Posts filed under ‘How-To’

How to Install Tile to Bathroom Showers

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There are ten(10) easy steps to installing Tile in Bathroom Showers. Please use this blog as a guideline for your project.

1. Demolition/Preparedness: Upon the completion of demolition of the old tile, install a cement backer board in the shower area. In most cases you would have a professional install the shower membrane and shower pan appropriate for the space.

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(Photo Source: Apartment Therapy.com)

2. Selecting Tile Size: Most contractors use two types of standard bathroom tile sizes, 2×2″ or 2×4″ tiles, which come on pre-spaced on mats. On the ceiling and floor of the shower, its best to use 2×2″ tiles and on shower walls its best to use 2×4″ tiles. Before you decide what you want where, start setting the tiles, and in the process take some measurements and see how the tiles will all lay out. After you set the tiles, begin to dry lay the tile panels, including any decorative borders, to see the way it’s going to set vertically on the wall. This allows you to see how many panels can fit, where you need to make cuts and where you should start setting. Lastly, you’ll need to get an accurate measurement, space out exactly how you will set the panels and after dry laying each segment, determine the best place to start setting tiles working from bottom to top.

3. Starter Board Introduction: Use a starter board as a straight edge whenever you do a vertical tile installation to ensure that each of the panels are straight and level. (Keeping the tiles straight and level makes the job look clean and level, which become key selling points down the line). You’ll want to screw the starter board directly into the cement board and remove it after completing a series of panels, after which you’ll then make sure the board is level before starting to set panels along this edge.

Once the board is level you’ll next use a notched trowel to spread the thinset which creates a suction to hold the stone in place as the mortar dries. Place the panel onto the thinset using the starter as a guide. Use a level to make sure tiles are straight. Once in place, push the tiles evenly into the thinset. Use your hands or a grout float to apply pressure. Without pressure the tiles have a chance to skew and slide. Wipe the tiles with water and a clean sponge as you set them, checking each row so that they are level before you set the next one.

4. Getting Around the Shower Door: When it comes to working around the door you’ll want to measure the width of the shower walls on either side of the door. Next you’ll, dry lay the panels and measure them to see where you need to make cuts. Set the tile panels on the side walls with thinset, similar to the way you had done so for the back wall by using the starter board. Clean the tiles with a sponge and water as you work. At the corner where there are gaps, fill in the spaces with the previously cut tiles.

5. Making Wet Saw Cuts: Once you finish setting the panels and making sure they are level, make cuts for the edges of the walls. Use a wet saw to prevent tile from breaking or splitting. Mark the tiles with a pencil where cuts are needed. Hold the piece firmly in place and gently slide it under the wet saw blade.

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(Photo Source: How To Specialist.com)

6. Use A Sanding Stone to Smooth The Edges Out: Most of the cut pieces will have a straight edge that will contrast with the tumbled marble look of the tiles when set against the exposed edge of the shower wall.In order to prevent this from happening, use a sanding stone to soften the edge, rendering a tumbled look. After that, you’ll set these cut pieces individually along the edge, using the same  thinset as before, making sure the pieces line up straight with the outside edge.

7. Creating A Border: Most contractors tend to create a decorative 3″ to 4″ mosaic border at the top of the shower walls between the second and third panel from the top, in an effort to add some visual (and very creative) context to the project. Because the border tiles tend to be thicker than the other tiles, you’re going to apply a thinner layer of thinset.

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(Photo Source: WeddingBee.com)

8. Finishing Up Your Tile Sets: When you’re almost finished setting the tiles on all sides of the shower with thinset, you’ll want to check back over your work. If you find that you’ve applied too much thinset and it begins to come through the joints, simply a screwdriver and scrape the excess thinset out, wiping clean the area of any excess with a wet sponge. Be sure to complete this before the extra thinset dries, if you aren’t on top of it you’ll have a difficult time removing it and most likely it will not match the color of the grout.

9. Finishing Up The Shower Floor: One of the last things to do is to finish setting the shower floor with thinset. The shower floors are tiled with the 2×2″ tiles and setting the floor tiles is the same as the walls: you’ll thinset on the floor, and then slide tiles into place and pat them down with the rubber grout float. If the floor has been poured perfectly, you don’t have to worry about the pitch because all of that work has been completed for you already. When it comes to the angled tiles around the drain, you will need to use a special tool to get the right shape. Mark the tile where you need to cut it. Use a tile nipper and chip away at the mark, and although a bit time consuming the tile nipper does a great job.

10. Applying The Grout: When the tile has set, mix the grout for the shower walls. Use a mix of 75 percent sanded grout and 25 percent non-sanded grout, both of which are available at your local Home Depot or Lowe’s. Sanded grout, which in most cases, is difficult to get into small joints, can be mixed non-sanded grout, since the non-sanded grout helps thin out the sanded grout, so it can be applied a bit more easily on walls.

Lastly, you’ll want to use a rubber float to apply the grout by starting at the bottom and work your way up, keeping the float at an angle to the joints. Once all the joints in a section are filled, let them dry for a little while (20-30 minutes), then wipe the grout off the surface with a sponge and clean water.Once the tiles have been cleaned allow them several hours to set and dry.

Your finished product should look something like this:

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May 16, 2013 at 12:32 pm Leave a comment

POWDERING THE POWDER ROOM

Half bathrooms can be a challenge for any homeowner, how to add style and organization along with functionality!  Powder rooms typically will serve not only your family but also any guests that arrive to your home.  With a few simple tips and ideas you can take your powder room from boring to amazing!

ORGANIZATION

A small space DEMANDS organization in order for it to function as the space it needs to be.  Organization comes in many forms, but in the powder room one of the most under-utilized space is above the toilet.  Use the vertical space for storage and you will be able to maintain organization in a small area. There are large variety of bathroom accessories such as towel racks, towel bars and rings, towel shelves and racks and even robe hooks that can make organization and functionality work in a powder room.

BE BOLD

This small space can handle a variety of colors and textures.  Choose carefully but have fun.  Wallpaper or dark colors tiles will go in small spaces.  If you choose a patterned wall paper, ensure that the rest of the items in the bathroom are simple with clean lines.  While the pattern will look fabulous, overwhelming this small space with too much character can happen quickly.

HARDWARE

Choose funky or sleek but this is an area where you can splurge and really bring some style and flash into the powder room.  Since the only hardware you will be installing is on the sink like  toilet paper, toothbrush holders, and soap dishes be creative! Using bold drawer knobs and handles can also be worked in your small powder room to give you more sylish effects.

LIGHTING

Instead of a boring flush overhead light, choose something daring.  Flank the mirror with two lights or choose a small chandelier to add style.  Lighting will make or break your space so take your time in this choice!

SPACE SAVING SINK AND FUN MIRROR

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www,hgtv.com

One of the most important items in the powder room is going to be the sink and mirror.  Choosing a sink that fits the space correctly is important.  Storage space can also be found in the sink if you choose a vanity over a pedestal sink.  A funky mirror can also really make the space unique and one of a kind.   A pedestal sink will add the illusion of space due to the fact that it is not bulky like a full vanity.  The mirror in this picture also adds some style and charm to the small space.

Powder rooms can add charm and uniqueness to your home with a few simple steps! Explore ideas and be bold in your choices, for a couple hundred of dollars your powder room can be completely revamped andreinvented to fit your individual style.

April 29, 2013 at 8:53 am Leave a comment

Casual Dining Style: Eat-in Kitchens

Need a casual and easy going eating experience?  An eat-in kitchen might be the answer to all of your problems.  In today’s fast pace and busy families, an eat-in kitchen can allow for a busy family to still eat together without the need for formal dining.  There are really three options for an eat-in kitchen; counter dining, breakfast nooks or a tradition eat in kitchen with table.  Convenience is a driving factor for most families who are looking for a more modern take on the family dinner concept.

COUNTER DINING

This is the most popular option of the three and can accommodate almost all families.  If there is already a bar or peninsula in your Counter Diningkitchen, simply adding stools or chairs to the area will turn it into an instant eat-in kitchen.  However, this is not always convenient or safe with families with young children or older members of the family, due to the bar stools that usually needs to accommodate a bar setting.  This kitchen is a great example of how easy it is to convert an island into an eat at counter.  Most people are looking for space in the kitchen and may not relish giving up space for eating; however, unless someone is currently sitting at the island, you lose no space.  This is a great compromise of using the space for more than one purpose; it is house multi-tasking at its best!

BREAKFAST NOOKS

Breakfast nookA breakfast nook can add comfort and style to any kitchen, finding the space however can be a challenge.    Using a window as a back drop for this type of eat-in kitchen is key to keeping the space open and bright.  A  breakfast nook is a great option for a busy family or one with young kids.  Benches are safer than stools for kids and a wheelchair could easily be rolled up to the table for an elderly member of the family.  Benches can also add for additional storage which is always needed in a kitchen space.  This space also allows for cooking and cleaning to be accomplished while keeping the family together at meal time.  Kitchens tend to be the congregating location in a home and with a nook; kids can do their homework while their parents cook dinner.  Keeping the family together is a large reason that people are searching for eat-in kitchens.

TRADITIONAL EAT-IN KITCHENS

A traditional eat in kitchen is one in where you are able to actually have a table in the kitchen with chairs.  This picture depicts the traditionalperfect eat in kitchen, a mix of style, functionality and convenience.  The table is able to be located at one end of the kitchen allowing for an easy flow in the kitchen.  The biggest challenge of a table in the kitchen is to keep it out of the main traffic flow while still having it feel like a part of the kitchen.  The main positive for this layout is that the table can double as extra work space when cooking or prepping food.  Don’t be afraid to allow your personal style to dictate the type of table you have, it can be formal or eclectic, classic or modern, any style will work.

Eat-in kitchens have always been in style, however, the style of eat in is what has changed.  Whether you choose a bar, a table or a nook, your eat-in kitchen will be the envy of the neighborhood if you place your family’s needs first when designing and laying out your plans.  Bon Appetite!

April 18, 2013 at 8:54 am Leave a comment

How to Repair a Tile Backsplash

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After months and months of searching, you have finally found your dream home. You’re walking through the kitchen, and you’re thinking of all the wonderful dinner parties you will have, in your new, beautiful kitchen.

As you’re walking around the kitchen you see three broken tiles near the base of the wall. You think to yourself, “I can fix that”, nothing is going to stand between you and your dream home.

The first thing on your ‘to do’ list, after you purchase your home, is to fix those three broken tiles. Now where to start, how to get them out, without breaking any other tile? Follow these simple steps, and before long you will be having your first dinner party.

Steps to Repair Tile Backsplash:

1 Pull a grout saw along the edge of the joint to remove damaged grout, but do not mar the tiles. Cut into the good grout slightly so the new grout can bind to a solid surface. These devices either have serrated teeth that you use like a saw or abrasive-textured blades.

2 Place painter’s tape along the edges of tiles you don’t plan to remove. This helps protect their edges as you remove adjacent tiles.

3 Insert the tip of a small chisel into the joint with the tip facing the broken tile you need to remove from the backsplash. Tap gently on the chisel with a hammer to loosen and remove the tile. If you have multiple tiles to remove, pop them all out in this manner. Some may break as you remove them.

4 Continue using the chisel to remove any thin-set mortar that remains on the substrate behind the tile. Wipe the substrate clean with a damp sponge.

5 Dry fit the new tiles into the openings. If the new tiles have spacers, you may need to remove them, using tile nippers, to get the tiles to fit. Smooth rough edges with a sanding stone.

6 Mix thin set mortar with latex additive until the thin set resembles mashed potatoes. Let the mortar set for a few minutes for any air bubbles to dissipate.

7 Apply the thin set mortar to the substrate with a trowel. Butter the back of each tile with the mortar as well, placing more thin set in the center of the tile’s back. Reset tile into position on the wall, taking care to keep joint lines straight and even. The tiles should be level with adjacent tiles as well. Allow the thin set to dry for 30 minutes before proceeding. Remove the painter’s tape.

8 Mix un-sanded grout with enough water to make the grout resemble mashed potatoes. Wipe the grout into the joints diagonally with a grout float. If you can’t push the grout into the joint with the float, push it in with your finger. Smooth the joints so they resemble the existing joints. Wipe off excess grout with the float. Allow the grout to dry for 10 minutes.

9 Wipe the tiles with a clean, damp sponge. If a haze develops, polish it off with a soft, dry cloth.

If completely replacing your backsplash tile is not in the budget, these repair steps will get you by!

April 15, 2013 at 8:30 am Leave a comment

How to install A Tile Backsplash

For a homeowner, there is nothing more satisfying then to walk in to a room, and see a beautiful finished home improvement project. A project, that you, the homeowner, completed yourself.

Fed up with looking at that same old tired paint on the wall? Want something beautiful; elegant that’s also easy to clean? Install a tile backsplash, a backsplash that makes your kitchen or bathroom look fresh and new.

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Plumbtile.com: Interstyle Arctiglass Glass Tile

Follow these simple steps to achieve the desired effects, without paying a professional to do it.

If your countertop is tiled, plan the layout so the backsplash grout veins line up with the countertop grout veins. If you don’t have a tiled countertop, start the first tile in the center of the base of the backsplash.

Step 1

Turn off the power to electrical outlets in the area where you’re working. Remove electrical outlet covers.

Step 2

Clean the area with warm water and allow to dry.

Step 3

Apply the manufacturer’s recommended adhesive with a notched trowel. Hold the trowel at a 45-degree angle and spread a very thin layer. Work in small 3-foot-by-3-foot areas to prevent the adhesive from drying out.

Step 4

Lay the first tile in the center at the base of the backsplash. Position the tile using a slight twisting motion. Use a level to make sure the tile is square. Place a spacer on each corner of the first tile. Cut one end of the spacers off in order to fit them between the countertop and the bottom of the tile. Push the spacers into the adhesive.

Step 5

Working out from the first tile, continue laying the tiles in a row, flush to the spacers. Wipe off any excess adhesive that oozes up between the tiles. Leave enough space to fill in with grout. Occasionally check to make sure the tiles are level. After one row is complete, begin with the next row and follow the same pattern. Apply adhesive as needed.

Step 6

If you need to cut tiles, score the tiles with a tile cutter. Don’t score the area of the tiles that will show. Use tile nippers or a saw to cut away the area carefully.

Step 7

When you place the tiles around an outlet, be sure the outlet cover hides the tile edges. Continue tiling as usual.

Step 8

When you’ve laid all the tiles, wipe off any excess adhesive with a damp cloth. Use a rounded stick to clean between the tiles.

Step 9

Allow the adhesive to set according to the manufacturer’s instructions. After the adhesive sets, remove the spacers.

Step 10

Mix the grout according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Since grout may irritate eyes and skin, wear safety goggles and latex gloves. Apply the grout using a rubber float. Spread the grout diagonally at a 45-degree angle across the tiles, packing the grout between the tiles. Wipe off the excess grout with a damp sponge when the grout becomes firm.

Step 11

Shape the grout joints using a rounded stick. Clean the tiles again and smooth the joints with a damp sponge.

Step 12

After the grout dries and a haze forms, wipe off the tiles and shine them with a clean cloth.

Step 13

Replace the electrical outlets and switches. You’ll need longer screws to replace the outlet covers. Use 1-1/4-inch to 1-5/8-inch screws with plastic washers behind the outlet to bring the outlet flush with the tile.

***If you have to cut tile, mark the proposed cut on the glazed side of the tile corners. Don’t mark on the clay side. The ink can be absorbed and bleed through to the other side.

Follow these tips for installing tile countertops or backsplash and your kitchen or bathroom will have a whole new look and appeal!

Climbing Vine backsplash

Plumbtile.com: Tile Showcase

April 11, 2013 at 7:38 am Leave a comment

From Galley to Gourmet: Efficient Galley Kitchens

Having a galley kitchen does not mean that you need to sacrifice style, efficiency or dreams of gourmet bliss.  While a galley kitchen can be short on space, when laid out correctly it can meet all of your needs and exceed expectations.  Because a galley kitchen is small on space, using high end products can be accomplished at a smaller price than a larger kitchen.  Always dreamt of a farm style sink but never thought it was something you could fit into your budget?? Having a galley kitchen with a smaller space to update might be the key to your dream sink, backsplash and tiles.

Photo credit: plumbtile.com

Photo credit: plumbtile.com

USING THE TRIANGLE

The triangle (fridge, sink and range) is the most important factor in any kitchen, but more so in the galley style.  To maximize space a great trick is to use a microwave on top of the range instead of the typical hood which can be aesthetically pleasing but not a necessity when a microwave can double as a hood.  The ideal triangle will place the range and fridge on one wall with the sink being on the opposite wall.  Another way to “add” space is to choose a full range instead of a cooktop and wall ovens.

http://www.plumbtile.com/plumbing-tile/Cat_Kitchen.html

Photo Credit: blog.kitchenviews.com

In a galley kitchen having “zones” for prep, cleaning and cooking will change the functionality and efficiency of your tight space.  Having your prep and cooking area close to each other will cut back on the amount of time that you are moving about in a tight space.

 

STORAGE, OH STORAGE

Storage in any space is key but more so in a kitchen where gadgets can number high.  A trick to expanding space is to have cabinets that reach to the ceiling so that there is no wasted space.  Keeping clutter to a minimum in a galley kitchen will also ensure that the space looks its largest and functions at its highest capacity.  Choosing sleek cabinets with simple lines will also make the area appear to be larger than it is, increasing the efficiency in the space.

TO USE COLOR OR NOT

Like any room choosing the right color and accessorizes can make or break your space, the kitchen is no exception.  Choosing a lighter or even brighter color tile will allow for the space to appear larger than it actually might be.  Accessories in a galley kitchen should be kept to a minimum to increase the efficiency and function of the tight space.

American Olean Belmar Glazed Ceramic Tile

April 8, 2013 at 7:28 am Leave a comment

Cooking Up Big Ideas for Small Kitchens

Who hasn’t been there, the dilemma of a small kitchen and how to utilize the little space that is available?  Whether it’s your first apartment or you are buying in a city where space comes at a higher price, here are some great ideas to transform the small space into a kitchen that you will love and have great pride in.

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Photo Credit: Los Angeles designer Sarah Barnard, LEED AP

SPACE SAVERS:

This kitchen was lacking in space so by making a simple change of using a 24” (counter depth) fridge versus a standard 30”, the homeowners were able to maximize space and style by keeping everything sleek and in line. Kohler Sink

Another quick and easy space saver is using a deeper sink instead of a wider sink.  This will help to increase counter space without losing the ability to have a sink that meets all of your needs.

Utilize all space floor to ceiling in areas like a pantry where items that are used less can be placed at the top and accessible by a foot stool.  Vertical space in a kitchen can add not only functionality but also style by using a glass front and displaying decorative dishes.

Each of these ideas will help to increase the square footage of your small kitchen without having to do any demolition work!

COLOR CHOICES:

Color in a small space can mean the difference between feeling blocked in and not realizing how small a room actually is.  Using cooler colors such as blues and greens (light) will make a space appear to be larger, whereas warmer tones such as dark red will make the space to appear smaller.

STORAGE OPTIONS:

There are multiple ways to ensure that storage is properly used in a small kitchen.  Keeping the kitchen divided into 3 areas (prep, cooking, cleaning) all like items will be together and easier to find and use.  The use of open shelves or a ceiling mounted pot rack can use space that would otherwise be rendered useless. Also the use of modernized accessories Imagelike a Kitchen Counter Trash Chutes would  eliminate using up space for a trash can that needs to be set in the kitchen.

 Adding storage into an area close to the kitchen that is otherwise “dead space” can add decorative and useful space to a tight area.  The picture above uses the space between the door and kitchen, effectively “extending” a small kitchen into the house and creating a more open floor plan.
Another space saver is open shelving on a wall that would not be able to accommodate cabinets or would great improve the space options by using an open look.

Small kitchens can be difficult to work with but with a little imagination, great design and the right materials you can transform a tiny kitchen into the heart of your home.

Photo Credit: Trina via A Country Farmhouse

Photo Credit: Trina via A Country Farmhouse

April 4, 2013 at 7:09 am Leave a comment

Turn Your Outdated Bathroom To Green!

With a few easy steps and updates, you can turn your old and outdated bathroom into a new and environmentally green one.  There are many ideas and products you can add to your bathroom to make it an Eco-Friendly part of your home.  In return, you will dramatically reduce water, reduce the chance of mold and mildew, and do your part in preserving our environment.

Green Fixtures

Toilet: Using a two level flush systems can assist with reducing water wastage. The dual flush uses one for liquid waste, by using less than a gallon, and one for the solid waste. By installing and using a high efficiency toilet, you can save you an average of $100 a year, which is about $2000 over the lifetime of the toilet. Some city municipalities offer incentives to home owners who purchase high efficiency toilets. They can range anywhere from $25 to $175.  By changing your water- devouring toilet to a high efficiency toilet, it can save you money and reduce the usage of water for the environment.

Showerheads: With constant droughts, reducing water is a must. A typical shower consumes up to 25 gallons of water, while each household uses an average of 100 gallons of water a day total. By changing your showerhead to a low-flow fixture, you will reduce the amount of water you use, but not the pressure.  Low flow showerheads offer many unique features such as flow adjusting dials and pause buttons.

Faucets: Federal law requires new faucets not to exceed 2.2 gallons per minute (gpm). However, older faucets can flow at rates as high as 3 to 7 gpm. Changing your outdated faucets to a better performing, and water-efficient fixtures will help you save water, energy,  and money while still receiving an adequate flow.  By simply trading in your old faucets for a new energy preforming faucet, an average household can reduce its water consumption by 500 gallons each year. Using of sensor faucets are a great way for reducing water consumption in your household. This “hands-free” technology acts as a sensor to start the flow of water automatically and with ease. The sensors’ detects your presence, and robotically shuts off within seconds once you remove your hands.

Tiles: Go green with your tiles. You can choose earthy cork, clean ceramic, or recycled glass tiles for your bathroom floor and walls. The use of heavy-duty marble for your baseboard will give your bathroom a sturdy but eco-friendly finish. When sealing your tiles be sure to use nontoxic grout and grout sealer.

Ventilation: Restoring the bathroom’s ventilation can hinder mold and mildew development. Start with installing a noiseless fan that is fitting for your bathroom size, and vent it to the outside. Consider more than one fan if the bathroom is large. Most updated bathroom fans have timers or humidity-sensing switches to guarantee that the fan runs long enough after a bath or shower.

Water Heaters: If a water heater needs substituting, pick a high-efficiency type and consider a tankless heater or a hot-water circulation option if the main water heater is not directly near your bathroom.

The fundamentals of turning your bathroom eco-friendly managing water flow and choosing long-lasting materials that are made to handle the wear and tear of a moist and highly usable area. In return, you will be doing your share in improving our environment while keeping some cash in your pocket.

April 1, 2013 at 11:59 am Leave a comment

Think Big With Your Small Bathroom

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Dissatisfied with not having adequate storage in your small bathroom? Not happy with the dark lighting? Or just tired of feeling claustrophobic? Then it is time to create a functional and delightful bath even if it is small.

Creating an illusion that your bathroom is bigger starts with factors such as bathroom fixtures, colors, lighting, storage and accessories. You can make a splash with a few minor alterations.

Bathroom fixtures: One way to give your small bathroom room is to go with a wall-mounted washbasin with a wooden shelf underneath to hold supplies, and a towel bar. Or a petite vanity style sinks with a single drawer and a place where you can have baskets underneath to hold bathroom content. Even wall mounted toilets, can give you the extra space needed in your tiny bathroom. These compact commode tanks is hidden inside the 2×6 stud wall, allowing for 9 inches of extra space in the center of the room. Or get space in a small square bath by positioning the vanity sink in a corner.

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Storage for your bathroom items: To store bathroom items without taking up much space is to install floor to ceiling cabinets, or built-in cabinets using open shelves, closed doors or both. Also the use of medicine cabinets for additional storage is a great way to store your essentials that can eliminate shelves or cabinet spaces.

Illumination : Use a glass shower wall or door to eliminate the visual barrier of a shower curtain or doors giving your compact bathroom look and feel more roomier. Other tricks you can do that will give a bigger impression is to use lighting around large bathroom mirrors illuminating any reflection. Mirrors reflect the style and substance of any room.

Lighting it up: Make your small bathroom light up! Using shower lights , wall mounted lights to overhead hanging lights will bring functionality and brightness to any size bathrooms. Also add skylights to bring in natural light if a window is not present in your bathroom.

Tile it right: Create attention by setting focal points in compact spaces. Using glass tiles or  marble mosaic tiles can create a shimmering backdrop behind sinks, Create a colorful pattern or use rich tones to add warmth and create balance. Make an illusion of a higher ceiling. Wood moldings,wallpaper borders, and tile designs placed where the walls and ceiling meet will also provide a splash of color and help naturally draw the eye upward.

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Making a big splash in your tiny bath by treating it with chic fixtures and alluring finishes. Look to colorful fabrics like glass or mosaic tiles, updated fixtures with space saving ones, and storage spaces to help your tiny bath bubble with greatness.

March 28, 2013 at 9:00 am Leave a comment

Sizzle Up Your Summer With An Outdoor Kitchen

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Summer is coming! Are you ready to entertain guests with your outdoor kitchen and dining area? Cooking up a great outdoor kitchen is easier than you think.

Your outdoor kitchen can have the same options as your indoor kitchen, giving you the convenience you experience with your indoor kitchen amenities. As long as items are waterproofed like stainless steel, stone or ceramic, you can corporate kitchen cabinets, counter tops, grills, refrigerators and even fireplaces in your new outdoor cooking and entertaining area.

What will you be cooking on? BBQ grills are the more popular choice of cooking outside. But you have other options. One easy method of cooking and providing a cozy focal point for your guests to gather is an outdoor fireplace. How about an outdoor oven in your kitchen? A brick or stone pizza oven maybe a better choice to consider for your outdoor cooking. Something more on the casual side would be a fire pit or a grill over an open flame.

Storage is beneficial for your outdoor kitchen. Being an outdoor room, you would need to invest in waterproofed storage cabinets. You can build your storage area with woods that are resistant to weather exposure, or go with the stainless steel or ceramic to add protection and elaborate content to your outdoor kitchen.

Kohler Entertainment Sink

Kohler Entertainment Sink

Kitchen sinks are always in need while cooking in your outdoor kitchen. Outdoor sinks can be hooked up to your homes main water line or simply attached to a garden hose. The best sinks for outdoor use is to go with stainless steel or ceramic materials. Simple entertainment sinks will do the trick on keeping your outdoor utensils and cooking accessories clean.

Counter space for your outdoor kitchen would be helpful in preparing your delicious meal. You can also give your outdoor space an eat-on counter. You can us stone or ceramic tiles and other materials that would substain the outdoor elements. Materials like granite, slate, stainless steel, brick, and stucco would be a good pick for your outdoor countertops as well. These materials would also be great for tile flooring in your outdoor kitchen and dining area.

Solistone Tile

Solistone Tile

Add some useful appliances to your outdoor kitchen. Implement a stainless steel gas grill with a rotisserie, a smoker box for wood chips, and storage below. To save spaced, in your kitchen install an under-counter refrigerator. Other popular appliances include wine coolers, ice makers, and warming drawers.

Imagine this summer enjoying the warm sun and the summer breeze while you prepare your meals and give your guests an outdoor entertaining room. With the right weather proofing and durable materials, your outside kitchen can be your favorite room this summer.

March 25, 2013 at 12:50 pm Leave a comment

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