Remodeling a room in your home can be a challenging and complicated process. Usually, you’ll have to perform a significant amount of demolition before you can rebuild, and it’s important to know how to do this effectively so you won’t cause any unwanted damage. In regards to the bathroom, one of the most puzzling parts of the remolding process is how to remove a vanity. Typically, a bathroom vanity is sealed and secured to the actual structure of the bathroom, including the plumbing, which can make removal especially tricky. With these basic tips, you’ll be on the right track towards properly removing your vanity.

Water Supply

First and foremost, you’ll need to shut off the water supply before you can remove the vanity. In order to do this, you’ll need to reach underneath the sink and turn the hot and cold-water shut-off valves. Next, you’ll want to disconnect the water supply lines by using a wrench to remove the nut that holds the water supply line to the shutoff valve. This process can get somewhat messy, so it’ll help to have a bucket close by. Finally, you’re going to need to disconnect the waste drain. This can be done either by hand or by using a wrench or pliers, depending on the material of the waste drain, which will typically be either PVC pipe or chrome.

Remove From Wall

Now that you’ve taken care of the water supply, it’s time to remove the vanity from the wall. In some cases, you’ll need to start with the mirror. If the mirror rests on the vanity counter top, then removing the mirror first will be necessary, as it can crack when the vanity is removed from the wall. Once this has been addressed, you’ll want to detach the vanity counter top and cabinet by using a utility knife to cut through the caulk joint adhesive that holds the vanity to the wall. It’s important to be both cautious and patient during this process, as you’ll want to avoid cutting into the drywall. The goal here is to carefully undo the attachment between the vanity itself and the wall of your bathroom, as well as between the vanity top and cabinet.

Take Apart

At this point, all that’s left is the removal of the main components of the vanity from the room. First, you’ll remove the vanity top from the sink base. Usually, this will be a fairly easy process and the top will be removed smoothly with the adhesive cut. However, in some cases, the vanity top will be attached to the bottom by clips, which you’ll need to loosen before removal. Once the vanity top has been disconnected from the base, it’s time to remove the sink base cabinet. Check to see where the cabinet is attached to the wall, which is generally done with screws or nails, and carefully remove them. Once you’ve done this, you should be able to remove the sink base cabinet from the wall with ease.

Once you’ve hauled out the vanity top and bottom pieces, just plug up the drain pipes, scrape off any excess caulk, and you’ll be all set. With these tips, you can be well on your way to properly removing your bathroom vanity in time to begin your remodeling process. Good luck!

Your master bathroom should be different from the rest of the bathrooms in your home. After all, it’s a relaxing and accommodating attachment to your master bedroom. While it’s common for homeowners to crave an element of grandeur in their master bathroom, there are a number of ways to take a simple and budget-friendly approach to its design. Here are some tips for making a statement, while still creating a serene environment that you’ll get the most out of every day.

Prioritize the Shower

When it comes to your master bathroom, the shower should be one of your top priorities. You’ll either be starting or ending your daily routine with a shower, so you’ll want to make it something to look forward to. With this in mind, you should look for a fairly large shower head that allows for consistent water flow and a wide range of temperatures. If you’d like, you can search for a shower head with adjustable settings or a detachable handheld component. Regardless of the type of shower head you choose, the result should be a thorough and relaxing shower each and every time. Additionally, you can look into adding a bench or some easy-to-reach shelves so you can conveniently place everything you need in the shower.

The Other Bathing Option...

While a shower may be a more practical and efficient way of getting clean, sometimes you want a different way to unwind. This is why you should consider a spacious and comfortable bathtub in your master bathroom. Having the option to sit back in a hot bath after a long day can be extremely peaceful and stress-relieving. Look into adding or designing a bathtub with some depth, and make sure that it provides consistent and easily adjustable temperatures so that the water always feels just right. Similar to your shower, your bathtub should have enough surface or counter space to place all of your bathing products close by. Your master bathroom should be functional, but it can also be your place of solace, and if you enjoy a hot bath on occasion, then make sure your bathtub is the perfect fit.

Sink(s) and Mirror

Since you’ll be using your master bathroom to get ready every day, a decently-sized and well-lit mirror is sure to be appreciated. If you’re sharing your master bathroom with your partner, then you might benefit from having a dual-sink vanity so that each of you can go about your morning routine with plenty of space. Consider a bathroom vanity that has a large mirror and plenty of lighting so that you can have a detailed view when you’re shaving, putting on makeup, or brushing your teeth. You’ll want to make sure your master bathroom is well-ventilated, that way you aren’t looking at a foggy mirror after a hot shower or bath. Remember to keep your toiletries close by in baskets or drawers, so all your favorite products will be within an arms’ reach.

Floors

Finally, you’ll want to make sure your master bathroom’s flooring can handle your day-to-day life. Tile floors that can withstand the moisture from water and steam are incredibly important, as mold can grow quickly in this kind of atmosphere. In order to avoid slipping on a slick surface, you’ll want to place absorbent and firm mats outside of your bathtub and shower. Look for mats that will feel good on your feet and won’t slide on your tile floor. Not only should they be aesthetically pleasing, but these mats should be able to handle moisture and provide some traction so you’re not slipping around on the floor in your master bathroom.

Your master bathroom should be set apart from the ‘ordinary’ bathrooms in your home, as it’s meant to accommodate your day-to-day life in the most comfortable and relaxing way possible. While it should be functional, you’ll be very pleased if you put some effort into making it your own little luxurious getaway within your home. With these tips, you’ll create the idea master bathroom that you’ll look forward to using each and every day.

Since the bathroom is one of the few places where you can relax without interruption, it’s important that it reflects your personality and unique style. Studies show that if you’re comfortable with your surroundings, you’ll be happier and healthier while spending time in your home. By decorating your bathroom according to your personality, you’ll feel at ease while taking a bath or energized while getting ready in the morning. With all the wall color, vanity, and tub options available on the market, why not match your bathroom to your personality? If you’re curious about how, here’s our guide for bringing your personality into your bathroom.

Start with Color

Adding color to your bathroom is perhaps the easiest way to breathe some life into your bathroom. Whether you like to relax in your sunken tub after a long day at the office or prefer an energized space when getting ready in the morning, there’s a color for that. While white is a popular choice for minimalists, bright bathrooms are all the rage. In fact, some of the most beautiful bathrooms pair striking accents with muted backdrop: purple against white, sea foam green against grey, or a vivid yellow against natural wood. If you prefer a more neutral bathroom, consider keeping things light – light brown, light greys, or light tans. Darker tones, such as deep reds and browns, are perfect for those interested in bringing feelings of warmth and comfort into their bathroom.

Choose a Vanity

Before choosing a vanity style or color, it’s important to decide on a type. If you have the extra square footage, most experts recommend purchasing a double vanity – potential homebuyers will see it as a perk, and you’ll enjoy the extra counter space in the meantime. If you consider yourself to be light-hearted and easygoing, a vanity made of teak wood may be the perfect choice for you. Since teak contains hints of yellow and tends to reflect light better than other types of vanities, a calming or soothing effect will take over your bathroom. If you’re more of an introvert, a vanity made of mahogany wood will bring class and formality into your bathroom.

Faucets and Door Handles

It may sound silly, but different faucet finishes can evoke various styles and personalities. If you consider yourself to be traditional or classy, easy-going finishes such as polished silver or white porcelain are a great way to bring a bit of sophistication into your bathroom. If your friends would describe you as being adventurous or daring, head to your local antique store – you’re sure to find a great selection of antique and vintage door handles and cabinet knobs. And, if you’re feeling especially crafty, you can make your own cabinet knobs using just about anything, including wine corks, broken jewelry, pebbles from the garden, bent spoons, and rulers.

Do-It-Yourself

One of the best ways to match your bathroom to your personality is to create a one-of-a-kind DIY piece. If you love to travel, create a collage using old map books – just be sure to frame the piece in a humidity-resistant frame. Since bathrooms are one of the most humid rooms, special care needs to be taken when choosing artwork to display. For more information, click here. Other fun projects can include using an old ladder as a display area for plants, making your own homemade soap in unique designs and colors, or painting your doors with chalkboard paint and writing inspirational quotes or music lyrics on the inside or outside of your bathroom door. When it comes to these projects, don’t be shy – your bathroom can never have too much personality.

Intended to regulate the construction and compliance of handicapped accessible bathrooms, the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that all public restrooms in the United States be ADA-compliant. The most prevalent aspect of ADA compliance is measurement and spacing of various bathroom elements, as wheelchairs and other devices can be cumbersome and difficult to maneuver in small spaces. If you’re renovating a bathroom and would like for it to be ADA compliant, here is a list of the most common guidelines that must be followed. For a complete list, please visit the official ADA website or contact the ADA directly.

Grab Bars

An important thing to remember when it comes to grab bars is that they cannot be replaced by towel bars – if you wish to install towel bars and have your bathroom be ADA-compliant, you must also include grab bars in your bathroom. The diameter of the pipe used must be between 1-1/4 to 1-1/2 inches, and must be installed between 34 and 38 inches off the ground. As a matter of safety and security, the bars must be round in shape and connected directly to posts or walls. This way, someone getting hurt by sharp edges can be prevented.

Sinks & Faucets

Sinks and faucets in an ADA-compliant bathroom shouldn’t be mounted higher than 34 inches from the floor. Additionally, they should have a knee clearance of 27 inches high, 30 inches wide, and 19 inches deep. When purchasing and installing ADA-compliant sinks, be sure to pay attention to the space under the sink: you’ll need a clear floor space and insulated pipes under the sink, so individuals in wheelchairs will be able to use the sink. Faucets should be lever-operated, push, touch, or electronically controlled. Any faucet installed in an ADA-compliant bathroom should be able to be used with one hand without the need to pinch or twist the wrist.

Handicap Toilets

Perhaps the most important part of an ADA-compliant bathroom are handicap toilets. They must have a minimum width of 60 inches, so wheelchairs can easily fit in front of the toilet, and inside and outside the stall. Horizontal grab bars must be installed behind the toilet and on the nearest wall or partition – whichever is closer. When it comes to toilet seats, the height must be between 17” to 19” above the finished floor. The lever for flushing must be placed on the open side of the toiler with the clearest floor space, and mounted no higher than 44” above the floor.

Hand Dryer

Hand dryers are one of the easiest requirements to comply with when it comes to ADA-compliant bathroom design. ADA guidelines require that the provided hand dryers must be either motion activated or touch-free devices. In the past, when push-button activated dryers were popular, these dryers had to be removed in all public areas where you should have handicapped accessible bathrooms. When it comes to bathroom equipment, touch-free is key – those who don’t comply with the touch-free ADA guidelines can be exposed to several fines and other legal repercussions.

If you’re turning an existing bathroom into an ADA-compliant bathroom, Modern Bathroom has an entire line of ADA-compliant vanities, faucets, sinks, and toilets, just to name a few of our ADA-compliant categories. Please visit our website for more ADA-compliant products.

If you’re midway through a bathroom remodel, you maybe browsing the Web for shower bases. When it comes to shower bases, there are many different types – each with their own unique pros and cons. Some of them are easy enough for an amateur to install, while others should be left to the professionals. From pre-cast to acrylic shower bases, here’s what you need to know in order to choose the right shower base for your bathroom.

Pre-cast Shower Base

This type of shower base comes in various shapes and sizes, and is ready to install right out of the box. Neo angle bases are designed for corner showers, and come with a curb, tile flanges, and a built-in drain pocket. Easy enough for even the most novice DIYer to install, most manufacturers will make custom pre-cast bases that are sure to fit almost any size, shape, and drain location. Note: before you begin installation, read and review the manufacturer’s installation instructions and tips. The entire success of your project depends on a good installation of the base – don’t install them out of level or you’ll be reprimanding yourself later on down the line.

Custom Tile Shower Base

While a custom tile shower base can be built from scratch or built from a kit, it’s time consuming and can be tedious. If you wouldn’t consider yourself a handy person and don’t have a ton of patience, choose the pre-cast base, as custom tile shower bases aren’t the easiest to put together. Made by framing the outline of the shower base with standard 2 X 4 construction, many municipalities will require an inspection before you can install a custom tile shower base. The pros include the freedom to make the shower base any size you’d like, while the cons include having to seal and clean the grout often so as to avoid leaks and mold.

Acrylic Shower Base

Made by thermos-forming acrylic over a fiberglass substrate, acrylic is an extremely lightweight shower base option. Not only is it light and easy to install, but it comes in a variety of sizes and colors. If your old shower base was especially scratched, an acrylic shower base may be the right choice – the color goes a long way through the material so, if you do scratch the surface, it won’t be a different color than the rest of the base. A con to keep in mind: most household cleaners are especially caustic and can cause significant damage to the finish. Since acrylic is more expensive than fiberglass, it’s important to clean your shower without using harsh chemicals.

Fiberglass Shower Base

While fiberglass may be lightweight and less expensive, it still has an attractive gloss finish. Unfortunately, there aren’t as many choices for sizes and colors for fiberglass shower bases as there are with the other options. Since a thin gel coat is sprayed onto fiberglass shower bases, the thickness of the finish may vary from base to base. Additionally, the color is only as deep as the gel coat so scratches and nicks will reveal a color that’s different than the finish. Over a period of time, the finish tends to wear and stain and, once stained, is difficult to clean.