Archive for the 'Bathrooms' Category

Sep 12 2009

Steam Shower Cubicle Features

Published by L.A. Remodeler under Bathrooms

A steam shower cubicle can be simply defined as a self-contained cubicle or enclosure that has the ability to create and trap steam within the enclosed area while also providing a showering facility to wash or rinse down ones body. However, a modern steam shower cubicle aims to make home-bathing enjoyable, relaxing and therapeutic. Thus, many new features can be found within the modern steam shower cubicle. While not conclusive this article provides a summary of the typical features that may be found in a steam shower cubicle of today.

Digital control panel
Most modern steam shower cubicles are fitted with an easy to use control panel in the shower providing quick access to all the steam shower features. Some steam shower cubicles may also provide a remote control, which allows the user to select features from outside the cubicle such as pre-filling the cubicle with steam before entering.

Foot massage
A foot massage is often an added feature that combines foot rollers and hydromassage water jets to conveniently massage your feet whilst sitting within the cubicle. Instead of rollers, a steam shower cubicle may have a special area on the floor where hydromassage jets spray water onto the soles of the feet.

Hand held shower
Typically, a steam shower cubicle will provide a standard shower head fixed to a slide-rail. This shower head can easily detach from the slide rail to enable handheld showering, which may be in addition to an overhead rainfall shower.

Over head shower rose
Also known as a rain forest shower, the shower head is typically larger than a hand held shower and may measure as much as 6 inches in diameter. The overhead shower rose gives the sensation of standing out in a rain fall.

Body jets
Body jets can be located above the users head, along the length of the users back or perhaps on the lower legs. Depending on the number of jets and the users water pressure these hydro massage jets may be sprayed in unison or sequentially.

Music & Phone Connection
A modern steam shower cubicle may have a built-in audio input allowing the steam shower to be connected to a users iPod, MP3 player, CD player or any other external audio device. Some units even allow a user to run a telephone line to the steam shower and make or receive phone calls from the
cubicle.

Radio and speaker
Many steam cubicles that have audio capability will also have a radio tuner allowing the user to relax whilst listening to Classic FM or Radio 1! The user can tune in from the control panel to their favourite radio stations and listen to them from an in built shower speaker.

Steam Generator
The steam generator is integral to any steam shower cubicle and comes in many designs and styles but all with the same purpose – generating steam. The digital control panel may give the user the option of setting a time limit or temperature limit for automatic shut off of the steam generator.

Aromatherapy
An additional feature found in some steam cubicles allows the user to squeeze a few drops of aromatherapy oil (often plant or tree extracts) onto the steam generator or into a specially designed inlet. The user can then enjoy the aromatherapy scents and physical benefits it can offer.

Thermostatic controller
The thermostatic controller is used to select a specific water temperature and should maintain control of the water at the chosen temperature. Some units may provide built in temperature safety for younger users.

Chromotherapy Lighting
Chromotherapy has been shown to alter ones emotional state. This is the use of coloured lighting to create a mood or emotional state whilst the user is enjoying a steam shower.

Extractor fan
An extractor fan provides ventilation and air circulation as well as enabling the user to clear steam out of the cubicle without opening the doors.

Fluorescent overhead lighting
An overhead fluorescent light is often included to illuminate the steam shower cubicle. The light may surround the overhead rainfall shower rose.

Dr Gareth Daniel conveys his experience of steam rooms in his writing for Di Vapor Steam Showers. To Find out more about steam shower cubicles or sauna steam rooms then please visit Di Vapor Steam Showers who is a steam shower specialist.

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Sep 11 2009

Showers – Available Types

Published by L.A. Remodeler under Bathrooms

Manual Mixer Showers:

Mixer showers are essentially valves which mix hot water and cold water to obtain a suitable mixed temperature. This mixed temperature is achieved using a manual control of some form. Mixer showers have a hot water inlet and a cold water inlet. They do not heat the water directly. Depending upon the temperature decided by the user (using a lever or knob), the mixer valve will blend the necessary amounts of hot and cold water to achieve the desired mixed temperature.

Advantage

Manual mixer showers are available as part of wall mounted units, meaning the physical height of the temperature adjustment is convenient for everyday use, and the spray may be mounted in a shower cubicle or over a bath.

Disadvantage

This type of shower is more expensive than some of the other solutions and requires hot and cold water feeds. This may prove expensive if the shower is to be installed in part of the bathroom which does not already have water supplies.

Push-on Mixer Shower:

The push on mixer shower is essentially a hose complete with a spray head. It could be likened to a large and clumsy stethoscope. The hose has rubber or threaded feet and can be connected to taps as and when required. The water temperature is manually altered using the taps, which may belong to a sink or bath. This approach is cheap, but the hose is not normally very long and hence cannot be wall mounted. This means one hand is used to hold the spray above the head and the other is used to wash. This can prove inconvenient, but a cheap and satisfactory temporary solution nonetheless.

Bath Mixer Shower:

With this type of shower, the hose and spray parts have an integrated mixer with tap(s). The tap(s) and shower flex are all one unit and whether the shower is used or the taps are used can be decided manually using a lever. The spray head may be screwed on and off the flex.

Advantage

A bath mixer tap is a good choice because it is cheap, more presentable than a temporary rubber hose, generally more robust and attractive than it’s temporary counterpart, and no extra plumbing is involved.

Disadvantage

Temperature control is very basic and this can prove inconvenient. Turning the tap a “micro turn” can dramatically increase or decrease the temperature, as can flushing a toilet sharing the same cold water feed. Trying to mount the shower head at high level will provide a very poor flow rate in most cases.

Thermostatic Mixer:

The hose and spray of the shower are parts of a wall unit and the hot and cold water supplies are connected to a single valve. It is complete with a built in stabilizer to automatically adjust the water temperature, thus preventing it from becoming too hot. They are effectively a manual mixer shower with an in-built thermostatic mixing valve, suitable for all installations. They are most often installed in hospitals, schools and other facilities open to the public or individuals who would otherwise be at high risk of scalding.

If a thermostatic mixer shower is being installed, then hot and cold water supplies can be taken from the same supplies as other appliances/outlets. Although reductions in pressure may occur when water is drawn off elsewhere, the in-built thermostatic mixing valve controls the temperature.

Advantage

The controlled temperature makes them extremely convenient. The automatic adjustment means that the flow temperature is not affected by the use of water elsewhere on the premises.

Disadvantage

The disadvantage is cost. They are the most expensive of the mixer showers, but as already discussed, in some cases safety is paramount.

Power Showers:

Power showers are single units that contain an electric pump. They are capable of altering both water pressure and water temperature. This type of shower can be fitted provided a supply from a cold water tank and a static hot water source (e.g. A cylinder) are available.

Advantage

They are convenient to use, because they are capable of altering both pressure and temperature, and for those who prefer to feel the water lashing down with force, the in-built pump will make this type of shower a pleasure to use.

Disadvantage

This type of shower is not suitable for installations where it is intended for the water to be heated directly by the shower itself, or where water may only be supplied under above-normal pressures. Pressurized supplies include most pumped sources such as the mains or a combination boiler.

Due to the pressure the flow rate will increase. The drainage system may need to be re-considered. The higher flow rate means the shower tray or bath will fill up quicker and if there is no means of removing the waste water at the same rate at which it is supplied, then this type of shower will prove impractical.

For more articles and information like this please visit http://www.click4bathrooms.com

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Aug 10 2009

Creating Your Own Spa

Published by L.A. Remodeler under Bathrooms,Pools & Spas

spaIs your life filled with fifty-hour workweeks, your free time crammed with meetings, soccer games and obligations to your schools and community? So many people today struggle with finding solace in their lives. There is always way too much to do, and most find few opportunities to deal with the resulting stress from it all. Can you think of a better way to clear your mind and gain a different perspective than to surround yourself with the comforting elements of a spa at the end of a hard day right in your own home?

There is no more perfect relaxer than water, especially when combined with aesthetically pleasing materials. Think out-of-the-box when creating your own relaxing space. Try Asian-inspired open-base vanities and faucets or traditional console lavatories. These are spacious, simple solutions, even in the smallest bath. New tub formats are available that offer the lavishness of a deep soak or the exhilaration of a hydro- and air-jet massage. Looking for the ultimate in wake-up stimulation or end-of-the-day relaxation? Consider a shower powered by multiple heads and body sprays. For the ultimate spa experience, consider a combination steam and shower unit.

Creating the perfect spa bath to suit your needs has never been easier. Look for a bidet to create a true spa feeling. More and more, you can find these traditionally upscale fixtures in new construction and remodeling projects. Tearing into your bathroom’s drywall is not always necessary. There are many new products available designed to make retrofitting your existing space a simple process. Whether you’re looking to build from the ground up or planning to remodel, consider these soothing options. No matter what type of space you’re working with, many options are available to accommodate any plan—all with the same luxurious relaxing result.

About the Author…

Leon Tuberman has almost 40 years of experience in the home furnishings and interior decorating industry. He operates a popular home furniture store and showroom in the San Fernando Valley. They offer American made Arts & Crafts and Mission style beroom, dining room and office furniture for your home or office. His store takes pride in offering furniture that’s built to last for generations. Whether your trying to find a solid oak bookcase or American handcrafted dinign room set, they carry the largest selection at prices that won’t break the bank.

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Jun 19 2009

Handicapped Bath Tubs – Four Feature Benefits of Bath Tubs for the Handicapped

Published by L.A. Remodeler under Bathrooms

Are you tired of accessing the bathroom or the bathtub just because you are a handicap? Weep no more because technology has definitely created a way for you to enjoy your bathing session.

Through the help of technological advancement and the remarkable ideas of some brainy maniacs, the manufacturing of special bathtubs that were exclusively made for the handicaps were established.

This is in response to the overwhelming complaints of handicap people who simply cannot get in and out of the tub easily. Because of their situation, handicap people find their bathing session a big nuisance. 7 out of 10 people who were interviewed explained that they find taking a bath such a big burden because they cannot simply get in and out of the tub easily.

Bathtubs for the handicap or simply dubbed as “walk-in-bathtubs” are remarkable solution for the easiness and comfort of the handicaps. Best of all, these special kinds of bathtubs are especially made to ensure the safety of the handicap as well.

Some people thought that they could easily convert their existing conventional bathtubs just to accommodate the needs of the person concerned. This may pose as a temporary solution, but the safety will always be in question.

Hence, it is best to utilize these special bathtubs that are ergonomically designed to provide utmost protection to the handicaps without having to impede their comfort.

For this reason, different manufacturers have created these bathtubs for the handicapped in order to provide the comfort and easiness that these people have long been wanting to experience whenever they take a bath.

The main features of this kind of bathtubs are:

1. Walk-in door

Bathtubs for the handicapped do not differ much from that of the conventional tubs. The only difference that they make is that these special tubs have “walk-in” doors. This means that the person can easily get in and out of the tub without difficulty.

One of the best things about these bathtubs is that the individual will no longer have to step on the edge. All he has to do is to open the lid, walk in, close the door, and start refreshing.

2. Water-tight door

The inclusion of doors in these special bathtubs are not just additional features but more of an asset. This is because the “walk-in” doors are made with water-tight seal that initiates compressed water inside the tub. This ensures the condition that there will be no leaks outside the tub.

3. High seats

Unlike the conventional bathtubs, these special bathtubs that are made for the handicapped are characterized with high seats. In this way, the person will no longer have to strive harder just to get up or down the tub.

Moreover, the height or the depth of the bathtub is also increased. In fact, most of the bathtubs for the handicapped have doubled the depth of the conventional bathtubs. In this way, the person concerned will be able to experience optimum soaking contentment.

4. Easy-to-adjust temperature knobs

Some elderly people are having difficulty to adjust the temperature of the water. But with bathtubs like these, they can easily manipulate the water temperature according to their preference. This is because most of the special bathtubs have “thermostatic mixing” features that allow people to adjust the water temperature without trouble.

Indeed, these special bathtubs are one of a kind. They do not only provide comfort and easiness to the handicapped, but they are also innovative to people who wish to experience a new style of taking a bath. With these items available in the market, taking a bath will never be the same again.

Claire Bowes is a successful Webmaster and publisher of bathtub refinishing. Claire provides more information on her site about Handicapped Bath Tubs.

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Jun 18 2009

Tips for Choosing The Right Bathtub

Published by L.A. Remodeler under Bathrooms

Many people spend a considerable amount of time in the bathroom.

Some people feel that spending time in the tub rejuvenates their energy and revitalizes their spirit.

Whatever the reason for spending some time in the bathroom, one thing is certain, the bathtub is one of the most important aspects of the bathroom.

If you are building a house, or if you are renovating or redesigning your house or bathroom, you shouldn’t just choose any bathtub. Apart from considering the color that will go well with the color of the bathroom, or the latest design, or the manufacturer, there are other things that should be considered.

* Size of the tub

Aside from the obvious point, that this is important in checking how the bathtub will fit the designated space, this also needs to be considered for other reasons. Should you go for a one-person or two-person bathtub? Remember that if you choose a two-person tub, this will consume more water than a one-person tub.

The bathtub size is also interdependent with the capacity of the water heater. A bathtub usually requires 65% hot water. For some bathtubs, the hot water content may require up to 40 gallons. Consider then if after dispensing 40 gallons of hot water, will your water heater still have sufficient hot water for the rest of the household, or will it have enough time to reheat some water for consumption.

In this case, you may have to choose a smaller bathtub or upgrade your water heater so it will be able to supply enough water for a bigger bathtub. Another option is to install an instant water heater to the water source leading to the bathtub.

Also make sure that, with the bathtub’s size, you get enough support for your head, neck and back.

* Material

Choosing the material for your bathtub depends on several factors: on how often you will use the tub, durability, ease of maintenance and budget.

Fiberglass is a cost-effective material, however, it doesn’t have the durability of acrylic or porcelain bathtubs. Wooden and marble tubs are good-looking but these require much maintenance and may not last long. Cast iron tubs are the most durable, although these cost a little more than other materials.

* Depth

The bathtub’s depth is important if you are considering using the bathtub for therapeutics. Many people enjoy soaking in a warm bath to rejuvenate the lost energy and to ease the pain in tired muscles. Soaking in a tub even reduces the stress levels that most people resort to a warm bath before going to bed.

However, few people know that there are special tubs designed for this purpose. Soaking tubs are designed to allow a person to immerse the whole body with comfort unlike that with a standard tub that is only designed to soak the lower part of the body.

* Functionality

Tubs with jets, such as whirlpool tubs, look very enticing, but will you be using the jets often? Consider the importance of the additional features and how will these features impact your power and water consumption.

* Features for the handicap and the elderly

People with handicap and the elderly rarely use the standard bathtub due to risks for additional injury. Check bathtubs that have features that allow easy entry and exit from the tub. These tubs also have grab rails and grab bars to prevent accidents while soaking in the bathtub. Check for ADA compliance if you want these features for your bathtub.

* Design

Most bathtubs come in cream and white, but are also available in other colors such as brown, maroon, pink, green and blue. Shapes are usually rectangle, oval, and round, but heart-shaped designs and corner styles are also offered.

These are important so the bathtub will match the color and the design of the bathroom. It also makes the bathtub inviting and makes soaking a comfortable experience.

With these tips, you can surely choose the bathtub that fits you.

For more great bathtub information and resources check out:
http://www.bestbathtubs.info

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Jun 17 2009

Guide to Bathroom Design

Published by L.A. Remodeler under Bathrooms

The first step is to plan the design – as with kitchens, your local supplier will run off a computer-generated plan based on the room’s dimensions and your particular requirements.

If you’re sticking with the same layout, measure your bathroom suite carefully before you go shopping for a replacement so that you know the new items will fit.

Re-plumbing and re-wiring will push the cost up so stick with the existing service points if possible – although this may be unavoidable if you want to change the position of the bathroom suite.

First decide on the right place for the bath and/or shower. If your loo is in your bathroom, decide where this will go and then position the washbasin.

Once the fittings are planned you can work out how to use the remaining space which, in modern bathrooms, may be quite limited. Some kind of storage, either cupboards or shelves – preferably both – is required for toiletries, cleaning products, toilet rolls and children’s bath toys. If your bathroom is spacious you may also keep clean towels and your linen basket in there.

Choosing the bath and basin can be a time-consuming task. Even if you’re not opting for something like a jaccuzzi or indoor hot tub, baths come in all shapes and sizes – standard oblong, rolltop, corner, curved, wider at one end than the other – and colours. Unless you desperately yearn for a particular colour it’s best to stick with white. It’s clean-looking, inoffensive and will go with any colour you decide to use for paint and furnishings.

Taps, too, come in a bewildering array of styles – choose a design that will complement your bathroom.

Before making your final decision on the bathroom suite it is helpful to check your plans with your plumber to see if there are any potential snags with the designs you have picked.

Even if your window has frosted glass make sure you have a curtain or blind with ‘blackout’ lining unless you want neighbours or passers-by watching the silhouette of you bathing, washing or worse.

When it comes to decoration, remember to use – or specify, if someone else is doing the work – grout that is resistant to steam and water. Similarly, choose paint and wallpaper that will stand up to heat and steam – look in the ever-expanding ‘kitchen and bathroom’ ranges.

Pale colours brighten a small bathroom, especially one with no natural daylight but it’s fun to experiment with colour. And a large mirror across one wall, especially the wall opposite the window, will help make a small bathroom look and feel much bigger and lighter.

Floor coverings, too, come in all types of material and colour – but avoid carpet which is impractical and unhygienic in a bathroom. Vinyl, cork tiles or lino are good choices – warm underfoot and easy to clean. However, if the surface you choose is shiny always use a non-slip washable rug for extra safety.

If you’re installing a shower – either as a separate feature or above the bath – investigate the different types before deciding which to choose. If you have high water pressure you could opt for a thermo shower which is connected direct to your heating system and keeps the water temperature even.

An electric shower system heats the water itself and is mostly used above the bath. Power showers will give you the ultimate shower experience, even if you have low water pressure.

Look for a non-slip surface in both bath and shower. Check with your plumber that the drainage can take the amount of water your shower is producing – an overflowing shower tray can cause serious problems.

Above all, the main thing to remember when redesigning your bathroom is – choose a design that works for your lifestyle.

Barry Dunlop is the Founder of Bathroom-Buyers-Guide.com – The site that promises you lots of tips, advice and help to plan, design and buy your dream bathroom! Find out more at his http://www.bathroom-buyers-guide.com

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