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Remodelling rooms in our homes gives us a chance to inject some new life and modern style into different rooms of the house. With fresher 21st century styles, themes and appliances becoming popular, it could be time to give your bathroom that new look it craves. There are many features and appliances you could add to a bathroom to improve the look and overall theme without having to redecorate completely; so with that in mind, let’s take a look at a few modern features that could make a world of difference in your family bathroom!
Basins & Washbowls
Freestanding basins and washbowls are a great way of adding something ‘different’ yet stylish to your bathroom; these basins have a classic look yet exist as a modern feature. Adding these to a bathroom of any colour can improve the overall impression the room gives and instantly add fresh style.
Modern Baths and Shower Enclosures
Newer styles and designs in bathtubs and shower enclosures are easy to spot; they look fantastic and would stand out from dreary old models from a mile away. Modern features such as the fantastic whirlpool bath can add a sense of luxury to a bathroom without compromising on style; if anything, seeing the built-in jets would only reinforce your bathroom’s new modern theme.
Extra Accessories
There are many decorative and practical accessories you can add to your bathroom to keep a consistent modern style throughout. Features such as the fantastic LED back-lit mirror can have a wonderful effect on any bathroom, especially when enjoying its relaxing glow accompanied by a few strategically placed scented candles in a darkened bathroom.
Modern, stylish cabinets can be fitted to suit any bathroom style; our large range of vanity units and cabinets is sure to contain the perfect piece for you.
Even small features such as towel rails, toilet roll holders, soap dishes and dispensers can be bought to match the modern style of your bathroom and accompany each other as part of a set. Consider this when buying smaller pieces for your family bathroom.
Posted in Bathroom tips, diy hints and tips |
An extra toilet room can be a great addition to any home; especially convenient for large family households or for those who like to entertain guests. The same rules apply here as with renovating any other room in the house and as always, preparation is a huge factor. Household cloakroom toilets are very useful; well positioned (as they are normally located on the ground floor of a house and usually used only for storage) and large enough to install at least a new toilet and washing basin. Taking advantage of these rooms and using them to their full potential can leave many homeowners quite pleased and content with their renovation results.
The key to creating cloakroom toilets is space management; planning far ahead and measuring the dimensions of the room can help massively later on when shopping for toilet and sink units. This can prevent mistakes and an overcrowding of fixtures when during installation. Be sure to take exact measurements of the room and keep these figures handy when shopping for and measuring toilets, washing basins (and even showers if you’re lucky enough to have the extra space!).
There are many products available to you which can give you all the amenities of a regular bathroom on a slightly smaller scale. Find correct measurements for all desired fixtures and units and consider how much room they will take up. Cloakroom toilets should ideally fit nicely into the corner or against the wall; avoid having them positioned to far into the middle of the room to save extra space.
A great way of adding a spacious feel to smaller rooms is by letting natural light into the area. Consider adding a small window if you have the means to do so, this can not only let in fresh air to air out the room and keep it fresh but it also allows the light to illuminate the room and create a larger feel. Adding smaller features can help to save son space; instead of adding a large towel rail, just add a wall mounted hook or hoop to hang hand towels on. Add a small waste bin rather than a full sized one; save space wherever possible to make the most of a renovated cloakroom bathroom.
Finally, be sure to add a sturdy lock to the bathroom door; when it comes down to it a bathroom is a bathroom and visitors would not want to compromise on privacy no matter what the location of the bathroom.
Posted in Bathroom tips |
As the New Year approaches many people look to start remodelling and refurbishing our homes; disposing of old living room suites, tearing up faded carpets and replacing old curtains are great ways of throwing out the old and bringing in the new. But some homeowners may be looking to add a little more ‘oomph’ to their houses, in both style and practicality; this is certainly achievable as we turn our attention to our bathrooms. Adding a new shower to a home can prove to be a fantastic move; choosing from some of the best showers available can really add that ‘wow’ factor to your household bathroom.
Before setting your heart on a particular shower enclosure, measure up your bathroom to find out how much room you have to spare, this way you know which the best showers are for you and your home.
Our shower enclosures come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each contributing to the design and style of modern bathrooms in their own unique way. Those who are looking for a corner enclosure will love our quadrant shower enclosures; these curved and stylish showers provide a luxurious and modern looking place to wash away the stress of the day. With perfectly clear glass and a bar handles that complement the elegant design wonderfully, the quadrant enclosures are by far the best showers for those who are looking to add an enclosure and continue to save space in the bathroom.
Alternatively, some of the best showers available are our quadrant steam enclosures; these are certainly the ultimate bathroom luxury. These cubicles are not only fantastic showering units but have the added benefit of a built in steam system to create your own personal home sauna! This can aid weight loss and is a fantastic way to unwind and relax tense muscles; steam shower cubicles are surely one of our most luxurious and modern shower options.
You are sure to find the perfect shower for your bathroom in the range of shower units and enclosures we stock at Branded Bathrooms, whether you are looking for a small but stylish, space saving enclosure or a more luxurious and modern steam shower unit. Remember; be sure to measure the area of your bathroom and account for any other decorations or fixtures before you settle on how much room you will have left over for your desired enclosure.
Posted in Bathroom tips |
Bathrooms are one of the key areas of our homes in which we get to flex our decoration skills and showcase our knowledge of modern interior design. A well designed and structured bathroom can really add that ‘wow’ factor to a home, often showing how colour coordinating fixtures, tiles and flooring can bring an overall sense or class and luxury to your house.
As well as having the potential to be visually remarkable, a bathroom’s more practical function is to provide an area in our homes in which we can really kick back and relax, soaking in the hot tub or washing away the stress of the day in a warming shower.
With a plethora of new styles and designs being incorporated into homes, a modern refurbishment of your bathroom could provide your house with a modern and luxurious spa area to bask in and show off to family and guests. Whatever your style, at Branded Bathrooms we have a fantastic range of products and fixtures that can help you achieve the look you desire and give your bathroom a touch of class.
Try Something Different
One sure fire way to make friends and guests envious of your luxury bathroom is to have a modern feature they never would have thought of; have a look at our selection of wall mounted furniture, incorporating your sink into the design of the bathroom (being wall mounted for example) is a fantastic way of showing the scale of your remodelling.
The Main Feature
In the bathroom, the bath or shower is king, and as the centrepiece of your bathroom it should really be the main attraction. When creating a luxury home spa, you may want a bath/shower that gives a little extra, be it in a design or functionality sense. For a true Jacuzzi experience, consider looking at our range of Jet Whirlpool baths; having such a luxurious feature at your convenience is a great way to kick back and relax after a hard day. Alternatively, our selection of shower enclosures come in all shapes and sizes, meaning you can find the style and size that would add the perfect centrepiece to your bathroom.
Add the Finishing Touches
Little things can have a huge impact; stepping out of a hot bathtub and wrapping yourself in a pre-warmed towel from one of our heated towel rails can truly be the icing on the cake. Consider a piece from our range of lit mirrors, the gentle glow from one of these classy items is a sure way to put a smile on your face when winding down in the evening.
Whatever style you would go for when creating a luxurious bathroom spa, rest assured that Branded Bathrooms will have the perfect selection of bathroom furniture and fixtures for you!
Posted in diy hints and tips |
A prime example of the relentless mould
Mould and mildew aren’t uncommon in bathrooms but can be incredibly unsightly if left untreated as they can continue to spread and ruin your bathroom décor. Not only can mould make your bathroom look unclean, it can also harbour nasty odours and be harder to remove once it’s begun to spread across your bathroom. Common places it can be spotted include: grouting in between tiles, ceilings and around your bath and basin taps. Mould found in the bathroom is generally harmless but preventing it from occurring can make your bathroom look much more pleasant.
Why does it grow in my bathroom?
Mould and mildew grow in warm, moist conditions. Bathrooms are their perfect breeding ground as hot steam, which emits from the shower or bath, hits the cold air and turns into condensation. This condensation clings to the walls and allows mould to develop. You may also notice mould growing on the sealant connecting your sink, shower enclosure and bathtub to the wall – this is because it’s prone to getting wet from when they’re used.
How can I prevent mould from ruining the appearance of my bathroom?
It can be very hard to completely eliminate mould, although good ventilation drastically minimises the chances of it developing. Always open the window when showering or bathing so the steam leaves through the window rather than being boxed in. Bathroom fans can provide extra prevention and can be more convenient for the winter months when it may be too cold to open the window.
Dehumidifiers, which can be placed just outside of the bathroom, can help to collect some of the moisture from the air. This can also help homes which suffer from damp problems, as mould isn’t restricted to bathrooms. Dehumidifiers generally need emptying a few times a day and many homeowners stand by them as an effective mould prevention technique.
Regularly wiping down the bathroom after every use can be time consuming but is a sure-fire way to beat the mould – if the moisture isn’t there it can’t grow. However, homeowners with busy schedules and large families can struggle to keep the bathroom completely dry after every use which is why bathroom mould is so common.
How can I get rid of existing mould?
Generally, bleach and water can eliminate mould. The bleach can also prevent the mould from reoccurring too. If you’re unsure of whether to use bleach on a certain surface be sure to check with the manufacturer before applying as damage can be irreversible. For items or surfaces which you know you can’t use bleach on, soap and warm water can effectively remove mould stains. Some bathroom sprays are specifically designed to tackle the mischievous mould and mildew, and you have the satisfaction that they’re suitable for use within the bathroom.
Posted in diy hints and tips |
This roll-top bath is a typical feature of a Victorian Bathroom Suite
Victorian bathroom suites are becoming incredibly popular due to their timeless décor and accessories. Those who shudder at the thought of a modern, minimalist bathroom can rest assured that Victorian bathroom suites are still standing in the interior design industry. Maybe it’s their grand designs which reflect British heritage that appeal to decorators’ tastes? Whatever the reason may be, the Victorian appearance can add luxury to the bathroom rather than outdate it. If you’re stuck for style then why not try opting for a timeless, classical bathroom fit for a king?
Recreating a bathroom which is actually Victorian is virtually impossible as the items in the suite wouldn’t be able to cope with modern sanitation and can be extremely inefficient in terms of water usage. Instead, manufacturers are combining modern home efficiency with historical designs to meet the constant demands for Victorian bathroom suites.
Modern vs. Victorian
Modern bathrooms often have sleek, compact designs with the aim to create more space by using less for necessary appliances. One popular modern motto that interior designers adhere to is that “less is more”. Minimalism brings the bathroom suites back to basics, keeping design and accessorising down to a minimum – it’s all about space. This contrasts with the idea of Victorian design, where elaborate designs and “grand” appearances are the primary focus. Antiques which are over the top in terms of luxury can really hit that Victorian design aim.
Designs to Look Out For
Coupled basin taps, as in separate hot and cold taps, can be unpleasant to use due to the continual vicious circle of being scolded by the hot tap followed by an icy blast of cold water to try and soothe the burning. Thankfully, this dilemma has a solution in the form of a traditionally designed mixer tap. The timeless design and appearance also allows you to comfort your hands whilst remaining in the Victorian era.
Victorian bathroom suites need to be accompanied with matching accessories in order to complete the look. Large mirrors with an ornate gold frame are perfect for creating luxury and history within the bathroom and can be the perfect focal point.
Although carpeting the bathroom can easily achieve the timeless look, the cleaning and maintenance of a bathroom carpet simply isn’t worth the effort. Bathroom carpets tend to harbour body hairs and take a lot longer to dry than alternative floorings. They can also be prone to stains and odours, particularly around the toilet. Bathroom tiles can be perfect for achieving the Victorian look whilst providing a durable and easily maintainable floor covering.
Coloured bathroom suites are simply a no-go, not only do they look tacky but they’re also not Victorian! The cheap and tacky look belongs in the 1970s and for now at least, that’s where it should remain.
Posted in Bathroom tips |
It seems modern Britain is awash with abysmal bathrooms. From putrid public pee points to home hygiene hovels it seems Britain hasn’t evolved as well as it could in terms of bathroom maintenance and cleanliness. During recent frequentations to various public toilets and bathrooms within the home, observations of poor cleanliness and repair requirements were apparent. Although public toilets came out trumps in terms of filth, some domestic bathrooms also showed signs of disrepair.
1. The Exploding Toilet
During a recent trip to London it appeared a toilet within a pub had visibly cracked under pressure, shooting its contents over the four surrounding walls. Worst still, it all appeared to be dried, indicating there was no urgency to clean the mess or resolve the situation. Who knew a traditional Victorian pub experience included matching sanitation?
2. Broken Mirrors
Broken mirrors are common in both homes and public toilets. It’s worrying to think that every visit to the toilet warrants seven years bad luck. Some public WCs have been sighted sporting multiple broken mirrors; that could indicate a life sentence of bad luck. Bathroom mirrors are cheap and easy to replace and the superstitious possibilities are far too risky to be left.
3. Hairy Soaps
Hairy soaps are generally (and thankfully) a domestic bathroom offence. It’s baffling why hosts leave hairy soaps out for guests to wash their hands with. It often sparks thoughts of where the hair may have originated and often results in guests wandering around the host’s home with germ-ridden hands due to the grizzly soap being avoided.
4. Toilet Roll Wallpaper
Another public toilet problem involves looking up whilst sat on the toilet and noticing there’s toilet paper everywhere except on the roll in your cubicle. Worries start to emerge such as “is that piece beginning to come unstuck?” Some people must think sticking toilet paper to the ceiling is a worthy pastime.
5. Bathroom Beasts
The eerie moment of realising you’re not the only bathroom occupant is a disturbing one. Spiders, flies and other bathroom critters often lurk in bathrooms where gaps haven’t been filled properly. Although they generally cause no harm, being watched whilst performing intimate bathroom duties often causes spinal shivers.
With Britain’s imbalance of bathroom cleanliness it’s no wonder some people only feel comfortable using their own chamber. With so many bathroom suites companies retailing modern bathroom suites, it’s time for Britain to invest in some stylish bathrooms.
Posted in Bathroom blunders |
Even the most ambitious DIY enthusiasts require occasional help from a professional tradesman. In some cases the involvement of a plumber is paramount to quickly restoring bathroom functionality. Bathrooms are a necessity in the household and can be costly if repairs are neglected and an ambitious handyman could cause minor problems to escalate into a catastrophe.
Many people are reluctant to hire a plumber because of the high costs and bad reputation that tradesmen are tarred with. Many television programmes highlight rogue tradesmen, raising scam awareness and result in reluctance to hire a plumber. In actual fact, there are many legitimate, skilled plumbers out there; it’s all about finding a reliable plumber who you can then rely on indefinitely.
How to Source a Reputable Plumber
Step 1: Gather Opinions you Value
Many people trust their close relatives and friends’ judgements over testimonials from people they don’t know. Rather than reading online testimonials which are sketchy and vague, ask around friends and family members for any plumbers they’ve used who were hard-working and reliable and those whose work they found unsatisfactory. Aim to have a list of 5 plumbers to compare between that are highly commended and make note of any deemed unsuitable.
Step 2: Do your Online Research
Before asking for a quote, perform some background research. Has anyone had a bad experience with one of your recommended plumbers? Every homeowner’s standards are different so it’s worth researching how others have rated your listed plumbers’ work. If you find a complaint and think “I wouldn’t be happy with that level of work” then eliminate them from your list.
Some plumbers will boast how long they’ve been in the trade for, obviously the longer the better. Try to search who’s been established the longest and what plumbing qualifications they have acquired which support their skill claims.
Step 3: Enquire In-depth
Many people simply ask the cost of the work and available start date before hiring a plumber. This is generally why people are unsatisfied with the outcome. There are many questions to ask before agreements and payments are made. Here are some questions to think about:
Will the plumber charge for travel? This is particularly important if your plumber isn’t based locally. Some plumbers charge for the commute, to avoid any additional hidden costs on your bill question their rules concerning travel charges.
Will the plumber charge for the time spent buying tools and parts?
This is one of the most common plumber-related complaints. Many people are unsatisfied that their plumber charges for leaving their home to buy tools and parts required for the job. They are also frequently unhappy with the time they take to visit the store, particularly if a plumber charges an hourly rate. Enquire if the plumber charges for visits and eliminate them if you find this unsuitable.
Once your Plumber has Been Chosen
Once you have your overall quote you can make an informed decision as to which plumber will prove best value for money. When the plumber is working, be sure to regularly monitor them to inform them of anything you’re not happy with. Some who have been paid may not return as urgently as expected to amend issues you’re not happy with.
If you’re happy with your plumber’s work then recommend them to other people. Some plumbers even offer rewards for customer referrals and testimonials. Always call a plumber for bathroom suite problems that are out of your depth. It’s better to pay a reputable plumber than to risk worsening the problem.
Posted in Plumbing Advice |
Bathrooms are one of the most-used and abused rooms of the house and can prove to be troublesome if they’re not well maintained. Along with weekly deep cleaning, bathrooms need regular day-to-day maintenance to retain optimum functionality. Of course many people don’t have the time to clean their bathroom daily; however there are some quick, convenient bathroom maintenance tasks which can be performed in 60 seconds and can save heaps of future repair time.
Prevent Drain Blockages
Avoid shaving or cutting hair in the sink or bath where possible. The longer the hairs the more likely they are to cause drain blockages which can be problematic to unclog, particularly in newer style sinks where the plug hole is often hidden. If trimming hair over the sink, place a plastic bin bag in the sink to catch the hair and can easily be binned once finished.
Keep Your Bathroom Looking Flush
Flush the toilet after every use. The phrase “if it’s yellow let it mellow” can cause discolouring to the bowl of the toilet. If you have a dual flush toilet you needn’t worry about wasting water as the half flush is designed to be a more economical alternative for flushing liquid waste.
Ventilate Regularly
Ensure you open windows and use appropriate ventilation when using hot water. Hot baths and showers cause steam to linger in the air and condense on cold tiles; providing the perfect breeding ground for mould and mildew. Ensuring your bathroom is ventilated properly can help to reduce the likelihood of mildew breeding by allowing the steam to leave the room. It’s also definitely worth wiping down grout around half an hour after a shower or bath to prevent it from turning black.
Grime-free Taps
Bathroom taps have a habit of collecting grime and discolouring around the base of the tap which can be rather unsightly. Be sure to wipe taps down after every use if possible to avoid the build-up of grime and keep the taps looking pristine.
Ensure a Perfect Reflection
Bathroom mirrors often get neglected and you often find yourself faced with a surprisingly dull reflection. Mirrors should be wiped with a cloth and window cleaner daily so they reflect optimum light and provide a clear reflection. You never know, you might start to enjoy having a glance in the mirror more often!
Check for Leaks
Have a brief weekly check for leaks. Leaks can ruin flooring, furniture and waste water if gone unnoticed. In more severe cases the flooring can begin to corrode due to water damage and can be extremely costly to repair. Having a quick check for leaks on a regular basis can really help to prevent unknown leaks progressing.
When bathrooms require repairs they become less functional. Bathrooms should be easy and convenient to use as they are generally used for getting ready in the morning when time is limited. Ensuring regular maintenance of your washroom helps to keep it suitable for everyday hustle and bustle.
Posted in Bathroom tips |
Here at Branded Bathrooms we hate waste. Wasting water isn’t only bad for the environment; it’s also bad for your finances. This is why we’ve compiled a list of simple ways to save water in the bathroom without interrupting your daily routine.
- Invest in dry shampoo so your hair doesn’t require washing every day. Not only will it save you the inconvenience it was also reduce your water bill.
- Fix any leaks you spot or source the leak if you suspect there is one. To check if your toilet is leaking pour food colouring into the cistern, if the food colouring appears in the bowl of your toilet without being flushed you have a leak. For every dripping tap in the UK around 360 litres of water is wasted every month.
- If you’re worried you’re using too much water then get a water meter fitted. The water metre will make you more aware of exactly how much water you are using in an average week.
- Whether you’re cleaning yourself or your home, don’t leave the tap running. Wash and shave your face in a filled sink. Using a tumbler for rinsing your mouth prior to brushing your teeth can save 9 litres of water per minute. Bathroom tumblers can also be great bathroom accessories. Always use a bucket for cleaning that you can rinse your cloth in rather than rinsing it under running water.
- Take a shower instead of a bath. Filling a bath takes 60% more water than if you were to take a shower. Imagine the savings on your utility bill.
- If you do decide to take a bath then avoid over-filling it. Many people fill the bath too high anyway and realise when they get in it. Get in the bath before it has filled and you have better judgement on when it’s filled to an acceptable level, avoiding water wastage.
- Newer model toilets are more economical. If your toilet has been around for over 10 years you should upgrade to save water. New models with the dual flush are great for saving water as a half flush only uses 4 litres of water per flush, compared to older model toilets which can use up to 7 litres per flush.
- Be quicker in the shower. Not only does it mean you’re less likely to be late in the morning, but for every minute you spend less in the shower you could save up to 3285 litres of water a year.
- Invest in a domestic urinal for your home. If every home in the UK had a urinal around 3000 billion litres of water could be saved in a decade. Plus, arguments of “who didn’t lift the seat up” will be minimal!
- Only use your washing machine when you have a full load, washing half loads can waste water and energy, costing you more money!
Saving water will really help you drastically reduce your utility bills. By switching older products for newer, more economical models you can save water and money. For example, many shower heads have water saving devices to ensure waste is kept to a minimum. So do your bit for the environment and your pocket!
Posted in Bathroom tips |
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