How many times have you thought about remodeling your bathroom? Your bathroom is a room you can’t live without and it deserves your undivided attention. A modern makeover is sure to give your bathroom that contemporary and stylish look we can all appreciate. See how a few strategic updates can transform your bathroom from old-fashioned and outdated to chic and cutting-edge.

Lighting

Don’t be in the dark about what’s hot in bathroom lighting. Get creative with your vanity, ceiling, shower and cabinets. Instead of installing a single light fixture above your mirror, think about adding wall-mounted lights on either side of your vanity. Scones, squares and cylinders are a few modern light fixture shapes that will help you execute this look. In addition to design options, there are different types of lighting you must know.

Task lighting will increase illuminance and improve contrast. Use decorative lighting to enhance the beauty and character of your bathroom. Decorative lighting catches the eye and will give your bathroom style. Some examples of decorative lighting are chandeliers, candles and unique fixtures that create that wow factor. Another idea is to install accent lighting to highlight interesting features in your bathroom, such as plants, artwork and shelving décor.

Two other modern lighting trends include installing a back-lit mirror or under-cabinet lighting. Whatever your selection, implementing any of these small touches is sure to illuminate and modernize your bathroom.

Sinks

We sometimes forget that updating a bathroom sink is a simple project that can really make a difference in your bathroom. A sink doesn’t have to be white and traditional. Installing a new bathroom sink gives you the chance to spice things up. You can be adventurous and tasteful all at the same time. Shape, color, size and material should all be taken into consideration when choosing a new bathroom sink. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and make a statement. There are so many possibilities that you’ll want to make sure your sink fits in with your overall design theme. Lushomesays that common materials used to make modern bathroom sinks include porcelain, glass, wood, natural stone, contemporary colored concrete and attractive artificial stone.

Replacing a bathroom sink is a big deal as it can dramatically affect your overall design. It’s important to be aware of the latest bathroom sink trends and mindful of what modern fixtures you’re selecting.

Faucets

You’ve selected your new bathroom sink, but let’s not forget about the modern fixturesyou’ll need to compliment your new piece. You want them to be both comfortable to use and stylish. Pay attention to your faucets finish since it’s an important modern design element that often gets overlooked. There are many fixture options including:

• Brass
• Copper
• Chrome
• Nickel
• Gold-Plated
• Oil-Rubbed Metals
• Matte or Shiny Finish
• Smooth Satin Sheen
• Textured

Selecting sink fixtures is a chance to customize and stylize. High-tech faucets are another trend that is coming to a store near you. These faucets have been around for a while in public bathrooms and offices, and now residential homes are starting to follow suit.

Accessories

Whether it’s a pop of color, eye-catching artwork or bold paint, accessories are critical in the decorating process. Accessories are the final touches that bring everything together.  A bathroom that gives off natural beauty is going to be big this year. Plants are a very budget-friendly way to get this look. Another way to get a natural look would be to add a touch of natural wood. Something as simple as the Kleenex box, the bathmat or shower decorations absolutely matter. Pay attention to the extras that add a personal touch. It’s the details that count.

Mirrors

Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the trendiest of them all? You are, if you are strategic about what mirror design you install. The bathroom mirror is a fun piece to research and pick out. There are various shapes, frames and lighting styles you can play with. The bathroom mirror options are endless. You can go long instead of tall, install two instead of one or add some shimmer and lighting. You’d be surprised what unique styles you can find at a decent price point. Click here to get an idea of how much it costs to purchase a new mirror.

Cost

At the end of the day, a lot of our bathroom remodeling decisions are going to come down to cost. Our bathroom cost guides offer a lot of valuable information and advice about pricing so you can budget appropriately. Take the time to do your research and find how you can get the pieces you want without breaking your bank. Don’t just go with the first thing you see and be sure to get professional guidance if you’re feeling overwhelemed by all of the choices. It’s time to get with it and start your modern bathroom makeover. What are you waiting for???

Conclusion

We all know that updating your bathroom is something that needs to be done at one point or another, and there’s no better time than the present. If you’re looking to get a modern look and feel, start by implementing the ideas suggested in this article. You will be on your way to creating a brighter and better bathroom for you and your family. And trust me, you won’t regret it.

Hot water heaters are one of the many appliances we do not fully appreciate until it stops working. Believe it not, despite its large exterior and solid metal, steel or copper, hot water heaters do malfunction and require replacement or new installation.

While installing a new hot water heater is certainly not a project for the faint, it can be done in one day with the necessary tools and steps. Below, see when it’s time to replace your hot water, how to install a hot water heater and the total installation cost.

When to Replace Hot Water Heater

Unlike other prominent appliances around the home, there are a few telltale signs your hot water heater needs to be replaced. If you start to see a small puddle or slow drip under your hot water heater, it’s on its way out. Within a day or two, you should see a trail of water slowly running away from the heater. Either way, your tank has rusted and that can not be repaired. If water is dripping from your hot water heater, replace it as soon as you can.

Additionally, and perhaps even more obvious, is the absence of hot water. However, with this sign, before jumping to conclusions, check with a plumbing professional. Chances are, this problem can be fixed.

Types of Water Heaters

Water heaters run via natural gas or electric. Many homeowners are currently using the traditional tank-style heaters. This tank with a heating element is used to store a reservoir full of water. They are cheaper to install and replace. Tankless electric water heaters are considered an on-demand application for the home. Tankless water heaters tend to be more energy efficient and last longer than traditional heaters.

For more pros and cons of each, please see Traditional Water Heaters Vs. Tankless Water Heaters.

Note: Before buying a new water heater, make sure it meets the Department of Energy efficiency standards.

How to Install A Hot Water Heater

Tools & Materials Needed

• Garden Hose
• Multiple Wrenches
• Screwdriver
• Pipe Wrench
• Plumber’s Tape
• Tube Cutter
• Solder
• Soldering Torch
• Metal Screws
• Pipe Connectors
• Pressure Relief Valve
• Discharge Pipe

Now that preparation has been covered, it’s time to get your hands dirty. Below are all the steps needed to replace or install a new water heater.

Note: The steps below are specifically for a gas water heater, but installing an electric water heater is very similar.

Step 1: Turn Off the Gas & Water

The water supply and gas needs to be off. Otherwise, you could have a very dangerous mess on your hands. Find your gas shutoff valve and turn it off. The valve should most likely be at a right angle when off. Next, turn the water off and drain the pipes.

Step 2: Drain the Hot Water from the Tank

Before removing the hot water tank, we have to empty the tank. You can drain your hot water tank using a garden hose attached to the drain valve. However, as you might expect, the water will be very hot. We recommend using safety gloves or waiting one hour before starting the process.

Then, using two wrenches, disconnect the gas line from the hot water heater. You should disconnect the two at the union where the two lines meet.

Step 3:  Cut Off the Water Lines

Time to fully detach the old water heater. First, unscrew the large vent pipe. All you should need is a screwdriver. Next, using a tube cutter, cut the hot and cold water lines. For some operations, you may just have to unscrew the unions with the same wrenches from before.

Remove the old water heater completely out of the way.

Step 4: Attach the New Relief Valve

Take your new temperature and pressure relief value and wrap the end with plumber’s tape. Place the valve in the new hot water heater and screw it in with a pipe wrench. Attach a new copper pipe to the relief valve.

Step 5: Attach Connectors

Next, we have to attach new copper adapters, or short copper tubes, to the new hot water heater. Before attachment, some add plastic connectors to protect against galvanized pipes. These plastic connectors may be required by code, but it is not 100% necessary.

Now, take the two new adapters and screw them into the hot and cold water inlet ports.

Step 6: Attach All Pipes

With the copper connectors in place, we can attach all pipes to your new water heater. Place the new water heater directly under the previously cut pipes. You may have to recut or extend the old pipes. Solder, or attach the pipes to the new water heater using heat from your soldering torch (any heat source can work).

Do not solder any fittings directly on top of the water heater. If you do, you could melt imperative plastic parts and damage your new water heater. That is why we installed those connectors first. Furthermore, you can solder your pipes before attachment as well.

Note: Soldering takes practice. If this is your first soldering project, consult a professional.

Step 7: Reconnect the Vent

Now, reconnect the vent using appropriately sized metal screws. If you are unsure, take a picture of your vent and head to your nearest Home Depot. The vent should not be placed directly on the hot water heater. It should attach right above the draft hood.

Step 8: Reconnect the Gas Lines

Coat the end of the gas line with plumber’s tape and attach it to another plastic nipple. Using two pipe wrenches, just like we did before, reconnect the gas line to the new water heater. You should finish with the union, the actual connection point.

Step 9: Fill the Tank

Before we are complete, we have to fill the tank and make sure all is working. Close the drain valve (the same point you used to drain the old tank). Turn your water back on and open the cold water valve. Turn a hot water faucet on and let it run as you are refilling the tank. Once the tank is full, turn off the faucet and check the discharge pipe on the pressure relief valve to be sure it isn’t leaking.

Note: Make sure your tank is full before turning water back on. Both electric and gas water heaters running on non-filled tanks can cause damage and repairs will be needed.

Step 10: Check the Vents

According to Family Handyman, most water heaters rely on a natural draft to draw combustion fumes up the flue. These fumes must stay within the draft. After changing your water heater, you should check this draft.

First, open or turn on a hot water faucet until you hear the gas burner in the water heater ignite. Then, light a match and place it near the draft hood. The smoke should head up the hood. If not, you should content a plumber.

Step 11: Light the Pilot Light

Time to light it up, but before doing so, double check with the manufacturer’s directions. Set the temperature to 120°F. Test the water as well as possible leaks again.

Removing the Hot Water Heater

Most water heaters are quite large. Many homeowners will just ask a friend to help, but others with electric saw experience can cut the water heater in half using safety goggles and protective gear. A smaller water heater is always easier to remove.

Hot Water Installation Cost

Despite their utmost importance, hot water heaters are not as expensive as most assume. As noted before, traditional hot water heaters have a lower initial cost than a tankless water heater. Whether you choose a gas or electric hot water heater, expect the average price to hover around $800 with installation. However, installing yourself can save almost half that cost.

Conclusion

Installing a hot water heater is not a project for the faint, but with precise hand coordination, you too can save $500 the next time you have to replace your hot water.

The most popular project homeowners put off is basement finishing. After all, finishing a basement is rarely fast or easy and as such, many of you choose to invest your money elsewhere in the house, such as the kitchen or bathroom.

If your home allows for it, a finished basement is the easiest way to add usable square footage. It not only gives you more space to lounge or your kids more room to play, but more space to host family during the holidays.

Nevertheless, every project comes with a price. Therefore, I decided to put together the major basement finishing projects and costs that come with every basement renovation.

Basement Remodeling

When it comes to basement finishing, there are many steps that need to be done. First and foremost, professional framing has to take place. Then, you can add walls, flooring and windows. During the process, make sure your basement pro installs waterproof walls and enough insulation to keep everyone warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

According to our basement remodeling cost estimator, the average price to remodel a basement is $16,733. Needless to say, this price can fluctuate quite a bit. We have seen basement renovations go as high as $35,000 and as low as $1,000.

Basement Framing

Like I said earlier, framing is the first step in all basement finishes. Most basements will already be framed, but if not, the cost does add to the total. Framing an unfinished basement can be very expensive due to both the labor and lumber costs.

Surprising to many, the cost of lumber can actually end up being the most expensive part of the project. One way to offset those costs is by using metal studs. They are lighter and easier to work with, cutting down on both material and labor costs dramatically.

Additionally, only buying lumber you will actually use is another way to save money on framing. Check out our lumber calculator to ensure you don’t overpay.

Basement Wall Installation

Despite everyone loving the open concept nowadays, the basement is typically a place to house multiple rooms, including those guest bedrooms I referred to earlier. According to our wall installation cost estimator, the average price to install a wall is $1,995. However, you can save money by installing a pony wall (half walls).

If you decide to go with a pony wall, you may be able to handle the project yourself (saving money). However, if you’re going to expand your house and need to install weight-bearing walls, you’re better off leaving it to the pros. Additionally, you or your pro will need to investigate building codes and local requirements to ensure you comply with structural guidelines.

When putting a wall over a recently constructed frame, sheetrock is the industry standard for a paintable and more durable option. It can help insulate the room and generally lasts a long time when maintained. If you are trying to significantly drive costs down, go with paneling. It is very light, inexpensive and pre-finished in a variety of different sizes and types. Labor costs may also decrease because paneling is easier to transport and work with.

Waterproofing

Along with installing basement walls, you or your pro will have to ensure that all walls are waterproof. Flooding is sadly a common issue in certain areas of the country, so making sure your basement is completely waterproof becomes vital.

Most waterproofing tactics come during construction, but over time, one must ensure that leaks are not a possibility. To ensure all was done right, or if you’re taking on the project yourself, please see our DIY Tips for How to Waterproof Basement Walls.

If you do think you need extra waterproofing assistance, a waterproof inspection wouldn’t hurt. A few telltale signs are pools of water around the edge of your home long after the latest rain or cracked, sagging or discolored basement walls.

Basement Flooring

When it comes to basement remodeling, no aspect stands out more than your flooring. It’s what guests immediately notice, both from a sense and sight perspective.

Fortunately enough, like all flooring projects, you have a wide array of options to choose from with each offering its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Carpet use to be the gold standard for basement flooring. Its soft and homey texture blended perfectly in basement remodels across the country. Furthermore, according to our flooring cost estimator, carpet is cheaper than both tile and hardwood flooring. However, carpet has lost recognition over the years and when it comes to flooding, no flooring option is more expensive to fix than carpet.

Another popular solution to flooring in the basement is tile. Although tile is definitely a more expensive option in both material and labor costs, tile presents a unique design feature to any basement. Beware, unless you have terrific heating, those tile floors may be cold come winter.

Finally, one of the most popular flooring options in the home is hardwood. While it is expensive, $4,840 for 500 square feet, hardwood is the most long-lasting and durable option out there. There are many different types of hardwood to choose from, ensuring that the right type of hardwood flooring can fit into any basement remodeling budget.

Basement Insulation

Every aspect of this article is about creating a comfortable and inviting environment in your basement. Well, everything goes out the window if you don’t install proper basement insulation.

Heat naturally rises and on top of that, older homes with historic insulation standards and poor windows lead to uncomfortable settings. Proper basement insulation will not only solve these issues, but also lower your energy bills.

There are plenty of places to install basement insulation. Since heat rises, you should add insulation to both the walls and the ceiling. Nonetheless, if given the option, manybasement insulation pros prefer wall insulation because:

• Wall insulation will save you more on energy costs.
• Ceiling insulation is harder to install.
• There are ducts, ventilation and other units in the ceiling that can help insulate your basement ceiling without professional insulation.
• Wall insulation separates your basement from the outside temperature, which tends to much higher or lower than a desired temperature in a home (the difference between your basement and first floor is not as high).

If you have to pick one, go with wall insulation when insulating your basement.

Adding Egress Windows

Finally, if you do install a new bedroom in your finished basement, you will need to install a window as well. All basement bedrooms need a window for emergency escape purposes.

If you are adding a bedroom to your current bedroom, you can cut a large opening in a basement wall and add a window that meets your code. If you don’t’ want to do this yourself, basement pros can complete the job for approximately $2,000. Nonetheless, if you want to save some money, see our DIY Tips For How To Install A Basement Egress Window.

Conclusion

Finishing a basement is like installing a brand new addition to your home. Finished basements give you the luxury of hosting holiday weekends, more room for your kids to play or a quiet getaway for you and your significant other. Knowing all the costs, you can determine if a finished basement is right for you.

The bathroom is one place in the home where you should attempt to stay on trend. Homeowners, buyers and sellers care about the look and functionality of this space, and you should too. The floors are especially important because they’re one of the first things you see when you walk in the room and get a lot of foot traffic.

A bathroom floor will be admired for its shine and color, but you should also consider how well it’ll hold up in this particular environment and how much work it’ll be to maintain. I’ve got six big and shiny ideas for your next bathroom floor makeover.

1. Luxury Vinyl

Luxury vinyl is a new category of flooring that’s going to be big in 2016. This flooring choice combines the high-end look of hardwood (or stone) with the durability of vinyl. One of the most popular options among homeowners is vinyl that mimics the look of wood.

This material is a natural fit in kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms because it stands up to moisture, and it looks pretty. A low maintenance floor that’s warm to the touch and soft underfoot? If you ask me, it sounds like an excellent choice for any bathroom!

2. Laminate

Laminate is always a sensible choice for the bathroom floor. This material can handle high volumes of traffic and will keep its composure for an extended amount of time. One benefit of laminate flooring is that you’re able to combine the look of hardwood with a surface that’s resistant to both stains and moisture.

Installing a new laminate floor is an easy and affordable way to upgrade your bathroom without having to completely gut the entire space. Given the array of realistic-looking wood and stone patterns available in stores, it makes it very difficult for anyone to tell that it’s not the real thing. Although laminate is tough, you should be careful to keep the floors as dry as possible because there’s a possibility of standing water to seep through the seams.

3. Bamboo & Cork

If you’re looking for environmentally friendly bathroom floors, then this is the right choice for you. Bamboo and cork are unique materials made from tree-like tropical grasses that replenish themselves in the wild every couple of years.

Bamboo is specifically known for its durability and warmth. This material is not only affordable, but plays nicely with both traditional and modern spaces. Engineered bamboo planks are by far the most durable bamboo floors and the best at withstanding wet environments. The one downside of engineered bamboo is that once it wears, it can’t be refinished; it needs to be replaced. On the other hand, solid bamboo floors can be refinished, but they’re more susceptible to water damage. Decisions, decisions.

Cork flooring is great for walking on with bare feet because of its warmth and cushion. It’s a durable material that retains heat better than tile or wood. It’s easier to install than wood flooring, but it doesn’t have as long of a shelf life. Cork is a good option for rooms that get a lot of foot traffic, like the bathroom.

4. Large-Format Tile

Typically tile floors are installed using 12” x 12” tiles, but more and more designers are remodeling with tiles that come 12″ x 24″ and even 36″ x 36.” Consumers and industry professionals alike agree that they look great and are easier to clean because there are less grout lines to scrub.

Experts don’t recommend installing large tile floors yourself. They’re heavy and require a perfectly level substrate, so if you want it done right, you should hire a professional for the job. Below are three popular types of tile you should consider in your search.

Ceramic Tile: Comes in various sizes, shapes and styles. A good option for mimicking natural stone. Textured designs help prevent slippage.

Porcelain Tile: This option is more durable and less porous because it’s fired at higher temperatures than ceramic. It’s very easy to clean and maintain.

Stone Tile: Natural stone lends a high-end look to a bathroom. This tile is usually made from travertine, limestone, marble, granite or slate. It’s a timeless, unique and durable flooring option.

5. Heated Floors

As the days get shorter and temperatures cool, what more could you want than to step on heated floors when you go to shower on those chilly winter mornings. Heated floors are quickly gaining popularity with homeowners who feel they can’t live without this luxury upgrade.

These systems can be installed under tile, hardwood and many other popular flooring surfaces. Heated floors are a great selling point for those thinking about listing their home on the market. Many homeowners would agree that the additional comfort and resale value outweigh the initial investment.

6. Elaborate Designs

Basic square tiles are slowly being replaced with unusual shapes and beautiful mosaics. Mixing and matching colors and patterns is highly encouraged. In other words, the flashier, the better. Designers are starting to use staggered floor patterns with multiple tile sizes. Think outside the box and play with different shapes such as octagonal, hexagonal or small mosaic tile schemes.

Don’t be afraid to mix different shades of colors or incorporate multiple colors in order to liven up your bathroom floors. We’re also seeing designers go as far as mixing materials, such as combining marble, limestone and onyx into one floor design. Use a combination of ideas to make your bathroom floors come alive!

Conclusion

Hopefully you feel a bit more prepared to tackle your next bathroom remodel or flooring project after reviewing these up and coming trends. Remember that what you think looks nice and works for your family and style of home could be very different from what someone else prefers. It’s good to be informed of all the trends so you can find something that not only looks good, but makes you happy.

Ever wonder what a bathroom from the future would look like? Technology has taken bathrooms to a whole new level with new innovations that include more customizable and programmable features than ever before. Bathrooms of the future are anything but boring. If you want to transform your bathroom into a space of luxury and convenience, here are some top of the line, functional and, above all, stylish products to consider incorporating into your design.

Moxie

Who doesn’t love to sing in the shower? Thanks to our dear friends at Kohler, they’ve made it even easier and more enjoyable with their Moxie showerhead & wireless speaker.

Moxie lets you stream your favorite music, news or talk radio right in the shower with you. The Moxie showerhead holds a portable wireless speaker that pairs wirelessly with Bluetooth-enabled devices to deliver superior audio to your shower. The speaker docks directly into the showerhead, so your music is closer than ever when showering. While it plays your favorite sounds, this innovative showerhead features angled nozzles that deliver an all-encompassing spa-like spray. Thanks to air induction technology, each drop feels larger and more luxurious. Moxie is easy to install and use; the wireless speaker pops out for recharging and then securely pops back in for use while showering. You can even take it with you as a wireless speaker to use in any room of the house, or on the go. It’s clear that the Moxie will turn your shower into a full on dance party.

RainBrain

Digital showers are on the forefront in shower design and technology. Hansgrohe has released a state-of-the-art electronic shower system called the RainBrain. The RainBrain features a touchscreen panel that allows users to select their preferences in an easy, virtual way as well as a warm-up function that heats your water instantly! The RainBrain will save presets for up to four different people so a personalized shower experience is just a touch away. The RainBrain also features an anti-scalding system to protect children and adults from being exposed to high temperature water blasts by accident. Just tap on the touchscreen with your finger and unwind.

Numi

Not only does Kohler have one of the most impressive showerheads in the industry, they are also leading the way with the most advanced toilet to date: The Numi. Even though it was designed to have a compact, streamlined appearance, the Numi is jam-packed with features which include: a motion-activated cover and seat, a self-cleaning bidet, deodorizer, heated seat, foot warmer, illuminated panels (7 available colors) and Bluetooth music technology, all of which can be controlled with a touch screen remote. WOAH. The toilet is often referred to as “the throne” and Kohler has taken that expression quite literally.

Touch2O.xt™ Technology

One of the best ways to spice up a bathroom without doing any major demolition is to install a high-tech smart faucet. Delta has introduced us to Touch2O.xt™ Technology. This technology allows the faucet to be turned on with a simple tap anywhere on the faucet or even hands free! Touch2O.xt™ Technology acts as a sensor so the water starts flowing instantly and effortlessly. It senses your presence within 4” and automatically shuts off within seconds once you remove your hands. What a great way to conserve water. With six different models and five different finishes, you are bound to find a Delta faucet that fits your style.

TVID

Robern has shown us the newest way to add television to your bathroom: integrated into the door of your medicine cabinet! How perfect for your morning routine. You can watch the traffic while shaving or putting on makeup and your kids can watch cartoons. Personally, I’d flip on a Greys Anatomy marathon while soaking away in the tub. Whatever you choose to watch, we think its genius! Roberns medicine cabinets are extremely functional with features such as magnetic organization (think tweezers and bobby pins, ladies), organizational shelves, a dedicated razor holder, interior illumination, integrated electricity and USB ports, and an electronic mirror defogger. With plain or beveled mirror options, these medicine cabinets are a beautiful addition to any bathroom.

Conclusion

As you can see, bathrooms are truly becoming an extension of our individualities, and products are changing in this space to reflect our every desire. Do you think these products are worth it or are they just excessive indulgences? Give us your take in the comments below.