Transform Your Bathroom

Whether your taste is contemporary, traditional or somewhere in-between, a vanity can provide a central focal point for your entire bathroom, offering both style and function. With a wealth of styles and a wide range of materials to choose from, you’ll have no problem finding a vanity that reflects your unique taste, style and personality.

In a larger bath, an ornate, intricately detailed vanity can make the room feel like an entirely different space, while smaller bathrooms will benefit from more practical vanities that feature plenty of storage for various necessities.

Selecting Your Vanity
Vanities come in a variety of styles including, single sink, double sink, corner, curved front, bow front and wall-hung. When selecting a vanity, you will want to choose one that is durable, stylish and maximizes available space.

With a wealth of designs and a wide range of materials to choose from, you’ll have no problem finding the perfect vanity for your bathroom project. Keep the following questions in mind as you shop:

• What material is the best fit for your bathroom?
• How high would you like the countertop to be?
• How large is your bathroom?
• How much space is available for the vanity?
• Who primarily uses the bathroom?
• Do you prefer a framed or frameless design?

Installation and Design Tips

Depending on how big the vanity is and how many pieces are involved, installing one can make for a great do-it-yourself project. Whether you decide to hire a professional or take the job on yourself, here are a few points to keep in mind.

With so many different types of vanities to choose from, it’s important to consider the primary function it will serve. Think about how many people will be using the bathroom, and whether or not multiple people will be using it at the same time.

In such cases, you may want to install a vanity that features two sinks instead of one to speed preparation time in the morning. If it’s being installed in a guest bathroom that’s used less frequently, you can worry less about storage space and focus more on aesthetic appeal.

Unless you’re putting it in a bathroom used primarily by younger children, consider a vanity height of around 34” inches high. Also for younger children, you’ll want plenty of space to store their favorite tub toys and a color scheme that fits in well with any decorative elements that adorn the wall or mirror.

Tools and Materials
Installing a vanity is almost the same as installing a kitchen cabinet. Some vanities have a back that will require you to cut access holes for pipes. Others have only a mounting rail, making installation much easier. The basic tools and materials you will need are: an electric drill, screwdriver bit, stud finder, a 2-foot level, utility knife, a hammer, nail set, wood screws, shims, finishing nails and a vanity. Additional accents such as trim moulding will give your vanity a more finished look.

Best Design Practices
Bathrooms are a mixture of both practical and aesthetic elements. To create a room that meets your needs, the design should include a well-planned layout styled to reflect your personality and taste.

Safety
A good design checklist is invaluable, make sure you consider every detail during the planning process. Arrange the room so the placement of fixtures is related to how much you use them and how much space is available. Also take into consideration the best location for installing plumbing and electricity.

Follow generally accepted guidelines for clearance within the bathroom, particularly around fixtures. These guidelines should be available from your local building department. Ensure the room is well lit and safe for occupants of all ages. Include plenty of storage and plan for privacy.

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Adding a new faucet to your bathroom can provide a stylish accent that enhances the entire room. Select from a variety of options ranging from the economical to the elegant. High-quality faucets give you precise control, have few maintenance problems and don’t cost any more to install than less expensive units. Plan your bathroom décor around the faucet when building a new house or remodeling the bathroom. If you’re replacing an old faucet that has broken down, you’ll have no trouble finding a new one to complement your existing décor. With four basic styles and an array of finishes to choose from, you’ll be able to find the faucet that best expresses your personality while providing a high level of performance. Keep the following questions in mind as you shop:

• What faucet styles are available?
• What types of finishes can faucets feature?
• Would you prefer one or two handles?
• What type of valve should you install?
• Which spout type do you prefer?
• What features would you like to have?

Styles, Design, Finish and Installation Considerations

Faucets are generally available in four styles, including single-hole, center-set, widespread and wall mount. If you’re simply replacing an old faucet, your new faucet may need to be the same type as the old one, depending on the installation setup. If you are remodeling or building a new house, however, you’ll be able to choose from a wider range of styles and finishes. A good valve is crucial to long life, so consider installing the best one your budget will allow. Choose a finish that will look as good in ten years as it does now, one that will be at home with your current décor while providing versatility to fit in with future redecorating projects.

Styles: The design of your sink plays a large role in determining which style of faucet you decide to install. If a sink has only one hole, you’ll need to install a single-hole faucet. These units often have one handle connected to the spout, though some may have separate handles for hot and cold water. Center-set faucets combine the handles and spout on a 4″ base unit. These are the most commonly used faucets and are usually the least expensive and easiest to install. Widespread models feature hot- and cold-water valves that are separate from the spout. They are often more expensive than other styles but allow for a wide range of placement flexibility. For something different, choose a wall-mounted faucet. Pair one with an above-counter basin for an especially striking look. While they may be more difficult to install, wall-mounted faucets reduce clutter on the sink and make cleanup easier.

• Single-hole faucets are simple to install and maintain and are compact and easy to use
• Single-hole faucets are often used on smaller sinks and may have an optional cover plate
• Center-set faucets are ideal for smaller, predrilled or preexisting basins
• Widespread faucets have a standard spread of at least 8″
• Mini-widespread, or minispread, faucets have a spread of 4″

Design: Along with the style, you’ll also need to choose a spout, handle and valve for your new faucet. Spouts may be aerated or nonaerated. Aerated spouts mix air with the water and utilize a screen and restrictor to limit flow while simultaneously improving water pressure. Nonaerated spouts do not have a screen and allow water to flow freely, causing a waterfall-like effect. Handles come in a wide range of styles including ring-type cylinder, round, cross and lever and may be a single unit or separate for customized hot- and cold-water control. Touchless electronic handles help conserve water by shutting off automatically as soon as you’re done washing your hands. The internal valve mechanism is crucial to high-quality operation, as it governs the flow of water through the spout. Compression valves, which feature a rubber washer to stem the flow of water, are the most common type, but they tend to drip when the washers become worn. Consider choosing a ball, cartridge or ceramic-disc valve for better performance. The chart below details some of the features and a few points to consider for each type of valve.

Finish: Once you’ve selected a style and design, you’ll need to select a finish. Many manufacturers offer lifetime finishes that won’t tarnish over time to ensure that your faucet stays looking great for years. Commonly used finishes include chrome, brass, colored, gold plate, nickel, stainless steel and PVD. The following points identify some of the primary benefits and considerations of these finishes.

• Chrome may have a polished, brushed or matte finish and is durable and economical
• Brass is ideal for traditional styles, and faucets with lifetime finishes resist fading, scratches and corrosion
• Colored finishes may be epoxy or baked-on enamel coating and are easy to clean
• High-quality gold plate won’t tarnish, though it is more expensive
• Nickel may be brushed or satin and is stylish, durable and easy to clean
• Stainless steel is stylish and won’t show water spots, though it is often more expensive
• PVD, or physical vapor deposition, is highly durable and resists abrasion and discoloration

Installation and Care: When installing a new faucet, there are a few points you’ll want to consider. Wall-mount faucets will require a longer spout for extended reach. If you wish to install a new faucet that doesn’t utilize all of the holes in your existing sink, use metal plates called escutcheons to cover the holes. Taller faucets are easier to get your hands under for washing, but shorter faucets will minimize splashing.

• Avoid using harsh, abrasive cleaning chemicals that may damage the finish
• Gentle soap and warm water will generally be sufficient for cleaning faucets
• Extra sink holes can be utilized for sprayers, soap dispensers and more

Features

Anti-Scald Protection: If you have young children or elderly parents in your house, you may want to consider installing a faucet with built-in anti-scald protection to protect them from accidentally burning themselves.

Filtering: Sinks with filtration systems provide high-quality drinking water, helping you save money on bottled water.

Common-Valve Setup: Some newer sinks feature common-valve architecture that fits a number of different faucet styles, allowing you to remodel or upgrade your existing faucet simply by unscrewing the handle and spout from the top. Not having to reinstall the valve system under the sink will save you time and effort.

Adjustable Flow-Rate Restrictor: If you’re concerned about conserving water or live in an area where your water supply is limited, an adjustable flow-rate restrictor will give you complete control over how much water you use.

While summertime may conjure up images of picnics, days at the beach and beautiful sunsets, it also means contending with the heat. Fortunately, there are ways to keep cool and combat the effects of the hot summer sun on your living room, bedroom, dining room and more. Window film is a microthin layer of polyester or vinyl film applied directly to the glass that provides an economical way to reduce glare, minimize energy bills enhance privacy, or add a decorative touch to your windows. While professional installation might be available in your area, installing window film is certainly a project that is easy enough for any motivated do-it-yourselfer who’s willing to invest a little care and patience. Before you get started, consider the following questions:

• What advantages does window film offer?
• How does it enhance energy efficiency?
• What types of film are available?
• What do you need to do to ensure proper application?
• Are there any special features that are important to you?

Benefits, Film Types and Application Considerations

Depending on the climate where you live, the directional orientation of the window you’re applying film to and the type of film you choose, the potential benefits of window film are numerous. Because different types of film offer different benefits, it’s important to determine what your primary goal is. Installation can be a simple task, with the right tools. Also, having a partner is immensely helpful, particularly when it comes to separating the film from its backing. If you’ve ever done any wallpapering before, you may find some similarities between the two tasks.

Benefits: Most older or inexpensive windows aren’t very efficient when it comes to blocking heat or UV rays. As a result, you may find that your furniture fades prematurely, your living room is uncomfortable and your air conditioning bill is skyrocketing. Window film can help with these issues and more. One of the benefits of window film is that it blocks radiant heat flow, keeping hot air out in the summer making it easier for your air conditioner to do its job. In addition to regulating temperatures and promoting greater comfort, this helps lower energy bills. Warranties, proper care, and the conditions in the room, vary, but it’s very likely that window film will pay for itself within a few years as a result of the money you’ll save. Film can also be used to enhance a room’s appearance with a decorative element.

• Film blocks UV rays to help prevent fading of furniture and carpeting
• Choose a darker film that’s hard to see through from the outside if you’re concerned about privacy
• Film helps keep cold air out and warm air in during the winter to further reduce heating costs
• Security film imbues windows with greater strength to help prevent shattering

Types: Window films are available in a number of types, each of which is designed to provide different benefits. Some types are specifically designed to block UV rays and keep out heat. Others are designed to tint windows for privacy or enhance a window’s strength to prevent it from being easily destroyed by a loose baseball or flying debris during a strong storm. The chart below details some common types of window film as well as a few points of consideration for each.

Application Considerations and Tips: Make sure the film you choose can safely be applied to the surface you plan to use it on. There are certain situations in which you should avoid using window film. Do not apply film to large single-pane windows that exceed 100 square feet in area or to clear glass thicker than 3/8″. Most films are designed for use with single- or double-paned glass, though some types can be used on Plexiglas or other materials. To apply the film, you’ll need a spray bottle filled with a soapy solution. Apply it liberally to both the window and the film. Stick the film to the window and then trim around the border, leaving about 1/16″ between the film and the window frame. This space is necessary to allow glass to expand and contract with temperature changes. Use a squeegee to smooth out any bubbles once the film is applied. Then, simply let it dry and set. Cleaning is an important part of making sure window film retains its effectiveness over time. While most film is scratch-resistant, it is not scratch-proof. Use only a soft cloth and nonabrasive cleaning solution, and be sure to consult the manufacturer’s care instructions.

• Application is usually quick, but it may take a few days for film to fully cure
• Do not apply film to glass that is cracked or otherwise damaged
• Thoroughly clean window before applying film and use a razor blade to clean off any sticky or hard-to-remove substances
• Apply film to the inside surface of a window (i.e., the side that faces into your house)
• Install film when window is cool but not when the temperature may drop below freezing within three days of application
• Scratches can cause film to lose effectiveness more quickly

Features

Multisurface Adhesion: If you need to apply film to a window that’s made of something other than glass, make sure that the film you purchase is designed for application to different kinds of materials.

Curved Surfaces: Some films are designed for applying to curved surfaces, a quality that you’ll need if you’re using it on a rounded or concave window.

Warranty: The longer a film’s warranty, the better the chance that it will continue to perform at a high level for an extended period of time. Look for film that’s warranted against bubbling, cracking and fading for maximum performance.

Removable/Reusable: Film that can be removed and reused can come in handy if you live in a climate that experiences mild winters that don’t require as much protection as the hot summers. However, most films provide protection all year and should be left up through the seasons. This feature is also available for many decorative films.

Edging Tool: A special edging tool, used in concert with a sharp utility knife, will make it much easier to make cuts around the border of the film.

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Wallpaper is a popular choice for home decoration, with a wide selection of available colors, textures and patterns. You’ll be able to choose from a variety of options with popular designs in easy-to-care-for vinyl-coated paper to designer styles in unique materials, including fabrics and delicate papers. With a little planning, practice and a bit of patience you can create the room you’ve always wanted. A number of factors will make your wallpapering project go as smoothly as possible, so consider these questions before you buy:

• What type of wallpaper will produce the look you want?
• Should you use prepasted or nonpasted wallpaper?
• Which pattern will best complement the room?
• Do you need wallpaper that is stain resistant or washable?
• How much wallpaper do you need?

Size, Type and Design Tips

Wallpaper can be made from a variety of materials, including paper, fabric and substances such as glass, sand and even natural fibers like grass or bamboo. Foil accents and embossed patterns add extra dimension and texture and enhance the overall design of any room. The most popular wallpapers are pre-pasted vinyl and vinyl-coated papers, which offer effortless application, are resistant to tears, can be adjusted before the paper hardens and are easy to clean and care for.

Sizes: Wallpaper comes in a wide range of lengths and widths. How much you need will depend on the square footage of the space you are wallpapering. Borders are much narrower and vary in size depending on the design. They can be used to complement a wallpapering project or on their own to add a decorative accent to a painted room.

• Wallpaper is usually priced as a single roll but comes packaged as a double or even triple roll to provide ample coverage
• Before shopping, measure the surface area of the space you intend to cover
• Consult with a salesperson to determine if you are purchasing enough materials

Types: Wallpaper can help you create themed rooms, add subtle accents or cover up imperfections and allow you to produce patterns and effects that are impossible to achieve with paint. With one simple roll, you can add an intricate design or infuse any room with simple style. Most wallpaper is pre-pasted for trouble-free application. Some wallpaper, such as those made from luxurious fabrics and natural fiber, are not pre-pasted and require special glue that must be applied to the paper or the wall beforehand. Spaces such as bathrooms, kitchens or children’s bedrooms are more prone to messes and stains. In these areas, consider choosing wallpaper that is washable or scrubbable.

• Pre-pasted wallpaper has an adhesive already applied for easy hanging
• Dry back wallpaper requires the use of a separate paste for application
• Strippable and peelable wallpaper can be removed easily for frequent redecorating

Design: With so many available choices, selecting wallpaper can seem like a daunting task, but it needn’t be if you keep a few general rules in mind. Be sure to use colors and patterns that complement the shape, size and décor of a room. Also, remember that larger patterns can require the purchase of additional rolls to match up properly.

Checking the Dye Lot: There are a number of ways to make sure you get the desired look from your wallpaper. One key thing to remember when buying is to make sure each roll is from the same dye lot. This number is also called the batch or run number. It ensures that rolls bearing the same number were made from the same batch for a correct color match every time. Mixing wallpaper from other lot numbers may result in visible irregularities as the ink colors may vary slightly.

Features

Scrubbable: Scrubbable wallpaper withstands more thorough scrubbing with a brush and mild detergent to get out stains when needed.

Washable: Certain papers with acrylic coatings are washable. This means that you can use a sponge to give them a light cleaning as needed.

Texture and Embossing: When you want to give your room a more tactile dimension, choose wallpaper with interesting texture and embossed elements. Some wallpaper can mimic materials such as leather or tin ceilings for more interesting and eclectic effects.

Coordinating Borders: Most wallpaper is designed to work with a complementary border for a complete look. Use the manufacturer’s suggested selections or mix and match your own to create a custom style.

Faux Surfaces and Landscapes: Replicate the look of a log cabin in your living room or install an intergalactic landscape in your bedroom with specialized wallpaper designed to create certain effects. These types of wallpaper are especially useful in creating specialty or themed rooms, such as a child’s bedroom or a game room.

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When adding new drapes or curtains to your home, you’ll want to be sure and take some time to consider what type of hardware will be used to display them. Thanks to a wide range of available options, you can choose anywhere from simple, functional items to more elaborate, detailed pieces designed to complement and enhance your window treatments. You’ll find rods, finials, brackets, rings and more in a number of different styles, ranging from contemporary to traditional. Drapery hardware can be constructed from a diverse range of materials, including wood, plastics and metal, and are available in a variety of colors. As you shop for the right drapery hardware for your installation, consider the following questions and find your ideal balance between functionality and flair:

• Which hardware items are primarily functional?
• Which items are used for decorative purposes?
• What type of rod is best suited to your installation?
• What materials can different types of hardware be made from?
• Are there any special features that are important to you?

Function, Style and Accessories

The vast array of available drapery hardware can be a little overwhelming, so it’s important to narrow your search. Determine beforehand what kind of theme or overall look you’re trying to achieve. Some drapery hardware is well suited for contemporary designs while other types will be more at home amongst traditional or rustic décor. Hardware can be hidden from view to provide a greater focus on curtains or placed ostentatiously out in the open to serve as a counterpoint. Curtain rods are the single largest piece of hardware and the rod you choose will help determine subsequent purchases of end caps, brackets, rings, tiebacks and more.

Functional vs. Decorative: While some drapery components provide an equal mix of practicality and style, there are several pieces of hardware that primarily exhibit one quality or the other. Functional hardware is comprised of necessary, no-frills pieces needed for hanging and operating window treatments. Decorative pieces, on the other hand, are designed to be seen and appreciated. They can be used as subtle accents or as a dominate element in the rooms overall décor. Regardless of whether they are solely functional or serve a decorative purpose as well, all window treatments will require a rod, brackets and some sort of end caps or finials.

• Functional hardware is often concealed by fabrics and fixtures
• Functional pieces include white metal curtain rods, curtain hooks, traverse rods and more
• Decorative pieces dress up and add style to basic window treatment elements
• Decorative hardware examples include tassels, sconces, tiebacks, finials and more

Curtain Rods: Rods, also called poles, are the largest piece of hardware you’ll need to install and the central piece around which other hardware components are selected. They serve as the main support for your window treatment. Curtains may be attached to rings or sliders that allow them to move back and forth along the rod or shirred in place on windows where you don’t want the curtains to open. There are many different styles available, ranging from slender concealed rods to thicker, more prominent decorative rods. Thicker rods tend to create more of a visual effect. If you have a tall wall and a comparatively short window, hang the rod closer to the ceiling to create the illusion of taller windows. Rods that are wider than windows can be used in a similar manner to expand the appearance of width. Consult the chart below to learn more about some of the more commonly used rods.

Finials, Brackets and Sconces: Once you’ve selected your curtains and your rod, it’s time to fill out the rest of the picture. Finials and end caps offer a tremendous array of styles for maximum decorative versatility. Finials are designed to provide an elegant flourish for all types of treatments. They may be made from various metals, wood, ceramic, glass, molded resin, rattan and more. Brackets are used to support the rod. Some utilitarian brackets are simple pieces designed solely to secure the rod to the wall while other, more elaborate brackets feature ornate designs. Sconces are decorative brackets through which fabric may be threaded. Choose finials and brackets made from different materials as the curtain rod to create visual contrast.

• Finials and end caps are usually the most visible type of drapery hardware
• End caps offer a simple look and don’t call attention to themselves
• Finial shapes include spears, arrows, balls, leaves, stars, flowers, scrolls and more
• Brackets made from the same materials as finials complement each other
• Sconce designs include animals, grape clusters, flowers, leaves and more

Rings and Accessories: Many hardware accessories are designed to provide stylish accents that complete the look of your window treatments. Tiebacks are used to hold draperies off to the sides of a window and can be simple fabric strips or elaborate bows. Holdbacks offer the same functionality as tiebacks, but consist of rigid, decorative materials that are secured to a wall and provide a holder for keeping drapes and curtains in an open position. Rings, clips, hooks and pulls connect drapes and curtains to the rod and may be either hidden or visible. Styles range from simple, unadorned wrought iron rings to clips with decorative leaves, stars and more. Drapery jewelry can take a number of different forms, such as covered buttons.

• Holdbacks come in a wide range of styles that can be matched to your environment
• Decorative cords and tassels are often used to spruce up standard pull cords
• Hidden rings are simple, functional elements that do not serve a decorative purpose

Features

Hinged Rods: For a completely different look, install a hinged rod. These units allow you to swing curtains back and forth, covering the window when you want it covered and keeping the curtain in another spot when you don’t. Make sure you install it in an area where the curtain provides some decorative value when not covering the window.

Pole Sets: For one-stop shopping, look for a pole set. These kits contain all the pieces you’ll need for your assembly, including an adjustable-length pole, finials and decorative brackets.

Motorized Rods: If you’re looking for a truly modern window treatment, install a motorized rod, which will allow you to open and close the curtains at the flip of a switch or the touch of a button.

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