Tureks Plumbing Services Blog: Archive for the ‘Bathroom Remodel’ Category

Affordable Kitchen Upgrade Trends | Touch Free Faucets

Tuesday, November 22nd, 2016

Touch-Free Faucets – Must-Have Kitchen Upgrade Trends

Planning a kitchen remodel? Consider adding these low cost but high impact upgrades to your shopping list: touch-free faucets.

Kitchen upgrade trends come and go. Some move into the pantheon of essentials that property owners put on top of their priority lists while others are consigned to a forgotten fate. What makes these kitchen upgrades appealing for homeowners planning to revamp their kitchens? Three key reasons: convenient food preparation, quick clean-up and sanitary reasons. These are the trends that tend to last. 

Foot activated Faucets

Many manufacturers are launching different versions of touch-free faucets which use foot control technology. Through this foot control technology, you can easily and conveniently turn the faucet on and off by tapping the activation plate with your feet. This activation plate can be installed in the toe space of a cabinet. It’s pretty convenient, but does take some getting used to. 

Because these faucets do not require the use of hands to be turned on and off, the chance of spreading bacteria like salmonella and other germs from handling food can be minimized. If not totally eliminated. This concept has been present in hospitals for decades. It is now becoming a popular trend among homeowners. The foot activation plate can be positioned anywhere along the lower portion of the kitchen cabinet. This means that persons with disabilities who use wheelchairs do not need to put themselves in an uncomfortable position just to turn the water on and off. All they have to do is to tap the activation plate.

Touch Control Faucets

A hands-free faucet was first developed in the 1950’s but was not sold to the public until the 80’s. They have since become extremely trendy.  Even being used as a selling point in real estate listings. One of our favorite touch free faucets features a sensor which controls the faucet’s output as well as the water temperature. It has five infrared sensors strategically located on the faucet. The water temperature has three settings that can be defined by the user depending on preference. In order to prevent accidental scalding, the faucet also has a maximum temperature setting. The faucet comes in brushed nickel and polished nickel, giving it a stylish and modern look. The faucet comes with a backup battery, is ADA-compliant, and is certified by WaterSense.

Whether you choose to install your own faucet or you need a plumber to do it, we hope you find this post helpful. There are dozens of brands of touch free faucets. Most reputable brands will work well and last a long time. Prices can range from just under $100 to $400 for a luxury brand. Also keep in mind you will have labor charges when hiring a licensed plumber to do the work. Should you need help and live in the Appleton or Fox Valley area, contact Turek’s Plumbing for all of your bathroom remodel needs.

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5 Bathroom Remodel Ideas That Won’t Break the Bank

Wednesday, November 16th, 2016

bathroom remodel ideas

5 Bathroom Remodel Ideas

The bathroom is no longer just a place for taking care of one’s hygiene. Over the years, it has become that one space in the house where people can have time to relax and completely rejuvenate themselves. So, if you’re one of the many people who like to do more in the bathroom, one of the great projects to undertake in the coming new year is to remodel the bathroom. This way, you’ll get more enjoyment out of the time you spend in this room.

Here are five bathroom remodel ideas that don’t cost much to carry out but will significantly change the look and even the function of the room.

Bathroom Mirrors

The first of many bathroom remodel ideas is to place more mirrors or replace the small mirror you used to have with a much bigger one. Mirrors do not only provide the benefit of letting you see yourself; they can also make a room look bigger. Also, with mirrors, you can improve the lighting in the room even if you don’t add new lighting fixtures.

Replace your Bathroom Vanity

A bathroom vanity can seem like an expensive bathroom upgrade but the truth is you can replace it for less than $1,000 in some cases. Check with your local bathroom remodel company to see if they can find something in your price range with the style you are looking for. Often times they will have wholesale catalogs with vanity’s you can’t find with the mass retailers.

Pop of Color

Create a color contrast. Incorporate accessories and bath essentials that come in really bright colors such as canary yellow, red, cobalt blue, or fuchsia. These will instantly give the bathroom a completely different appeal.

Wallpaper

As bathroom remodelers in Fox Valley we know that a new trend for bathrooms is creating some texture on the walls. This can be achieved by laying regular or paintable wallpaper. Not only does wallpaper come in a variety of really nice designs to give your bathroom a new look, but it can also conceal the imperfections (such as holes, cracks and even discoloration) present on your walls. The cost is anywhere from $10 to $30 per roll. In a bathroom you may only need a couple of rolls to get the job dome.

Decor

Add a rug and new towels or countertop accessories. Give your bathroom an even plusher appearance by choosing an interestingly shaped rug for the “dry” area of your bathroom. Bathroom accessories come in so many designs that will really give the room loads of character. They’re quite affordable, too, so purchasing new bathroom decor is truly a fantastic way to upgrade the room without spending too much money.

If you have more money to spare for the project, you can do even more to upgrade the room. But if you don’t have the financially flexibility for something bigger, these remodel ideas are perfect to try. Any questions, contact the experts in home remodel at Turek’s Plumbing!

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Converting your bathroom from tub to shower only

Thursday, November 10th, 2016

Video: Converting Your Bathroom Tub Into Shower Only – How Will It Affect Resale Value?

Are you considering converting your bathroom by getting rid of your tub and switching to a shower-only bathroom?

There are several reasons why people would want to do this. any of our clients looking to get rid of their tub are Seniors and need to be able to get in the shower without stepping over the side of the tub. It can be difficult to step over 15 inches to get in the tub for a shower especially with a hip or knee problem which is common in seniors. Other reasons for converting from tub to shower only are you simply don’t take baths. It could be that you don’t want the hassle of maintaining a bathtub or simply want more space. Trends are showing that shower-only bathrooms are more contemporary-looking so many homeowners are simply making the change for style purposes. Whatever your reasons are for converting your bathroom, you need to take into account the possible ramifications of such a move, especially on your home’s value. In the below video, Turek’s Plumbing Owner, Ed Turek talks about this very subject. 

Converting tub into shower only — how will it affect resale value?

Bathroom remodel projects can do a lot in increasing your home’s value, which usually means a good return on however much you invested. However, if you do decide to replace a bathtub with a shower, you’re changing your bathroom specs from a full bath (toilet, tub, and shower) to a three-quarter bath. This, however, doesn’t automatically mean a decrease in value.

Another factor you might want to consider is how many bathrooms there are in your home. If you’re removing the tub in the only bathroom, this might turn off many potential buyers — ones who love a good soak after a tiring week, mothers who prefer to bathe their children in the tub, etc. As long as your home maintains at least one tub, converting one bathroom to shower-only shouldn’t negatively impact its resale value.

It’s true that bathroom remodels are popular and considered a good investment. If you’re reselling in the near future, you have to appreciate that a mid-range, full bathroom remodel can return more than 50 percent of the investment. Nonetheless, if you expect to continue living in the house for some time, your convenience seriously trumps value.

You have to figure out what best serves your needs, especially where safety is a concern.

If, right now, you could use more space for storage or for your personal comfort, then you should have a bathroom that gives you that. If safety is an issue, there definitely shouldn’t be any question either. You need to do what’s best for safety. You’ll just have to take the slight decrease in value if it does result in that. If you are considering a bathroom remodel in Appleton, Oskosh or the Fox Cities area, be sure to give us a call. We will be happy to schedule an in-home evaluation and estimate. 

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Plumbing Projects to Increase Your Home’s Value

Wednesday, October 19th, 2016

Plumbing Projects

What Plumbing Projects Could Increase Your Home’s Value?

Whether or not you intend to sell your Appleton, WI home, it wouldn’t hurt to make some improvements. It’s important to note, not all home improvements have the ability to increase your homes value.

Among the home improvement efforts that can actually have a huge impact on your home’s market value are those that include plumbing, since plumbing is such an essential component in a comfortable and convenient life at home. As such, provided below are plumbing projects to increase your home’s worth:

Adding a New Bathroom

HGTV estimates an 80% to 130% return on investment from a new bathroom remodel. Why such value? People like the convenience of being able to take a bath or use the toilet whenever they need to. Bathrooms have become spaces to experience full comfort and relaxation. People have great appreciation for a well-designed bathroom that will provide them such an experience. And of course, the cost of bathroom implements is no joke. If they are high-quality provisions that offer multiple convenience features (such as “futuristic” toilets and senior-friendly hot tubs), and are combined beautifully with each other for optimum function, then the value they’ll create in the lives of people will be greater.

Kitchen Remodeling

Modern kitchens boost home values by anywhere between 5% to 10%; incorporating new gas appliances and improving plumbing to match a better floor layout can really enhance the value of the room. The kitchen remodelers that Applegate and Fox Valley residents trust advise placing the cooktop and dishwasher on the sink for a smoother flow of activities in the kitchen.

Replacing Old, Rusty Iron Pipes

Home appraisers pay great attention to plumbing when assigning value to a home. Directing money toward the replacement of old pipes on the property can boost the property’s market value. Heavy-duty plastic tubing is generally the more preferred option now. This type of tubing is much easier to maintain and homeowners won’t have to worry about rusty particles in the water.

These three plumbing projects are the most highly recommended to implement in order to boost the value of your property. These projects may seem complicated or daunting at first. But you can have the assurance that when you do decide to sell, you will get a solid return on your investment.

If you are looking for a plumber in Applegate, contact the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing today!

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Components You Need in Building a Bathroom to Grow With Your Age

Thursday, October 6th, 2016

Bathroom

Components You Need in Building a Bathroom to Grow With Your Age

Different countries have different ways of investing in the care of its elderly population. For instance, in Japan, where the majority of the population is comprised of people above 60 years of age. Structures are especially built with elderly convenience in mind. This can be observed in most public bathrooms where every single implement is measured and placed strategically so that the elderly and individuals with mobility issues won’t have a hard time using the space. Therefore, if you’re thinking of building a bathroom to grow with your age, you should definitely take a cue from Japan’s bathrooms.

You might think that Japan’s bathroom designs would be challenging to translate in Wisconsin’s environment, but that need not be the case. Trusted bathroom remodel contractors that service Fox Valley and Applegate residents keep abreast with bathroom design trends for the needs of different homeowners — senior citizens included. You can discuss your requirements and preferences, and they’ll go about finding the appropriate solutions.

So, what design components must be present in a bathroom that will age well with you? Here are six features that are highly recommended by Wisconsin bathroom remodel specialists.

Automatic Lights

Eliminating one basic task is actually a huge convenience for everybody, especially the elderly. Not needing to fumble with switches, like when you’re in a hurry to go, is something you will appreciate greatly when you’re older.

Strategically Placed Grab Bars 

These are helpful for folks with balance issues due to aches in different parts of the body, or weakness. Also, they are highly functional because they can double as robe racks or towel holders.

Walk-in Bathtub 

These are musts because as you get older, you can benefit a lot from regular hot soaks to treat your aches and pains. A walk-in tub is a whole lot safer to use as well because it already comes with a seat. Getting in and out of the tub won’t be a big challenge, particularly when your knees are already wobbly.

Handheld Showerheads

Rinsing will be so much easier with these. You can make sure that you get that blast of water where it’s needed, even if you’re seated while bathing.

High Quality Toilet at a Comfortable Height

A great toilet that has some techy features is a fantastic investment. One with heated seats, an automatic electric bidet for both soaping and rinsing. You can also get a toilet with a tank that automatically lifts for easy cleaning, and water jets for “self-cleaning” can be purchased either online or from top home improvement stores. This toilet will make bathroom routines very comfortable and easy for you when you get older.

Textured Flooring

This will easily prevent slips and other accidents.

If you are looking for a great plumbing remodel contractor in Applegate, contact the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing today!

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More Bathroom Tile Trends to Consider for Your Bathroom Remodel

Tuesday, September 20th, 2016

Bathroom Tile

More Bathroom Tile Trends to Consider

Planning on upgrading your bathroom? Maybe you have been looking at blogs and magazines for bathroom design inspiration. Or perhaps you are starting to draw up your shopping list. But before you finalize your design and shopping list, here are a few more bathroom tile trends that you may want to check out.

What’s hot now among designers and property owners? Although the new bathroom tiles that are becoming increasingly popular are diverse, one common thread you will notice is the emphasis on both shape and texture. Additionally, the availability of new technologies has made it possible for designers to explore new designs and materials.

Triangles

Triangle tiles are not exactly novel. However, this classic shape has experienced a resurgence in popularity of late due to the visual textures and lines these can instantly provide. It certainly helps that there are hundreds of colors to choose from. On top of that, the shape of the tiles lends itself to creativity and different design possibilities, ranging from more subdued ones like stripes and squares to more creative patterns like pinwheels and Chevron.

Carved tiles

Carved tiles encompass different styles and textures, from angular to soft curves. You can buy these tiles from local dealers or request manufacturers for bespoke designs for that added unique and exclusive feel. Although these tiles mimic the look and feel of concrete, the use of 3D technology allows for a high degree of customization. However, be aware that these tiles are heavy, weighing as much as two pounds apiece, and you may have to wait a month or two for bespoke orders.

Origami

Want to infuse a sense of Japanese aesthetics to your bathroom wall? Consider origami mosaic tiles for your bathroom. These tiles utilize pioneering cast glass techniques which result in delicate angles which mimic origami.

Glass mosaic

Another tile trend that is being increasingly used not only for bathrooms, but also for backsplashes and feature walls, is the use of glass mosaic tiles. Available in marble and glass, these hexagonal tiles are available in six colors including white, gray, and blue.

Wood-inspired

Wood is not exactly the first material that you would think of when creating a shopping list for your bathroom upgrade due to the material’s poor performance in high moisture areas. But with the release of wood-inspired tiles, you may have to rethink that idea. These tiles use bold wood grain to mimic the texture of real wood.

To get your bathroom remodel started call the remodel specialists in Fox Cities at Turek’s Plumbing!

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Bathroom Remodel Questions | Important Questions to Ask

Thursday, September 1st, 2016

bathroom remodel questions

Important Bathroom Remodel Questions to Ask

A quality bathroom project that offers long-term benefits will require a substantial investment of your time, money and energy. It’s therefore important to plan the entire project well to ensure you’ll be making informed decisions along the way. Make the most out of your renovation by considering these important bathroom remodel questions to ask before starting your project.

Why remodel?

Be clear from the very start about what you want to achieve by embarking on this project. You may want a remodel to make the space the bathroom of your dreams. You may want to fix all the leaks, bathroom inefficiencies and issues once and for all. Or you may simply be tired of its outdated look. Whatever the main reason/s may be, identify it early on so you can focus on achieving the objectives you want the remodel to obtain.

How much can I afford to spend?

Another crucial thing you need to set from the beginning is your budget. Request for a quote, do some research, use an online renovation calculator, or better yet, talk to a contractor to get an approximation of how much you need, considering what you want to undertake. A set budget will help you narrow down your choices and guide your contractor in making recommendations that will be suitable for you.

Who will use the space?

An ideal bathroom for busy, working adults will definitely be different from a bathroom for a children’s bedroom or a bathroom to be used by a senior individual. Likewise, a guest powder room may require a design that’s different from the aesthetics of a shared family bathroom. In the same way, remodeling a bathroom in a family home will be unlike the remodel of a bathroom inside a property for rent. The purpose of the bathroom will dictate everything, from the style to the layout to the colors you choose.

Is going green an important consideration?

Take advantage of a bathroom remodel if you’re interested in building a greener home. Switch to low-flow showerheads, faucets and flush to reduce your water consumption every day. Use lighting fixtures that are rated highly efficient. Or install strategically placed windows and other features that make smart use of available light.

When can I set an appointment with my contractor?

Whether you’re a seasoned home projects aficionado or a first-time renovator, the truth is that you can’t completely answer most of the questions above without the help of an expert. No two bathroom remodels are alike, so make sure to work with professional plumbers, bathroom renovation specialists and trustworthy tradespeople to ensure the solutions you will carry out will specifically cater to your needs and preferences.

If you have questions about a bathroom remodel in Appleton, contact the remodel professionals at Turek’s Plumbing.

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Steps for a Bathroom Remodel Plan

Friday, July 8th, 2016

Bathroom Remodel Plan

Necessary Steps for a Bathroom Remodel Plan

Are you considering a bathroom remodel plan to add value to your home and to incorporate your style preference? There are steps you need to take in order to ensure that you do achieve these ends and avoid having regrets later on.

 

Evaluate the existing space 

First, you need to study the bathroom and figure out what areas and features you would like to improve on. How’s the lighting? Do you want different mirrors? Would the room do better with a complete overhaul? By evaluating the space, you can get a better idea of how you want the renovation to turn out?

 

Compare with other homes 

You need to look into comparable homes in the neighborhood and see what they offer in terms of bathrooms. For instance, if all the other homes have only one bathroom, you could boost your home’s value by adding a second bathroom.

 

Consider your future plans 

Your plans would dictate what kind of renovation would make the most sense. For instance, if you plan to move in the next five years, a neutral upgrade to suit mainstream tastes is ideal; however, if you see yourself staying put for at least another decade, if not for life, then you can go ahead and remodel based on your personal tastes.

 

Determine your budget

Bathrooms can be really expensive to remodel. You don’t want to skimp on items either, especially the sink, the toilet, and other highly utilized features, so figure out what your budget is in order for you to make a practical plan. It’s also a good idea to pad your budget with 10 to 20 percent more money in case unforeseen problems arise. You never know what may be uncovered by your workers. If they find a leak, rot, unsafe wiring, or anything else that can’t be ignored, you’ll need the funds to address it right away as well.

 

Consult a professional

After you’ve worked out what you want and how much you can invest in the project, you’ll need to choose a contractor to hire. You want to work with one who has had plenty of experience installing bathroom features, from the flooring to the plumbing lines. It’s a good idea to consider contractors who have a showroom so you can have a good idea of the kind of work you can expect from them. Once you’ve picked a contractor, you can present your ideas and discuss what’s feasible, what’s not, and what alternative solutions you might want to consider.

 

Planning a bathroom remodel is much more involved than selecting pieces that suit your taste. It’s a highly technical undertaking, so it’s good to get a pro to weigh in on your ideas. If you are thinking about a bathroom remodel plan for your home, contact Turek’s Plumbing. 

 

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Things to Consider Before Starting a Bathroom Remodel in an Old House

Wednesday, July 6th, 2016

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Bathroom Remodel | Remodeling a Bathroom in an Old House

 

Aside from the kitchen, the bathroom is the one room in the house that easily succumbs to wear and tear. Entire households make use of this specific room to take care of their hygiene needs every day. Also, the presence of moisture, humidity and all kinds of chemicals and substances from the different bath and cleaning products used here can do significant damage to furnishings and fixtures that are not designed to withstand such an environment.

 

If a bathroom remodel in an old house is a project that you mean to take up in the near future, then you need to keep a few simple design options and tips in mind so that your new bathroom can successfully function and stand up to constant use — and look pretty, too. Here are some ideas you should consider:

 

Select a high-performing toilet.

There is a wide range of high-efficiency toilets available today that not only get the job done after your business is completed, but also let you conserve resources and the environment.

 

Choose your tiles well.

You may have specific preferences for the way your floor tiles function in the bathroom. If you have small children or elderly relatives living with you, for instance, you may lean more toward having a non-slip floor installed in your new bathroom. Tiles with matte finishes, plenty of grout lines, textured surfaces or glazes with sand would be ideal for this purpose.

 

If you want a low-maintenance tile floor, on the other hand, stick to glazed or porcelain tiles. Stay away from natural stone since these are porous — they absorb water and develop stains if they are improperly sealed, which means more cleaning time for you.

 

Pick an acrylic caulk.

This kind of formula can be easily removed even without using strong chemicals, making it easy to remove the next time replacement is in order. It’s also worthwhile to pick caulk that comes with a long-lasting mildewcide.

 

Install a sink that fits your family’s requirements.

If you need more storage and countertops, a vanity with sink would be an excellent choice. For less utility but more style, a vessel sink would be a nice touch. A standard pedestal sink would also be a good compromise between aesthetics and function.

 

Update your wiring.

Years (perhaps decades) of plugging in hairdryers, hair straightening irons, electric toothbrushes and electric razors have surely taken a toll on your bathroom’s outlets and wiring, so give them an overhaul. Replace 15-amp wirings with 20-amp ones and provide enough outlets for everyone’s appliances.

 

Taking on a bathroom remodel can be a complicated process however, don’t let that deter you. Call the plumbing professionals at Turek’s plumbing and let them help you transform your old bathroom.

 

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Tips to Make Your Bathroom Renovation a Success

Monday, May 23rd, 2016

bathroom renovation fox valley

Long winters and hot summers easily turn the bathroom into a complete nook of comfort for Appleton, Wisconsin homeowners. Your bathroom does not have to be just a functional space. With the latest trends in bathroom renovation we can help you create a place of serenity,  perfect for relaxation and comfort. A soak in a hot tub filled with aromatic and healing oils and Epsom salt, for example, can bring relief from headaches, muscle pains, and general exhaustion which we all feel from time to time. Heated floors will feel like a warm blanket on your feet in the winter, and properly laid out bathroom design can transform a place of function to a place of fashion.

These are just a couple of the reasons that a bathroom renovation is such a popular project among homeowners. They no longer want the room to be just a place where they do “stuff” — they want it to be the center of wellness at home. If you’re planning on renovating your bathroom, here are some professional plumbers’ and remodelers’ tips for getting the project done in a stress-free, cost-effective manner.

Bathroom renovation timeline

Remember that you use the bathroom — you need it every day. Determine where you’ll take a shower and do your other hygiene practices while the bathroom is under renovation. Create a schedule for the family if you have just one extra bathroom. Perhaps, you can also create a makeshift shower somewhere (like in the garden) so bathing won’t be an issue, especially during busy days. A bathroom renovation without plumbing work involved can take two to three weeks. If your bathroom renovation contractor is relocating or re-designing plumbing structure, four to five weeks is a reasonable timeline.

Choosing Grout

If you’re tiling your bathroom, remember the principles of choosing grout. Dark grout outlines the tile, makes it appear small, and also hides dirt. Grout in the same color as the tile blends in and makes tiles look larger. Also, for seems that are larger than 1/8 inch, it’s best to use sanded grout.

Another important task that involves grout is re-grouting the shower. It’s best to use admix as it’s stain-resistant (if you hate water marks around your shower) and waterproof. If you have a contractor doing the work, they will be able to go over your options with you and recommend the best plan of action.

Floor Tile Decisions

No matter what type of tile you decide to use in your bathroom, always over-order tiles because tiles come in lot numbers. So if you run short, the next box you pick may look slightly different. You never know when you might need to replace a tile down the line.

Water conservation tips for bathroom remodel projects

If you want to enjoy your bathroom more but you also want to reduce water consumption, ask your Fox Valley Plumber about the latest products on the market that offer “water controls” such as low flow shower, toilets and faucets. Inquire as well about energy-efficient strategies you can use for water heating. Plumbers are a great source of knowledge regarding bathroom remodeling products. In our case, Turek’s has plenty of experience in both. Our licensed plumbers and expert bathroom remodel designers work together to create the perfect functional and luxurious space.

Our last tip for you is, if there’s no window in the bathroom but you want bright lighting without installing a lot of fixed lighting, introduce more mirrors to the bathroom instead and find strategic locations for them. Mirrors will double the amount of light in the bathroom. We can certainly help you design and implement all of the ideas you have to create a bathroom you love.

 

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