The Upside to Upgrading When it comes to Bahtubs

Bathtub refinishing can be such a long, drawn out process. While refinishing is a perfectly acceptable way of upgrading your bathroom, it is important to realize you are simply masking the problems that plagued your old bathtub. The upside to upgrading bathtubs is that when you refinish, by the time all is said and done, you could have more than likely purchased a new tub. When upgrading your tub, you know what they say “go big or go home.”

The perfect tub for the upgrade is the whirlpool tub. These tubs were once only for the rich and famous, but as technology progresses, so does making things more affordable for the average person. Whirlpool jetted tubs are affordable for pretty much anyone these days, especially if found online at a discounted rate. Also, when replacing instead of refinishing, it gives you a chance to fix or replace any old pipes that may have been causing you problems. The cheapest way to fix your problem is by buying a new liner or mold for your tub. This is also the worst thing you could possibly do. This is like putting a Band-Aid over a wound that needs stitches.

Bathtubs have been pushed aside by today’s modern shower. People these days just want the quick fix to everything. Bathtub refinishing is just that, a quick fix, and as you know quick fixes never last forever. The tub is something that is used for ultimate disengagement from modern society’s hustle and bustle lifestyle. The whirlpool tub is an impeccable way to achieve this disengagement and place of zen. It is good for relaxing, and has therapeutic benefits with its jets helping to ease your body and relax your joints. Having your very own whirlpool bathtub is like having you own Jacuzzi in your bathroom. The other upside to these tubs is the fact that they are big enough for more than one person to fit in, allowing you to share special intimate moments with your significant other.

Once you decided to refinish or not to refinish, you must then decide on a tub that best suits your needs and your home’s needs. It does not have to be a whirlpool tub, because there are plenty of other bathtubs to choose from. Just remember bathtub refinishing can be a lengthy process, and you must weigh the pros and cons before making your decision to either refinish or buy new tub.

By Jane Worthington

Have You Checked Out These Bathtub Options

If you are building a new home, or even if you are remodeling a home, one of the most important rooms in the house is going to be your bathroom. You want a bathroom that is tastefully decorated and comfortable, and most of all, you want to make sure that you pick out a great bathroom tub so you can enjoy those special moments of relaxation when you have the opportunity to take them. For many people, a difficult day can be cleansed away by a hot bath, which allows for time to relax and to let the stress of the day be washed away. There are many different bathtubs that are available to choose from, but you want to make sure that you pick the bathtub that is best suited for you.

Corner Bathroom Bathtub

One type of tub that you may want to consider when choosing from the myriad of bathtubs available is a corner bathroom tub. If you want to save room for storage shelves or perhaps even a shower stall, a corner tub can be a great choice. This type of tub looks great in a modern bathroom since the shape is quite a bit different from traditional tubs, and it is also quite a bit wider, which can add more space for your relaxation, or even make it a great place for two to enjoy a great bubble bath together.

Round Tub

If you are looking for an impressive bathtub that will astound all that see it and will look contemporary and chic, then a round tub is a great choice. Of course you will probably need to have quite a bit of space in your bathroom, since this tub takes up a good bit of space, but the look and the design is well worth the extra space needed. Round bathtubs come in various sizes, and you may even be able to get one that is built for two that will provide extra space for optimum soaking.

Whirlpool Tubs

If you want to add that extra dimension to your evening soak, you may want to consider the whirlpool bathtubs that can make your bath such a delightful experience. These types of tubs are designed with a whirlpool system that will keep the water moving and provide a massaging effect while you are in the water. They also come in a variety of different shapes and styles, so you can have a whirlpool tub while still going along with the décor of your bathroom.

No matter what style of bathtub you decide to choose for your bathroom, one important thing to remember is you are probably going to be the one cleaning it, so make sure that it is a tub that is relatively easy to clean. Purchase a tub that is made out of a material that will not easily scratch or stain. If you find a tub that looks great, feels great, and is easy to clean, then you will be able to enjoy many relaxing evenings in your tub enjoying your choice.

By Christopher W Smith

Whirlpool Your Cares Away in a Whirlpool Tub

Your experience in a whirlpool tub can be anything from a relaxing soak to an invigorating experience. Whirlpools are one of the most versatile additions to the bathroom. Tubs can be customized with many different options and come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Why own a whirlpool bath?

Having your own whirlpool will help you bring the relaxation and comforts of a spa right into the privacy of your home. Whirlpools are the perfect escape for anyone in need of a little rest and relaxation. The jets of the tub allow an invigorating massage while your muscles calm in the warm water.

Unlike air baths, whirlpool tubs are much more pressurized and the jets release a combination of both air and water that is a little more intense. This aspect can be really terrific for muscle aches and to relieve tension.

Some of the health benefits of owning a whirlpool tub:

Spending some time in the tub can help to give you energy. Scheduling in some time to relax and clear the mind has been known to keep people energized and alert. Having some time each day to relieve stress can also help you think clearly and ward off colds and infection. Tubs can also help improve your circulation.

Although spending time in a whirlpool bath can provide many health benefits, overusing can have a reverse effect. Make sure that if you are a regular bather you stay hydrated and limit the time spent in the tub.

Purchasing a whirlpool bath can be a terrific addition to any bathroom. Bringing spa relaxation into your home for day-to-day use can benefit the health or your mind and body. Providing stress relief and soothing aching muscles, the whirlpool tub is great for any of your needs.

By Jane Anderson

What are the Benefits of a Shower Enclosure

Bathing in many ways is a reflection of the lifestyle of the individual; the selection of a shower enclosure is thus very paramount in the process of bringing out the intricate personality values of the individual. The enduring beauty of the enclosure is the key to most of the well furnished building around. Shower enclosures have an advantage in the sense that it can be created by the usage of the simplest materials around.

These materials can be easily found and at a very low cost. There are materials like glass that are economically friendly without forgetting the question of hygiene. The beauty of glass is that they create a bath that is not only elegant but at the same time it is easy to maintain. It can be easily washed at the same time maintain its aesthetic and durability features. In addition it can withstand very high temperatures.

It is very important to get more information about the location of the showers so as to have a suitable enclosure to use because they come in different sizes and shapes. Enclosures do not only bring the beauty and comfort in the bathroom but at the same time it prevents the sprinkled water from falling on the floor and ruining the texture of the floor. This is among the main aim of the enclosures and it is very vital to have the necessary materials and tools to avoid the inconvenience of water leakages. Every luxurious bathroom starts with the enclosures one uses.

By Jitesh Arora

Why Choose a Quadrant Shower Enclosure for my Bathroom?

Quadrant Shower Enclosures are one of the most popular shower enclosure on the market. There are a number of reasons why people choose to install a quadrant shower, and one of the most popular is to save space in the bathroom. Quadrant enclosures are cleverly designed to utilise minimum bathroom space and provide maximum showering area. These units come in a range of sizes, commonly including 800mm, 900mm and 1000mm (with various configurations).

Another reason for their popularity is the enclosure’s curvaceous, minimalistic design.  Quadrant shower enclosures are a modern, striking addition to the bathroom. Aluminium shower door frames are widely available in white, silver and chrome, and seamlessly complement most bathroom colour schemes. The glass doors also have different options: there’s clear glass, patterned or frosted, depending on your design or requirements.

Three major suppliers of shower enclosures in the UK are Manhattan Showers, April Shower Doors and The London Water Closet Company (LWCC). These distributors’ products can be found in many UK bathroom stores or in bathroom shops online.

Popular Shower Enclosures

The “Uno” by Manhattan is a single door enclosure, measuring 800×800mm or 900×900mm, and requires its own bespoke tray. The Uno Quadrant Shower has a right or left hand option which can be tailored to the configuration of the bathroom. The Uno comes with a “click ‘n’ clean” system, which consists of front-operated bottom guides, making the shower door easier to fit, clean and maintain. Another benefit of the Uno Quadrant Shower Enclosure is its smooth running sliding door, as opposed to pull-out door type, which saves the hassle of annoying water drips when entering and exiting the shower.

Uno’s sister product is the Manhattan “Duo” enclosure, available in various sizes but most popular being 1200×900mm. As its name suggests, the Duo has two smooth-running sliding doors which meet in the middle and a choice of left or right hand side configuration. Similar to the Uno, this product also has the “click ‘n’ clean” system. All Manhattan’s products have a lifetime combination guarantee, offering a greater peace of mind. Manhattan Shower Enclosures include a combination lifetime guarantee when purchased with a Manhattan Duralite® shower tray.

The April Shower Door collection also has a range of products, including Identiti (standard/mid range) and Prestige (premium range). A popular April Shower Enclosure is the Identiti² Bow Fronted Quadrant Shower 900×900mm, which has concealed fixings and quick-release doors for safety. The Bow Front Quadrant Shower is also wet room compatible. Also in the Identiti range is a free-standing Identiti² U-Shaped Quadrant Shower Enclosure (also known as D-Shaped or U-Shaped Quadrant Shower Enclosure). This unit requires a small amount of wall space and a dedicated shower tray.

LWCC offers its best-selling budget Quad Shower, available in a chrome finish. The LWCC Quadrant Shower Enclosure has a sleek simple design with smooth running doors which slide either way. It has clear glass and fits elegantly into almost any bathroom style. The quality and price make this one of the most competitive Quadrant Shower buys on the market.

Shower Trays

There are two main types of trays to suit the Quadrant Enclosure: Slimline and Standard. The minimalist slimline is generally between 40-45mm high and the standard tray is around 100-110mm in height and made of a stone resin mix.

The Manhattan Quad Shower Doors can be installed with a Duralite® tray, which has superior durability and fast draining abilities. The tray has a patented concealed waste, draining water at a speed of 24 litres per minute. The trays have a smooth tread, are easy to clean (with a handy removable hair trap) and all trays come with a 25-year guarantee.

By Lindy Holman

Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Bathtubs

There was a time when a bathtub in a home was considered item of luxury and was seen only in hotels and homes of rich people. But today, a bath tub is an integral part of most homes, so much so that many homes have more than just one.
 
In addition to being highly functional and allowing you to be clean, it also makes for a wonderful place to relax. By soaking in a tub with hot water, you can literally soak your worries away, not to mention the various aches and pains in your body. They come in a variety of types so as to find a place in every home.

Bathtub Types

Soaking bathtubs: As the name suggests, these are meant for soaking. They are usually deeper than standard bath tubs so as to allow a person to soak up to their chin. They generally do not have any shower attachments or jet combinations as they are expressly for soaking. The different kinds of soaking tubs are:

Roman tubs: These get their name from the original baths made by the Romans over their springs. A Roman bath is mounted on the floor and is sunken.

Greek tubs: These are typically shorter in length than regular soaking tubs and are great for bathrooms with a space constraint. A person can actually be up to his neck in water when sitting in one, that too in the sitting position.
 
Built-In bathtubs: These are very popular in most homes. They are built into your bathroom and are not free standing. The various types include:

Alcove tubs: These are enclosed on three sides and open only on the front side. These are perhaps the most popular type be used in American homes.

Drop-In bathtubs: This is one where you have to go down into and not one where you need to climb up into the tub. They are mounted on a deck with the faucets mounted on the deck too. A drop-in which is deck mounted in a corner is known as a corner tub. Drop in tubs usually do not have any shower combinations as they are not enclosed.
 
Freestanding bath tubs: These are not built into the floor or enclosed on three sides but are free standing, as the name suggests. The faucets are usually mounted on the side of the bathtub itself but can also be floor or wall mounted. The two popular types of freestanding baths are:

Clawfoot bathtubs

Pedestal bathtubs

Special bathtubs: In addition to the above types of tubs, there are other types which have special features and thus fall into the category of specialty tubs. These are:

Whirlpool tubs: These have jets for added pleasure and comfort.

ADA tubs and walk in bathtubs: Specially designed for the elderly and those with a handicap.
 
Aqua massage tubs: Have holes in the bottom (and sometimes the sides too) from where air bubbles are constantly released into the hot water in the tub. They also known as hot air tubs.

Thus, per your individual needs and requirements, you can choose a bathtub from the many types listed here.

By Rob Barnes

Six Easy Steps To Choosing The Right Bathtub

There are hundreds of different kinds of  bathtubs available in the markets today, all of varying styles, which is why selecting the right one for your home is not a very simple task. Not only do you have to pick the right color to match your bathroom and ensure that the design is right, but many more decisions have to be taken. Thus, this article lists all the factors that need to be considered when choosing a bathtub so that you end up buying the ideal one.

1) Functionality: A  bathtubs is essentially used for bathing, so what functionality are we talking about? Well, although bathtubs are used only for bathing, there are many features that add to the functionality of one. For instance, a whirlpool tub also provides a soothing and relaxing jet massage option in addition to regular bathing. Thus, you need to make sure that you will actually use the jets often and are not simply buying the tub because it has the added features. So, be clear on what your needs are and then pick a bath tub that fulfills them.

2) Tub size: The size of the bathtubs is a major purchase criterion. People often assume that if the tub is big enough to fit them comfortably then it is the right size. However, there is such a thing as a too big bathtub. While the tub should definitely not be small for you, there shouldn’t be too much extra space either, which results in water wastage. Another thing to consider is whether you want a one person or two person tub. If you are likely to want to share your bathtub with your partner, go in for the 2 person one. However, if bath time is when you want to be with your thoughts, then choose the regular sized single person bathtubs.

3) Design, shape, and color: The color of a bathtubs may not increase its functionality, but is an important consideration as the tub has to match the rest of your bathroom fixtures and accessories. Same goes for the design and style of the bathtub. A bathtub that is of a different style than your sink or toilet may look very out of place. As far as colors go cream and white are the regular options, but different hues of blue, pink, brown, green, and maroon are also available to match your décor. Rectangle, corner tubs, heart shaped, and oval are your choices as far as bathtub shape goes.

4) Material of the bathtubs: It is important to look at the construction materials of bathtubs, as their strength, durability, and ease of maintenance depends on that. Different materials used to make bathtubs are - Acrylic, Marble, Porcelain tubs, Wood, Cast iron tubs, and Fiberglass. A fiberglass bath tub is quite an inexpensive buy but is less durable than cast iron or porcelain bath tubs. Cast iron tubs will practically last you for generations but can be very pricey also. As far as looks go, nothing can beat wood and marble bathtubs, but these are extremely difficult to maintain and keep clean. Thus, depending on what your topmost priorities are (durability, strength, looks, cost etc), you should choose a construction material accordingly.

5) Type of bath tubs: Bathtubs are mainly of two types - soaking or standard. A standard bathtub is good for regular bathing, but if you want a bathtub for therapeutic purposes as well, you should buy a soaking tub. A soaking tub allows your whole body to be immersed into the hot water filled tub, thereby providing much needed relief to tired and achy muscles. Even high blood pressure and stress can be reduced with a thorough soak. Thus, if you wish to benefit from the therapeutic value of a bathtub, do go in for a soaking tub instead of a standard one.

6) Special Needs: Contrary to what most people believe, even aged people and handicapped persons can enjoy a bathtub. Yes, a regular bathtub may be too dangerous for them, but ADA compliant bathtubs can certainly be used by people with special needs. ADA bathtubs are made in a manner that old and handicapped people can easily enter and exit the tub. Increased protection is provided by grab bars and grab rails so that there is little danger of slipping and falling. Even people who are on wheelchairs can use specially designed ADA tubs.

Thus, you should choose a bathtub only after taking all the above factors into consideration. Your budget will also determine your choice of tub, but there are bathtubs available in all different price ranges so finding one within your budget should not be a problem.

This guide on choosing a bathtub should hopefully make the difference between picking the right one and the wrong one.

By Rob Barnes

Is the Water in Your Shower Good For You?

Many homes today are installing under sink water filters to provide the best water for drinking and cooking. Even the best drinking water filters cannot protect a person from the toxins and chemicals that are in the water when taking a shower room, washing your clothing or washing the dishes.
Studies show that our exposure in the shower presents us with as much risk or more to the chemicals and toxins that are in water. Our skin naturally absorbs everything that it is exposed to; therefore the water in our shower and the water our children bathe in put us at risk. Pharmaceuticals, chemicals, carcinogens, arsenic, lead and other heavy metals; these are just some of the 80,000 plus contaminates in our water system today. We take in these chemicals through our skin in the shower and we take them in as we inhale the steam room from our showers. Even with a filter on the shower head we are not fully protected with a broad spectrum filtration system and the water we are exposed to outside of the shower and drinking water continues to put us at risk.
The most simple and effective solution to the water dilemma is with a whole house filtration system. A system such as this offers clean and filtered water wherever you use it in the home because it is installed where your water first comes in. One stop whole house water filtration offers the broad spectrum water filters to remove chloramines, remove arsenic from water as well as the many other toxins, sediments and chemicals including pharmaceuticals. A water filter to remove lead can be added to the home water filter for the homes that have lead soldering.

Additionally, the whole house water filtration system can help keep the air in your house cleaner to reduce allergies and asthma. When we run water for showers, dishes, and laundry, chemicals are released into the air and can greatly aggravate those who suffer from respiratory ailments, allergies and asthma.
Many people suffer from dry itchy skin and rashes and blame the detergents they use for washing clothes. It may not be the detergent but the water that is used to clean the clothes. The water that flows through the clothing releases the chemicals that are in it and these often remain in the clothing to be absorbed into our skin when we wear the clothes. We invest in the best detergents, particularly for our children when the harshest chemicals are in the water they are washed in. A house water filter can solve this situation and give you the confidence that the water you wash your clothes with is safe.
You no longer need a myriad of filters and devices in your home; water filter for drinking and one for showers. With a whole house filtration system your entire home is protected and you can save money. In most quality whole house filtration systems, the first filter will need replaced about every six months while the next levels of filtration can last three to five years.

A Shower Panel worth your Lifestyle

A state of the art shower room panel not only increases the grand décor of your bathroom but also helps in instilling a feeling of ecstasy when you take a bath under your most delighted possession. With the fast advancement of technology, stereotyped shower panels have been overthrown by those which have much more functions installed. These facilities include, anti water clogging system, high pressure plumbing and massage panel with thermostatic environment.
The advent of showers in a bathroom can be dated back to 300 B.C. when the Greeks used them in extant vases and murals. Now the primary aim of using the shower was, and still continues to be, hygiene and cleanliness in the bathroom. The shower panel is nothing but a modern vanity for your bathroom which helps in achieving this target even better. We can find many variants of these panels in the internet where they provide fiber glass as well as stainless steel shower panels. When searching for this device, keep in mind your requirements. These variants include lightweight and corrosion resistant panels with adjustable body spray massage jets and overhead shower. They also include an external mobile shower extending 60 inches or more, which you can use anywhere inside the bathroom.

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In essence, these massage spray panels help rejuvenate yourself after a tiring day of work or a long sleep. Now, a traditional shower panel used to clog itself up with magnesium and calcium deposits from hard water; but this problem too has been solved with the help of latest anti-clogging systems in contemporary shower panels. Moreover installation has been made so easy that you don’t nee to lose sleep for that.
Now, a shower panel without a shower enclosure is just like a shoe without laces. Gone are the days when a shower enclosure just meant to be a place for having a bath. A stylish and elegant shower enclosure has now moved from the luxury strata to the necessity level as it is now a place to relax and enjoy your bath after the day’s strenuous schedule. Light and airy shower enclosures are now in vogue with sliding glass or fiber doors. You can now look for a shower enclosure in the internet where you can shop these for much lower prices and you can surely find better varieties. They come in complete glass packages which are fully airtight to prevent the leak of water. They are also now customized to extend their functionalities from just an enclosure to a steam room. The complete hardware is normally well-finished and made out of tempered glass that’s best suited for these purposes.Shower enclosures are generally rust-free and easy to install; furthermore they come with a limited lifetime warranty. They also come in crack-proof variants which are made in such a way that they don’t develop any cracks even if handled roughly. The shower enclosure has thus now been framed as a useful modern vanity for your bathroom along with the world-class shower panels installed in it

Your Idea on Bathtubs and Tub Designs

If you’re replacing a bathtub because you want a larger model or want to replace your current one with a deep soaking tub or whirlpool, keep several points in mind. Is the new model large enough for you to sit in comfortably? Will it fit the space available in your bathroom? Will it fit through your existing doorways? Bear in mind that most bathroom floors can handle 40 pounds of weight per square foot. A large-capacity tub may require extra bracing so that the floor can support it once it is filled with water.

If you’re installing a whirlpool, you’ll also need access to the pump (typically installed near one end of the tub) in case repairs are necessary. For the best whirlpool bath experience, choose a pump that is quiet and offers a wide range of massage options.

Whirlpool and standard bathtubs come in four basic designs:

Recessed tubs: With one finished side, called an apron, a recessed tub fits between two end walls and against a back wall. A drain at either end fits your plumbing needs. People with limited mobility may find it difficult to get in and out of these tubs.

Corner Tub: Space saving corner tubs fit diagonally between two corners and, like standard apron tubs, have only one finished side. Other corner options have a finished side and one round, finished end.

Freestanding tubs: These tubs are finished on all four sides and can be placed almost anywhere in the room. Clawfoot varieties look appropriate in traditional and vintage baths. You can also find newer styles — such as pedestal designs — that cater to contemporary design.

Platform tubs: These unfinished tubs drop into a platform. The platform’s design determines whether the tub belongs in a corner, against a long wall, or in the center of the room.

By Ky Cheah

         Corner tub                        Freestanding tub                   Platform tub