Category Archives: Bathroom Remodeling

Plumbing Upgrades To Consider For Your Washington, D.C. Home

There are many great plumbers here in the Washington, D.C. metro area who are able to help you with any plumbing upgrades and repairs you might need for your home. Undertaking such upgrades and repairs may seem like a daunting task, but with a little help from the professionals, it can be a breeze. This article will list some of the many plumbing upgrades and repairs that might be necessary for your home.

 

Shower Repair

 

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For many of us, the morning (or evening) shower is the most relaxing part of our day. With a shower upgrade, it can be even more relaxing. A good D.C. area plumber will be able to adjust the water pressure exactly to your tastes. They will also be able to repair or replace your showerhead, so that the water flow is exactly how you like it. Such upgrades will not only make your shower more comfortable, they will actually save you money, as leaky showers are a major source of water waste here in the D.C. area. If you have recently purchased a brand-new shower or bath, a plumber will be able to help you install your new purchase.

 

Drain and Sewer Upgrades

 

If you are looking to perform a major renovation on your home or property in the city of Washington, you need to be aware of the D.C. drain and sewer codes, as it is necessary that your property is always in accordance with these codes. Before you begin your upgrade, consult with a local plumber. They will tell you exactly how your plans will alter the drainage and sewer system on your property. If needed, they can provide the necessary adjustments, so that you are still in-line with local regulations, even though your property underwent a dramatic change. A good plumber can also perform drainage and sewer repairs on your property. If your sewer line is broken, or your septic tank needs repaired or replaced, a good plumber will be able to get your property back in tip-top shape.

 

Emergency Plumbing Repairs

 

Let’s face it: plumbing emergencies happen, especially in old houses. Washington, D.C. is home to many beautiful, charming, historic houses. Unfortunately, with all of that charm and history often comes old, rusted pipes and outdated plumbing systems. And let’s not forget that even newer homes can have plumbing problems every now and then. If you find yourself waist-deep in a plumbing emergency, whether it is a clogged drain, a broken pipe, a broken water heater, or a backed-up toilet, you need to have a D.C. plumber who you can call at a moment’s notice, and who you can rely on to fix the situation promptly and for a reasonable price. This may seem like a very tall order, but fortunately, there are many plumbers here in Washington, D.C. who provide 24-hour services. If you can find a go-to plumber here in the D.C. area, all of the sudden your plumbing emergency becomes much more manageable.

 

 

Finding The Best Service Providers Here In Washington, D.C.

One of the greatest perks of living in Washington, D.C. is the sheer variety of what is available. Looking to go out to eat? You have countless restaurants – serving every type of cuisine – to choose from. Looking to go to a museum? You could spend months touring all of the amazing museums here in Washington! Looking to go shopping? Whatever you are looking to buy, chances are, there is a store in D.C. that has it. This same variety applies to service providers as well. As a new homeowner here in D.C. you have endless contractors, plumbers, landscapers, roofers, and repair companies to choose from. This variety can be a blessing and a curse: you have access to so many different service companies that choosing one can seem like a monumental task! This article will offer some pointers that will help you narrow down your search here in the D.C. area.

 

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Do Not Be Afraid To Ask Around

 

 

Information is power here in the capital, and your connections can go a long way to ensuring your success! Use those same connections when searching for the perfect D.C. service provider for your home. Whether you are looking for D.C. plumbing services, electricians, roofers, or any other type of service provider, chances are good that your friends, acquaintances, and colleagues have ample experience working with all of the above. In almost every case, they will be more than willing to share their insider information with you. This way you can figure out who will provide you with superior service and whose work may be…well…less than stellar. What’s more, if you have a personal connection to a D.C. area service provider (in a “friend of a friend” sort of way) they may offer to provide service at a discounted rate. While this is not a guarantee and certainly should not be expected, it could be a pleasant surprise!

 

 

Utilize The Internet For Your Search

 

 

The internet is a great tool for finding a wonderful service provider here in the Washington, D.C. area. There are several sites that, like the yellow pages of old, list all providers in a given field of service. Since D.C. is such a populous area, any comprehensive list will be several pages long. Luckily, the internet can help you separate the good from the bad as well. There are many sites that not only offer contact information for various local service providers, but also reviews from actual customers here in the D.C. area! This can be an excellent way to get an opinion (and even a second, third, and fourth opinion!) on a service provider that you think might be a good fit. Another word to the wise: the internet can also be a great tool for finding deals. Many service providers offer discounts on their website that you can take advantage of. You can also try checking local coupon and deal sites to see if you can save any money on your next estimate or service appointment!

 

 

Plumbing Upgrades For An Aging Population

Time is one factor that no one can control. As time passes, things continue to age. The circle of life is no mystery to any of us. The task of coping with the changes that are to come can be troublesome. One area of the home where the most injuries occur in older individuals is the bathroom. To protect yourself, parent, or loved one from injuring themselves in this common area of the home, there are a few upgrades that can be done.

Some upgrades you can do on your own, while other upgrades will require the assistance of a professional. The do-it-yourself upgrades are generally the first things that are attempted, before outside assistance is called in. The upgrades that can be done without any professional assistance include: changing door knobs, installing grip bars, and purchasing a nonslip bath mat for the tub.

 

DIY Plumbing Upgrades

 

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Door knobs may need to be replaced, if they are hard to grasp. It is important to remember that as you age, you may not have the same amount of strength you once had when you were a young chap. It is important that the knobs in your residence adapt to your capabilities. If a knob is too hard to turn, then it needs to be replaced.

Grip bars can be installed to allow an easy transition from a sitting position to a stance. The nonslip liner for the bath is a given. If your legs get wobbly from standing in a place for too long, adding water into the picture can make the task dangerous. Along with an anti-slip mat a waterproof chair or bench can greatly improve safety. Most injuries occur in the shower, because wet slippery surfaces can put people with mobility issues in danger.

 

When To Call In A Professional

 

Simple alterations can be made to a bathroom to make it safer for elderly people. Small changes and additions can make tasks less daunting. However, if any major alterations need to be made to the bathroom or kitchen, these DC plumbing upgrades should be completed by a professional. Raising or replacing a sink, installing slip resistant flooring, and installing a special toilet all require professional intervention.

 

Raising Or Replacing A Sink

 

Elderly individuals that have issues bending over may elect to have their sink raised to make the task easier. A professional should be called in to complete this service, to ensure that it is done correctly. Wheelchair bound individuals may also need to have their sinks lowered to accommodate their needs. Homes are not readily equipped or sold with these modifications, so they will need to be done at some point by a professional servicer who offers DC plumbing services.

 

Installing Slip Resistant Flooring

 

Slippery surfaces are a danger zone for elderly people. Not only is an elderly’s person’s mobility jeopardized, but if they were to fall, it could have detrimental effects. If the tile in your bathroom is glossy or slippery when wet, to avoid accidents, have it replaced.

 

Installing A Special Toilet

 

The shower and the toilet are two of the most important parts of a lavatory. If an elderly person has a problem getting up from the toilet, or sitting on it, a special toilet can be installed. These special devices can be adjusted to a height to eliminate the danger of going to the bathroom. No one wants to hear that a loved one has gone to the bathroom and is unable to vacate the facility, or has been injured attempting to do so.

 

 

Three Ways To Turn Your Bathroom Into A Smart Room

It is an undeniable fact that technology has severely altered our existence. Smartphones have become the modern-day equivalent to a daily journal. The internet is where everyone goes if they need a question answered. Technology has changed the way that we act and the way that we live. Now it has also changed the functionality of the bathroom.

Many adults can recall their parents bickering at them for bringing something electronic into the bathroom with them. Parents were convinced that if something electronic were taken into the area that their children could get hurt. Now, electronics have become a part of the bathroom, and are being integrated into the room with such precision that it’s hard to tell if they are incorporated or not.

 

The Cool Cabinet Effect

 

The Cool Cabinet is a idea that does exist, and one you may be interested in if you are planning to do some bathroom remodeling in DC. On the outside, the cabinet looks like your basic medicine cabinet. It has mirrors on the outside of it, and when it opens, there is space for you to store your hygiene products. When it comes to this cabinet, looks can be deceiving. The medicine cabinet is built with a partial refrigeration system.

This system was built in to provide an area to keep cold drinks on hand, or for other items that require refrigeration. Skin products that are organically made can be stored here, instead of the fridge. Also, for people that take medications that require refrigeration, there will be no need to have to store pills next to food. Instead, the cabinet provides a perfect place to keep prescriptions cold.

 

The Smart Shower

 

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There is no better feeling in the world than stepping into a hot steaming shower at the end of a hard day. The new and improved smart shower is designed to please. This shower is loaded with interactive features that make showering extremely enjoyable and unforgettable. The appearance of the shower is simple, it is the hidden gems that make it incredibly attractive.

The smart shower features a built-in control system. The system is controlled by a few flicks of the finger, using an LCD screen that can be mounted anywhere. This shower allows users to control the water pressure of their shower, the temperature of their water, and the steam that the shower is releasing. The shower provides a fully customizable showering experience for everyone in the family.

 

Built-in Bathroom Stereo System

 

Imagine turning your tub into a stereo system. The concept may sound silly, but people are doing it. There is a built in stereo system that exists that enables music to be broadcasted from the tub in the bathroom. An amplifier is placed inside of a cabinet in the room, and can be connected to a phone or a CD can be placed into it. Speakers that are not visible are placed inside of the tub, and the sound is amplified from there.

While having the stereo system installed, you can also opt for heating pads to be placed inside the inner layer of the tub as well. These pads are designed to provide a spa-like feel in your residence. Technology has made it possible to customize your life, and make it into something that you can enjoy in every facet. From the kitchen, to the bathroom, to the car, technology integration just makes sense.

Space Saver Ideas For Small Bathroom Remodels

Bathrooms are normally the toughest and most expensive room to remodel in your home. The plumbing lines that have been set to signify where the toilet, sink, and tub should be set are usually in a fixed location. If the footprint of the room is small, there may not be a lot of room to work with when considering a remodel.

There is always the option of taking out a wall to expand the space. If you are tight on cash and do not the money to do a complete remodel, there are some simple things that can be done to make the room appear larger. Five space saving ideas to consider when doing DC bathroom remodeling are to change out the vanity, eliminate shower curtains, clear out the clutter, paint the walls, and add extra light.

 

 

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Change Out The Vanity

 

If your small sized bathroom contains a vanity, consider changing it out. The vanity can be swapped for a pedestal style sink or a console that possesses a few shelves. Removing the vanity may eliminate the room’s storage potential, but it will make the room appear spacious.

 

Eliminate Shower Curtains

 

Shower curtains can make a small bathroom appear even smaller. If the curtain is made of fabric or possess a pattern, the bathroom will have a closed in or dark appearance. To give the bathroom a spacious look, install glass sliding doors. The doors are available in varying styles, and give the room a lighter appearance.

 

Clear Out Clutter

 

Cluttered rooms give an area a smaller appearance, even if the area is large. Baskets and shelves can be used to organize the area. Consider installing floating or wall-mounted cabinets. Place the shelves at a decent height, so you can store your bathroom essentials, but low enough for you to be able to grab something if it is needed.

 

Paint The Walls

 

Dark colors make rooms appear closed in, while lighter colors open them up. If your bathroom does not get a decent amount of natural light, lighter or neutral colors should be used to brighten up the space. The right paint color can transform the bathroom in your home. A light and lively color will give the room depth, making it appear larger than its square footage.

 

Add Extra Light

 

A common reason why people opt to remodel their bathrooms is due to trends. While a bathroom that possesses pattern tiles all over the walls may have been a great look in the seventies, it is not a good look now. Changing out the light fixtures in the room can provide additional lighting that the bathroom lacked previously. Think about adding sconces along the left and right sides of the mirror, or doing wall-mounted string lines.

Some bathroom remodels can be DIY, while other remodeling ideas may require professional intervention. Before removing the fixtures in the room, such as the sink, toilet, or tub, reach out to a professional to avoid damaging anything. Remodeling a room takes skill; small bathroom remodels can be just as tedious as their larger counterparts.

 

Five Tips To Make Your Plumbing Renovation Project Run Smoothly

Renovating your home can be exciting, but it also requires a lot of work. If you plan on doing the work yourself, or hiring an experienced contractor to perform the remodel for you, there is plenty that needs to be completed. When planning your renovation, it is vital to consider the plumbing renovations that will need to be done.

There are five things that you can do to make the renovation go smoothly. You should make it a point to hire a plumber at the onset of your project, make realistic location choices, be flexible with your design, leave an ample amount of time to get the project completed, and employ licensed professionals. These five things may sound simple enough, but they are overlooked often.

 

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Hire A Plumber At The Onset Of Your Project

 

There is no telling what you will run into when renovating your kitchen or bathroom. You should not wait until after you have begun demolition to employ a contractor. A licensed plumbing professional can guide you through performing DC plumbing renovations, without endangering the plumbing system in your home. They can help you determine what needs to be replaced, allowing you to properly plan for their services in your renovation budget.

 

Make Realistic Location Choices

 

In most homes, plumbing lines are already set where they need to be. If you want to have a line moved so a fixture can be placed in a different spot, make sure your expectations are realistic. Pipes can always be moved to accommodate your location choice, but make sure that you are not making silly requests. Sometimes untrained people expect professionals to be able to perform tasks that are unrealistic.

 

Be Flexible With Your Design

 

You have a vision of what you want your project to look like once it’s completed, but sometimes it is impossible to get everything that you want. Whenever plumbing renovations are involved, you must be flexible with your design choices. Being flexible will allow your plumber to meet your expectations without compromising the plumbing system in the process.

 

Leave An Ample Amount Of Time To Get The Project Completed

 

It takes time to renovate a home’s plumbing system. Even highly skilled plumbers will still need an ample amount of time to be able to get your renovations done correctly and safely. In some cases, permits may be required to move piping systems, which can take a little bit of time to obtain. You should include waiting times for permits into your renovation schedule.

 

Employ Licensed Professionals

 

Licensure is important when it comes to plumbing renovations. Although it seems unimportant to hire a plumber who is licensed to fix a leaky faucet or a clogged drain, larger projects require a licensed professional. Licensed professionals will not only have the proper experience to complete your job, but they will also carry insurance if something were to happen while they are completing your renovation project.

Plumbing renovations are a great way to design your home to adhere to your personal preferences. Keeping the previous five tips in mind, when planning your next renovation, will ensure that it is done right. Remember that renovations take time, planning, and money to be done properly.

Décor Trends For 2017

If you want to give your home or office a fresh new look for the New Year, there are quite a few popular options to consider. Here are some of the most anticipated interior design trends for 2017.

 

Green Is The New Black

 

Green will be the most popular interior design color choice in the New Year. And you don’t have to limit yourself to any specific shade either. Whether it’s emerald, mint or chartreuse, green is definitely the new black this year. So, don’t be surprised if you see the color pop up in any shade in accessories, knick knacks or upholstered furniture.

 

Texture

 

Texture is yet another highly anticipated interior design trend for 2017. While in the past homeowners have chosen to favor bright colors, they are now beginning to choose simpler color palettes with textured elements. Elements of texture are now being spotted not just in fabrics, but also in art, wall treatments, and lighting as well.

 

Organic Patterns And Prints

 

When it comes to fabrics and prints for your home, interior designers are predicting a rise in the popularity of organic patterns and prints. Interior designers are also predicting that worn or vintage prints will once again gain popularity too.

 

Ceramics

 

You’ll probably see more homes decorated with ceramic objects in 2017. The presence of ceramic objects will give your home an earthy artistic feel that’s becoming very popular at the moment. Whether you’re talking vases, lamps, or light fixtures, you’re sure to see a lot of ceramics in the near future.

 

Layers And Colors

 

You’ve probably heard the term less is more. Well, in 2017, it seems that the opposite will hold true. Instead of a minimalist approach as in years past, homeowners and interior designers alike will start to favor layers of prints and colors throughout their homes.

 

Living Finishes

 

Instead of filling your home or office space with brass and chrome, it seems that unpolished brass and unfinished metals will become more popular this year. Designers and decorators are now favoring living rather than shiny finishes.

 

Raw Wood Textures

 

Raw wood textures are gaining more popularity over the polished, finished looks of the past few years. You’ll see more raw wood popping up in furniture, accessories and cabinetry this year.

 

Kitchen And Bathroom Renovation And Remodeling

 

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And if you’re thinking of giving your home or office space a face-lift in the New Year, it’s important not to overlook your kitchen or bathroom. Hiring a professional plumber to assist you with your improvement project will help keep the renovation or remodel both or schedule and on budget. A professional plumber will even be able to help you decide which of these interior design trends are right for your space. They can also help make your new kitchen and bathroom more energy-efficient by installing low-flow toilets, faucets and well as state of the art appliances.

 

Plumbing Services For Your Business

 

Contacting a professional that provides DC commercial plumbing services is a good idea, as they will be able to assist with the remodel, keep all your plumbing and HVAC up to code, and are familiar with zoning regulations.

 

Whether you’re redesigning your home or office interior, or renovating or remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, there are many new and exciting trends to consider this year.

Ideas For Upgrading Your Bathroom In The New Year

If you’re looking for some ideas to upgrade your bathroom for the New Year, it’s a good idea to hire a professional plumber to help and advise you. But before you pick up the phone or start researching on the internet searching for a professional DC plumber, here are a few ideas that can make your ordinary bathroom feel more luxurious in 2017.

 

 Glass Shower Enclosure

 

When you think about renovating or remodeling your bathroom, you may want to start with your shower. To make your bathroom feel more open, choose to install a glass shower enclosure instead of a plain old shower rod and curtain.

 

Steam Showers

 

Another way to upgrade your shower and make it feel a little fancier is to add a vent in the ceiling of your glass shower enclosure. This creates the same effect as a steam shower, but it’s less expensive than a traditional steam generator. These vents can also open or close, just in case you don’t want every shower to be a steam shower.

 

Shower Benches

 

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Shower benches are a great option if you have problems with mobility. They can be installed directly into an existing shower and can be customized with tile in order to match the rest of the space. These benches are specifically designed to be waterproof and can also include built- in shelves for toiletries like shampoo, body wash, razors and soap.

 

Handheld Shower Heads

 

Handheld shower heads are yet another option if you struggle with mobility.  They are an easy way to make your shower experience easier and more relaxing. If you enjoy a full-coverage shower experience, rain showers are perfect for that. They also give the illusion of standing in the rain.

 

Heated Floors

 

There’s nothing more uncomfortable than stepping out of a hot shower onto a cold floor. So consider heated floors when you’re discussing the renovation or remodel of your bathroom with a professional plumber. They can be quite expensive, but your bare feet will thank you.

 

Vanity Storage

 

You’ll need plenty of storage in your newly renovated or remodeled bathroom to store all your belongings and avoid clutter. A large mirror is also a great investment. Consider carefully where you install lights, as certain places may cast less than flattering shadows on your face.

 

Reasons To Hire A Professional Plumber For Your Bathroom Renovation Or Remodel

 

A professional plumber can discuss these bathroom upgrade ideas with you and help you decide which ideas are right for you and your family. A professional plumber can also help keep your renovation or remodeling project both on schedule and on budget. Making the most of an existing space can be difficult when you’re overwhelmed with options. A professional plumber can help you with this too. Choosing the right lighting, tubs, sinks, and plumbing fixtures is yet another decision that a professional plumber can assist you with. They can also install low-flow faucets and toilets so that your new dream is as environmentally friendly as possible.  So keep these tips in mind if you’re considering a bathroom upgrade in 2017.

Home Decorating Tips

Since it’s a new year, you may be looking for some simple and affordable ways to give your home a new look. If you’re not sure where to begin, here are a few ideas.

 

Open Spaces

 

One of the easiest ways to give your home a fresh look is to emphasize open spaces. A home with an airy feel is not only aesthetically pleasing but it can also make you, your family and your guests feel more relaxed. So don’t over decorate or design. A simple way to create a more open home is to make sure that there’s open space between large pieces of furniture like tables and dressers.

 

 Essential Oil Diffusers

 

Using an essential oil diffuser in high traffic areas in your home, will not only make the space smell great, but it will also ease tension and create a more tranquil environment for entertaining guests. Lavender and rose oils can also reduce anxiety.

 

Fresh Flowers

 

Fresh flowers are a great way to bring a little bit of the outdoors into your home. Flowers will not only beautify your home but they can also reduce stress and make you feel happier.

 

Comfortable Bedding

 

Your bedroom is one of the most important rooms in your home so you should choose bedding that’s soft to touch and feels light on your skin. This will ensure that you go right to sleep every night and that you don’t toss and turn all night long.

 

Organic Fixtures And Soft Lighting

 

Using soft lighting in your home or even on your desk at work, in the form of a Himalayan salt lamp, is not only trendy but it can also help you sleep and breath better and fill your home or office with positive energy.

 

Blackout Curtains

 

Blackout curtains are a simple, decorative way to manage the amount of outdoor light that you let into a room. These curtains are available in a variety of colors, textures, and patterns. So they are not only stylish but they can also be a helpful if you suffer from tension headaches or anxiety.

 

Paint Colors

 

Since different colors can affect your emotional state in different ways, it’s important to be strategic when you’re selecting paint colors. Red can cause feelings of anger and chaos and too much blue can over stimulate your brain. So choose serene colors like green, lavender, or light pink instead.

 

Cut Out The Clutter

 

Reducing clutter in your home will not only improve your mood, but it will also make you healthier. Since knick knacks and clutter collects dust which can cause allergies, eliminating them is a good idea.

 

Kitchen Or Bathroom Renovations

 

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Renovating your kitchen or bathroom is another great way to refresh your home. Imagine soaking in a brand new tub filled with fragrant bath salts. A professional plumber can help you make the right design decisions and keep your project on schedule and on budget too. It’s easy to find a professional plumber in your area. Maybe you’re looking for DC plumbing renovations for your home? No problem, just use word of mouth or the internet and pretty soon you’ll have an upgraded bathroom for the New Year.

 

 

 

 

Bathroom Design Trends For 2017

If you’re thinking of renovating or remodeling your bathroom in the New Year, there are a few popular design trends that you should be aware of. It’s a good idea to hire a professional plumber to give you a hand with your bathroom renovation or remodeling project. A professional plumber will not only be on top of these trends, but can also help you decide which of these trends are right for you.

 

Smart Storage

 

Storage should be a major consideration if you’re thinking about renovating or remodeling your bathroom. A professional plumber can help you choose the right cabinets, vanity, or countertop to transform your bathroom. An experienced plumber can help you maximize the existing space in your bathroom as well.  Selecting the perfect faucets, fixtures, toilets, and tubs is something else that a professional plumber can assist you with. Staying on schedule and on budget is important too. And a professional plumber can help you make a plan and stick to it.

 

Dimensional Tile

 

In addition to making the most of the storage space in your bathroom, selecting the right type of tile is important too. A new trend in bathroom design in 2017 is the use of dimensional tile. Dimensional tile is more water resistant than traditional tile and is available in a wide variety of styles including marble, stone, or porcelain. A professional plumber can help you choose the kind of tile to fit both your design aesthetic of your home and your budget.

 

Freestanding Tubs

 

Freestanding tubs are yet another bathroom design trend that’s gaining popularity in the New Year. As the name suggests, freestanding tubs stand on their own and unlike traditional tubs, do not have platforms, surrounds, or steps. A professional plumber can help you decide what type of tub, whether traditional or freestanding is the right choice for you.

 

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Floating Vanities

 

Instead of opting for a traditional vanity, another popular design choice for your bathroom renovation or remodeling project might be a floating vanity. This might be particularly useful if you have a smaller bathroom because floating vanities create the illusion of space and openness where there is none. Floating vanities are available in a variety of styles and are very practical because of the amount of storage they offer. Unlike a standard vanity, floating vanities can be installed at virtually any height, which makes them a great option for unconventional spaces.

 

Natural Wood

 

Many bathrooms are typically white with gray and neutral accents. However, in the New Year, the presence of natural wood in bathrooms is becoming more popular as well. Natural wood can be used in the bathroom cabinetry or in the tile to add a personal touch and create the illusion of the outdoors in your bathroom.

 

Finding A Professional Plumber In Your Area

 

There are many ways to find a professional plumber in your area to help you with your bathroom renovation or remodeling project. If you’re in DC for example, you can find a plumbing company in DC by using word of mouth as well as the internet. Consider these bathroom design ideas for your home if you’re thinking of renovating or remodeling your bathroom in 2017.