Whether you are planning for a new construction or renovating your old bathroom, take your time to study what bathroom products are available on the market these days. List features that appeal to you, then go to your local home supplier stores and ask the salesperson to show you which products including the features you want. You can hire a bathroom designer to help make your bath product selection and bathroom design simpler and to reduce a chance of costly mistakes. Be sure to plan ahead for the unexpected; imagine yourself using the bathroom with a broken leg or arm. Here are handy tips to help you make decision on your new bath products.
- Sinks: Make your sink a focal point in your bathroom and select other bath products to match or complement it. Types of sinks available are either placed atop of cabinet or a pedestal sink supported by a narrow base. A wide variety of colors, sizes, styles, and materials are available, even hand-painted or custom-made basins made by glass or ceramic artists. Consider its function, storage capacity, and the ease and effort to keep it cleaned. The comfortable elbow room for counter length is about 4 feet wide and the standard height is 29-30 inches without countertops. Many people like a 36-inch high surface (including countertop) which reduce bending.
- Faucets: Make sure the faucets (handle and spout) styles and materials complement your sink. The faucets ‘qualities and prices are determined primarily by the products inner workings. Most faucets fall into one of the three types:
1. Two-handle center-set. This model gives a traditional look and the most control over the water temperature.
2. Single-handle control. These faucets provide a more streamlined look and easy to operate. Good choice for someone with limited dexterity.
3. High-style spouts. These types can incorporate either faucet designed, but they add stronger fashion statement to faucet functionality. Newer faucets offer washer-less construction which eliminates drips and leaks.
- Toilets: To ensure that your toilet offers top performance, spend a little extra time to study your preferences and a little extra money to get a good one. There are two types of toilets available:
1. One-piece low profile. These models have sculptured look. The backs are lower; shorter front to back; conserve floor space; and are easier to clean. Elongated bowls are more comfortable for the average person to use.
2. Two-piece toilets. The separate tank and bowl are bolted together. Two-piece toilets designs imply a period-look from country style, to Art Décor, to Victorian, and to traditional interiors. Seats are typically not included when you buy new toilets, so be sure the seat you buy matches the shape of the toilet bowl you need. Consider buying a higher toilet such as a 17-inch high seat (2-3 inches higher than the standard height); it is more comfortable for your knees.
- Bathtubs: Bathtub installation involves walls, floors, and plumbing lines. Study the bathtub materials and the designs available in today’s market carefully regarding the advantages and disadvantages of each; the choice of material determines the tub’s price, durability, maintenance, and your soaking enjoyment.
- Showers: Splurge on a top-of-the-line model. If you want to add luxury in the bathroom, put it in the shower. A shower is something you would use day in and day out. Get larger shower, clear glass enclosure, steam generator, handheld shower, and body sprays to help you create a home spa. Walk-in showers are easily accessible and provide additional safety feature. Keep the floor on one level and make sure it is slip resistant.
When planning for your ideal bath, aside from making it as attractive as can be, make your bathroom functional, safe, and convenient for a wide range of ages and abilities. After all, bathroom products should go with the flow of activities of daily living.
