.

Julia Ritzenthaler is Owner of boutique online furniture stores, http://www.UniqueVanities.com, http://www.UniqeMirrorsOnline.com, & http://www.UniqueLightFixture.com. For more information about unique bathroom vanity ideas, visit us online or email us with your questions at uniquevanities@msn.com.

Related posts

• Why Wet Rooms Are An Ideal Way To Install A Second Bathroom (0)
• Why A Walk In Shower Could Be Perfect For Your Bathroom (0)
• Useful Tips On Bathroom Remodeling (0)
• Useful Strategies To Improve Your Home (0)
• Useful Bathroom Remodeling Ideas For You (0)
• Top Trends for 2008 In Kitchen Design (0)
• Ten Ways to Decorate Your Bathroom on a Budget (0)

You have decided to remodel your bathroom, but need to set a budget. Before you can do this, you will need to have some expectation of what an average remodel costs. For the do it yourselfer, you can save a lot in labor costs alone. But it depends on your experience too. There are some elements to remodeling that are simple, and there are some that require skilled trades. This article provides some average costs for the major items involved in a typical bathroom remodel.

Cabinetry
This can vary widely. For low end, paint grade unfinished cabinets, you can spend an average of $75/linear ft, to the upper end of $250/linear foot with an additional $100/foot to finish.

Plumbing
The average price of the plumbing will depend on how much work is involved. Do you plan to just install new fixtures, or will you need to move the toilet or shower from the existing location? If you are just changing fixtures, you can expect to spend an average of $600; if you need to make major plumbing changes, you could spend up to $2,600. Adding a Jacuzzi tub can add at least $1,000 to the budget.

Mirrors
Budget $200-$500 for mirrors. Mirrors can be as simple as standard size mirrors with no framing to custom cut mirrors from a glass shop or decorative mirrors that match your design.

Lighting & Electrical
Changing out light fixtures can start at an average of $100 and up; to change the layout of the existing lighting, adding recessed can lights and installing quiet exhaust fans can cost up to $1,500.

Flooring
The average floor labor install can cost between $4-$6/square ft, and the material can cost $2-$20/square ft. Most bathrooms have tiled floor, but concrete, vinyl and wood are also alternatives.

Shower
An average one piece surround shower will cost $400; if you plan to add a tile shower, you can expect the averages to be similar to the flooring averages outlined above. This will be highly dependant on the material you choose. Adding a frameless shower door can average $1,000.

Drywall/Paint
For simple textured walls, an average budget is $600, while an artistic or plaster finish can cost up to $2,500.

Countertops
A prefabricated cultured marble top with integrated sink can cost $100. A natural stone top, such as granite or marble can cost an average of $65/square ft, which includes material, fabrication and installation.

Accessories
Accessories include towel bars, toilet paper holders and hooks. A good budget amount is $100-$500 depending on the finish. Simple chrome fixtures are at the lower end; oil rubbed bronze is considered higher end.

Labor costs will be the biggest factor to consider, and is dependent on your labor market. Before starting any remodel project, make a list of all planned changes, and prepare a detailed budget for each item. It is easy to go over budget on any remodel project.

Julia Ritzenthaler is Owner of boutique online furniture stores, http://www.UniqueVanities.com, http://www.UniqeMirrorsOnline.com, & http://www.UniqueLightFixture.com. For more information about unique bathroom vanity ideas, visit us online or email us with your questions at uniquevanities@msn.com.

Related posts

• Why Wet Rooms Are An Ideal Way To Install A Second Bathroom (0)
• Why A Walk In Shower Could Be Perfect For Your Bathroom (0)
• Useful Tips On Bathroom Remodeling (0)
• Useful Strategies To Improve Your Home (0)
• Useful Bathroom Remodeling Ideas For You (0)
• Top Trends for 2008 In Kitchen Design (0)
• Ten Ways to Decorate Your Bathroom on a Budget (0)

Before you begin your remodel project, you want to develop a plan that includes a detailed layout with measurements. This is needed to ensure all of your fixtures will fit as planned.

If you are working with a small budget, then you may want to use your existing plumbing layout. If moving the plumbing will create more useable space, then consider it, though keep in mind it can be expensive.

Bathroom Vanity Cabinets
The simplest way to update a bathroom on a budget is by replacing the vanity. There are many unique vanities to choose from, including contemporary styles with flat panel doors and drawers and stylish chrome faucets, to traditional furniture style pieces that can add character to any remodel project.

Make a list of your storage needs; this includes cosmetics, dental care, grooming, small appliances (hairdryers, etc), & cleaning products. Before you purchase a vanity, take precise measurements. If installing a pre-built vanity, it is important to measure the maximum allowed space and find a vanity that is a few inches smaller. Most vanity measurements include the counter top, which can in most cases be the largest point on the overall cabinet. If the top is made from a solid stone, such as granite or marble, it is very difficult and sometimes impossible to modify the top, even if it is too large for your space.

Faucets
Faucets can vary widely in price, and this is directly related to the quality. Going with the lowest price isn’t always the best option for faucets. The finish on the faucet also determines its price (ie chrome is the least expensive and oil rubbed bronze is the most expensive). Also be certain that the faucet comes with ceramic disk vales, which have a longer life cycle.

Mirrors
Size and style are the two factors to consider when purchasing vanity mirrors. You need to have mirrors that are positioned in relationship to the lighting and big enough to reflect back at you. It is also important that the style and finish compliment your overall design.

Flooring
You want floor material to be resistant to moisture, a hard surface that is easy to clean, and also has some texture so that it is not slippery when wet. Many materials are used now in bathrooms; consider concrete, tile or wood.
Heated flooring is a great element to consider if you are replacing the floor. The best place for heated flooring is in the bathroom.

Lighting
This is the most critical component to consider when completing the layout of your bathroom remodel. Things to consider include:
Is there any natural light in the bathroom? Adding windows or skylights can be expensive.
Ceiling Lights: the most cost effective and efficient light source is recessed can lights; adding a chandelier or pendant lights can add elegance to your design. Ceiling lights are most commonly complemented by vanity lights.
Vanity Lights: these are the two to four bulb fixtures you install above the mirror.
Decorative Lighting: such as sconce lights, generally these are installed on the side of the mirror.

Julia Ritzenthaler is Owner of boutique online furniture stores, http://www.UniqueVanities.com, http://www.UniqeMirrorsOnline.com, & http://www.UniqueLightFixture.com. For more information about unique bathroom ideas, visit us online or email us with your questions at uniquevanities@msn.com.

Related posts

• Why Wet Rooms Are An Ideal Way To Install A Second Bathroom (0)
• Why A Walk In Shower Could Be Perfect For Your Bathroom (0)
• Useful Tips On Bathroom Remodeling (0)
• Useful Strategies To Improve Your Home (0)
• Useful Bathroom Remodeling Ideas For You (0)
• Top Trends for 2008 In Kitchen Design (0)
• Ten Ways to Decorate Your Bathroom on a Budget (0)