Frameless Shower Doors
Frameless shower doors offer the open, bright look of clear glass. If space allows for the door configurations, frameless can make a small bathroom look bigger and make a large bathroom grander. A light above the shower, when used with frameless doors, can display tile mosaics or custom designs in the shower interior for an elegant look. Great showers with multiple showerheads and sprays are perfect for frameless doors.
Frameless Shower Doors
Because both framed and frameless doors are designed with glass panels, keeping the glass clean may be a problem with hard water and soap scum. One disadvantage to a frameless door is that it has more glass to clean and more hard water stains to see if you don’t do the required cleaning of the glass.
Whether applying caulk to a new shower door or replacing the old caulk around an existing shower door, the method is much…
Frameless shower doors provide an elegant look to your home’s bathroom. These doors have no metal frame holding them in place. Showers in older homes often have metal frame doors in which the glass slides open and closed, however, these frames become traps for mold and mildew. Frameless shower doors are not susceptible to this problem and are much simpler to remove and repair.
7 Kitchens Design Ideas
Kitchens have evolved a lot over the years. Once found only in the rear of the house, today’s kitchen design takes the kitchen out the background. The challenge for kitchen design is in creating a more open-faced kitchen, that is part of a dining area, a family room or a great room.
In deciding on how to design your kitchens, you must take into consideration such things as: will your kitchen have an island? Will it be of a modern or traditional design? What kinds of appliances will you need for your new kitchen design? What kind of lighting design?
1. Kitchens as ‘Great Room’
Whether you are redesigning an existing kitchen or planning a new kitchen in a new home there are some design considerations to keep in mind, such as including in an island or peninsula as part of the kitchen design. These can be used to connect the kitchens to a nearby dining area or family room thereby creating a ‘great room’. A kitchen island or peninsula will allow the cook to keep in visual and conversational contact with family members or guests in the adjoining family or dining room.
2. Create a Kitchens Canopy
To give the kitchen some visible borders without blocking views create a kitchen canopy. Also a high ceiling in the kitchen can create the perception of spaciousness.
3. Using Kitchens Cabinet Color to Set Tone of Kitchen Design
Kitchen cabinets will help set the tone for the whole room. The choice of wood will influence the overall look of your cabinets. To create a light look, use a light wood such as ash, beech, birch, oak, maple, or chestnut. For medium range, select cherry. To darker kitchens, choose wood that has some color to it.
4. Plan Out Use of Cabinets and Drawers in The New Kitchens Design
Plan out in the kitchen design blueprint just how your cabinets and drawers will be used and how much space and storage you will need before you start your new kitchen design. The first thing to examine is the counter surface area. Look at where you put everything in your existing kitchen and where in your new kitchens design will these things will go in the new space. Will there be more than one person cooking at a time. If so, will there be enough room for two cooks in the kitchen to work together?
5. Use The Galley-Type Kitchens Design
As for counter arrangements, many kitchens designers agree the galley-type design to be the best in terms of efficiency with it’s single aisle and counters to either side, making it easy to turn around to go from sink to cooking range.
6. Under-Cabinet Kitchens Lighting
Kitchen lighting can be an overlooked area of kitchen design. Even if the kitchen has generally good lighting, the counter areas can be somewhat dark. For these areas under-cabinet lighting can help provide more light to work in. By using simple spots or fluorescent lights a smaller kitchen can be made to look larger.
7. Looking at Countertops
Granite, marble, and limestone are all popular natural materials for use in countertops are available in many colors. Ceramic tile kitchen countertops are versatile, practical, and also available in many colors, as well as many shapes, patterns, and finishes. Solid surface countertops provide seamless acrylic faces. Solid surfaces also come in almost limitless colors, patterns, and styles, and are stain and heat resistant. Laminate countertops are more affordable but not built to last. Concrete countertops are known for versatility, as well as strength. Wood countertops are long lasting and easy to clean and repair but the wood will not withstand exposure to water and household chemicals. Stainless steel countertops lack the elegance of granite or tile. These countertops do not absorb stains, but tends to scratch easily.
Modern Green Kitchens Design ideas
Reference : Kitchens
Inspiration For Redesign Your Kitchen Cabinets
One of the most important elements in any kitchen redesign is your kitchen cabinets. This one simple part of your kitchen is one of the most important elements, and the way you decide to go with your cabinets will greatly affect the look and feel of your kitchen. You may want to even go so far as consulting a professional. Making the right choice here, perhaps as much as any other, will either make or break your kitchen.
Something that a lot of people are doing these days in their kitchens is choosing cabinets with a unique finish. The finish of your cabinet should flow seamlessly into the overall theme or design of your kitchen. The right finish can greatly enhance what you’re attempting to achieve – be it a country look, a sleek, modern look, a traditional woody look, or whatever.
An example of the right kind of look for your overall theme might be a crackled-looking finish for someone hoping to achieve a French country style. Though the look may be old, the cabinets themselves need not be, of course. You should also think about color when thinking about your finish. Though one color may look good in one type of finish, it may not be exactly what you want in another type of finish. The texture of the finish itself may change everything, so be prepared to try out different possibilities. Insisting on what you thought you wanted in the beginning may leave you unhappy in the end.
Another example of a popular trend in finishes is the sleek, modern look. In place of the traditional wood cabinets, some are using a variety of materials to achieve this modern look, including metal and plastic. Those who are interested in ultra-modern, pared-down design often find inspiration in commercial kitchens (those found in restaurants, for example). And not only do they find their inspiration there, they often find their actual appliances and materials in commercial kitchen stores and warehouses. If this is your style, be sure to check out your local restaurant supply store. Even if they don’t have exactly what you want, you’re bound to pick up a number of ideas that will suit your modern-loving fancy.
Of course, the finish and look of a cabinet isn’t all that’s involved in choosing what’s right for you. The “practical” aspect of the cabinet’s design is equally important. Modern kitchens allow for much more storage than those of kitchens in the past, and modern home-dwellers have come to expect many of these differences as a given. If you have an older home, you may be able to easily update your kitchen simply by installing some of these more modern amenities into the kitchen. Having a trash can that sits on rollers inside of a large trash bin drawer is an example of what we’ve come to expect in a modern kitchen. An older kitchen, of course, would not have such an amenity.
In general, like the trash can, the modern kitchen is built to put storage away from public view. But there is also a nice mix of old and new that many people are turning to – a design where some storage items are purposely exposed. A colorful, neatly arranged pantry that is exposed to the kitchen can make for an interesting design element. However, it should go without saying that if you choose this type of cabinetry you should make sure that you’re someone who’s willing to keep your stored items neat and tidy. If not, instead of an added design element, you end up with an eyesore.
Kitchen Cabinets Design
Kitchen Cabinets Full Design
Reference : http://www.full-kitchens.net, Kitchen Cabinets
How To Care For A Hardwood Floors
hardwood floors are an excellent investment for any home, promoting resale value and interior warmth. However, if the floors are not properly cared for, this investment won’t yield as well. hardwood floors are not hard to maintain, and compared with carpet and other surfaces that are more difficult to clean or require replacement, hardwood floors can be considered relatively low maintenance. But proper care is essential to keep the floors in good shape, and to give them a nice shine.
As with all flooring, hardwood floors must be cleaned, but they must be cleaned correctly. The correct way to clean urethane-stained floors is to mop them with a damp mop. Using vacuum and bristle brooms daily will help keep the floor clean. But when it comes time to really clean the floor, use a damp mop. Allowing dirt and grime to collect on the floor, and walking on this grime over as period of time can damage the finish. Using a small amount of water shouldn’t hurt the finished wood, but don’t pour out water and mop it like you would with kitchen tile. A damp mop or dust rag is all that should be needed, and it should be light enough in water that it will dry in minutes. Be sure to understand what type of finish your floor has, and what the suggested cleaning methods are. Using soaps and oils can void manufacturer warranties on many floors.
Another way to protect hardwood floors is to use throw rugs or walk-off mats in areas of high traffic. For example, in the entry way where people come in through the house, the traffic is likely to be greater in an isolated spot, and thus the floors will wear unevenly in this spot. This would make a great place for an area rug. Watch your floors over time, and consider putting some sort of rug or other type of protection on areas that receive more wear. It is especially important to use rugs on wood floors in kitchens in front of sinks and stoves.
Floor protectors on the bottom of furniture is highly recommended. You will want to pay special attention to rolling chairs with rubber wheels like those often found in offices. These chairs have a tendency to leave rubber trails on the wood floors. If you have such a chair, consider putting a rug underneath it.
There are two primary finishes on hardwood floors: urethane finishes and wax. You should never wax a urethane finished floor. If your urethane floor is extremely worn, you may need to refinish it which will involve sanding and applying sealer. However, if you clean the floor regularly, using only soaps recommended by the manufacturer, and you protect problem areas, you should avoid needing to refinish the floor for many years.
Wax floors require occasional waxing. It really isn’t a lot different than cleaning and waxing your car. You will need to clean the floors first, and buff areas that are worn with high traffic. Occasionally, you will need to buff on additional wax in the worn areas. With wax finished, just as with urethane finishes, you should know the manufacturers recommended care procedures.
With proper maintenance, your hardwood floors should last for the lifetime of your house, and look shiny and new for many years.
Hardwood Floors
Hardwood Floors Classic
Hardwood Floors Brown
Beautifull Hardwood Floors
Hardwood Floors Installation
Reference : http://parquetflooring.blogspot.com, Hardwood Floors
7 Things Everyone Should Know Buying Furniture Online
Purchasing furniture online can be a very fun and rewarding adventure. You don’t have to waste all day in mall traffic and only going to a handful of stores. You can shop in the comfort of your own home without the pressure of pushy sales people. You can literally see hundreds of items in a very short time.
We want to make your online shopping experience as rewarding as possible. Here are a few things to consider when making your purchase to avoid the pitfalls of shopping online.
View Pictures Carefully – Furniture Online
Sometimes it’s hard to tell exactly what color an item is online. Everyone’s monitor shows colors differently, so take that into consideration when buying furniture. Are the colors of the fabric truly that color? When spending a large amount of money, it’s imperative that you know that before you make a purchase. Some vendors may have fabric swatches that you can request and view before making a purchase. It is important to be sure about your purchase as many vendors charge a restocking fee and shipping if you want to return an item that you are not satisfied with.
Construction of Your New Furniture – Furniture Online
You’ll want to be sure to know what materials are used to build the furniture. Some furniture is made from synthetic materials, while other furniture is made from wood, metal or other material. It doesn’t necessarily matter what your furniture is made of as long as you know that it is of good quality. If you need something that will become a family heirloom, it’s helpful to check out online forums to see if anyone else knows about the manufacturer of the furniture you are buying.
Additional Options – Furniture Online
Online retailers cannot always put every option that is available for furniture on their websites. Some furniture comes in many different styles, shapes and sizes. You may have a plethora of options available to you, but not see them online. Be sure to ask if the furniture that you are buying comes in any other variations. Many times you can choose the leather, fabric and even a different style for each piece.
Be Aware of Shipping Times – Furniture Online
When you buy furniture online, you need to find out exactly when it will ship, especially if you are pressed for time. Some items can be express shipped if needed. Other items may be coming from China and will not arrive for 2-3 months. Find out ahead of time in order to avoid frustration. Many online retailers can contact their vendor before you purchase an item to be sure that it is in stock. Some may even have the furniture in stock at their warehouse. If it says 2-3 weeks for delivery and you absolutely must have it in that time frame, a quick call or email to verify this will alleviate a lot of headaches in the long run.
Paying Extra for Delivery – Furniture Online
How much will it cost to have your new furniture delivered? Most companies have to ship furniture via freight. This means a tractor trailer must deliver your furniture. Will you have to pay extra for the truck driver to unload your furniture? Most freight companies charge extra for the driver to handle the freight. When the trucking company calls to make arrangements for delivery, you will want to be sure and ask them about additional fees associated with unloading your furniture.
Furniture Care – Furniture Online
Make sure that you find out the best way to care for your new furniture. Leather will need to be treated differently than fabric. Some furniture may require that you wax, reseal or do some other maintenance to it to keep it looking great for years to come.
Enjoying Your New Furniture – Furniture Online
Once you have picked out your new furniture, purchased it and had it delivered, then you can enjoy it. There’s no better way to enjoy your new furniture than with your friends and family. By doing some homework and asking questions before you make your purchase, you can be assured that you will not have any unwanted surprises when it arrives.
Furniture Online
Reference : Furniture Online
7 Best Ways to Get Home Improvement Loan Requirement For Home
Home Improvement projects are widely popular credited to the growth of TV series and designer shows. While smaller projects top the list of frequency, such as painting and decorating, all Home Improvement projects can add up quickly. The savvy shopper will not only shop around for the best deal on fabric, but on Home Improvement loans as well. There are many reasons why people go for Home Improvement loans, and just as many ways in which to do so. Common borrowing purposes can basically be divided into two categories. The first would cover things such as buying clothes and other purchases on credit cards, using store credit, and taking advantage of buy now pay later or other store financing offers, or perhaps borrowing to pay for a holiday.
The many toget Home Improvement loans are as follows:
1. Personal Loans: Most home owners meet their Home Improvement loans requirement for Home Improvement through personal loans. This can save thousands in interest payments. Though mostly widely preferred, the interest rates are subject to market conditions.
2. Secured loan: Secured loan or mortgage can be taken out as secured loans against the equity in your property. This will enable you to take out a more substantial Home Improvement loans than you would get with an unsecured loan, and you can also enjoy lower monthly repayments and better interest rates.
3. Dealer financing: Whether you want to get central heating fitted or have all the doors replaced, or whether you want to redecorate throughout, have a new kitchen or bathroom, or any other type of Home Improvement, the dealer from who you buy the goods will finance you with Home Improvement loans and you repay the principle inclusive of a high rate of interest.
4. Home Improvement Mortgage Refinance: Many homeowners are refinancing to lock in attractive long term fixed interest rates, and thereby using the extra money to pay for remodeling projects. With this type of Home Improvement loan, you can schedule repayment for 20 or 30 years into the future, and the interest is tax deductible. However, one drawback is that because you’ll be repaying the money slowly the accumulated interest can be quite significant.
5. Home Equity Loans: A Home Equity Loan allows you to borrow against the value of your home and is also one of the smartest ways to finance Home Improvements. Although one major drawback is that if you default on your payment, you run the risk of losing your home, so paying these loans back in a responsible manner is an absolute must.
6. Bank Loans: Regular Consumer Bank Loans come in handy as Home Improvement loans, especially for those home owners who need to borrow relatively small amounts of money without much paperwork or delay. These loans usually need to be paid back within a few years, rather than a few decades.
7. Low interest fixed rate loans: Homeowners, including those who have little or no equity in their property, may be eligible for a low interest fixed rate Home Improvement loan to fund repairs. Which ever way you may choose to meet your Home Improvement loan it should suit you’re your budget and timeline. Look for monthly payments that you can easily manage, and an interest rate and schedule of repayment that meets both your short and long term goals.
Home Improvement Loan
Reference : Home Improvement
7 Materials For Creating The Biggest Trends in Kitchen Countertop
The kitchen countertop has to be able to take a lot of abuse including the heat of pots, cutting and knives and abrasive cleansers. The ideal countertop should be able to stand up to heat and the sharp edge of a knife.
Let us take a look at 7 of the most popular kitchen countertop materials being used today:
Granite - A natural stone, granite is a popular choice for it’s classic beauty and durability. Granite is the hardest and densest of the natural stones. It can create a kitchen countertop that is extremely scratch resistant and can keep its luster longer than most materials. granite slabs are the most expensive of all kitchen countertop surfaces, although it is still considered a very practical material in that it is virtually indestructible.
Marble – Another natural stone, marble is considered to be the height of elegance and will last longer than most kitchens. It is however, is very expensive and requires some care: acidic foods such as orange juice will etch the finished surface of a marble kitchen countertop.
Slate – Because of it richness and beauty slate is usually used in interior applications such as kitchen countertop, bathroom sinks or fireplace surrounds. It can be used in either modern or traditional kitchens as well as in combination with marble. Slate is durable, strong, and can withstand hard use. It is less expensive than marble
Concrete – This is one of the biggest trends in kitchen countertop today. It is a good look for clean, industrial and contemporary kitchen designs. Available in pre formed sections or poured and formed on-site. Concrete is a good material for unusually shaped counters. Concrete kitchen countertop sare expensive, require a sealant and must be treated with care. The countertop can crack if the concrete should contract. Concrete can be stained any color. The most popular color is a natural gray tone. The top layer can be finished as desired.
Corian – A solid surface material that first became popular in the 1990’s It is highly recommended by kitchen countertop experts. It is a totally manmade product and is not porous. As a solid surface it can easily be repaired if scratched or burned.
Stainless Steel – Advantages include very hygienic, easy to clean, has ability to stand up to exteme wear and heat. Stainless steel can provide a great look for an ultra modern kitchen. Some disadvantages with stainless is that it can be noisy and that scratches can develop.
Tile – Tile surfaces can be tough, hard-wearing, takes hot pans, heat and stain resistant as well as beautiful. There are many types of tiles including ceramic, porcelain, quarry, glass, natural stone and mosiac. Available in many colors, sizes and textures. It has good design flexibility. Tile can often be used for trim or backsplashes. The downside of tile is that the grouts can be easily stained. Also the tiles can become chipped or cracked.
Trends in Kitchen Countertop
Reference : Kitchen Countertop
7 Fast And Easy Summer Decorating Ideas
Summer decorating should add freshness to your home, not bog you down with more projects during an already busy season. Here are 11 of The Budget Decorator’s top easy, fast and cheap summer decorating ideas.
1. If you want to add color to a room fast, paint is a great option. To save time and money however, try just painting the focal wall in a room. In most average rooms, you can paint just one wall in less than an hour!
2. Instead of sewing up new pillow covers and tablecloths, try using no sew techniques instead. Pillows can be wrapped in a piece of unfinished fabric on the diagonal like a present, and wrapped with decorative ribbon to secure it. Use duct tape to put a temporary hem in flat sheets or older tablecloths to make them fit your end tables and breakfast nooks. Once you have those tables covered, use cardboard boxes pushed under the tables to hide the kids toys and books and flip flops, but keep them handy. The floor length tablecloths will hide the storage area.
3. Take a box around the room and pick up all your knick knacks and collectibles. Now replace just three of your favorite items or collections. You will appreciate the less cluttered look, and the decrease in dusting chores as well!
4. If you love fresh flowers in your home, but hate the time and expense of changing the arrangements, find a sunny spot in your yard and toss out some sunflower seeds! Many varieties leave no pollen on your tables, are foolproof to grow, make your yard look great, and can last up to 10 days in a vase…all for the cost of a packet of seed!
5. Take down your layered window treatments and pick up your area rugs for a cool, clean look for summer. Be sure to leave mini blinds or sheers on your windows for privacy and light control.
6. Clean the glass in all areas for your home! The shiny surfaces in your home reflect light and sparkle, both contribute to a fresh summer look. Don’t forget your tv screens, kitchen appliances, and even picture frame glass. Try this one technique, and see if your rooms don’t look brighter and cheerier, for no more cost that an little effort a few pennies of glass cleaner or vinegar!
7. Finally, mix up your décor a bit for a fresh take on the rooms you’ve spent so much time in these winter months! Move around some furniture, borrow and lend pieces from other rooms. Use clear strings of holiday light over the top of cabinets for sparkle. Bring out your good china and hang it on the wall as art. Put your toaster or bread machine under the cabinets for a cleaner look. Feel free to take down some wall art and store it for next fall. Paint your aging dining set a bright white.
Whatever you do to bring the summer season into your homes, make sure that you pick a couple of ideas from this list, and give them a try. They are fast, easy and cheap, what could you lose?
Summer Decorating Ideas
Summer Decorating
Reference : Summer Decorating
The Easiest 10 Ways to Jazz Up Your Outdoor Living Space
10 Ways to Jazz Up Your Outdoor Living Space
1. The easiest way to jazz up your outdoor deck or Outdoor Living Space patio is by using splashes of color. Sometimes it only means investing in a few accent pieces that make a bold statement and your Outdoor Living Space perks right up. You don’t always have to buy new – with a little elbow grease and some creativity you can make second hand items look brand new. Here are some ideas to help get you started.
2. Before you begin, clear everything off of your deck or patio and give it a good pressure wash. If it needs staining, all the new furniture in the world won’t help – bite the bullet and give it a new coat of stain or paint. This is actually a great place to get started with colorful accents. Try painting your fence posts a bright, coordinating color such as teal. Or paint a pattern or border around the edge of your deck.
3. Decks are for socializing, so show that you are ready for company. The addition of metal furniture is inexpensive and comes in lots of great colors. Place a colorful bar cart in the corner and load it up with bright acrylic glassware.
4. Give your old wicker furniture a facelift by painting it in bright sunny colors, or if you’re feeling adventuress, use a stencil and add flowers or other patterns. Just use acrylic paint, but seal it with varnish to protect your paint job.
5. Get a hold of a galvanized bucket or oblong container, paint it bright blue or orange and add a vine pattern on the outside. Voila, now you have a fancy ice-bucket for all your coolers. Remember, unless you’re using a food-safe paint, the surface should not come in direct contact with food.
6. Use themes such as the seashore, by incorporating fishies, sea shells and beach balls in your accents or stencils. A citrus theme works well by using pale greens, oranges and yellow as colors for chairs or bistro tables. Try painting a slatted table top with two or three different corresponding shades.
7. Who says garden sheds have to be brown and boring. Add colorful window boxes, gingerbread trim and some wild stripes on the walls.
8. Funky lighting goes a long way to perking up a patio area. Colorful lanterns or strings of lights can be hung from overhanging trees or beams providing a fun, economical source of lighting.
9. What to do with the white vinyl furniture that’s still in great shape, but you hate to get rid of? Not to worry. With paint specially formulated for vinyl furniture, and some new cushions, you can make your old chairs look brand new.
10. Use color wisely by tying everything together with your accessories. Take four chairs each painted in a different primary color and add a cushion in a common color such as red or green, and place them around a neutral table top.
Outdoor Living Space
modern and perfect outdoor living space
Reference : Outdoor Living Space
Posted in Home Improvement | 
Curb Appeal, Decks, Outdoor Living Space, Outdoors, Staining | 
Leave a comment10 Things You Must Know About Home Renovations When Building or Renovating
There are many sad cases of home renovations not going as planned – often going way over budget or schedule, or unforseen complications popping up unexpectedly and ruining even up to years of work.
Most of these situations would never have gone so awry with some careful planning and early decision making sooner in the renovation process. Below are a few issues that it is vital to think about before you begin your home renovations.
10 Things to Think About BEFORE Beginning Work - Home Renovations
- Prepare a budget
- Be aware of council regulations
- Find a tradesperson
- Know your start and completion dates
- Selecting Products
- Prepare plans
- Purchasing products
- What should I purchase myself?
- What services are available to my property?
- What sort of hot water unit do I need?
Prepare a budget - Home Renovations
Before you start shopping for your new bathroom or kitchen you must know your spending limits. Whether you are getting a loan or paying cash, you need to work out how much your project is going to cost. Some businesses also offer finance solutions for approved customers.
Be aware of council regulations - Home Renovations
Find out all the information you can before you arrange tradesperson. If your home is heritage listed you will need to meet strict council regulations. Many renovations must be approved by the council before work can commence. Contact your local council for more details.
Finding a tradesperson - Home Renovations
Speak with family and friends who have done renovations or built a home. It is important to find a tradesperson that you can communicate with. Make sure you understand everything they are telling you. Book a tradesperson well ahead of time, as they can be booked for months in advance. Ensure that your tradesperson is licensed. Your product warranties are only valid if installed by a licensed tradesperson. In Australia, Trades@call provide professional, reliable tradespeople for most jobs, and all workmanship is guaranteed.
Know your start and completion dates - Home Renovations
Communicate with your tradesperson and come to an agreement of realistic start and completion dates for your project. If you have a specific date that the job must be finished by, for example you have relatives coming to stay, let your tradesperson know. Keep in mind that unexpected problems can hold up your project, no matter how well you have planned it.
Selecting Products - Home Renovations
It may take a few shopping trips for you to decide on the products that give you the look you desire and are also practical for your needs. Browse through a print or online catalogue. Once you have decided on a style (modern, heritage or easy living) this will narrow down your product choices. Be aware of any size restrictions of the room. Print out or write down product specifications and measure up your bathroom. You may use the online bathroom planner at the Bourne Bathroom and Kitchen Centre website to layout the products you have chosen.
Talk to your tradesperson about your choices. If the tradesperson tells you that a product you have chosen is unsuitable, find out why. It may just be that extra work is required that they don’t want to do. Remember, it is your home and you need to be satisfied once the job is complete.
Prepare plans - Home Renovations
It is important that you draw up plans of your bathroom or kitchen. Discuss the plans with your tradesperson. Let him know what sort of products you would like, so he will know what work needs to be done. For example if you have chosen an inwall cistern, the tradesperson will need to know so he can set up the plumbing correctly before the tiling is done. It is best to have specifications of all of the products you have chosen so the tradesperson knows exactly what work is required.
Purchasing products - Home Renovations
When selecting products, find out how long it will take for delivery. Some goods such as tapware and toilets will be in stock, while others such as spas and vanity units are custom made and can take up to 1 month to order in. Often these custom made products are non-refundable so confirm your product choices with your tradesperson before ordering. Find out from your tradesperson which products they will required first. Generally, the first products needed are the shower base, bath or spa and mixers if they are being installed on the wall.
As an owner builder, what should I purchase myself? - Home Renovations
If you are owner building, make sure you purchase all of the main products for your bathroom, kitchen and laundry. This will ensure that you make all of the decisions and achieve the result you want. There will be things you will not think about when placing an order, such as different handle types on a vanity unit, the pump position of your spa, that you will need to decide on. It is important to make these decisions yourself as they will affect the overall result of your project. Smaller fittings for plumbing can be purchased by your tradesperson.
What services are available to my property? - Home Renovations
It is important to know whether you need gas or electric appliances (hot water unit, cooking appliances). If you live further out from the city, you may need LPG appliances. If you currently have electric appliances and you want to change to gas, speak with your tradesperson to determine if this is going to be cost effective and worthwhile in the long run. If you are building a new home, decide on the appliances you want before building begins, as the plumbing will need to be roughed in based on your product selection.
What sort of Hot Water Unit do I need? - Home Renovations
There is a wide range of hot water units available and it can be quite daunting to try and choose one. If you are replacing an existing unit your choices can be limited, so speak with your tradesperson. The instantaneous hot water units are popular at the moment, but they use a larger gas line than the standard storage units. This can mean major plumbing changes which can be quite costly, though in the long run the instantaneous systems are cost efficient. See the Bourne Hot Water Selection Guide for more detail.
Many of these points seem somewhat obvious, but the problem arises when you start taking things for granted. When you don’t make sure that all your bases are covered, you may find that you have invested a lot of time, effort and money in a home renovations that you may end up unhappy with.
Home Renovations
Kitchen Renovation and Home Renovations