Friday, July 13, 2012

Upgrade your bathroom with a new toilet this summer


Bad plumbing and old fixtures are not something you have to endure. With a few basic skills and tools, anyone can upgrade their bathroom with a new, more efficient toilet. 

Measure 

Before you go out and buy your toilet, make sure your new model will fit in place of the old one. Make a note of where your old toilet fits by measuring from the wall to the centre of the unit and ensure your new model is the same size or smaller. This is especially true if space is tight.

Out with the old

Be sure to turn off the water and remove any remaining water before you start. Remove the toilet in pieces to save you and your house from damage. Try not to break it because you can potentially sell or donate your older model. Also be sure to place covering down at this time to ensure you don’t get old gasket wax on the rest of the bathroom

In with the new

Make sure to follow the manufacturers’ instructions for your model. Install the new one the same way you remove the old one - in pieces.  First, install the bowl followed with the tank. When you have made sure each piece fits and you are happy with the installation, simply tighten and seal in place. Tighten bolts alternately to ensure it’s even and be sure not to over-tighten.

Finishing up

After everything is in place and the sealant has dried, turn on the water and relax. You’re all done!

For a more cost-effective toilet installation, visit Saniflo Canada at saniflo.ca

Source: http://www.lowes.com/cd_Replace+a+Toilet_123178945_

Friday, July 06, 2012

Turn your Bathroom into a Summer Getaway


With scorching hot and humid days on the rise this summer, nothing is as inviting as a cool space to relax and get away from the heat. A perfect DIY project for the summer is to update your bathroom and turn it into an at-home summer getaway

Start by replacing old tiles with summer-inspired flooring.  Mediterranean inspired blue, sandy beige and bright white tiles will refresh your bathroom feel. Use multiple sizes and different coloured tiles to create a unique mosaic tailored to your style; or try bamboo-styled flooring for a more nature-inspired look.  Make sure you lay your floor right with these tips from Bob Villa; whatever you choose, ask your supplier if the tiles or flooring are non-slip to avoid accidents.

http://www.bobvila.com/articles/282-quick-tip-laying-bathroom-tile/pages/1

Complement the tiles or flooring by updating your other fixtures and walls to match. Brighten your bath and make it look bigger (and cooler) with a fresh pop of colour. Choose a colour from your flooring to complete the look and then accent it with bold pieces in bright orange, yellow or blue.

Add some finishing touches like new cabinet handles, a rattan or bamboo bathmat or an updated bowl-style stone sink to complete your own summer getaway and enjoy!