(ARA) – These days, you can't turn on the TV without viewing a new episode
of home improvement shows like "Trading Spaces" or "Hometime." A report
issued this year by Harvard's Joint Center for Housing Studies calls home
improvement the new "great national pastime." In 2001, Americans spent an
estimated $214 billion on home improvements, maintenance and repairs. All
indicators point to this remodeling-mania continuing for sometime.
Take a look around your own home. Is what you've been referring to as your
"time-honored home décor" really just old fashioned? If so, maybe it's
time for you to join the remodeling parade. The good news is: there are
lots of easy, low cost ways to give your home's look a nice pick-me-up.
The bathroom is one of the most popular targets for home improvement.
While any project involving plumbing tends to intimidate the average
homeowner, there is a lot of new product technology designed with the
do-it-yourselfer in mind.
One of the easiest and most cost efficient ways to spruce up a bathroom is
to replace the faucets. "Improvements like this have a huge impact on the
functional and aesthetic value of the space. You can create an entirely
new theme for your bathroom -- such as contemporary, old world, or
European -- based on the design of your faucet," says Angie Coffman,
director, Delta product marketing for Delta Faucet Company.
Before purchasing a new faucet, it's a good idea to do some preliminary
research. You may also want to consider a budget before beginning your
search, as prices can vary widely. You will find that there are many
different styles and designs in bathroom faucets. Consider ahead of time
whether you want a single-handle or a double-handle faucet. Notice how the
handles feel in the palm of your hand. Do you want something that is
delicate or more heavy-duty? Explore different spout designs and finishes
as well. Decide whether or not you want an escutcheon, the decorative
plate beneath a faucet. An escutcheon will also cover extra holes that
might be drilled in the sink.
Look for a faucet that installs easily -- you may notice language like
"quick connect " or "no adjust," indicating that minimal tools are
required. Pay close attention to the existing hole configuration on your
sink. How many are there and how far apart are they? Do you need a
single-hole, 4-inch center-set, or a wall-mounted faucet? Your
single-handle faucet may have three holes underneath, but you don't
necessarily have to replace it with another single-handle. There's a
design, called a "mini-widespread," which provides flexibility for
customers who have a single-handle faucet, but are looking to switch to a
double handle, widespread look. The Victorian Mini-widespread from Delta
is an example of a faucet that offers intricate, old-world styling in a
smaller sink setting.
Make a Lasting Improvement
Look for a design that won't soon be outdated and one that will complement
the rest of your bathroom, "one that will stand out without sticking out,"
according to Coffman. "Keep in mind that you will probably be using this
new faucet for years, so choose something that is durable, versatile, and
a brand that is considered reliable."
Installing high quality products in a bathroom will result in a high
return on your home remodeling investment. That is why it is important to
choose a faucet that offers long-lasting, worry-free performance. You want
to look for things like solid brass construction and a company that offers
a lifetime limited warranty, along with customer support, in case you have
questions while installing the faucet yourself.
Now that you are ready to give your bathroom the facelift it has been
waiting for, have a few tools handy for the installation. A pair of
adjustable pliers, along with an Allen wrench and basin wrench, will
probably be necessary. Also pick up some silicone or caulk, and Teflon
tape. Always double check the instructions on your faucet for any other
tools or supplies needed.
If you are looking for additional support, try consulting your local home
improvement store. Or, check out manufacturer Web sites, such as
deltafaucet.com, for installation tips. As you join the millions of
Americans remodeling their homes this year, choose your projects wisely
and remember that even seemingly small changes, like a bathroom fixture
upgrade, can add value to your home.
Courtesy of ARA Content
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Courtesy of ARA Content
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