Adding a Bathroom Vanity

admin — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 17:11:21 +0000

It has been proven that one of the upgrades that gives the most value to a home is an improvement in the bathroom. One upgrade that can be reasonably priced and easily done is adding a bathroom vanity. There are a variety of styles of vanities in many finishes and sizes.

The purpose of adding a bathroom vanity to replace a sink is to give work or counter space and to add storage space below while concealing the pipe structure that is under the existing sink. The basic one sink vanity can come in two or three pieces. First is the cabinet and secondly either a counter top with a separate sink or a sink integrated into the counter top.

The first step that you will need to do is to measure the space where you wish to add the bathroom vanity. If you are fortunate to have a large space to work in you may choose to upgrade to a double sink and vanity at this time. There are also small, compact versions of vanities that will fit in a smaller bathroom space.

If the space in your bathroom is limited and the vanity must be up against the bathtub you will want to choose a material that is water proof, or put a water proof surround up to keep the water from the tub away from the vanity cabinet. When the existing sink is across from the tub it is easier to add a vanity without making extra changes to the structure of the room or adding a new surround to the tub or shower.

Adding a vanity to your bathroom adds value, storage and a finished look. Vanities are available in wood or composite materials or even glass and metal. Adding a vanity to your bathroom is an upgrade that a homeowner can easily accomplish for a reasonable investment.

Bathroom Lighting Tips

admin — Wed, 13 May 2009 17:55:42 +0000

In today’s home the bathroom is truly a multi purpose room. It serves as a dressing room, a place to do hair and makeup and a place to do medical care and give medicines. It is important to have good lighting to do these tasks. In addition the bathroom lighting is a big part of the mood of the bathroom. The bathroom is often a retreat after a busy day or a rough week and the lighting, while needing to be adequate, should also provide a soothing environment.

Installing new lighting fixtures in the bathroom does not have to cost a lot. If you are only replacing one existing fixture with another, it may even be a do it yourself project. Remember to shut off the breaker for the room first. If you are changing the lighting fixtures structurally in order to illuminate more areas in the bathroom, and adding new fixtures there may be some work that needs to be done on the walls or ceilings. Unless you have experience in these areas, you will want to seek out qualified electrical contractor.

Task and mood lighting in the bathroom, controlled by separate switches will give you the most options in your bathroom. Have bright lighting at the vanity and mirror for grooming tasks like makeup and shaving. This is also essential when taking medicines. For softer lighting and for a soothing mood have lights installed on a different circuit with colored shades or specialty bulbs. Sconces that offer uplighting are classic and diffused. Use down lighting fixtures near the mirrors for best task lighting. Add these different styles of fixtures in addition to or instead of an overhead light.

The lighting in the bathroom is a small thing that can add greatly to the pleasure you get in the use of your home. It can be bright for tasks and soothing for rest and relaxing. Changing bathroom lighting can be a small improvement that provides large benefits.

Home Improvement Ideas » Bathroom

Adding a Bathroom Vanity

Bathroom Lighting Tips