Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

The Benefits Of Becoming A Contractor

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:00:52 +0000

Being a contractor has several benefits, so why not consider venturing into this field if you think you have the skill?

1. Contractors get more money. When we look for a job venture, the first thing we usually consider is the salary we can earn. Compared to other professions, a contractor might earn more money since the payment scheme is usually done in an hourly basis. As such, the more hours you spend working, the more money comes in plus you also get the privilege of overtime pay.

2. Contractors have tax benefit. Another good thing about this profession is the tax benefit given to contractors. This is particularly true of you run your own business in the field.

3. There’s a great deal of variation in the job. Since contractors change jobs frequently, contracts usually last for 6 to twelve months or one year. Depending on the project at hand, the duration and terms and conditions of the contract would vary. Nevertheless, the job provides variations so you won’t easily get bored. Each project would be an exciting and meaningful learning experience on your part.

4. More flexible. Contracting is a more flexible job compared to other professions. When you’re a freelance contractor for instance, you have more freedom as to your work schedule as well as the terms and conditions stated in your contract. You also have more flexibility as to selecting your clients. You can even do other jobs while contracting if your schedule allows it.

5. The job allows you to further develop your skills as a contractor. When you are in this field, you get to work with various sectors in the industry. This way, you learn new skills, work style management, as well as enhance your experience on various products and services as you work with different companies. When you’re a freelance contractor, you are not bound to only one employer which is very advantageous because you can develop your personal skills through your experience.

Becoming a contractor isn’t for everyone, but if you truly enjoy fixing things around the house or even find yourself as a handyman, you may be able to make great amounts of money just by using your talents. So, if you’re looking to put your talents to work, have a flexible schedule or even work a job that’s never repetitive, contracting work may be something to consider!

This guest post is written specifically for www.UniqueVanities.com by the writer of MyJobApps.com, a website that offers 1,000+ job descriptions, salaries, profiles, and much more.

The Benefits Of Becoming A Contractor is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

How to Make Your Home Pet Friendly By Adria Saracino

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:00:19 +0000

Children will eventually learn to avoid hazards in the home, but unfortunately pets will most likely always be curious. Thus, pet-proofing your home is essential to keeping your pets safe.

From quick fixes to remodeling projects, here are six ways you can ensure your home is pet friendly.

1. Mind Your Curtains

Make sure curtains don’t touch the ground to avoid nibbling pets. Also, make sure to secure blind strings to avoid strangulation.

2. Thoroughly Clean All Spills

Especially if you have a baby, food inevitably ends up on your floor sometimes. Carpets can trap these odors if not cleaned thoroughly, luring pets to bite the material in an attempt to get a treat. If you spill on your carpet, make sure to use carpet cleaner and allow the area to thoroughly dry.

3. Secure Your Plants

Did you know that lilies are toxic to cats? Unbeknownst to a lot of homeowners, some varieties of plants can be poisonous to pets when ingested so make sure they are out of reach. For cats, secure vases in a closet when you are not home as they can easily jump onto a table when unattended.

4. Let People Know You Have Pets

Display a sticker on your window alerting people you have pets. This not only can discourage burglary, but can let public safety officials know there are pets inside the home in the case of fire or emergency.

5. Emergency Kits Apply to Your Pets, Too

Having an emergency kit for your whole family, including pets, is important. Make sure to keep all the kits together in a secure place that is easily accessible, and make sure your whole family knows where it is. Some things to keep in the kit especially for your pets include a pet care guide book, a disposable litter can (aluminum trays, for example) and/or paper towels to clean up messes, at least 7 days’ worth of pet food, and an extra water bowl. For a more thorough list of what to make sure is in your kit for your pet, consult this disaster relief kit checklist from the ASPCA.

6. Remodeling? Keep Your Pets in Mind

If you are on the market for a remodel, consult with your contractor and/or designer to see how you can make the space both functional and exciting for your pet. For example, a built in for water and food bowls on a kitchen island is both functional and comfortable for animals, who won’t have to bend over to ground level to ingest food or water (which can be harmful to their digestion) or perhaps an extra water dish built into your 48 inch bathroom vanity. You are only limited by your own imagination!

Adria Saracino is a freelancer, blogger, and animal lover. You can find her writing for Embrace pet insurance about topics ranging from pet care to dog insurance. She is a proud owner of a German Shepherd/Australia Sheep Dog mix named Creatos.

How to Make Your Home Pet Friendly By Adria Saracino is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

5 Ways to Recycle Packaging Materials

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 14:00:47 +0000

Most of us have ordered something online and been surprised at the amount of packaging that comes along with it. Often times, it begs the question “Are we paying more for the product or the packaging?” (For those of you who haven’t received something with an extraneous amount of packaging—just trust us; it’s ridiculous.) Jessica Taylor-Cassan posted in a 2007 article that about 50% of landfill waste comes from packaging. It scares us to think what that statistic is now. And while we can’t answer the question of what we’re paying more for, there is one we can. What can we do with all of this packaging material?

Wooden Pallets

Wooden pallets can be dropped off at your local Home Depot or Lowes for re-use. Fall is a less than a breath away now it seems; so if you’ll be looking for campfire wood, these pallets can also make for a great fire. Just be sure to remove all the nails before you get started. Also, we found an idea from this site that we loved—make them into wall mounted shelves! I personally will be doing this next month when I move into my new place! Simply a brilliant and unique idea!

Cardboard

Most curbside recycling accepts cardboard, but if you’ve been shipped something huge, this may not be an option for you. Consider using it as a protective mat for your kids while they are doing art projects. Or donate it to a local school’s art department. We’ve also found that larger cardboard boxes are a favorite play/sleeping grounds for cats. So if you’re an animal lover, you could convert a corner for this box to be used by the furry members of your family.

Styrofoam Peanuts

Uggghh. Just the name alone forces us to shudder. For the most part, Styrofoam packing peanuts are NOT able to be recycled—rather, re-used. Because of the necessity and the environmental concern, there are biodegradable packing peanuts now being made, and will dissolve in water. For those that aren’t—here are a few ideas. Use them to fill and line your favorite planters or stuff and fill pet pillows. Donate them to your local shipping stores to be re-used. Or very simply, reuse them yourself the next time you need to ship something out!

Bubble Wrap

This one is simple if you have children. Unpackage the item, pop a “test” bubble, and then hand over to your younger kids. I am an older kid myself, and it seems like not long ago that I was still entertained by popping those bubbles. The end result can be recycled, so just include that in your curbside pickup. However, if a headache is pressing and you don’t want to hear a constant “Pop! Pop! Pop!” save them and use them as a great insulator in coolers before your next family picnic. Or again, very simply, use them again yourself when shipping your next item!

Foam (Polystyrene) Packaging

This you would most commonly see if you were to receive electronics or anything else that needs a molded packaging to ship. While not many places offer recycling of this type, it is available in more and more places each year. To find out more about this, visit http://www.recyclepefoam.com/ If this doesn’t help you, you can always break it down and use it as you would packing peanuts in planters or use it as the base to sculpt around in art projects.

Hillary Hansen is a featured writer for the site UniqueMirrorsOnline.com, where you can find all sorts of unique mirrors for your home—from vanity to floor mirrors—and all the types in between!

5 Ways to Recycle Packaging Materials is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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Know How Your Air Conditioning System Works

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:00:37 +0000

With the adverse effects of the global warming, the earth is getting hotter day by day. If you look at any places from any parts of the world, you can find that people are having lots of trouble due to the increase in the global temperature. It can also be seen that our atmosphere is becoming polluted for the increase in the number of motor vehicles. These motor vehicles emit harmful particles which causes severe damage to our health. The rise in the humidity level can also be a problem for the people of some regions of the world. In order to get rid of these problems, people are now depending on the air conditioning system for their home or office environment.

Before you install your air conditioning system to comfort your senses, you can have some knowledge on how this mechanical appliance works.

At first, it takes some polluted air inside the equipment from the room environment.

It then filters the polluted air through the built in filter. There the harmful particles will be separated from the air.

It then sends the air through the metallic plates. These metallic plates have the same temperature which you must have fixed when you have switched on this appliance. While the air passes through these plates, the heat gets exchanged between the air and the metal plates. Thus the air gets cooler after it crosses these metallic plates.

After that, the air passes through a high pressure pipe which reduces the volume of the air. Thus the water particles get partially removed from the air.

At last, the air conditioning system throws the air with the high capacity motor towards your room. In this way, you can reduce the humidity level from your room environment while you can achieve an ambience with lesser harmful elements and you can enjoy a cooler and soothing environment according to your personal preferences.

Thanks, Kyla for this post for UniqueVanities.com, your one-stop shop for single vanities no tops!

Know How Your Air Conditioning System Works is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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Funky New Furniture Piece!

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:00:32 +0000

We know that remodeling a bathroom is a hard job. And often times, what’s harder still is picking out the items to go into your remodel. That’s why here at UniqueVanities.com, we add new items to our site as often as possible to give you as many choices as possible to help in your renovation. After all, the bathroom vanity is the central focal point of your bathroom—so we want you to love it! Today, we thought we’d feature a funky new modern furniture piece we added to our site. Measuring 48 inches, it’s a 48 bath vanity that offers not only storage space, but counter space as well. The furniture style of the cabinet paired with the vessel sink and single hole faucet work well to mesh the modern and the traditional styles that many people can’t decide between. We hope you like it as much as we do! And, as always, should you have any questions on any of our items—please don’t hesitate to call 866-526-1843!

Funky New Furniture Piece! is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

How Detailed Should Home Improvement Contracts Be?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 14:00:14 +0000

In our last post, we highlighted the reasons a homeowner would want to end a home improvement contract. In this one, we thought we’d give you a few tips on making a contract so that, hopefully, you don’t have to end it! As with any contract, the more detailed it is, the better. You’ll want to make sure every possible scenario of the project and all its possible complexities are explained up front and in writing. It’s important to include a detailed scope of the work you want completed, materials that will be used, and allowances for materials not picked up beforehand (like the faucets and drains and counter that weren’t included when you purchased your double vanity no top.) It is also important to include a timeline that you can reasonably expect the various projects to be completed on and what happens if hidden damages occur (like termite or water damage or structural deficiencies.) You’ll want to layout not only a detailed schedule of the projects to be handled, but also a payment schedule as well. You don’t work for free, so understand that your Contractor won’t continue to work without payment either. Finally, you should also take into consideration how your Contractor can expect to handle any extra work or a change in the work order, as well as any local laws that concern the project. Having a thorough document prepared and followed will not only make the job progress easier, but will also protect you and your investment should issues arise.

Text to appear underneath image: We thought we’d give a much needed “shout out” to the General Contractor that supplies us with all this useful information. Randy, YOU ROCK! For more information about renovations in the Dallas, TX area visit http://www.rsquaredrenovations.com/.

How Detailed Should Home Improvement Contracts Be? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Is It Possible To Get Out Of A Home Improvement Contract?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:00:59 +0000

The simple answer here is: yes. Depending on the reason you are trying to get out of the contract makes the answer more difficult. If both parties agree to end the agreement, then it is only a matter of settling up the financial part of the project. However, if the Contractor is doing poor work but doesn’t think so, then it may lead to a legal battle. Don’t shy away from this battle though. If you have proof that the job isn’t being done properly, then essentially it’s your money and your home that you’ll be fighting for. Both things are good causes. We asked our on-staff General Contractor what the biggest reasons he’s seen to end a contract are. He listed poor work, majorly behind schedule, unforeseen health issues, running out of money, and surprisingly, divorce! If you’ve got a valid reason to end a home improvement contract, begin by speaking frankly with your Contractor. In the end he/she is just a regular person too, and (hopefully) will understand your reasoning, and be able to work out an amicable end to your contract.

If you’re ready to continue your home remodel project and not end it, be sure to check out our site to find options in 72 inch bath vanities for the bathroom project of your renovation!

Is It Possible To Get Out Of A Home Improvement Contract? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

How To Fix A Drafty Window Or Door

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:00:34 +0000

If you’re like me, you live in an older home. While windows are one of the items on my renovations list, they’re not the first. So as I was lounging on my couch the other day and noticed a slight draft coming from my window, I figured I’d ask our handy General Contractor for some tips on how to remedy that situation and the same problem I’ve noticed with the door. Drafts are usually caused by one of two problems. The first of which could be the caulking on the outside of the window frame. Caulk can be purchased at any Home Improvement store and is easily applied. The other option is the weather stripping on the window. This is usually the more common problem, as over time, the seal on weather stripping breaks down. Hence, a draft. Weather stripping can also be purchased at any local home store and is just as easy to apply. Additionally, it’s a good idea to check your windows and doors before the cold season hits, as these areas are a major source of heat loss for your home if they’re not properly maintained. (Read: Fix the draft=help with your heating bill!)

Notice a draft while you were brushing your teeth at your 72 bathroom vanity? There’s nothing worse than stepping out of a hot shower into a cold bathroom—so check your windows there too!

How To Fix A Drafty Window Or Door is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

How To Fix A Hole In A Wooden Door?

Keeping It Simple with Another 5 Star vanity!

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 14:00:31 +0000

Do you have a small bathroom you are trying to remodel? Are you looking for a simple vanity that won’t overpower the space, yet something that’s stylish enough to stand the ever-changing trends of the times? If you answered yes to these questions, this single bathroom vanity may be the choice for you. It’s another one of our popular sellers (and a 5 star rated one, at that) so we figured we’d feature it in this product spotlight. Here are some of the good things the clients had to say that purchased this item!

J. Kane said: “5 stars: all was good! Order process was great, delivery was easy and the vanity is fabulous!”

K. Leary said: “Excellent, personal customer service, fast shipping! Quality products, fair pricing.”

If this one is not up your alley, be sure to check our page for other options! We’ve got something for every style, size, and budget!

Keeping It Simple with Another 5 Star vanity! is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Hire A Contractor Or Act As One Yourself?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 14:00:09 +0000

Many people who are considering doing major home renovations often wonder if it’s a better idea to hire specialists for all the areas that need to be redone and oversee the project themselves. Alternately, they wonder if hiring a General Contractor is the better idea and/or worth the expense. There are pros and cons to each side of this dilemma. What it really comes down to is time and knowledge. If the homeowner has the time to stay home all day and the knowledge to float between specialists to make sure each project is being done correctly, then by all means, hiring a Contractor is an expense that could be cut. If the homeowner doesn’t have the time or experience, however, a General Contractor is the way to go. He/She is there to ensure a quality job is done in all aspects of the renovation and that the job is done on time. This takes much of the stress s off of the homeowner as there is only one person he/she needs to have reporting to him/her. The cost of removing this stress? Usually you can expect to pay a contractor fee of 15 to 35%.

If you’ve decided that you need a Contractor to oversee your home remodel, but don’t want to be completely left out of the project, ask him to leave a few tasks for you, like installing the unique vanity mirror you picked out!

Hire A Contractor Or Act As One Yourself? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

How to Set up a Patio for Solar Panels

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 14:00:51 +0000

Homeowners are creating ways to generate solar power in neighborhoods around the nation. Relieving some of the stress on the electric bill and the grid itself is a bonus, but still being able to enjoy the shady area under the patio cover is even better.

With a solar patio cover, the sun’s rays can be harnessed to run lights and other popular features used in the summer. Connecting the panels to the municipal grid system also helps offset the energy usage in your home as well. Programs are available to host a simple set up in most cities. A usual installation of a solar paneled grid of average size which is approximately 300 to 500 square feet will produce an energy flow of about 250-400 kwh. Not too shabby for a small patio size cover, with the space traditionally being unused most of the year. The solar patio cover won’t cure our issues with the energy crisis, but it can contribute to a reduction in the energy we use.

Living in cooperation with the planet and saving money can both be met in the installation of a patio cover. The cover can be installed professionally or if you know what you’re doing, installing it yourself is a great project to do on the weekends. Connecting the power to the grid and knowing how to connect all the electrical inverters might be a job for a professional.

However, once the solar panels are in place and the grid connection is made, you’re good to go. The advantage of the solar panel placement and use is that the photovoltaic systems are affordable, relatively speaking. They are lightweight and lie low to generate the power that can supply lighting or other features on the patio or connect it to the grid for savings on an all round supply of electricity. The savings are great, however the system will cost several thousands of dollars with installation charges.

To begin with, a smaller project that may energize you for the larger patio cover experiment is to attach an iPod deck to a solar paneled patio set to give you music while you work on your solar energy home.

With a few solar panels attached under the umbrella of a patio set allows for the wiring to be tacked down to the underside of the table. The iPod can be housed in a weatherproof case, where it is attached to the speakers.

Saving energy is becoming a necessity, not just a weekend experiment. No matter the amount of electricity you save by putting together an electricity producing element, it is more than your neighbor has probably accomplished. One house at a time can make a huge difference in our electricity usage!

About the author: E.F. blogs for the solar panels blog to help people learn how to save energy and money and was kind enough to submit this post for UniqueVanities.com! Thanks again!

How to Set up a Patio for Solar Panels is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Is it really necessary to do a repair, replacement, or remodel according to building code?

Must Haves In Every Homeowner’s Toolkit

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 14:00:40 +0000

Here at UniqueVanities.com, we consider ourselves fairly handy. One question one of our “not-so-handy” employees recently asked was what she should keep in her toolkit. She has recently moved out on her own, and is trying to be handier around the house. The tools we told her to include (and you should make sure you have on too) are:

Hammer
Phillips AND flat head screwdriver
Pliers AND side cut pliers
Flat/pry bar
Adjustable wrench
Battery and/or electric drill
Razor knife

So run out to your garage and check! Do you have all the components we listed? What are some you feel are must-haves that we didn’t include? Do tell!

Need some guidance using those tools to install your 48 inch bath vanity? Call the toll free number on our site for design and installation help!

Must Haves In Every Homeowner’s Toolkit is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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HVAC Do’s and Don’ts

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 14:00:08 +0000

Our HVAC systems are extremely important to the overall comfort level of our homes. From the moment that HVAC is installed, it requires routine maintenance and balancing to ensure the proper performance levels are achieved. Although it’s easy want to be your own handyman sometimes, when it comes to your home heating, cooling and ventilation system, it’s important to be extremely careful. The following are HVAC do’s and don’ts that you should strictly follow.

The Don’ts

Don’t… Purchase a unit too large for your home. It just wastes energy and isn’t efficient.
Don’t… Install a heating or cooling unit on your own. Enlist the help of a professional.
Don’t… Cover your condenser (outdoor A/C unit) in the winter to protect it from rain. This will cause more damage than good.
Don’t… Regularly turn your thermostat up or down to overcompensate for temperature imbalances. This could compromise your system and raise your utility bill.
Don’t… switch to a new type of system unless there is sufficient space for the new systems or an appropriate place to put it.

The Do’s

Do… Replace the air filter every three months. Pleated air filters are typically the best.
Do… Keep your condenser dry. It should never be covered, though, even when it rains.
Do… Have a regular maintenance program to extend equipment life and to ensure proper performance.
Do… Keep the return grille free and uncovered to ensure proper air flow.

There isn’t a perfect heating, ventilation and air conditioning system that exists, which makes it even more important for people to treat their HVAC system correctly if they want it work effectively and last longer. Not to mention, by following these HVAC do’s and don’ts, you will likely save money on heating and cooling costs as well as on repair and replacement costs. So, keep your house happy and healthy and follow these simple tips to keeping your HVAC in tip-top shape.

This article was written exclusively for Unique Vanities by Mitchell Mechanical, a leading Atlanta HVAC company focused on serving the heating and cooling needs of metro-Atlanta and North Georgia since 1992. We pride ourselves on our knowledgeable staff and our customer first approach. Our technicians receive the most up to date training available and we stay on the forefront of home comfort technology to best serve our customers’ needs.

HVAC Do’s and Don’ts is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

How to Install a Laminate Floor that Will Look Great in Your Bathroom

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 14:00:10 +0000

Laminate flooring is a cost-effective, attractive option for bathroom flooring that works well with a variety of bathroom vanity styles. Because the final look of your bathroom depends upon how each component works together, finding a flooring material and bathroom vanity design that complement one another is essential. The variety of styles, colors and patterns available with cheap laminate flooring, plus its ease-of-care, make laminate flooring the optimal choice for your bathroom-remodeling project.

If you enjoy do-it-yourself projects but haven’t tackled laminate flooring before, don’t worry. Our detailed, step-by-step instructions will help you install your laminate flooring for the perfect finish to your bathroom renovation.

Evaluate Existent Flooring

Many times, laminate flooring can be laid directly over the existent flooring materials. Although this certainly makes the job easier, it’s not always the best route to go. Before you decide to do this, it’s important to evaluate the existing flooring materials in your bathroom.

Look for any buckles, bumps, peaks or valleys in the existing floor. If there are any areas on the current flooring that aren’t smooth in appearance when you look at standing level and floor level, it’s better to proceed with caution. Removing old tile or carpeting isn’t the most fun part of the project, but it will result in a more beautiful, longer-lasting laminate floor.

If you live in one of those old houses with from the 1970s when carpeting the bathroom seemed like a good idea, you can remove the carpeting by following these simple steps:

Step 1: Grasp the corner of the carpet and pull it away from the tack strip and toward you.

Step 2: Use a utility knife to cut a 3-foot strip and roll up the removed carpet.

Step 3: Repeat the first two steps to remove the remainder of the carpet, then repeat the procedure to remove the padding.

Installation Preparations

Time spent preparing for your laminate flooring installation is just as important as the time you spend installing it. An ill-prepared floor surface can result in a floor that buckles or bulges, which doesn’t complement your bathroom vanity or anything else in the bathroom. Prepare your bathroom floor with these steps:

Step 1: Level all bumps and valleys, and fill any holes with a floor patching material.

Step 2: Remove the baseboards, if necessary.

Step 3: Measure the floor space you plan to cover. Add 10 to 20 percent to the total area to accommodate for waste or mis-cuts.

Avoid the placement of a narrow board at the finishing wall by measuring the distance from the starting wall to the finishing wall. Divide the distance by the width of one board. To achieve balance, add the leftover amount to the width of one board and divide by two.

Let the laminate flooring material acclimate to the bathroom temperature and humidity for 24 hours.

Install Your Laminate Flooring

Step 1: Lay padding with a vapor barrier, if installing your laminate floor over a concrete subfloor.

Step 2: Place one piece of laminate flooring on the subfloor, against the door jam. Use a coping or flat saw, laid flat on the laminate floor, to cut the door jam parallel to the flooring material.

Step 3: Begin installing the laminate flooring materials parallel to the longest wall in your bathroom. Position a spacer along the wall at 12-inch intervals. Push the first laminate board against the spacers. The spacers accommodate for contraction and expansion of the flooring later.

Step 4: Dry-fit your first three boards so you can trace around contours for the toilet, bathtub and modern bath vanity. Fit the laminate boards together, using the locking mechanism or glue, as specified by the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure the boards are securely fitted together by tapping each board into place with a tapping block.

Step 5: Stagger the joints for each subsequent board by six to eight inches to prevent weakness in the floor and prevent one even seam.

Step 6: To trim the last laminate board to fit lay a board on top of the last one installed. Position the last plank on top of that. Place a third board over the last board, lining it up directly over the second to the last plank so the last board to be installed sits in the middle, like a sandwich. Draw a line on the last plank, using the edge of the other two boards as your guide.

Step 7: Install the trimmed board and enjoy your new laminate floor.

The versatility of laminate flooring allows you to choose a bathroom vanity that complements your decor as well as your flooring material. Whether you choose a conventional vanity or one with a furniture or antique style, your newly remodeled bathroom is sure to become a showpiece in your home.

How to Install a Laminate Floor that Will Look Great in Your Bathroom is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

How To Use Lighting In Each Room In Your Home

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 14:00:41 +0000

Ever wonder which type of lamps you should put where in your home? Real Simple offered a quick reference guide to lighting in your home. Their author, Sarah Stebbins, never disappoints when it comes to delivering good, useable information in a short snippet on the page. Here are her tips on how to light 5 common rooms in your home.

The living room—Sarah mentions to light 3 of the 4 corners, using one of these to focus on an object (a work of art, a plant, etc.) When lighting this room, use a combo of table and floor lamps, so that you have light shining both upward and downward. Use 3-way switches on your downward facing lamps and a dimmer for any overhead.
The dining room—Use a eye-catching large chandelier to provide light above the table. Don’t go over 100 total watts though and save your sunglasses for outside. You can use small table lamps or beautiful wall sconces elsewhere in the room to give the space additional subtle lighting.
The kitchen—Sarah recommends using overhead lighting on a dimmer. (This way you can turn it up when you are cooking or cleaning) Additionally, you can add lower sources of lights to help work areas. These can include pendants or even under cabinet lighting (usually the best bet.)
The bedroom—You’re shooting for a cozy look here. Stubbins advises using reading lamps or sconces by, but not pointing at, the bed. If you have overhead lighting, make use of a dimmer here as well.
The bathroom—In this room, try side lighting, like a pair of sconces next to the mirror. An overhead light is nice to have as well for use in cleaning, and a light over the shower is helpful for this purpose as well.

How To Use Lighting In Each Room In Your Home is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Is It Possible To Make A Glass Vessel Sink Out Of A Large Bowl?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 14:00:01 +0000

We consider ourselves thrifty folks here at UniqueVanities.com. Recently, I found a really neat looking large bowl at a garage sale. I couldn’t help but wonder if there was a possibility to make it into a funky vessel sink to use in my half bath. So, having no real construction experience, I emailed our on-staff General Contractor. Turns out, you can! First, the type of bowl you use needs to be considered. If you use something that’s made out a thin glass, the chances that you could chip or break it altogether increase exponentially. Next, you’re probably not going to want to do the cutting yourself. Unless you’re a skilled tradesperson in that area, a glass maker/cutter would be the person to call. Make sure they file the edges of the hole they cut, so if you remove the drain to unclog, remove hair, etc, you won’t cut yourself. Also, make sure to take in the exact measurements that you will need to be cut to fit a drain that you’ve picked out. It’s easier to do it this way than to try to find a drain to fit a hole that’s already cut. Finally, make sure you’ve purchased a mounting ring to go between the sink and the surface you are putting it on. Then install…and enjoy!

Is It Possible To Make A Glass Vessel Sink Out Of A Large Bowl? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Home Design – A DIY Project?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 14:00:51 +0000

Thinking of remodeling your home? Building a new one? Whatever path you may take, there is a decent probability that you will consider tackling the design portion on your own. Before I go any further, I am going to say that I have worked for both a remodeling design/build firm as well as for a high end custom home design/build contractor.

This is not to say that I think you should go with a firm that will do the design for you. I just have a lot of previous experience with companies that do this and have seen a lot of horror stories of people thinking they have the ability to handle it on their own. That aside, doing it yourself is not always a bad idea. Here are some main points to consider if you think you have the skills to tackle this big design task, not the building aspect, just the design

What is your timeline?

A common misconception I have observed while working as a contractor is the idea that the time it takes to build a home is pretty standard. From a single story Ranch to a three story Victorian with a million rooms. There were always the clients that felt 6-8 months was how long it took to build a home. If you are going to work on your own to come up with the design of what you want your new home to be, don’t forget to consider that the more complex it is; the longer it will take. You may not have that much time to wait.

What is your Budget?

This is basically the same idea as above. If you are going to design a kitchen encased in marble you may have to sell at least one of your kids to afford it. In addition, a large chandelier

in every room may not be appropriate. Do your research regarding costs. There are many great resources on the web and it is not too hard to get a decent idea of what things will cost. You can even call up vendors (pretending to be a contractor) and ask them about costs for a project you are considering.

Where do you live?

Though the answer to this is obvious, the implications are not always. Ever wonder why there are so many boring rectangle houses in the Midwest? Yep, if you said that it was because it is cold up here and the cost of heating a home in cold climates is directly proportional to the exterior exposure (ie. the amount of exterior walls). If you want to design a sprawling Spanish style home you may want to consider a move to Scottsdale.

What can’t you do on your own?

There are some portions of the design that you should leave to the pro’s. This includes structural, electrical and plumbing. In my opinion, the best way to try and tackle designing your own home is to come up with detailed ideas of what you want and then working with these professionals to build something that the Big Bad Wolf can’t blow over.

Ryan Sandberg writes for his blog “thedesignupdate” and occasionally for people like us too! Thanks, Ryan!

Home Design – A DIY Project? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

A Throwback For Your Christmas Eve—Twas The Night Before Christmas

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 14:00:44 +0000

By: Clement Moore

Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that St Nicholas soon would be there.

The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads.
And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap,
Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap.

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow
Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below.
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But a miniature sleigh, and eight tinny reindeer.

With a little old driver, so lively and quick,
I knew in a moment it must be St Nick.
More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,
And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name!

“Now Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen!
On, Comet! On, Cupid! on, on Donner and Blitzen!
To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!
Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!”

As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,
When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky.
So up to the house-top the coursers they flew,
With the sleigh full of Toys, and St Nicholas too.

And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof
The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.
As I drew in my head, and was turning around,
Down the chimney St Nicholas came with a bound.

He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,
And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot.
A bundle of Toys he had flung on his back,
And he looked like a peddler, just opening his pack.

His eyes-how they twinkled! his dimples how merry!
His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!
His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,
And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow.

The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,
And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath.
He had a broad face and a little round belly,
That shook when he laughed, like a bowlful of jelly!

He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,
And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself!
A wink of his eye and a twist of his head,
Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.

He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,
And filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk.
And laying his finger aside of his nose,
And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose!

He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,
And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.
But I heard him exclaim, ‘ere he drove out of sight,
“Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!”

A Throwback For Your Christmas Eve—Twas The Night Before Christmas is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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Modern Vs. Outdated – What To Do!

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 14:00:57 +0000

We’ve asked our General Contractor in the past to give us ideas of the latest, hot trends in the remodeling industry as he sees them. This month, we thought we’d pick his brain on which trends we should avoid. Some of us, me included, have moments where we are stuck loving past trends. So I appreciate all the help I can get! Some of his suggestions of things to avoid were fairly obvious, but still bear repeating. For example, making a room smaller (for whatever reason) is not a trend to repeat anymore. Modern homes have wide open spaces and open floorplans. In addition, another obvious one would be to lower ceilings. New homes have high ceilings set off by elegant crown molding. Many people are also opting to avoid putting carpet in new remodels, opting instead for the easy to clean, lovely to look at, wood flooring. Many people are even modernizing their homes to have the wood flooring accent their modern or traditional bath vanity! Finally, the last idea he said to avoid would be to avoid closing off the garage to add more living space. If you find you need the extra space, consider building an addition first. A garage has a function to that is essential to most families too. I know I relish the fact that I no longer have to scrape my car in the winter!

Modern Vs. Outdated – What To Do! is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Another 5 Star Review!

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 14:00:57 +0000

Here at UniqueVanities.com, we like to feature client comments as a way to better help you choose what will become the focal point of your bathroom. Today, we thought we would feature another one of our best sellers. This time around we figured we’d feature a smaller double sink vanity. Many people are faced with finding a double vanity that will fit into a smaller bathroom. Here’s one of the options that has pleased many a client—and a few of their thoughts to back up the claim!

D. Ramirez said: “Finding a double vanity smaller than 60″ was near impossible until I went online. For half the price, I found this beautiful piece. I have yet to install it as we still under construction but the vanity is very impressive. The item is exactly as pictured. The company was great to work with. They informed me of everything to expect. I would definitely order from them again.

S. Barton said: “Received the vanity in excellent condition. Installation went very well. Impressed at the construction value. Drawers are top notch as they “snap” in place to ensure complete closure. Truly the centerpiece of our new bathroom. Only 52 inches wide with 2 sinks but there is plenty of counter space for the AM bathroom rituals and appliances. Also more than enough room in the center drawers and twin cabinets for other necessities. The rounded drawers and counter provide a classy feel. We love our new vanity. Great company. Great price as compared to other websites. Definitely recommended.

Another 5 Star Review! is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

What’s The Scoop On Water Walls

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 14:00:07 +0000

Many homeowners recently are looking for ways to bring the elements of the outdoors in. One way to beautifully accomplish this is by installing a water wall. Installing one of these items is relatively easy. You ‘d hang it just as you would a painting, but making sure the correct plumbing fixtures are in place first. These are great for modern living rooms, entry ways, or even smaller versions for use in modern bathrooms opposite a unique glass vessel sink. Not only do they provide a great visual, but water walls are also great for relaxation. The soothing sounds of trickling water aid many in calming techniques for people all across the globe. They do require regular maintenance and cleaning, as you would with any other fixture in your home, but the benefits and beauty of this item are truly amazing.

What’s The Scoop On Water Walls is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Great 5 Star Vanity Perfect For A Small Bathroom!

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 14:00:47 +0000

In today’s post, we thought we would feature one of our best sellers. This 18 inch single sink vanity is perfect for small bathrooms. Each reviewer that submitted gave it 5/5 stars! R.Rayburn from Florida called it “the star of his tiny bathroom.” He also was quoted saying “everything about this vanity works perfectly in this small bathroom setting. The fit and finish are terrific and the size helps make the room look larger than it is. My wife was able to play off of the dark wood finish with decorative accents around the room!” We love to hear it! With the open air area underneath, this vanity is perfect for a bath that doesn’t need a heavy looking piece of furniture like a bathroom cabinet. And to top it off, you’ve still got a shelf underneath for some storage!

Great 5 Star Vanity Perfect For A Small Bathroom! is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Make Your Own Fire Pit!

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 14:00:33 +0000

Have you ever thought of building your own firepit to enjoy in your backyard? Do you wonder how to do it? It’s not as difficult as you may think! Fresh Home Magazine offered a quick “how-to” we thought we’d share with you!

First you’ll need to get your supplies—24 granite retaining wall stones and sand. They recommend 6 ½”X8”X14”, 70 pound stones for use in this project. They mentioned that you can use any nonporous stone—but to stay away from porous stones as they can get hot enough to crack or even explode! (EEK!)

Next, you’ll want to mark a circle in your yard between 4-5 feet in diameter. You’ll want to clear the area of grass and soil to about 2 inches down. Take your sand and spread it about an inch deep over your cleared area. Smooth the surface. You’ll want to start from the outer edge of your area and lay the blocks around. Make sure you allow small gaps for air to escape and also that the stones sit flat. (You may have to shimmy them around in the spot to make them sit flatter.)

When you are adding the second layer of stones, make sure to place them so the middle of the block sits on the joints of the two underneath. Again here, you’ll want to make sure the stones sit flat. If they don’t you may need to do some adjusting to the layer underneath to get it right. Finally, once the circle is complete, add a few inches of your sand inside the pit to raise the level where the fire will be.

Thanks to our sponsor UniqueVanities.com, where you can find a vanity in every style and size for your remodel!

Make Your Own Fire Pit! is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

How To Fix A Hole In A Wooden Door?

Sandpaper Repurposed!

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 14:00:37 +0000

A new favorite is emerging! Fresh Home Magazine is proving to be a great source for helpful tidbits for the home. While browsing in a back issue, we found a great sidebar containing creative uses for sandpaper. Check these out the next time you are in a pinch with one of these items around your home!

Got a wooden chopping board that won’t come clean? Try lightly sanding the surface with fine-grit sandpaper. You’ll find the stained food easily removed! When you’re finished, though, coat the wood with olive oil to keep it from drying out.
Use a piece of sandpaper on that stubborn jar lid for an easy open!
Are your kitchen shears not as sharp as they could be? Instead of investing in an expensive sharpener, use a piece of medium-grit sandpaper and swipe repeatedly away from the center. Be careful though, you’ll be surprised at how sharp the results are!
Hard water stains on your toilet, the sink of your 30 inch bathroom vanity, or your shower? Use the finest grit sandpaper to remove these stains. Clean the area as usual first, then rub the sandpaper lightly in circular motions until the stains disappear!

Thanks to our friends at UniqueBathVanities.com for directing us to these tidbits!

Sandpaper Repurposed! is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

How To Repair Scratches And Gouges In Wood Elements At Home

How To Install Hardwood Floors

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 14:00:00 +0000

Most people love the look of a beautiful hardwood floor. In addition, most people are wary of the cost. One of the ways to cut down the cost of having one of these floors installed is very simply, to do it yourself. To begin, you’re going to want to define the direction you want the wood to run. It is best to lay down a vapor barrier of some sort first. We recommend 30 weight tar paper. Next, use a chalk line to make a straight line for where you are going to be setting the first row of wood flooring. Once this is nailed down and secured, you can begin to move on the rest of it. Wood flooring is all tung and groove on the ends and sides. You can nail the pieces in the tung so that the nails are hidden by the next row. There is a pneumatic tool made especially for nailing wood flooring together. You hit it with a rubber hammer and it knocks the boards tight together and shoots either a nail or a staple into the tung of the wood at the same time. This will save you a lot of time during the install, but isn’t easy on the wallet.

To find a beautiful bathroom cabinet to compliment your new wood flooring, make sure to check us out online! We have a variety of options for both the double and single bathroom vanity!

How To Install Hardwood Floors is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

No Master Bath? Well . . . Not Yet

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 14:00:39 +0000

What an economy—my wife and I are moving in to our first house, and the only options we can afford are short sales. Fortunately for us, that means that we have a lot of options. Few houses in our price range, however, don’t have master baths. To us, that’s essential. Several houses, however, have the bathroom right next to the would-be master bath.

Now that we’ve picked out our house and begun the process, we’ve also been into 203k loans, reconstruction, and lots of tools for me. Now my childhood dream comes true—I get to put holes in the wall, and I don’t even have to feel bad.

Here’s the goal: Put a second door into the bathroom from the master bedroom. The 203k loan is taking care of the carpeting, flooring, and even some of the paint that is going throughout the house. But a door? That’s cheap.

The first step is to identify the studs in your wall. Moving a sink is difficult, but moving a stud is relatively easy. Your typical home will have 2×4 studs spaced about two feet apart, so—if possible—find a space where you can remove one stud to give your doorframe 4’ 2” of space.

Measure off the door frame, grab a sawzall (reciprocal saw), and take off your drywall. You don’t want to just start ripping off the drywall, because you may start pulling it away from other areas of the wall and develop more repair issues than you need. When you can see through to the bathroom, take out your studs. Depending on your frame, you may want to put in a brace in the top of your hole (just take your discarded 2×4 for the extra plank).

Finally, put in your door frame, secure it, and then spackle the outer edges to smooth the transition between the wall and the door frame. Put in a little paint, and you’re done! Now your master bedroom has a “master bath,” and your budget barely noticed the difference.

ABOUT: Jared Heath splits his time between marketing, family, and home repair. Thanks to 203kready.com, Jared is spending time fixing up his short sale home.

No Master Bath? Well . . . Not Yet is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Incorporating Retaining Walls into the Landscaping Design

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Sat, 03 Dec 2011 14:00:38 +0000

In the landscaping and home improvement industry retaining walls made out of concrete blocks are used to hold back soil, dirt and debris and prevent it from causing a landslide. While these types of walls are essential to preventing major structural and landscaping damage, they do not always blend into the surrounding landscape. Luckily, with careful thought and consideration a retaining wall can be incorporated into the landscaping design and made to blend into the surrounding environment and not stick out like a sore thumb.

Why Retaining Walls Need to Be Built

A retaining wall is necessary when the surrounding land is on an incline and virtually unusable. The wall is built to even out the vertical incline and make land useable that would have otherwise been useless to the home or property owner. Once the land is retained it can be used for gardening or decorative purposes without having to worry about the structural integrity of the land.

A retaining wall might be recommended in cases where the soil is constantly shifting and changing. Constantly shifting land is one of the major contributors to landslides. A solidly built wall can provide a level of stability to the surrounding land and prevent minor landslides from one yard to the next from occurring.

Working a Retaining Wall into the Landscaping Design with Plants and Concrete Blocks

Although retaining walls are functional in design, they can lack the visual appeal necessary to create a stunning landscaping design. Putting careful thought and consideration into what type of materials are used to create a retaining wall can help take that visually unappealing wall and turn it into a decorative element.

Concrete blocks, wood, steel, and stone can all be used to build a retaining wall. Before selecting one of these elements to build a retaining wall it is a good idea to consider which ones will blend in with the surrounding landscaping décor. For example, concrete blocks can create the sleek, straight lines necessary for a modern landscaping design, while wood or timber will create a more earthly feel.

Placing gardens and plants in front of the retaining wall is another great way to incorporate it into the landscaping design. When retaining walls are left out with nothing covering them they can often look out of place. Gardens and plants in front of the retaining wall can shield the retaining wall and make it look as if the wall was built into the design and not as an added accessory. Just remember if you do plant plants and gardens in front of the wall to make sure the roots of the plants that are chosen won’t interfere with the structural integrity of the retaining wall.

UniqueVanities.com was proud to feature Apex Masonry as today’s guest blogger. They ensure quality products and services by carefully choosing the materials such as concrete blocks the wall is made out of, and what is placed in front of the wall, a retaining wall can easily be incorporated into the surrounding landscaping design.

Incorporating Retaining Walls into the Landscaping Design is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

How To Do “Knock Down” Texture On Walls

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 14:00:43 +0000

One of the new and popular trends in wall design lately is the use of “knock down” texture in homes. This trend has actually been around for a while, but designers are now experimenting more with how deep the gouges go or how varied they are throughout the wall. Knock down is done by using a texture hopper and spraying on the texture like any other type and then taking a trowel and (knock down all the bumps) lightly smoothing out the texture. Usually you would use a flat trowel that looks like a concrete tool but bade for drywall mud. To give a more modern finish, some designers/builders are even using a color wash glaze to add some definition to the “knocked down” areas. (See image) Knocked down walls are great backdrops for elegant wall sconces and fun, unique mirrors in black, white, or any color to match your décor.

How To Do “Knock Down” Texture On Walls is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

How To Stop A Leaky Faucet?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 14:00:27 +0000

Is there someone in your family that enjoys taking things apart and then putting them back together again? If so, this is the job for them. Give them the tools, and push them towards the kitchen or bathroom vanity cabinet that is giving you the problem! Usually the problem derives from a worn out washer, o-ring, or valve seat that sits inside the faucet. Unfortunately, there are about 300,000 of these in existence. So, to figure out the right one, you’ll need to take the handles apart from the top. Make sure you turn off the water before disassembling the valves. You’ll need to take the whole stem out so that you can see what type of valve seats, washers, or o-rings you need to get. Make a quick trip to your local hardware store to get the proper components, put it back together again, and Voila! No more drips!

How To Stop A Leaky Faucet? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

How to reduce splashing with vessel sinks

How To Replace The Porch On An Old Home?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Sat, 26 Nov 2011 14:00:21 +0000

If the porch outside of your house is ready to come down, there is something you need to do first so that the roof doesn’t come down with it. This is essentially like taking down a load bearing wall inside your home as we had discussed in a previous post. You’ll want to make sure when doing this to build alternate supports to hold up the roof while you are replacing the porch itself. Once you’ve built those supports, you are free to tear down any previous supports and the porch underneath. Put in whatever new construction you have chosen for this feature and install permanent support columns into place. If you notice as you’re working that your roof isn’t level, you can use a basic hydraulic jack to lift it level and then install the support beans underneath! It’s definitely more than a weekend job—but certainly one that adds instant curb appeal to your home!

Be sure to pay a visit to www.UniqueVanities.com, our source for this post and your source for unique vanities or a beautiful vessel sink!

How To Replace The Porch On An Old Home? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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How To Get Rid Of Squeaky Floors

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 14:00:50 +0000

A lot of people have asked us if it’s possible to get rid of or fix a squeaky floor. If you’ve got a basement or crawlspace in your home, then, by all means, yes! You can do this too, for upstairs rooms, but you’ll be looking at major work to cover the places you’ve repaired—so you might just be better off living with a squeak in those rooms. Anything above a basement or crawl though can be reached easily. Keep in mind we aren’t saying “easy” here—rather easiER! You’ll want to have someone walking on the floor above you, so you can pinpoint exactly where the squeaks are happening. You’ll want to use wood screws about an inch or inch and inch and a quarter to pull the hardwood floor down to the subfloor. There are also brackets made to screw to the floor joist and the sub floor; this will usually solve the problem. It the squeak is under a carpeted surface, you’ll have to pull up the carpet and again locate the squeak. You will need to add screws from above to reattach the sub floor to the joists, as often most squeaky floors are simply caused by the sub floor coming loose from the framing below!

Thanks to our pals at UniqueLightFixture.com for this great How-To! Stop by their site to check out beautiful large chandeliers–and much more!

How To Get Rid Of Squeaky Floors is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

How To Repair Scratches And Gouges In Wood Elements At Home

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 14:00:46 +0000

In the finish alone? –Use a small piece of fine grit sandpaper 220 of finer, to go over the area lightly. Apply whatever finish is already on the floor (typically polyurethane) with a small brush to the sanded area and let it dry! If it’s in your kitchen or bathroom cabinets, it will more likely be a lacquer, but you’ll apply that the same way.

Deep Gouge? –Use a wood filler to match the tone of the wood you are fixing. Fill in the gouge with wood filler or putty and leave to set. To get the wood to look natural again, you will most likely need to not only stain the wood putty, but also go and paint the wood grain back in with acrylic paint. This will take more of a delicate touch to complete so having someone with artistic experience is helpful! Cover this with your lacquer and only the seriously trained eye will be able to tell the difference!

How To Repair Scratches And Gouges In Wood Elements At Home is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

How To Get A Rust Stain Out Of Concrete?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 14:00:48 +0000

This is definitely one of the harder substances to remove from concrete. MAKE SURE WHEN TRYING THIS AT HOME—THAT ALL EXPOSED SKIN AND EYES ARE COVERED. To fix this common garage problem, our Contractor recommends using a solution of muriatic acid and water. Muriatic acid is often used in pools in small amounts to adjust the ph balance. It is however, VERY CAUSTIC. Mix it with a little bit of water and pour onto the affected area. Always add the acid to the bucket of water not the other way around. Dumping water into straight acid can cause the solution to overflow like a shaken up soda can. You’ll want to use a hard core scrub brush that can work away at the stain. It bears repeating though, ARM YOURSELF WITH RUBBER GLOVES AND SAFETY GOGGLES. Muriatic acid can severely burn your skin and your eyes. If this doesn’t work for you, another option would be to rent a concrete grinding wheel to take off the top layer of the concrete. Keep in mind, though, that this will change the texture of the concrete. So, the best idea is to try the acidic solution first!

Thanks to our friends at UniqueMirrorsOnline.com for these great tips! Be sure to peruse their selection of unique mirrors in every shape and color–even white mirrors!

How To Get A Rust Stain Out Of Concrete? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

How To Replace An Elbow Connector Of PVC Pipe?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 14:00:23 +0000

Are you changing out the CPVC piping under your 36 inch bathroom vanity and running into problems? Unfortunately, there is no way to get PVC or CPVC (used for hot and cold water) glue apart. So while this job is not the most difficult to complete, it definitely requires some effort. You’ll have to begin by cutting the pipe where you will be attaching the new joints. Make sure that the elbow connector you have selected will fit to the new pipe with the connecting pieces. Next, you’ll want to glue both of these fittings onto the ends where the joint will be attaching. Use a PVC primer to clean and prime the pipe and the fittings and then apply the PVC glue. Keep in mind PVC glue only has a work time of about 15 seconds so make sure you are ready to make the connection and have the fitting pointed in the correct direction. After you’ve primed, glued, and set all of your pieces, hold the parts together for 10 seconds. PVC glue manufacturers generally recommend slipping the glued fitting on and then turning it ¼ turn to the desired direction and holding it tight for 10 second to set the glue.

How To Replace An Elbow Connector Of PVC Pipe? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

How To Level An Uneven Concrete Floor

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 14:00:51 +0000

On Saturday, we posted about moving a new 30 inch bathroom vanity to your basement bathroom and discovering a problem: a big crack in your floor. If you don’t have a crack to repair but would just like to walk on level ground–here is a guide. If you’re dealing with a floor that is an inch or less uneven, you can use the same mortar mix or leveling compound which we mentioned in our last post. You can pour this overtop of your floor and trowel off to make it level where ever you want it. A keen eye and laser level are good things to have here. If you’re concerned about a sidewalk or something exterior that may need more than an inch of height to be even, you may want to consider calling a cement company. They will drill a hole into the existing surface and pump a mortar solution under the slab to raise it up to the desired level. A lot simpler to have done—but a lot more expensive.

How To Level An Uneven Concrete Floor is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

How To Patch A Concrete Slab Floor?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Sat, 12 Nov 2011 14:00:18 +0000

Maybe you were carrying your new 30 inch bathroom vanity to the basement when you noticed the crack in your floor. Or maybe you knew it was there and just figured there was nothing you could do. Either way, there are a couple of different solutions here to a problem that is more common than you may guess. If, when repairing this damage, you aren’t concerned with aesthetics, follow these steps. First, chip out at least 3 inches of the area around the crack. Mix a bag of concrete and fill in the area you’ve chipped out. Finish by smoothing with a cement trowel and leave to set. Concretes are very difficult to match in color, so if you don’t care what it looks like—this is the way to go. To produce a more evenly matched surface, you’ll follow the same steps we just mentioned. However, after the cement sets, you will want to apply a leveling compound to the whole surface and leave to set. This requires more time and effort, but will produce a clean look to floor you’ve just refinished. If you’re dealing with a larger crack, you may want to consider using rebar attached to the old slab to reinforce your fix. This will provide stability to your solution and hopefully will keep the crack from reoccurring.

How To Patch A Concrete Slab Floor? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

How To Fix A Hole In A Wooden Door?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 14:00:39 +0000

Did you miscalculate when carrying that ladder to your basement and poke a hole into your wooden door? Or not make the corner when you were bringing in your fantastic antler chandelier and removed a chunk from the finish? Not to worry, it can be fixed! To begin, you’ll want to fill the hole with wood putty or if it is a larger hole you may have to use bondo or auto body filler and sand it smooth. If Bondo is required and the door is stained, you have to hire a painter to recreate the wood grain in the door. After you’ve done this, you are free to restain the door. If it’s just a nail hole that you would like filled, MinWax and a couple other companies offer a filler crayon in a multitude of colors. Squeeze this into the hole and rub smooth with a rag. This way saves you from refinishing the door, but unfortunately, doesn’t work for larger areas.

How To Fix A Hole In A Wooden Door? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

How To Repair Cracks In Walls Or Ceilings?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 14:00:47 +0000

If you’re thinking of hanging a new black mirror or a funky new piece of art, and there’s a crack in your wall–don’t expect people to look anywhere but that crack. Cracks have a tendency to draw the eye away from anything else. Depending on the size of the crack, there are a couple different options you have to repair. If it’s a small crack, the solution is a bit simpler. Use a latex caulk to fill in the crack and then repaint the wall or area to match the rest of your room. If you find yourself with a larger or reoccurring crack, you’ve got a bigger job ahead of you. You’ll want to begin by scrapping the texture off of the cracked area using a small drywall knife and make sure the crack is free of debris. Next apply a thin coat of drywall compound and a layer of mesh joint tape. Continue to float the area out smooth and then retexture. Finish by repainting to match the wall. If you’re home was built in the 70’s, you may have popcorn texture on your ceilings which can be a little more difficult to match but still possible. To get these previously cracked areas to match, you can find a spray texture at your local hardware store to make the whole wall match! So draw the eye away from a nasty crack and direct it towards something more aesthetically appealing– like a new wall sconce or that fun piece of art you found!

How To Repair Cracks In Walls Or Ceilings? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

What is the proper way to seal the tiled walls to the top edge of the bathtub?

What Defines A Breach Of Contract in Home Improvement Projects?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Sat, 05 Nov 2011 14:00:13 +0000

Whenever you are hiring a company to do a major (or even not so major) renovation on your home, make sure you read and agree with all the terms outlined in the contract. All contracts will be different but there are definitely some points you’ll find in every one. One of these things is the scheduled timeline that a project is to be completed on. If your contractor disappears for a week at a time with no mention to you, or you find that the process is too behind to be completed on schedule—both of these things can be defined as a breach of contract. Pay attention to what they said would be finished–and what actually is. For example, if the new bathroom cabinets were slated to be installed by a certain date–and it’s 2 weeks past that date–you’ve got an issue. Next, if the contractor has aligned themselves as an expert and the work performed is shoddy or mishandled—this too can be proof of a problem. Also, if you’re entrusting your contractor to make decisions on your behalf, make sure he/she knows exactly what you like. If you’re not a modern person, and he/she installs something different than the unique traditional vanities you suggested, raise a red flag. You’ll want to go over each item carefully before you sign and make sure that you are in agreement with ALL the terms. If not, ask for an amended contract to address the issues you’ve come up with. Home improvement is costly—so cover your bases!

What Defines A Breach Of Contract in Home Improvement Projects? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Should Renters Do Home Improvements?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 14:00:36 +0000

Generally, unless you’re in a long term rental situation and you want to modify the space to fit your own personal preferences, home improvements should be done by the homeowner. Now if by chance, you’re quite handy and the landlord would like you to do some fix ups, make sure everything you are about to undertake is documented in writing. Sit down with the landlord and go over the cost of the materials for the project and the expected time to actually do it. You should either be reimbursed for these items or the amount that you come up with should be deducted from your monthly rent. Consider yourself a part-time hire, and draw up a contract you both sign. This way you are protected should the landlord go back on the terms of your agreement! In addition, should you be one of those people that just wants to make the space their own, make sure you okay any renovations with the landlord first. You don’t want to complete a project just to find out that you have to revert it back to the original design! For example, you wouldn’t want to install a new modern vessel sink, only to find that the landlord hates modern styles and wants their traditional bathroom back!

Should Renters Do Home Improvements? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

How To Cut Metal Tiles Evenly By Hand

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 14:00:02 +0000

Are you thinking of installing funky metal tiles as a backsplash to your modern single bathroom vanity? Worried about cutting them straight? Read on! Thin metal tiles can generally be cut with a straight edge and a razor knife like a box or utility knife. One way to ensure that it’s straight before you cut all the way through is to score the metal and then check your work. After that, you can bend it a few times and it will snap off in a straight, clean line. If the metal you are cutting is a little bit thicker, you may find a tool called aviation nips quite handy. These are basically like big scissors but will cut much straighter and cleaner than your basic tools. If you’re dealing with a super thick piece of metal, your best bet would be to invest in a plasma cutter. A plasma cutter is a like a big torch with air pressure behind it. These aren’t cheap, but if you do a lot of this type of cutting—worth the expense.

How To Cut Metal Tiles Evenly By Hand is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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4 Tips to Avoid Home Warranty Woes

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 14:00:51 +0000

As a follow up to their Home Warranty guide, Angie’s List offers these four tips to keep you from getting “hoodwinked by a home warranty service contract.”

Check with your state’s dept. of insurance to make sure the company you’re considering is properly licensed to do business.
Read the fine print and ask the company ANY and EVERY question you have about the contract!
Inform your real estate agent about any denied claims. They may have a relationship with the company and may be able to call them on your behalf.
Tell the company if their contractor did a good job or not. Many use a rating system and disperse the work accordingly. You could be helping out homeowners in the future!

Please peruse our vanities with double sinks for lovely options for your remodel! We’ve got vanities with vessel sinks there as well!

4 Tips to Avoid Home Warranty Woes is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Home Warranty Policies—What’s Covered?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 14:00:09 +0000

In the latest edition of Angie’s List newsletters, Staci Giordullo gives a lot of helpful information on home warranties. She writes: “A home warranty service contract isn’t an insurance policy that protects you from loss, but is meant instead to provide service.” Like with any contract, she suggests the consumer needs to shop around and read all the fine print. Make sure to pay attention to what is covered and what is excluded. Those are going to be the areas to compare to decide if it’s a policy you should purchase or not. In addition, Giordullo offers a general guide of what a homeowner can expect to find for coverage in each tier of service offered. Here’s what she suggests:

Basic Coverage

Plumbing systems
Range/oven
Dishwasher
Garbage Disposal
Exhaust fans
Sump pump
Water heater
Ceiling Fans
Heating and electrical system components
Built in microwave
Whirlpool tub

Enhanced Coverage

A/C
Washer/Dryer
Refridgerator
Garage Door Opener

Optional Items

Pool
Spa
Well pump
Septic system
Standalone freezer
Central vacuum

We are proud to offer you tips and tricks to managing your home. We hope when you’re ready to remodel, you browse our small bath vanities as well as our selection of vanities with vessel sinks! We’re sure you’ll like what you see!

Home Warranty Policies—What’s Covered? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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4 Tips to Manage the Real Estate Market!

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 14:00:53 +0000

Angie’s List offered these tips for entering this years real estate market:

Research refinancing options. If you plan on staying in the house you are currently living in for a while, it may be valuable for you to checkout refinancing options with fixed rates remaining low!
Expect extra documentation. Many lenders are now requiring more paperwork proving income, debt, and creditworthiness.
Entertain an investment. Thinking about purchasing a rental property or vacation home? Low prices and rates make this a good time to do so.
Be a savvy seller. It is a hard time to be a seller, so hire a well recommended professional to help you navigate the real estate market in your area.

Looking for a perfect double sink vanity to finish your bathroom remodel? You’ll find it here as well as vanities for small bathrooms! Take a look!

4 Tips to Manage the Real Estate Market! is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Buying a Home—Doesn’t Need To Be Scary for the Savvy Investor

Outdoor Living!

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 14:00:32 +0000

Looking for more living space outside of your home? For those of you living in year-round-warmer climates, the solution can be simple. Angie’s List writer Jacqueline A. Soule, recommends a couple of things to make this process as simple as possible. First she mentions that hiring a trained and experienced landscape design professional to map out you r design only makes sense. Next, she suggests making a list of wants. It doesn’t matter how long or large the items, as you can edit as you go along. It does help the designer you’re working with, though, to create that map of what you want. After you complete this list, go through and decide the who and how of the space. If you entertain frequently, but have animals that need space to play, it only seems right to pave a portion of the area you’re designing covered with pavers, as an example. Deciding who will be using the space and how they will be using it will help you to pare down your list. Finally, Soule reminds us that the whole job doesn’t have to be completed right away. You can take it one big (or several little) step at a time, each season. Over the course of a few years, you be sure to impress yourself and your friends with the outdoor extension of your home. And by spreading out the work, you also keep your budget in line—an added bonus!

For a variety of vanities with double sinks, please visit us online! We’ve got options for small bathroom vanities as well!

Outdoor Living! is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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Buying a Home—Doesn’t Need To Be Scary for the Savvy Investor

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 14:00:47 +0000

Another gem from Angie’s List. Many consumers today are scared to try to purchase a home in today’s shaky market. Emily Udell, a writer for the newsletter, says that “Despite housing market challenges, 2011 still may be a good time to buy or refinance.” Why does she think that? Last year, interest rates on mortgages hit an all time low. Thirty years ago, they were three times as high! So while some banks are making it a little harder to get a loan, (a credit score requirement has been increased with some lenders) it’s still worth it for those who can. And though the resale values of homes today is not what it used to be; many homeowners are opting to keep their property when they move out, using them as rentals for an extra source of income. The moral of the story? If you’re looking to purchase a new home, take a deep breath and dive in. With lowered mortgage rates and the value of homes decreasing, a consumer that does their homework can find themselves getting a good bargain at an interest rate they can live with. So, with that said, Happy Hunting! Your new home is out there waiting for you to find it!

For wrought iron curtain rods to deck out your new home, visit one of our sister sites online! You’ll find those as well as truly unique iron chandeliers!

Buying a Home—Doesn’t Need To Be Scary for the Savvy Investor is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Think Green This Halloween

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 14:00:00 +0000

We like to consider ourselves, as much as possible, an eco-friendly company. We try to eliminate paper waste whenever possible. We actively recycle and encourage our clients to do the same with their packaging waste. So when we found this scary fact from October’s issue of Real Simple Magazine (a great source for good stuff by the way) we knew we had to pass it on to you. They quoted that nationally, we could avoid 6,250 TONS of landfill waste if only HALF of the kids in America traded Halloween costumes instead of buying new ones. That’s a whole lot of tons! October 8^th is National Costume Swap Day and we encourage you to do just that! Ask your friends if they will participate (and possibly trade) or check out greenhalloween.org/costumeswap for more details!

For great options for mirrors for the bathroom and unique bathroom vanities to go with them, make sure to visit our sister site!

Think Green This Halloween is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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Things to Check Or Inspect Before Byuing a Home

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 14:00:59 +0000

The Roof–Make sure it is in decent shape. It’s a good idea to get in the attic to check for any leakage there might have been.
Electrical Systems—Check the age of the electrical systems in the home. Look at the breaker panel; and check all of the outlets to make sure they’re grounded. Also check to make sure the GFCI outlets are in the appropriate spots.
Water Heater—Make sure it’s in good, working order and not 100 years old.
Furnace and Air Conditioner—Again, look for a relatively newer unit in good working condition.
Plumbing Fixtures—Do all toilets, showers, faucets, and sinks work? Leak? (Hopefully not!)
FOUNDATION—This is probably the most important thing to look at because it is the most expensive thing on this list to repair! Make sure there are no cracks and the house isn’t shifting in one direction.

You can find exceptional vessel sink vanities here as well as other double sink bath vanities for the perfect bathroom remodel!

Things to Check Or Inspect Before Byuing a Home is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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I Want an Addition—Where Do I Start?!

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 14:00:28 +0000

Adding an addition to your home can be a stressful process, regardless of the joyous outcome. To ensure the least amount of stress possible, you’ll want to take a couple steps before the first wall is even demolished. Smart planning = less stress. You’ll first want to decide which room (or side of the house) you want to add onto, and which direction you’ll want to go out from. Check with your city to see what the set back limits are; so you know how close to the property line you are allowed to build. You’ll also want to check for trees and power, water, or gas lines that may have to be moved to put your addition where you want it to go. Next, you’ll want to hire an architect to draw up the plans for your build. Plans will have to be approved by the city or local municipality before a building permit can be issued. Check references on and interview several General Contractors to get estimates on the project. Then, once you decide on your Contractor—let the work begin!

After your plans have been made, browse our sister site for one of a kind wrought iron curtain rods and other items like western light fixtures to give your home that rustic feel!

I Want an Addition—Where Do I Start?! is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Contractor’s Trend Spotlight

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 14:00:54 +0000

One of the new features of this blog is going to be a trend spotlight that we’ll feature every other month. Keep a watch, though, because on opposite months, we may even feature a trend to avoid! This month though, our on-staff Contractor spoke about the use of LED lighting in the home. LED lighting can be used in under cabinet lighting, recessed can lighting, and many other places around your house. Not only can you do more with it, but it also draws less electricity, doesn’t get as hot, and lasts up to 5x as long as a regular light bulb! For those very reasons, LED lighting is definitely a trend to not only watch—but utilize!

For vessel sink vanities that our contractor recommends, as well as beautiful bathroom mirrors, check us out online!

Contractor’s Trend Spotlight is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Tips On How to Size Light Fixtures for Your Bathroom Vanity

Things to Consider When Dealing with a Wet Basement

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 14:00:35 +0000

It’s important to you and your family’s health that you keep a dry basement in your home. Moisture build up can lead to mold which can cause or irritate a number of health ailments. So when considering your wet basement, you’ll first need to ask yourself this: Is it wet ALL THE TIME or did something just happen to make it that way. If a pipe broke or a sink overflowed, then the best thing to do is the most obvious. AIR IT OUT! Open windows, direct fans against the area, and start running your dehumidifiers. If you have carpet installed, and it’s saturated, you can hire a company to come in and professionally steam clean the area to remove the moisture. If you can’t afford this, your best bet is to pull it out. If you have a basement that is wet all the time, however, you’re looking at a pretty big job. No amount of airing out or use of fans is going to solve your problem. You need to fix it at the source. In most cases, this means you need to dig around the foundation around the side of the house, going all the way down to the slab at the basement floor. You’ll want to put in drain tiles at the base and install some sort of waterproofing membrane against the basement walls. Next, you’ll want to back fill the basement walls with stone and clean up your yard. With this problem, similar to others we have talked about in this blog, you may want to seek the help of a professional. Though it sounds simple enough when you read it, it’s one of the bigger home improvement jobs to tackle.

Check us out online for small bathroom vanities and those for your bigger bathrooms too. We’ve got everything from the smallest single-to the largest double sink bathroom vanity!

Things to Consider When Dealing with a Wet Basement is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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The Right Way to Hang Dry Wall

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 14:00:13 +0000

When hanging dry wall there are a couple of things you’ll want to pay attention to. First you’re going to want to make sure that all the framing is flat, square, firm and level. You’ll want to lay out and mark exactly where all of your outlets, switches, recessed ceiling lights, are going to be as well as any wiring or plumbing you don’t want to drive a nail or screw into. Some Contractors recommend hanging the sheet rock loosely with nails onto the wall and then use a roto zip to cut out the outlets and can lights, but this can make it more difficult to cut, so we advise our favorite phrase: Measure twice, Cut once. You can mark out all the holes and cut them before you hang the piece. Finally when you’ve got everything measured and cut, you can nail it into place. You’ll want to make sure that all of the beveled edges are touching each other, so that no seams form (or that the seams that are there are minimal—you’ll have to cover these up with mud and tape for a smooth surface.) Our Contractor adds (with a laugh) that if you can, hire out this process. It’s not the most fun DIY job!

Looking for a great double bath vanity to finish your bathroom remodel? Find those as well as unique vessel sink bath vanities online!

The Right Way to Hang Dry Wall is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Changing from a Standard to a Vessel Sink

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 14:00:47 +0000

Are you thinking of changing your standard sink to something more new and modern looking like that of a vessel sink? Are you concerned that there is too much work involved to make the switch? Well, don’t be. Changing from one to the other actually doesn’t require that much effort, unless you are changing your faucets to be wall mounted. With a vessel sink, the faucet needs to be much higher in order to go over the top of the bowl. So if you decide on moving your bathroom faucets to the wall, rather than using a vessel sink faucet, you will be required to move the water supply lines inside of the wall. In addition to the faucet changes, you will also need to add a longer tail piece to the underside of your bathroom sink to lengthen the drain. Since vessel sinks sit on top of bathroom furniture, rather than underneath it, you’ll need a connecting piece of drain to make the transition. Keep in mind as well, that you’ll need to change the countertop too, as the old one will have a big hole in it from the old sink! But once you’ve done that you will have done it–and have a beautiful new vessel sink vanity to admire!

For other options, including small bathroom vanities, make sure to check us out online!

Changing from a Standard to a Vessel Sink is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Switching From a Single to Double Sink Vanity

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 14:00:39 +0000

Changing from a single sink to a double sink vanity will require a little work, but will most likely bring a smile to whomever you are sharing your bathroom space with. This process is going to require opening the wall and splitting both the water supply lines and the drain lines and directing them to the two new locations. This may require a licensed plumber to make sure there are no leaks inside the wall once the bathroom vanity and sink is set and sheetrock repaired. This is usually a fairly easy task for a professional, but certainly feasible for the DIY-er.

Switching From a Single to Double Sink Vanity is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Installing A Vanity Yourself

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 14:00:53 +0000

Okay, so you’ve ordered the bathroom vanity for your DIY remodeling project. It’s going to arrive on your doorstep in 7-10 business days, and will be ready for you to install. Are you prepared to install it? Installing a vanity can be pretty easy if all the plumbing is in good condition and in the correct place. If it is, all it will require will be removing the old vanity and setting the new one in place. You’ll want ot make sure it is level and centered in the space you have. Furniture style vanities may be fastened in place or just set freestanding depending on how much weight will be put on top of the piece or how many kids will be leaning against it. Hot and cold water lines need to be hooked up to the new faucet and the drain hooked to the sink piped in with a P-trap, probably like the old one was.

For help in choosing which vanity is right for you, please check out our site! We offer the most individual bathroom vanities and sinks in whichever style you choose! From Victorian styled vanities to sleek and modern–we’ve got it!

Installing A Vanity Yourself is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Do Manufacturers Matter?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 14:00:13 +0000

One of the questions we are frequently asked is if manufacturers matter. Most DIY-ers today are looking for the most bang for their buck, or very simply, not trying to spend that many “bucks” in the first place. So, when homeowners are shopping for products to use in their renovations, they are hit with a barrage of brands and bargains. It’s a tough call trying to figure out which one to pay attention to. Our General Contractor on staff, concludes something that most of us already know: You get what you pay for. If you have to cut corners, then do your research. Check out product reviews for those that are listed in the bargain basement. You may find some of them truly stand strong through what they are needed for. However there are some brands he tends to use when the budget allows. Grohe, Kohler, and Danzi, are a few that he found to be made well and hold up the longest. In the end, check your budget. See where you have areas to splurge or save, and do your homework accordingly!

For a great selection of unique discount bathroom furniture, check out our sister site! You’ll find not only beautiful furniture choices but bathroom faucets as well!

Do Manufacturers Matter? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Do the toilet and sinks in a bathroom remodel need to be the same brand name?

Think Sink! Undermount vs. Drop-In

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 14:00:12 +0000

A lot of people choosing to get custom vanities made find themselves wonder about the advantages and disadvantages of undermount sinks. Wouldn’t drop ins be easier? Easier may be the only advantage here. An undermount sink is only used with a solid surface countertop such as granite, marble, or a man made stone. As the name suggests, it is mounted under the countertop and the lip of the sink is made by cutting the countertop to match the shape of the sink and polishing the inside edge. This application makes it much easier to wipe water or kitchen messes into the sink as there is no raised edge to get in the way. However, if you’ve decided to go with a laminate counter, you won’t be so fortunate. There really is no way to “polish” laminate to flow directly into the sink. So you’d be better off with the drop in. Either way, if you do your homework, and put plenty of thought and effort into your work; we’re sure you will be proud of the results.

For a great selection of bathroom vanities and sinks, make sure to browse our site! We’ve got everything from the smaller 18 inch bathroom vanities all the way to the larger double sink varieties!

Think Sink! Undermount vs. Drop-In is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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How to Install A Wet Room Shower Floor!

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 14:00:22 +0000

Tiling a wet room shower floor is not too much different than tiling any room. The difference lies (literally) in what goes underneath it. Basically all a wet room floor needs is a rubber PVC shower pan liner put down. This material comes in 5’ wide rolls to cove most showers in one piece but If you have to put a seam in it, it of course will need to be watertight. Don’t worry; they do make an adhesive to seal the seams, shower pan liner PVC glue. Make sure the liner goes up the sidewalls at least 12 inches and that there are no penetrations other than where the drain is. Normally, you will want to do a preliminary water test to make sure the area is watertight. You don’t want to get the whole thing tiled and then find out your guest bedroom below now has a shower coming out of the ceiling! You can do this by plugging the drain and filling it with 2-3 inches of water. Mark the water level and leave it sit for 24 hours. If, after 24 hours, the water level has dropped or you have a pool rather than a shower in your guest bedroom underneath, you’ve obviously got a leak.

Before you install the pan liner, you’ll apply a mortar bed (often called a dry pack mortar) which will need to slope towards the drain. Once that sets, and you have installed the pan liner you will apply thin set and lay your tile on top of that! Voila! A walk in shower!

Thanks to our sponsors at UniqueMirrorsOnline.com where only the most unique bronze wall mirrors are featured and much more from large wall mirrors to small!

How to Install A Wet Room Shower Floor! is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Change Up Your Floorplan!

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 14:00:51 +0000

Is your spouse longing (loudly) for that open floor plan the two of you have been seeing on HGTV lately? Are you daring enough to try to do the demo and remodel yourself? If you answered yes to both of these questions then this post is a great one for you to read! We asked Randy, our on-staff General Contractor, for a little guidance and thoughts on this project. Here’s what he had to say:

When you go to change floor plans (which in most cases means tearing down a wall) the first and most important thing you need to check on is if that wall is load bearing. The best way to tell would be to go into the attic and see what is actually sitting on the wall. Are there ceiling joists or roof supports there? If ceiling joists are found, check where they lead to. It’s possible that they may be running from one end of the house to the other, and not actually sitting on the wall you want to remove. If you find that they have a splice in there somewhere, then they probably are sitting on the wall. In addition, if it’s a second story that lies above, then chances are the wall is load bearing-supporting the floor system. Not to worry, it still can be done, however your workload has just increased exponentially.

Still in it to win it? Well, congrats! Okay, so now to moving that weight bearing wall (without the house coming down around you.) To start, you’re going to need to build a temporary wall on each side of the wall you are going to remove. Remove the wall and then get the appropriate sized beam to use. Sizing the beam is going to be determined by weight. They are all engineered to hold only so much weight per square foot and span so far. You’ll want to talk to an architect or structural engineer to find out which to use. There are also building codes that will tell you what load rating a specific area requires; you’ll need to do your homework on that.

Next, you’ll need to cut all the floor joists or ceiling joists up above. Put your beam in between the cuts joists and use joist hangers on each side to re-support those ceiling joists or second story floor joists, whichever your case may be. You can recess this beam into the ceiling so it’s not visible or leave it and wall around it to add a funky edge to the room. The choice is entirely yours. If you have chosen to do an exposed beam then you can either cover it with sheetrock or wrap it in the wood of your choice, paint your finished product, and tell your spouse to move the furniture back—your work here is done!!

Find funky bathroom faucets to update your bathroom too, as well as beautiful bathroom vanities and sinks! You’ve changed your layout–now change your faucets and sinks!

Change Up Your Floorplan! is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

A Proper Paint Job

A Proper Paint Job

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 14:00:10 +0000

Too many people are looking for a quick fix in changing the look of their room. They pick a color, pick a can of paint, slap it on, and consider it done. Not many of those people realize that for a quality paint job, there are a few more steps to be taken than just the ones listed before. To begin, you need to find any holes in the wall and fill and patch them. If the wall has already been primed (a clean slate) then spot prime those spots before adding any paint. If not, go over the whole surface with a primer. Next, we recommend starting with the edges of the wall you are working on first. Tape around ceiling and baseboards, and begin making your edges. Once you’ve got those complete, you can use a roller to finish the rest of the wall. Depending on how deep/dark you’d like the color to be, you may require a second coat of paint. But, if you are thorough in your work, and not looking for that quick fix, you will be proud of the room you have updated!

Please visit and check out our beautiful new Victorian bathroom vanities today! You won’t be disappointed!

A Proper Paint Job is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Paint and Primer In One

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 19:09:45 +0000

Lately, a new fad of paint has been emerging for the ever time conscious consumer. It offers a combination of both primer and paint in one. Is it worth it? Our on staff General Contractor isn’t completely sold. From what he’s experienced, it does work fairly well. However, when using a 2-in-1 product, often times you’ll find the price is 2-in-1 as well. On top of that, you’ll be using (depending on the size of the room) at least twice as much! A good tip to try first would be to do a simple price comparison. Primer can be found fairly inexpensively, so see how much of that and how much paint you would need and compare it to the all in one option. If it’s a small bathroom you are looking at painting, the all in one option could be cost effective. However, a larger room could ‘paint’ quite a different picture!

Stop by to check out our fantastic selection of beautiful bathroom vanities and sinks today! We’re certain you’ll find one to match whatever paint you choose!

Paint and Primer In One is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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Cleaning Your Bathroom Vanity

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 17:33:47 +0000

Sometimes the simplest questions are missed the most. We get a lot of questions from our clients on a variety of different topics. That being said, in the various articles and blogs we post, we do our best to try to answer those questions. Recently though, we received a call from a client in regards to something so simple yet so important, it astounded us that we hadn’t put that information out there yet! What do you use to clean your bathroom vanity with? Being an e-commerce site that sells vanities–how this one slipped through the cracks is beyond us! So, first let us offer you our sincerest apologies at not having that information out there; and second—here’s what to do!

When cleaning the base, we recommend Murphy’s Oil Soap diluted with warm water. Using a soft microfiber cloth, saturate the cloth completely and wring it out well, so that it remains damp. Wipe the the wood base of your bath vanity with this and dry with another clean microfiber cloth. The key to this is regular maintenance, so that you don’t end up with buildup—like hairspray on your vanity base.

Vanity countertops need to be cleaned with a product specifically designed for the type of stone you have. You can find individual cleaners at Home Depot or Lowe’s. We like Method Granite Cleaner, but there are all kinds of brands out there that work just as well for all different types of stone. If you must, you can always use a small amount of soap and water, but we recommend specific stone products to prevent any buildup. Again, regular maintenance here is key. We advise at least once a month cleanings (or twice if you’re feeling really on top of things.) Countertops and sinks should be cleaned daily if you want to avoid bacteria from brushing your teeth and washing your hands.

In addition, marble and travertine are very porous stones, so regular sealing is recommended. These do require more attention than granite tops, but again, you can find do-it-yourself sealers at your local hardware store.

Cleaning Your Bathroom Vanity is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

How to Remove Stains from my Bathroom Vanity Countertop?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Wed, 18 May 2011 20:50:40 +0000

Question? While I was using a hard water stain remover called “Lime Away”, without thinking I placed the bottle on my black granite bathroom vanity top in my bathroom. I am now the proud owner of a white ring representing the bottom on the bottle on the vanity top. What can I do to remove the stain short of replacing the top ($$$) ?? Thanks !!!

Answer: The only way to get something like that out is to have a granite fabrication company come to the house and use a water polisher. The solvent in the lime away has penetrated into the stone and what you are seeing is the raw color of the granite. Most likely the entire top will need to be re-polished to get a uniform sheen and color.

How to Remove Stains from my Bathroom Vanity Countertop? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

I got a new bathroom vanity and the drain doesn’t line up with my drain. Is there a way to connect without moving the whole pipe?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Wed, 18 May 2011 20:45:31 +0000

Installing the drain lines to a bathroom vanity sink is actually easier if the sink drain and the pipe in the wall are not lined up. The P-trap can be offset either way to make them connect. You can purchase a longer tail piece (the vertical pipe that connects to the sink drain) or a longer waist arm (the horizontal pipe that connects the p-trap to the drain in the wall) if needed to make the pieces come together. Or it is OK to cut them shorter if needed. If the sink drain and the wall pipe are more than 4” offset then you may have to use a 45 degree fitting on the wall drain and angle the trap adapter towards the sink to make the connection.

I got a new bathroom vanity and the drain doesn’t line up with my drain. Is there a way to connect without moving the whole pipe? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

What is a good stain color for Oak hardwood flooring that will go with most wall and trim finishes?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Mon, 16 May 2011 20:41:09 +0000

Choosing from the Minwax stain colors, Early American is a fairly neutral and natural color that will go well with just about all wall colors. It has been my experience that lighter stain colors or even natural with no stain looks good and has a timeless look that will not clash with any furniture or paint you may choose. If the home has low ceilings and is lacking in natural light then going with a light stain will help brighten the rooms and make the house feel more open and brighter. Dark stained floors work well in large rooms with high ceilings. However it will also show more dust and ware than a natural wood.

What is a good stain color for Oak hardwood flooring that will go with most wall and trim finishes? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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Is there a less expensive option for buying granite countertops?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Fri, 13 May 2011 20:34:15 +0000

Granite importers or wholesale warehouses will only sell product to Fabrication shops or resellers. The reason for this is they want to make sure the people they are selling to are capable of handling the material and retain the economies of scale in pricing. Granite is not like going to pick up a few 2×4’s it is extremely heavy and easily cracked or broken if not handled properly. The liability is passed onto the fabrication shop if they were to break a slab or injure someone trying to move the material. Installing granite on a bath vanity or kitchen cabinets is not a do it yourself product.

Is there a less expensive option for buying granite countertops? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

What is best option for remodeling bathrooms when it comes to resale value?

How do you estimate the value added to a property based on the cost of the remodel?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Fri, 13 May 2011 20:21:52 +0000

As a general rule the average value added to a property is 85% of the remodel cost for a kitchen or bathroom renovation. This will depend on the area you live and the finishes of the remodel. This is not an exact figure, just an estimate using historical averages.

How do you estimate the value added to a property based on the cost of the remodel? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

When is it necessary to pull a building permit and what are the consequences if caught doing work without one?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Wed, 11 May 2011 20:14:55 +0000

Most municipalities have a set of guidelines either online or at the building inspection department that will describe the types of projects that require a permit. In general anything that is cosmetic does not require a permit such as, flooring, painting, or even replacing bathroom vanities, or kitchen cabinets and countertops. If you have to move any plumbing drains or water supply lines then a permit is required. The inspector will want to see how the drains are routed and how many bends or fittings are used to make the move. The inspection department will tell you that any new electrical work has to be permitted. This is to make sure a licensed electrician is doing the work and like plumbing the contractor must be insured to protect the home and homeowner from any liability issues. If you are just changing devices and cover plates or light fixtures then you don’t need a permit.

The penalty for getting caught without a permit will vary from area to area. Most of the time it is a fine where the amount is determined by the inspector and the permit fees. Building inspectors do not take it lightly when they find someone doing work illegally or without a license and can make the rest of job difficult to get green tagged by picking apart everything you do and they can make you cut open walls to see the concealed work. If you are a contractor for a living then the inspectors can make all your future jobs difficult once they know you have tried to get away without pulling a permit.

If you are fixing up a house for resale purposes and manage to get it done without pulling a permit you may still run into issues with a home inspector (not a building inspector) hired by the prospective buyer or realtor. The home inspector is paid to find every issue with a home to make a complete report for the home buyer and if they see anything not to code it will be listed on the report. This can lead a buyer to request a courtesy inspection from the building inspector at which time they will see that no permit has been pulled for the updates. In the end it is always better to permit the job right up front to make sure you don’t run into any issues down the road that will cost more money.

When is it necessary to pull a building permit and what are the consequences if caught doing work without one? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Do the toilet and sinks in a bathroom remodel need to be the same brand name?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Mon, 09 May 2011 20:09:29 +0000

Question: I’m replacing my old vanity and toilet in my bathroom with a Kohler Pedestal Sink. The Kohler toilets seem to be overpriced….at least the one is that is the direct match to my sink. I was just wondering if it’s really necessary to match the brands. I can find a cheaper toilet that goes well, but it’s not Kohler. Thoughts please?

It is not necessary to match the toilet brand to the bathroom sink however with years of remodeling experience I can say that you get what you pay for with toilets. Although Kohler may cost a little more they are a respectable company that stands behind their product and you can expect to get years of reliability from their products.

Do the toilet and sinks in a bathroom remodel need to be the same brand name? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

What is an estimated cost to remodel a small bathroom excluding the purchase of tub, tile, toilet, and fixtures?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Sat, 07 May 2011 20:01:51 +0000

Pricing will vary in different parts of the country but here is Texas the labor and basic building material costs for a small bathroom remodel is about $6000 to $8000 from a respected contractor that has all the proper insurance and licenses. This would include demo of the existing bathroom vanity and installation of new tile, texture & paint work, minor electrical, & plumbing hook ups.

What is an estimated cost to remodel a small bathroom excluding the purchase of tub, tile, toilet, and fixtures? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

What is the proper way to seal the tiled walls to the top edge of the bathtub?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Thu, 05 May 2011 19:57:30 +0000

When installing a new tile tub surround it is critical to make sure the substrate or tile backer is installed over the lip of the bathtub and the and the joint between the tub and bottom row of tile must be filled with grout caulk not just grout. Grout caulk can be purchased from the grout manufacturer to match any color of grout they sell. The purpose of using grout caulk is that it is flexible and will not crack like grout will. If the proper caulk was not used on the original installation and cracks appear it is important to have the grout removed and replaced with grout caulk right away. If you do not repair the crack promptly water will penetrate the wall and cause damage to the framing or the wallboard behind the tile making it impossible to ever get a waterproof seal.

What is the proper way to seal the tiled walls to the top edge of the bathtub? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

What is best option for remodeling bathrooms when it comes to resale value?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Wed, 04 May 2011 19:57:24 +0000

Question: From a selling stand point is it better to have a house with 2-1/2 baths where 2 of them are extremely small (one being the master) or converting Two into One and having a new large master bath?

When looking at a listing on a house it would be more attractive to have a home with 2- ½ bathrooms there is no question. However if a prospective buyer looks at the house and sees that two of the bathrooms are very small and outdated it could be a deal killer. Also you have to make sure that spending money on a bathroom remodel will increase the sale price of the home equally or more. A large master bath is ideal for most home buyers, and spending the money in this area can yield a return on investment in most cases. If you are not planning to put the house on the market for a few years then the remodel is going to be for your benefit anyhow, not for the next owner.

What is best option for remodeling bathrooms when it comes to resale value? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

What is the Best Way to Connect New Sink Drains to Old Pipes?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 19:17:01 +0000

Most new bath vanity sink drains are 1-1/4” brass and can be connected to either PVC or Chrome p-traps of the same size all of which can be purchased at the local hardware or home improvement store. This is the easy part because all of the fittings are new and made to connect to each other. The pipe coming out of the wall in your home may be copper, brass, chrome, or PVC and may even be 1-1/2”. In newer homes you will have a fitting with a compression nut on it called a trap adapter where the p-trap pipe will slip inside and the nut is tightened to make a seal. If you have a straight piece of pipe sticking out of the wall that will not accept a standard trap adapter then you can use a no-hub coupling which is a rubber fitting with 2 hose clamps on it and can be bought to convert just about any 2 sizes of pipe. It is best to install these close to the wall and make sure you don’t over tighten the clamps.

What is the Best Way to Connect New Sink Drains to Old Pipes? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Are Natural Stone Bathroom Sinks a Good Idea?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Fri, 08 Apr 2011 19:12:17 +0000

Natural stone vessel sinks will definitely give you a natural look and can be the centerpiece of the room if you choose the right one. Stone sinks are durable and can stand up to years of use and retain their look if taken care of properly. They look great when used with a countertop such as wood or granite with lots of movement and veining.

Are Natural Stone Bathroom Sinks a Good Idea? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

New Bathroom Floor: Linoleum or Ceramic?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 19:06:17 +0000

Question: I’m re-doing my bathroom with a new shower, shower door, new bath vanity, new delta faucet’s. Probably new toilet topper and medicine cabinet. Would you do the floor in linoleum or ceramic tile? I’m covering about 5×9 area. I know ceramic would look best, but I’m all about ease of cleaning too. The bathroom is off the bedroom and the male will be the primary user.

Answer: Ceramic tile is definitely the better choice. You can use a tile that is an earth color like tan or light gray and use a grout that is close the same color. Stay away from white or light colored grout to ease cleaning and maintenance.

New Bathroom Floor: Linoleum or Ceramic? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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Need help with wiring bathroom vanity lights?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 18:59:44 +0000

Wiring in older homes can be very hard to decipher if you are not a professional electrician. First of all any electrical installation should be done by a qualified licensed electrician. Dim lights are usually due to a loose or non existent Neutral wire (The White wire). In older homes it was common to borrow a neutral wire from any circuit that was close to where the electrician needs it. This leads to overloading of the wire and can lead to a fire. It was also common to switch the neutral instead of the hot (Black) wire and this leaves power to the bathroom vanity fixture all the time with no place to go but to a fault or ground. If the neutral is not connected to a good path back to the electrical panel then the power may be flowing back to through a ground of some sort that may not be a solid connection leading to an unsafe situation. Finding the loose connection will most likely require an electrician to find.

Need help with wiring bathroom vanity lights? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

What is Causing My Bathroom Vanity Lights and Fan Not to Work?

What would cause sewage smell in bathroom after new remodel?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 18:54:34 +0000

Question: We just remodeled our entire bathroom replaced the tub, sink, floor tile, and toilet. Our restroom now has a sewage smell what could be causing this? Do you think they didn’t install the toilet correctly?

There are a few things that can cause a foul smell of sewer gas in a home. One is improper venting of the drains. All drain lines must be connected to a vent pipe that extends through the roof to let the sewer gas escape to the outside. The vent may be connected but clogged and not letting the gas out or the plumber installed it incorrectly. The other cause may be the lack of a trap in a drain line. A trap is the u shaped pipe you see under the sink in the drain piping. All drains must have a trap in them including the shower, bath tub, and bathroom sinks. Toilets have the trap integrated in the bowl not in the drain piping of the house. The trap is designed to hold water at a level that prevents any sewer gas from escaping back into the room. If the plumber did not install a trap or if the trap does not have any water in it then you may get the smell from there.

What would cause sewage smell in bathroom after new remodel? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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Is it really necessary to do a repair, replacement, or remodel according to building code?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 18:53:02 +0000

Building codes are developed and enforced mainly to protect and benefit the homeowner. There are some codes that are in place specifically to conserve water or electricity or reduce environmental impact. Spacing of balusters is a safety issue discovered the hard way by a child getting their head stuck between them when spaced to far apart. Insulation and energy star rated windows are invaluable to the homes overall heating and cooling energy bills. The ramifications to not following the building code can be as slight as a few extra dollars on the heating bill to structural failure or someone getting injured from an improperly built structure. When it comes time to sell a house these items can be brought to attention by the home inspector that a prospective buyer brings in before making the purchase. Even something as simple as replacing a window or installing a new bathroom faucet it is always best to follow the building code even if it sounds ridiculous or silly; these codes are put in place for good reasons not to make things cost more.

Is it really necessary to do a repair, replacement, or remodel according to building code? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Average Bathroom Remodel Costs

Is It a Good Idea To Steal Space From Another Room To Make a Bathroom Large Enough To Have Separate Tub And Shower?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Sun, 27 Mar 2011 02:28:00 +0000

If taking the space from another room does not interrupt the flow of the house or leave the room in an odd shape then it would be a great idea. Having a separate tub and shower is the ideal layout for a master bath but if you have to force it in then it is better to keep the tub shower combined, leaving room for the bathroom vanity. It is also common to not have a bathtub at all in a master bathroom and instead have a large shower with glass enclosure and multiple shower heads. Removing the tub is Ok if there is at least one bathtub in the house.

Is It a Good Idea To Steal Space From Another Room To Make a Bathroom Large Enough To Have Separate Tub And Shower? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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What is Causing My Bathroom Vanity Lights and Fan Not to Work?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 22:42:26 +0000

There are a few quick things you can check if you lights are not working. Sometimes the lights and the fan are wired through a GFCI outlet and that may be tripped or needs to be reset. This can be done by pressing the reset button on the GFCI outlet. If this is not the case then you may have a GFCI breaker in the electrical service panel or just a standard breaker that may be tripped. In either case if you try to rest the breaker or the GFCI outlet and it does not reset the call an electrician. If you do not find either of these two issues then you may have a bad switch or a loose connection somewhere and you will need to call and electrician.

What is Causing My Bathroom Vanity Lights and Fan Not to Work? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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How to Install a Bathroom Vanity?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 22:33:47 +0000

Another question we get often:

Installing a furniture style bathroom vanity may require you to remove the baseboard where the vanity is going and then cope the base back into the legs of the vanity. It is not critical that the bas be removed but you may have a gap behind the vanity if it is unable to fit tight to the wall due to the baseboard. Once you have the vanity centered where you want it and if you have it tight to the wall then secure the vanity to the wall by screwing it to the framing lumber or if unable to find the studs then you can use toggle bolts to secure it in place. Once you have the bathroom vanity secured to the wall then connect the plumbing and check for leaks and that is all it takes. If you decide to leave the baseboard and have the space behind the vanity then just connect the plumbing and that will be adequate to hold the vanity in place. The furniture style cabinet will look more like frees standing furniture if it is not tight to the wall.

How to Install a Bathroom Vanity? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

How Do We Secure the Sink and Countertop to the Bathroom Vanity?

Should the Bathroom Countertop be Bigger than the Bathroom Vanity?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Wed, 02 Feb 2011 22:28:37 +0000

This is a question we get often, and the answer is simple: Yes the countertop usually overhangs the bathroom cabinet by 1” to 1-1/2” on the front and the sides and is flush with the back or up against the wall.

Should the Bathroom Countertop be Bigger than the Bathroom Vanity? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

How Do We Secure the Sink and Countertop to the Bathroom Vanity?

How to Find Design Ideas for a Bathroom Remodel?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 22:20:01 +0000

There are many ways to find design ideas for home remodeling. There are magazines printed just for this purpose such as Kitchen & Bath or Home Remodeling or Luxe just to name a few. Throughout the year there are Home and Garden Shows in some of the larger cities that are set up to premiere new design trends and ideas. You can hire an interior designer which is a great way to get ideas. Interior designers will meet with the client and gather information about them to help with the process, then the designer will pull the ideas together from all the resources and present it back to the client for review. This takes all the leg work out of it. Online you can find many ideas as well either from pictures or online software to help draw the room or rooms you wish to remodel. This can be especially helpful for laying out a bathroom or kitchen remodel.

How to Find Design Ideas for a Bathroom Remodel? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

How Do We Secure the Sink and Countertop to the Bathroom Vanity?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 22:02:21 +0000

The best way to secure a countertop to a bathroom cabinet or vanity is set it on the cabinet first to make sure everything looks and fits right. If so then use some pieces of blue masking tape to mark the top and bath vanity so you can put the top back in the same place. Then remove the top and use Silicone or construction adhesive like liquid nails or PL to secure it in place. Use it sparingly because it doesn’t take much to hold a top in place. Place the top back on and press it down making sure to line the tape marks up where they were on the dry fit. The silicone or adhesive will take about 24 hrs. to fully dry.

How Do We Secure the Sink and Countertop to the Bathroom Vanity? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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How Much Should a Basic Bathroom Remodel Cost? Total Bill?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 21:48:11 +0000

A basic remodel of a bathroom should cost anywhere from $5000 to $7,000. There are many factors that can drive this cost in either direction. Size of the bathroom is one, for the fact that tile material and labor to install it is priced by the square foot. If you are going to change the tile or tub surround then it is a good idea to replace the tub/shower valve while you have the wall open and this also allows for updating the color or trim of the fixture. Tile material can vary in price from $1 per square foot to $50 but there is a very large selection in the $5 range. Same with bathroom vanities; depends on if you are buying a small pedestal sink vanity for $100 or a large double vanity for $2500. Additional lighting, new mirror, and painting usually are incorporated with a bathroom remodel and can all be done within this range.

How Much Should a Basic Bathroom Remodel Cost? Total Bill? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Average Bathroom Remodel Costs

Are Glass Top Bathroom Vanities Durable?

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 21:47:37 +0000

Glass used for bathroom vanity countertops is usually ½” thick tempered glass meaning if it were to break it would shatter into a bunch of small pieces like a car windshield instead of large sharp pieces of glass that could be dangerous. Thick tempered glass is extremely hard to break. It is very similar to what you see in large aquariums at the zoo that hold in thousands of gallons of water or the windshield in an airplane.

Glass can be scratched but again not easily. You should never use anything abrasive to clean it such as a brillo pad or SOS; these harsh materials can scratch the surface. Glass is as durable as most other solid surface bath vanity countertop materials in which it will stand up to normal ware and tare for a long time.

Are Glass Top Bathroom Vanities Durable? is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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Bathroom Design Ideas with Julia from UniqueVanities.com

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Wed, 26 May 2010 13:04:06 +0000

Here is a quick 2.5 minute video on some inexpensive bathroom design ideas, including bathroom vanities.

Bathroom Design Ideas with Julia from UniqueVanities.com is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Bathroom Faucet Installation with Randy from UniqueVanities.com

Bathroom Faucet Installation with Randy from UniqueVanities.com

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Tue, 25 May 2010 18:44:31 +0000

In this video, Randy demonstrates simply bathroom faucet installation. Enjoy!

Bathroom Faucet Installation with Randy from UniqueVanities.com is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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Use Vessel Sinks in Your Bathrooms for a Contemporary Style

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 20:11:49 +0000

Sometimes it can be difficult to figure out just what you can do to make your bathroom look more unique and interesting. Most people just get the standard bathroom sinks with the cabinets underneath. However, there are other options available, and they are becoming a lot more popular lately. One option that you might not have thought of for your bathroom is the use of vessel sinks.

Vessel sinks are similar in looks to bowls that are placed on top of counters. They are a bit reminiscent of the basins people used to use to wash with before the use of running water in homes. However, they are used in conjunction with faucets and work just like regular sinks. The main difference is that they sit on top of your counter instead of being dropped into the counter.

These sinks can be made out of all sorts of different materials. You can get glass vessel sinks, as well as those made out of stone, various metals, ceramic, and even wood. They can also be very decorative, since they are meant to be seen. Some have designs painted on them. You can even match the color of the sink to your decor since these sinks come in all different colors, from the neutrals to very bright color options. For those with a lot of money to spare you can even get sinks made out of gem stones. These sometimes have really unique free form shapes and look gorgeous.

Unlike regular sinks for the bathroom, which are pretty much all the same shape, with vessel sinks you can get many different shapes of sinks. There are square sinks, round sinks, oval sinks, even sinks with fluted tops for a little something different. There are free form options as well in a number of different materials.

Choosing this type of sink gives you so many different decorating options, since you can choose a sink that really suits your style. Besides the sink, you also have more options for the base cabinets that you put your sink on. This can lead to your having a really unique bathroom that people will comment on.

Use Vessel Sinks in Your Bathrooms for a Contemporary Style is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Average Bathroom Remodel Costs

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 05:31:57 +0000

Today we’re going to discuss the average cost for remodeling a bathroom. From simple things like accessories or adding a vessel sink all the way to a complete remodel, we have the answers for you. Please keep in mind the information presented here are just averages but we do get this question quite often from our clients. So it seemed like a great topic to discuss and walk you through all the things to take into consideration just so you can get an idea of what to expect if you’re going to remodel your bathroom.

The first thing to consider is cabinetry. If you have custom built cabinetry you can expect the low end to be about $75 per linear foot for paint grade cabinetry up to $250 per linear foot. Again that’s for custom vanities. To have that finished to put the paint or stain on it, you can expect that to be around $100 dollars per linear foot additional.

The thing to take into consideration with plumbing is whether or not you can use the existing plumbing lines or are you going to be doing a major renovation meaning you’re going to relocate the toilet to a different part of the bathroom or you’re going to relocate your shower. If you are just changing out fixtures as an example like your faucets and shower head you can expect that to be around $600 for the entire bathroom.

However if you’re doing a major renovation changing out the layout of your plumbing. You can expect that to be about $2600. In addition if you want to add a Jacuzzi tub, the average cost of adding that is about $1000. For mirrors budget between $200-500 dollars. That’s a good amount of money to get a high quality mirror.

Lighting and electrical run very similar to plumbing. Can you use your existing fixtures and electrical lines or are you going to need to move your existing layout? If you’re just changing out existing fixtures and hang up new lighting fixtures, you can expect an electrician to cost between $75 -$100 dollars an hour. If you’re going to totally revamp your lighting design and add things like recessed lighting or an exhaust fan, you can expect that to cost an average of about $1500.

The next thing would be flooring, there are two pieces or two components to your flooring. You need to think about labor and material. Your labor install will really depend on the area you’re working in, but we have found that the average cost is between $4-6 dollars a square foot. Then obviously the tile material or whatever you choose for your flooring can range between $2-$20 per square foot. Tile is the most popular but there are other things to consider like wood.

Moving on to the shower, if you were just going to add a once piece around shower you can expect that to cost around $400. If you want a tiled shower you can expect those costs to be similar to the tile costs that we had talked about with flooring for example.

Drywall and paint: budget about $600 for basic textured walls. But if you decide to go with something fancy like an artistic plaster finish you can go up to as much as $2500 dollars.

Counter tops also vary. If you go with something popular like granite or marble you can expect to pay anywhere from $40-$60 dollars per linear foot. And that’s really dependent on the material you use.

Accessories range from about $100-500. Accessories would be all the little stuff that you’re going to add to your bathroom remodel project. It could be the hardware on your vanity or your towel bars just to name a few ideas.

Just keep in mind that these are average costs. If you have any questions visit our website www.uniquevanities.com, we’ve got a lot of information there. Also feel free to call us anytime 866-526-1843. We have highly trained staff that are available to answer your calls. We are also a general contracting company here in Dallas, Texas so we know what it costs to remodel bathrooms. Give us a call we’d be glad to answer any of your questions.

Average Bathroom Remodel Costs is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Tips On How to Size Light Fixtures for Your Bathroom Vanity

How to reduce splashing with vessel sinks

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 08:02:05 +0000

Today let’s take a few minutes to talk a little bit about vessel sinks and coordinating vessel faucets. Whether you are working with a ceramic or stone vessel or even a glass vessel sink, a common problem that we hear about our clients encountering is that after they have installed their new vessel sink and faucet is that the water splashes a little too much. Well, fortunately there are a couple of very simple solutions to this issue. Read on for the answers.

The first solution is to choose a faucet that sits a little bit lower or closer to the sink bowl. And, if your counter top allows for it, move the faucet back a little bit. This all has to be done obviously during installation. This is a good fix if you are working with a slightly smaller vessel sink. For instance, if you were using a smaller sink and an average height faucet, you will end up with more space between the two, making splashing a distinct possibility. So if you opt for a shorter faucet at the beginning, you can avoid this issue. Talk to and work with your retailer to help you make certain the faucet isn’t too tall and that the sink bowl you choose isn’t too small.

The other possibility in a case of too much splashing is that the water pressure is a bit too high. When the faucet is turned on you can go underneath the sink and turn the shut off valves down just a little bit so you are not getting quite so much volume out of there. Simply go under the sink cabinet, locate the water shut off valve, turn on the faucet full blast; with a pair of pliers gently turn down the water pressure. Adjust as needed until the water pressure is just right for your sink. This will keep the faucet from blasting too much water from coming out of the spout which will prevent the splashing.

So, hopefully these two very simple solutions have helped you either with your existing vessel sink and faucet combo or will help you with your impending project. As always, we are here to answer all of your home remodeling and decorating questions. Just email uniquevanities@msn.com or call us, even if you haven’t made a purchase, we’re here for you.

How to reduce splashing with vessel sinks is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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Vessel Sinks are a Great Investment for Your Home

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 15:47:13 +0000

When you want to invest in upgrades for your home, the kitchen and the bathroom will bring in the most return for your investment. Buyers are more sophisticated these days and they appreciate your careful attention to detail. That is why bathrooms that pamper your body and your mind are popular. You will want to spend your money on items that are in style and items that are timeless, so that you are maximizing your dollars. The elements that you choose will bring the buyers to your door and improve the worth of your home. You may not be thinking about selling your home now, but adding a vessel sink to your bathroom will still increase the value of your home. These projects can be done by an expert or you can manage them with some effort. No matter what design style you are going for these sinks will be the jewel in the bathroom, which you can build off of.

These sinks offer drama and appeal to people that love enriched design elements. They are not your typical sink, which is inserted into the counter. These sinks rest on top of the counter in the same way that a bowl would set on the top of a counter. They come in many different types of materials and color choices. They can be found in stone, copper, ceramic, porcelain, glass, and more. The glass vessel sink would be great for a contemporary designed bathroom. The stone and ceramic vessel sinks, often times, will offer you a more rustic look. You can match these sinks to your color pallet or go off your color pallet to bring some drama into the room. These sinks will bring value to your bathroom and you will enjoy the design features.

After you have decided to purchase a new sink for your bathroom, you will need to review the choices in materials, textures and style. You will find that there are a wide variety of price points to consider. You can shop online and review each selection. You will want to take not of the measurements to ensure that you have enough counter space for the new sink. The vessel sinks will add the beauty and value that you want in your bathroom. Today is a great day to start the selection process.

Vessel Sinks are a Great Investment for Your Home is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Pros and Cons of Vessel Sinks

Pros and Cons of Vessel Sinks

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 06:29:02 +0000

Today’s article dives into the advantages and disadvantages of adding a vessel sink to your next bathroom remodeling project.

One of the biggest advantages is style. Adding a vessel sink really is something very unique, it has that wow factor when you see it. It’s not something that you see in every bathroom. In addition, they are very easy to install. It’s simply cutting a hole into the countertop, depending on what kind of countertop you have. For most projects it’s a very easy project for the do it yourselfer.

You also gain counter space by having the sink mounted on top. What’s really neat about is that because it’s so easy to install, you can easily change out the vessel sink in a year or two years down the road if you just wanted to change up the style of your overall bathroom.

A couple of things to take into consideration, some disadvantages. Some designers consider it a fad that might not be around for the long term. At www.UniqueVanities.com, we disagree but it is something to take into consideration. There can also be water and dirt that can get stuck in between the base of the vessel sink and the countertop. So that too is just something to take into consideration.

There can also be durability and sustainability issues. With vessel sinks, the edge is exposed. If it is a sink that you use day in and say out it may be more prone to potential cracks or damage. This is very rare, however.

A few other things you need to be aware of, they do require a special faucet. You will need a faucet that is tall enough for the water to fall into the bowl. Also you should consider the height of your vanity. You want the sink to be easy to reach. If the vanity is a standard size, some sinks may end up being too tall and a little difficult to use. But you can find vessels in all kinds of shapes and styles. At Unique Vanities we have vessel sinks in glass and stone, including marble and granite. We also have a unique line of ceramic vessel sinks.

If you have any questions, feel free to call at 866-526-1843. We have a trained knowledgeable staff. We also have contractors available that can discuss any of your installation needs if needed and we’re here to help. Thanks and have a great day.

Pros and Cons of Vessel Sinks is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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Benefits of Vessel Sinks

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 20:18:57 +0000

Kitchen and bathroom sinks can be found as single bowl, double bowl, under mount and various other styles. They are probably the most overlooked but often utilized appliance in the home. Sinks can be constructed with a wide range of materials, including enameled cast iron, vitreous china, porcelain on steel, stainless steel, natural stone, cast aluminum, and much more. Sinks generally cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to thousands, and the price tag usually relies on the material, size and features. Vessel sinks are becoming more popular these days due to their interesting designs, overall look, and range of cost.

Of all the materials that are utilized in constructing kitchen and bathroom sinks, ceramics and metals are known to be the sturdiest and most common. There are various kinds of metal and metal coated sinks found in the market today that are constructed from stainless steel, brass, copper cast iron, cast aluminum or a mix of these metals. You will also be able to choose from stone, porcelain, and many other materials.

Vessel sinks have a number of advantages. The materials generally costs a little less. Also, they can be easier to maintain, and therefore costs less in the long run. Vessel sinks are extremely versatile. They are available in creative styles and interesting forms. Some manufacturers even offer making molds so that you can have a custom designed vessel sink.

If you choose to go with an aluminum or copper vessel sink you must keep in mind that it has a tendency to develop a protective oxide coating or patina when exposed to the atmosphere, it’s not necessary to have additional treatment in ordinary surroundings unless you want to keep the original finish and coloring. Special alloys and anodic coatings are applied in extra-corrosive surroundings. Talk to your manufacturer or retailer about this and they will guide you in how to care for your metal sink. A good retailer will be there for you for many years to come with your new sink.

Because of the vessel sinks amazing versatility, these sinks offer homeowners more options when it comes to design and style. Vessel sinks have more design options compared to other traditional under mount sinks because they are so truly unique and really create an interesting design for your space. So if you’re searching for something more intricate, a vessel sink may be the best choice for you and your project.

Benefits of Vessel Sinks is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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Create a Contemporary Look with a Vessel Sink and Faucet

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 17:06:13 +0000

Contemporary is a big word in the decorating world. Many folks have chosen this beautiful look for their homes. The straight and clean lines and simple flavor makes this a very popular style to work with. When the word simple is used it does not mean that it is unsophisticated. It means that it is clean and direct, giving your home an uncluttered feeling and a purposeful design. A design touch you can use to make the bathroom in your home feel beautiful and contemporary is the by adding a vessel sink and faucet, a unique look of simple design with a classy modern feel.

What are we talking about are vessel sinks that have the appearance of a bowl that sits on the counter top instead of under the counter. They come in a variety of shapes, round bowls, square, custom shapes, and many others. They can be purchased clear, colored in just about any design, and any thickness you may like. If you look at an internet site that offers pictures of these bowls, you will have a lot of considering to do. The options just go on and on. You can buy these in marble, stone, ceramic, china, and just about any other hard, durable material. Glass is popular for the clear look. Enamel is also used frequently. White is used most often, offering that contemporary feel, and matching any bathroom scheme you have created.

Each different material used for these vessel sinks will have its pros and cons. You will want to make sure you follow all the care instructions that may come with your particular choice. Marbles and granites are strong and make for a good sink; however, if they chip it will need to be repaired, a good retailer will be there to help you find a stone craftsman to help. This is not too difficult to do, it just takes time. You will find that the materials used to make vessel sinks are very strong when put into sink form, removing most of this worry. Do not be afraid to try a few different looks before settling on the one you like best. Make sure when you buy your sink, that there is a return policy. Most online retailers, especially a good one, will help you and work with you until you find the perfect item for your space and design. Look into some of the beautiful faucets that are available as well. Getting that purchase right will make the right statement in your bathroom.

Create a Contemporary Look with a Vessel Sink and Faucet is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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Get Organized with a Double Sink Vanity

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 20:13:07 +0000

It is early Monday morning and you pushed the snooze alarm twice. Now you are running late and you have to fight for space in the bathroom. Maybe it’s time to install a double sink vanity. You will have fun shopping all of the varieties of bathroom vanity choices available today, especially online. You need to determine your budget and whether or not you want to do a total remodel of your bathroom, or just add a bathroom vanity that will fit into what you already have. You should be able to find some reasonable prices if you search the internet. Plus you can get some ideas of the styles of double vanities that are available.

A modern type of double sink vanity available that seems quite attractive is one that stands on legs. These are also known as furniture style vanities. The vanity tops come in a variety of hand polished stones for exquisite smoothness and style. The cabinets are available in multiple finish options too. The doors are often mounted with stylish hinges and pulls. Faucets are not typically included. Most online retailers will also offer a variety of faucets for you to choose from and don’t be afraid to ask for assistance on selecting just the right one for your new vanity.

The same types of vanity are also available with a unique twist. Vessel sinks that sit on top of the vanity or partially sunk, rather standard under mounted sinks. This look adds to a modern look and creates a stylish look that you will enjoy for years to come.

No matter what your style, a double sink vanity is sure to add the storage space you need to get organized as well as giving you and your partner the space needed to use the bathroom at the same time in the mornings and during the prep routine. You will each have your own personal organized space which will surely improve the efficiency of your mornings.

So, shop around and figure out what style suites your personal taste. Remember, before you start shopping, take all of the necessary measurements in the room and keep them by your side while you shop. It will make the process much easier for you. Ask questions of the vendors, they will be more than happy to help you find the perfect double sink vanity for your project.

Get Organized with a Double Sink Vanity is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Tips On How to Size Light Fixtures for Your Bathroom Vanity

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Sat, 30 Jan 2010 17:59:15 +0000

Lighting fixtures are extremely important when it comes to bathroom remodeling, and should not be overlooked. These need to be included in your remodel brainstorming and planning. It’s important to make sure the new light fixtures measure up nicely with the bathroom vanity.

First, you need to know how to size bathroom lighting fixtures. Basically, you will need to find lighting fixtures that are most suitable for the overall size of your bathroom and that coordinate well with the size of other items in the room.

It is important that you measure properly. An oversight of even an inch can leave you with a lot of trouble that cannot be easily solved. For the bathroom vanity, measure the space for width, length, and height. You will also need to know the measurements of your vanity first before deciding on the lighting fixtures you will incorporate with your vanity.

You can make a small bathroom feel warm and inviting by incorporating the appropriate light fixtures. Try recessed can ceiling light fixtures concentrated on work areas. You could also utilize indirect lighting somewhere at the wall junction. Sconces can save up a lot of space because they are attached to the walls, so you may place them on either side of the bathroom mirror above the sink. You can use more lighting fixtures if you layer your lighting and manage it with dimmer switches.

Large bathroom usually require extra lighting. Here you should consider recessed cans combined with over mirror wall lighting. If you have a wide sink or double sink vanity, you can consider a small lamp in addition to a hanging wall fixture. This is really only applicable for large bathrooms.

The first thing you need to do to start any bathroom remodel is to determine the style you want to employ. You need to have an idea of your overall theme before tearing the space apart or ripping your bathroom vanity off the existing floor plan. Fortunately, you can find very simple ways to establish the style that you want online. You could even easily find the size and prices you require for your particular project. Once you have a basic concept of what you want, start measuring. Remember, this job does involve water and electricity so keep safety a top priority.

Tips On How to Size Light Fixtures for Your Bathroom Vanity is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Adding a New Bathroom Vanity

Adding a New Bathroom Vanity

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 03:51:20 +0000

Home improvement projects are something that can greatly increase the resale value of a home, or just add value for the current homeowners. Often times, these projects can become costly, but there are smaller projects around the house that can be completed on a budget. Since the bathroom is one of the most important rooms in a house when it comes to resale value, putting in a new bathroom vanity is a simple, cost effective project to take on. In order to be successful with this type of project, there are a few key things that you need to know.

First off, you are going to need to get rid of the old bathroom vanity and sink that are already installed. Taking a look underneath the vanity will tell you how it is attached to the wall, and thus how to detach it from the wall. This might require taking out some screws, so having a good set of wrenches or a power drill on hand can save you some work. Once the vanity is detached, you might have to take a utility knife to run it around the edges to make sure it is completely away from the wall.

As with any pluming project, it is a good idea to shut off the water to the bathroom before you start getting too far. This will prevent any major mishaps if you do make a mistake. Taking off the countertop of the vanity first will save some work in getting the rest of it away from the wall. Once the top of the bathroom vanity is off, then you can look around again underneath and make sure any cabinets or molding are ready to be taken off. When you are sliding out the old vanity, or if you have to pry it away from the wall, it is a good idea to have a thin sheet or blanket in place to protect the flooring. You might also need to put a thin piece of wood between the pry bar and the wall to get the base of the vanity removed.

Once you have the old stuff taken out, then it is time to install the new bathroom vanity unit. Shopping online is a great option because it will afford you a fantastic selection of many styles and sizes of vanity. Take your time and be sure to find a vanity that fits your budget and the style you want to achieve.

Adding a New Bathroom Vanity is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

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Organizing With a Double Bathroom Vanity

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 21:06:54 +0000

There are many ideas that can be implemented in the bathroom to add space and organizational ideas and one such way is with a double bathroom vanity. Instantly you create a separate area for at least two users in the bathroom. Nothing keeps things more organized than having a place specific and personal to each user. A long enough vanity with detailed places for his and hers, so to speak, is a great way to get started.

Possibly the best way to be organized in such a small room would be to have separate rooms but if this is just not possible for most homes. Do not think of it as having all hair products on one side and all body products on another. Concentrate on specifically having one side for one person and the other side for the other person’s needs. A mutual ground can be determined for items needed by both. If there is a place for everything and everything in its place in a small room it can instantly be more organized, more efficient, and it will feel larger.

A double sink vanity can be found in a variety of designs and prices. Finding one may depend more on the price tag then on specific designs. Do you want marble slab or marble tile? Does a laminate counter seem ideal for your pocket book and perhaps a look fitting with the age of the house? Although, if again the main reason for the double space is for organization then the most important thing to consider is space for each person. Concentrate on finding a vanity with ample drawer and cabinet space for your needs and that will fit your budget too.

There are a lot of vanities that are more aesthetically pleasing then they are necessarily an efficient use of space. Is there a way to incorporate your designs with function? Yes! The online furniture style vanity market is growing all the time and with a little time invested in shopping, you will find a vanity that is both aesthetically pleasing and that fits your storage needs.

Remember, while shopping; know your budget, know your storage needs, know the dimensions of your space, and know what you want as far as style. Keeping all of these things in mind while you do your shopping with make the process fun and easy.

Organizing With a Double Bathroom Vanity is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Double Bathroom Vanity Cabinets Reduce the Clutter

Double Bathroom Vanity Cabinets Reduce the Clutter

Unique Bathroom Vanity — Sun, 27 Dec 2009 04:49:24 +0000

Bathroom cabinets can reduce the clutter in your bathroom in many ways. There is always the go-to example of using a separate medicine cabinet to improve storage space. But let’s be a little more long term with our thinking for this case. Yes a medicine cabinet can add storage space, but when you add more storage places, it only adds to the fullness and cluttered feel of the room. The best solution to this problem is use a nice double bathroom vanity that will reduce visible clutter, while also reducing the need for additional storage units in the bathroom.

Shopping online is a fabulous option for searching for a nice balance of form and functionality. The design and style of your new vanity cabinets will go well with your own personal taste and will solve your storage needs at the same time. Think about the style you are trying to achieve; traditional, modern, antiqued, etc… Modern designs are great for a small bathroom because their simple and clean lines will open the space and make it feel larger.

Once you have determined the style of cabinet that you want, move on to your storage needs. You can shop cabinets with doors only, with or without shelves, a combination of doors and drawers, or just drawers. It all depends on your personal needs. A combination of cabinet doors and drawers is the optimum choice for storage options. Smaller items and things that are used daily can go in the drawers and larger items and things that are not needed on a daily basis can be stored inside the cabinets.

Once you get all of your items neatly into your new cabinet, you will find that the space looks cleaner and even feels larger. A double sink bathroom vanity will eliminate the need for a medicine cabinet, over-toilet shelving, corner cabinets, etc… Plus having two sinks means each person that uses the space will have their own private storage and personal space. All of this will work together to open up the space making it much more user friendly.

Once you have your new vanity in hand, inspect it carefully and read the installation directions closely. Depending on the size of your new piece, it might be best to work with a partner. If you feel uncomfortable with the job, hire a professional contractor.

Hopefully now you can see how bathroom cabinets can reduce the clutter in your life. Happy shopping and decorating!

Double Bathroom Vanity Cabinets Reduce the Clutter is a post from: Unique Bathoom Vanity Blog

Double Sink Bathroom Vanities