Creating An Efficient Contemporary Kitchen Design

Contemporary kitchens are described as minimalist, modern and geometric. Its features include asymmetry, horizontal lines and devoid of molding and other decorations. The materials used are usually man-made instead of natural. To name a few are laminate, chrome, frosted glass inserts, lacquer, stainless steel, linoleum and concrete. Contemporary design covers those styles from the 1940's up to the present.
The key to achieving a well-organized kitchen design is an effective layout and visual element. If you want to create a modern facade in your kitchen, there are some things that you need to pay attention to.
1. Color combination
This is usually the first aspect that almost everyone observes about your kitchen. From the kitchen wall to the countertops, up to the ceiling and down to the floor, your kitchen's color palette will elicit the first and lasting impression for visitors. No specific rules have been set regarding the color combination that's right for your kitchen; the choice of shade will depend on factors such as lifestyle, age group and personality of the persons using the kitchen.
2. Lighting
This is another important element that must be taken into consideration when creating a contemporary design. Lighting influences the people's size perception of the kitchen. Downlights can be nice, stylish touch to your kitchen. They should be used only to accentuate particular spots and not as principal sources of light. Bear in mind that a bright, well-lit workplace can make your kitchen look larger, more favorable and safer area to work in.
3. Safety
For safety purposes, the cabinets and doors in your kitchen should have soft closing systems. With this, the cabinet doors will settle gently before closing slowly so you don't have to worry about your children's fingers being caught. The work area and the cabinets should have the right height and you should also install reachable pull-out drawers for the older family members. For the flooring, you can use non-slip tiles.
4. Kitchen furniture
The kitchen furniture that you should use, such as chairs, bakers racks, table and bar stools should complement the kitchen's overall interior style. To set off the contemporary design, you can pick items that are made of stainless steel and birch wood. You can also consider items with sleek linear style to maintain the modern look of your kitchen.
5. Accessories
These are important ingredient in every decorating style. However, in contemporary design, it might be better to use only few minimalist items.
To learn more kitchen design ideas visit http://www.kitchendesignideas101.com.
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Planning Your Plumbing Projects Carefully Before Starting

If you are planning to take on a home improvement project, the plumbing involved is probably something that is causing you to worry. Whenever you make major alterations to a property plumbing is usually involved and needs to be done properly. It is easy to gloss over the importance of plumbing in your home improvement projects, making sure it is done well can save you time, money and stress in the long run.
You should consider where plumbing will be involved in your project before you start and make sure you plan for it in advance. Usually home improvements that involve a kitchen or bathroom will involve a degree of plumbing work. Depending on the scope you may feel capable of tackling the project yourself, or you may want to play it safe and employ a professional. You should get a quote and ensure your plumber is available before you begin your project.
Plumbing is an area that most homeowners are not shy about admitting they don’t have a clue about. Many avoid the issue, being happy to pay someone else to tackle the problem for them, but there is actually a surprising amount the homeowner can do for themselves. There are whole range of books and websites available with diagrams and detailed instructions to guide you through simple or even fairly complicated plumbing tasks. The types of tasks that can easily be undertaken using an online plumbing guide or handbook include installing a new faucet or drain tap. If you want to replace long lengths of pipe, on the other hand, you may be best to find someone with plumbing experience. Perhaps you have a friend who would be willing to help out which will reduce the overall cost of your home improvement project.
Producing a detailed plan with timelines for your project and the plumbing activities involved, will help you to identify what you can do yourself and what you need to involve a professional to help out with. Your time line will be a good way to keep track of what needs to be done, how it will be done, and by whom.
Plumbing activities can involve anything from replacing a faucet to installing new pipes and most tasks are not as tricky as you may have been led to believe, as long as you have the correct information coupled with the confidence to do them properly. Thorough research on the tasks required will let you make an informed decision whether you can tackle the job yourself. Although not always difficult, plumbing does take a great deal of time so if feel you wouldn’t have the patience then your best option is to call in a professional.
Some people may find little reward in plumbing as no one can see the results of your efforts, but good quality plumbing will allow your home to function well without leaks or endless repairs. For those that feel comfortable trying their hand at plumbing, they may find it easier than they expect. For those that don’t there is no shame in calling the plumber!
Concentrating on latest developments in kitchen cabinet, he writes articles mainly for http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com. From his detailed publications such as http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com/faucets.html, the author established his skill on topics associated with kitchen faucets and countertops.
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Kitchen Sinks - Finishes, Types and Features

Kitchen sinks are used a lot, but thankfully they are the least expensive feature to change in your kitchen. There are varied options in styles, shapes and sizes, but remember that costs vary dependent on the materials they are made of and the style. However, the decisions you make determine the time the sink will last and it should be something you really like.
Sinks are classified into two types: double basin; or single basin. The less common ones are the triple basins, but they are not so easy to find. They vary greatly in depth and width. How you use your sink and what type of kitchen you have will assist you in choosing between a double or single one.
Kitchen size will also determine what you need. Small kitchens work better with single basins, and can be overwhelmed by the double variety. However, double basin sinks are beneficial because you can prepare food for cooking and wash dishes at the same time.
The most desired material choice for kitchen sinks is stainless steel. It is very easy to install, as it is fairly light weigh, very easy to keep up. Quality of stainless steel sinks is determined by the gauge of steel. Lower gauges have better quality. In addition, the quantity of nickel and chromium in the steel is important – the more the better.
For more traditional or country themes, porcelain sinks are an attractive option for home improvement. There are so many colours to choose from, in fact more than any other material.
Solid sinks are frequently used with customized countertops. They are made of composite and used in more costly kitchen projects. The surface is both scratch and stain resistant and durable. In fact they are definitely very easy to maintain and a joy to clean.
Another less costly sink material is enamel. It comes in varied styles and colours. However, it requires far more maintenance and care, and unlike stainless steel and solid sinks, it is less durable. Enamel scratches and chips way too easily, and there is no way you can use abrasives on them for cleaning.
Once you have chosen your sink, you need to decide how many holes you need to put in. You should decide how many or which of the following you want installed – soap dispensers, spray nozzles and faucets. Plus, it is important to know exactly how many handles you need for your faucets.
When choosing you sink you have to think about faucets. Faucets should be practical and fit in with the sink’s materials. Take into account the sink size when you are buying one and that it will correspond with the faucets you want. Keep in mind that triple basins or double basins work better with long spouts, and whatever the type of large or multiple basined sinks you have, you must get a 180º-swivelling faucet to reach all the sink’s bowls.
The magazine writer Peter Mason is really passionate about things dealing with cooking. You can learn about his abstracts on kitchen sinks at http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com
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Add Glow To Your Kitchen With Marble Tiles

The kitchen floor is the biggest surface in most homes, and it will either make or break the look of your space depending on the color scheme and tile type you choose. It is therefore important to think of your kitchen floor in terms of how it will look in the long run.
If you ever walked into someone's house and saw outdated tiles that looked as if it were in the middle ages, you will get a better understanding of the importance of finding a timeless, elegant and reliable kitchen tile. It is wise to avoid trendy new looks that fade fast and look dumpy and outdated a few minutes after the adhesive has dried, and take note of the attributes of your kitchen, as to know the type of tile to utilize.
Marble Floor Tiles Are Appropriate For The Kitchen
Limestone, tumbled marble, and slate tiles are among the most elegant flooring materials available. These tiles share properties with marble, granite, and other stone materials, and are valued as much for their unique textures and color hues. Natural stone tiles, like marble however, must be sealed to prevent stains. The right wall treatments can really bring out the flooring, as well as the other materials in your kitchen.
When selecting materials for kitchen flooring, you must consider materials that are both beautiful and durable. Kitchen flooring can be used to accent the counters, cabinets, and appliances. However kitchen flooring must be able to endure daily wear and tear such as spills and heavy traffic. It's important to select the right material when it comes to kitchen flooring. If you are looking for beauty and durability, or the warmth of hardwoods, making the right flooring choice can guarantee that a quality kitchen floor will keep its beauty and last a lifetime.
When designing your ideal kitchen, remember that light or neutral tones best emphasize the impression of light and space, as much as darker shades can create feelings of warmth and intimacy. A floor's finish can even show effective perceptions of size and space. A high gloss finish can contribute to the perception of spaciousness. A more subdued or a matte finish can make a space look smaller.
Using a marble tile with a light color such as white or pale cream will generally work well with a wooden cabinet finish and most counter tops and kitchen floors. However if your kitchen is a high traffic zone, you may wish to install marble tiles that have quite darker colors mixed through in a marble effect so that dirt won't quickly show, but don't go too dark as the dirt will easily show up.
Marble kitchen tiles are purchased individually, so pricing would depend on your floor's square footage. Marble floor tiles are easy to install so many people can lay them themselves. This is not only an effective way to save money, but could be a great project for a weekend. Kitchen floors get wet and dirty due to daily use.
Generally, a small white tile with white grout would be the worst possible choice as everything would show on the floor and the grout would soon become dirty and discolored. Most interior experts recommend using large body marble tiles (with sizes 16x16 and up) with textures that help hide water spots and dirt, and would not require daily care as much as sooth tile.
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Using Black Kitchen Cabinets

Designing a home can be very stressful and designing only a kitchen can be even more demanding. When you really know what you are doing or at least have a plan your project will run much smoother. Designing a kitchen in an open floor plan is very incomparable to designing an ordinary kitchen in a room to itself.
More and more homes are choosing for the open floor plan where the kitchen is a part of the open area. Many of the open floor plans are designed in a high tech or contemporary style. It is this style of kitchen that you will find black kitchen cabinets.
A kitchen design which is going for a high tech look will normally have stainless steel appliances and black kitchen cabinets. Black granite countertops, white walls and hardwood floors usually round out the area. Black and white are considered neutral colors, but if you do not know what you are doing and put black kitchen cabinets in a small kitchen the look can be dreadful. For instance, black kitchen cabinets in an apartment galley kitchen will look nothing short of a black hole.
A kitchen is a place where people spend time cooking and relaxing and many times where the family comes together. Using black foreboding kitchen cabinets in a small kitchen can create an uncomfortable atmosphere and people will not want to even walk in there.
Kitchen cabinets take up 75% of the space in a kitchen by themselves and you must really think about what you are doing before you decide on the color of your kitchen. An open floor plan has a lot of space and normally many windows with lots of light, so having black kitchen cabinets in there will not be the focal point.
Many contemporary kitchens will use black and white as their color schemes with a black and white checkered floor, white walls and either black appliances and black kitchen cabinets or white appliances. Either of these two schemes will work well together. A white kitchen table or black kitchen table will round out the area.
Black dishes and accessories always look fabulous on a white table in one of these black and white kitchens. Scandinavian design uses many of black kitchen cabinets as well, but the rest of the kitchen is very light with a great deal of white and a lot of lighting. Sometimes the black kitchen cabinets have glass fronts and are lit on the inside, which will really brighten up a kitchen.
What you need most is patience, some clear thought about what you want and a strategic plan to get the right look for your kitchen. It is a wise investment for the novice kitchen designer to buy one of the many books on the subject of kitchens and colors. Don't be afraid of black and white; just remember that one color opens up a room while the other will close it in. Just let your imagination be your guide to designing that black kitchen cabinets your richly deserve.
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How To Fix That Leaky Bathtub Faucet - Fast!

Fixing a leaky bathtub faucet - or any other leaky faucet for that matter - can be an expensive job - UNLESS you can do it yourself!
In this article we want to look at the most common reason for a leaky faucet and show you how to fix it quickly and cheaply.
Preparation
It almost goes without saying that you should turn the water off first! Where to find the handle that does that? Just look under your sink and see where the pipes run. Somewhere along their length you will see either a handle or a wheel you can use to shut the mains supply off. In nearly every case you will need to turn it clockwise to shut.
One other preparation is to block the sink drain - just to prevent a nasty accident with something loose (like a screw or a small nut) disappearing down the drain never to be seen again. Use the plug you normally use, or put some cloth into the aperture. No good being wise after the event!
And - even though it goes without saying - make sure you have bought a replacement washer (or two) from the local hardware store - you don't want to be looking for that when you have the faucet in pieces do you!
Action
Locate the screw that is holding the handle of the faucet in place (it may be hidden behind a small plate or cover and that cover needs to be prised off using a small screwdriver or similar). Then undo the screw.
The next job is to get the handles off. Use a screwdriver to do this - you might need to use a little bit of force to prise it but it will come.
Now you will see the old washer (don't worry if not, we will put one in place anyway). Take off the old washer and replace with the new. Notice that the hole in the washer should just be a touch bigger than the central post that the handle turns.
Now retighten the handle, but only hand tight i.e. only until it stops turning without extra force needing to be applied.
Next, turn on the water again and see what happens! If there's no leak you're home and dry (excuse the pun!). If it still leaks, try tightening the handle a little more.
If it still leaks after that- then the problem is elsewhere and you'll need to get a plumber after all. But al least it was worth a try!
(And by the way - if you notice a big build up of lime around the handle - clean that off with a special removal product from your hardware store - it will pay you in the long run).
Things needed
A screwdriver or two - maybe one flathead and one Phillips or cross-screw. Also two washers (maybe take the old one off ahead of your visit to the store to be sure of getting the right one, or just buy a pack of mixed washers - not an expensive buy).
David Woodford is a freelance writer and owns info4u-services which helps people with free advice to help solve everyday problems. To find out more about fixing your faucet and other DIY jobs around your home, visit http:/http://www.fixleakyfaucet.com it will REALLY help you.
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The Dripping Faucet in Every Organization

Each day millions of workers spend 8 hours or more at their respective jobs with many contributing to the dripping faucet within every organization. This faucet much like the leaking kitchen or bathroom faucet’s steadily waste drops of a previous resource – water – every minute of every day until fixed. Yet, the dripping faucet is considered a minor annoyance until the drips become steadier. During this time, thousands of gallons of water are wasted costing the owner probably more money than it took to correct the problem.
Organizations also have dripping faucets not only in their physical plants, but within their people’s productivity. During the last 5 years, I have surveyed thousands of individuals who all believe that their plates are full, but admit to wasting a minimum of 12 minutes each day. For employees who are paid $30,000 not including benefits, this amounts to $14.42 each week for the one lost hour of work or $721.12 annually. If you have a facility with 50 people, the annual cost is at least $35,056. For organizations with at least 1,400 employees, the annual cost rises a minimum of $1,000,000. Dripping faucets are very expensive!
How can you repair this expensive drain on your limited resources? First, consider that most people don’t intentionally come to work to waste your resources. Their performance in many cases is a result of lack of knowledge and skills supported by negative attitudes and habits. These negative attitudes and habits probably contribute much more to their performance.
Second, begin to ask questions about how the organization is communicating its message. If you were to survey 10% of your employees from upper, middle and front line levels and asked them to name the top 3 goals of the organization, would you receive the EXACT SAME ANSWER from each individual. Different responses contribute to people not knowing what they may need to do next and contribute to that ongoing dripping faucet.
Third, determine if your employees truly understand how to plan and achieve their personal goals. If your employees are achieving their personal goals, the likelihood of them achieving corporate goals has been greatly enhanced. Time management is the apex of goal planning and achievement. If individuals don’t have goals, then why worry about time?
Fourth, as you train your employees include interpersonal development along with the job specific skills. If your company promotes from within, the individual is recognized for her or his job specific skills. However, as these individuals moved up through the organization, job specific skills become less while interpersonal skills become greater. Yet, much of the training fails to develop these individuals and the result is that these individuals leave which increases bottom line costs or return to their original position again increasing bottom line costs.
Five, finally, think about the words that you select. For example, ask your employees how they are investing their time instead of spending their time? Frame your questions and statements using positive words that generate powerful mental images. People hear words, but they think in pictures.
Six, align your systems, strategies and people to create loyal internal customers that discover those “moments of truth” leading to external customers. Southwest Airlines understands the power of alignment.
These are just 6 ideas that will help you begin to repair your dripping faucets. So, grab the toolbox and begin to create a culture that does not support wasting your resources, but instead looks to invest them. Remember, the faucet continues to drip and this is very expensive.
Leanne Hoagland-Smith, M.S. President of ADVANCED SYSTEMS, is the Process Specialist. With over 25 years of business and education experience, she implements and realigns processes to build sustainable change for individuals and organizations and delivers ROI solutions within a variety of industries. As co-author of M.A.G.I.C.A.L. Potential:Living an Amazing Life Beyond Purpose to Achievement due for August 2005 release, Leanne speaks nationally to a variety of audiences. If you desire AMAZING RESULTS, please call Leanne a call at 219.759.5601 or leanne@processspecialist.com.
Copyright 2005(c) Leanne Hoagland-Smith http://www.processspecialist.com/organizations.htm
Permission to publish this article, electronically or in print, as long as the bylines are included, with a live link, and the article is not changed in any way (grammatical corrections accepted).
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Faucet Water Filters Can Purify Your Drinking Water By Removing Chlorine & Many Harmful Contaminants

Investing in one of the many faucet water filters on the market is the best way to ensure that the water you drink is clean and safe. Many consumers feel that there’s no need to invest in a filter when they can buy bottled water from their local grocery store. Unfortunately, what many of these consumers don't know is that bottled water isn’t really much safer than your everyday tap.
This may come as a shock, but there are no government standards that require bottled water to be safer or purer than your everyday tap water. Basically, that means you are paying more for bottled when it’s essentially the same as what you can drink from home, oftentimes even worse. In the long run, owning your own filter will allow you to save money and have healthier water available all of the time.
There are over 2,000 cancer-causing contaminants in our water. Unfortunately, with the production of more man-made chemicals, the toxicity will only continue to get worse. Before the invention of these chemicals, the population had a 1 in 50 chance of getting cancer. Since the creation of these chemicals, water consumers now have a 1 in 3 chance of getting cancer. Faucet mounted water filters are a wonderful way to purify the water used for drinking and cooking.
Another great benefit of quality faucet water filters, is that they remove contaminants without stripping the water of the natural trace minerals our bodies need, like distillers and reverse osmosis systems do. These two types of filters give you de-mineralized water with a very acidic pH, which is highly unhealthy.
One of the best faucet water filters you can purchase is a twin cartridge system. A quality filter will have a dual system that uses a combination of carbon filtration, ion exchange and sub-micron filtration. This produces healthy and great tasting water. Even better, it can be available at the convenience of your kitchen tap, by hooking up directly to your faucet, or being installed under the sink.
These multi-stage faucet water filters are a wonderful investment because two cartridges are more effective at purifying water. The first stage removes chlorine, sediment and other microscopic particles. The second stage then removes lead and volatile organic chemicals such as pesticides, herbicides and industrial solvents that can be damaging to your body.
As stated earlier, dual filter systems make great water. However, there are some faucet mounted water filters that also add potassium. When potassium is added to water, it enhances the mineral balance, which gives water a natural spring-like taste. If you’re looking for that extra bonus for your water, this is the way to go.
If you still feel like faucet water filters are unnecessary, think about this--there is no new water. This means that what goes down our drain gets recycled for future use. Yes, this also includes what gets bottled for sale. Due to the lack of standard regulations concerning the purity of water, the equipment used at your local water facility remains very primitive.
When you understand that low-grade equipment produces low-grade water, the importance of faucet mounted water filters becomes quite clear. The best way to have pure water on a regular basis is by investing in a filter for your home.
Remember, the best faucet water filters are the ones that eliminate contaminants using a dual filtration system. These filters use a combination of carbon filtration, ion exchange and sub-micron filtration to effectively remove chlorine, lead, volatile organic compounds, MTBE and other chlorine resistant chemicals. There is nothing wrong with investing in a more basic product, but if you want a truly effective product, this multi-stage process gives you more for your money.
In order to make a wise investment in faucet mounted water filters, it is best to ask the distributor for a performance data report. Doing so will prove a company’s reputability as well as the product’s reliability.
A reputable company will want to prove that they can provide the best faucet water filters. Therefore, they will want to assure you that they have the proof to back it up. If you find a company unwilling to oblige, steer clear and find a distributor you can trust.
Your health is important and owning faucet water filters for your home can help you maintain it. When you have control over what you put into your body, you can easily improve your quality of life.
Martin Spencer is a health researcher who has been studying water filtration for over 25 years. He is a regular contributor to Water Filters Guide, a site dedicated to various methods of treating and purifying water. Learn about faucet mounted water filters as well as undersink and whole house systems on our site.
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Faucet Repair

Faucets have internal parts that eventually wear out. The first to go are the washers and o-rings, then the seats, and then possibly the stem. As these parts wear you will start to get leaking from your faucet. The leaks could come from the spout and drip into the sink, or you could get leaking from the handle(s) and have water running on to your counter or under the counter. Just before we get into repairing your faucet let’s consider a couple of things.
For you water conservationalists its out there did you know that 1 drop of water per second equals about 2,500 gallons of water per year? And most people that I have repaired faucets for wait until there faucet is leaking about 6-10 drips per second. That is about 12,500 to 25,000 gallons of water per year. That’s $80 to $140 per year. Plus most of your leaks will start on the hot side way before the cold, since the hot water will deteriorate the rubber in the valves much quicker. So with the way energy costs are today you can add 30% to 60% to those costs.
If your bathroom faucet is 10 years old or older you may wish to change the faucet out with a new one. I definitely recommend doing this. The reason I believe you should do this is that the labor for repairing the faucet and the labor for replacing the faucet are fairly close to the same. And the parts for repairing the faucet will be around $35.00. A new faucet will cost you around $75.00. So for only an extra $40.00 you will have a nice new faucet to brighten up your bathroom.
With your kitchen faucet the price difference can be much more significant. In either case you will need to make a decision that fits your situation the best.
Now with the bath tub or shower faucets, since the valve is behind the wall, then I recommend repairing the leak. The best time to replace a bath tub or shower faucet is during renovations. It is possible for you to replace sooner if you have enough access to the faucet from the back. So you could replace with a similar faucet or there is a flange made by delta that will cover holes left from a two or three handle faucet when you install a single lever faucet. Faucet styles
This is an absolutely huge area. There is literally thousands of different faucets and models of faucets over the last 30 years.
A short list of the more common styles are:
Two handle bathroom, kitchen, bathtub or shower faucets with seats and washersTwo handle washerless bathroom, kitchen, bath tub or shower faucets Three handle bath/shower faucets with seats and washers (these will have a hot and cold tap as well as a control for the bath/shower)Single lever bath/shower faucets with cartridgeSingle lever kitchen faucets with pull-out head and cartridgeSingle lever kitchen and bathroom faucets with rubber seats and ball control
The reason I say short list is because each of the above can have many different variations. There are dozens of different seats, washers, and cartridges. Because there is so many different styles and variations the time to make the repair can become longer because quite often you will need to go to a specialty shop to match the parts with the parts you removed. So you can understand that if you are paying a plumber $75.00 per hour (that is the going rate here) the replacement of the faucet may be cheaper than the repair of the faucet.
Now on to the faucet repair job
Each type of faucet will have a similar repair procedure. I suggest putting the parts in order on the counter beside you as you pull them out so that you know exactly how to put them back again.
1. Turn off the water.2. Pry off the handle screw cover.3. Take the screw out of the handle4. Remove handle (you may need handle pullers to do this)5. Remove escusion if there is one (usually on two handle bath tubs and showers)6. Loosen off the holding nut (in single lever bathtub showers there is a holding ring)7. Remove the stem (cartridge in single lever bath/showers)8. Check the brass seats for cuts (use your baby fingernail or flashlight)(remove rubber seats if you have a washerless faucets)9. Replace brass seats if necessary (the seats might be chrome as well)10. Replace the washer (replace the cartridge in single levers)11. If need be replace the stem.12. Put back together 13. Check for leaks.
Congratulations! You just saved yourself $100-$200 repairing your own faucet
Kelly Kramer owns a plumbing company and flips real estate. His renovation experience is vast and knowledgeable. You can see more of his writing at http://www.edmontons-business-directory.com
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Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Faucets

Whenever you wash your hands or do the dishes, you turn a faucet to get the water you use. But have you ever wondered how this device contains all that water pressure? Try to put your thumb over the faucet and you will see that no matter how hard you struggle to cover it, still the water will flow. If you are into plumbing, you will have an idea why is this so, but if you are not, then here is a good explanation for that.
How do faucets work?
A faucet usually includes two chambers that are separated by a hole. When the faucet is open, water flows through these chambers. The water that flows can be under pressure that is over 100 pounds per square inch that is why even if you cover it with your thumb, water will still continue to flow. This will only stop when the faucet is closed.
To regulate the flow of water, the faucet uses a screw device. When this is turned, it forces a washer down into the hole that is between the two chambers. As the washer closes the gap, it slows down the flow of water, and when it is totally closed, the flow finally stops. The screwing action together with the lever action on the faucet's handle makes turning the faucet on and off easy.
Now that you already know how the faucet works, whenever your faucets have leaks, it will be easier for you to tell what could be the cause of this problem. It could be due to a loose handle, or could be due to the washer. But whatever problem your faucet has, there is no need for you to worry because there are lots of replacement faucets available these days.
The Internet offers a wide variety of options ranging from bathroom faucets up to kitchen faucets. You can easily order these items and find instructions for replacing the faucets yourself. So in no time, you can wash your hands and do the dishes again without much trouble.
Faucets provides detailed information on Faucets, Kitchen Faucets, Bathroom Faucets, Shower Faucets and more. Faucets is affiliated with Composting Toilets.
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Dealing With The Leaking Bathtub Faucet

Drip, drip, drip. A leaky bathtub faucet is a common problem in many homes. If you have one, the good news is they are usually fairly simple to take care of.
The repair of leaky faucets is another often minor plumbing job that can be done by yourself with a minimum of effort and with no special tools. Although this may be true, it is an extremely important job. A single pinhole leak in a water pipe can waste up to 70 gallons of water per day. A badly leaking faucet can waste even more. This is a serious environmental issue today. There are some who claim that the very population levels of the world are depending on the supply of potable water. And we are already running behind.
There are two major types of faucets. The most common one in older homes is called the compression faucet. This faucet uses a rubber washer that is compressed when the valve is closed. The compressed washer expands and seals off the water flow. This process is hard on the washer and after a time they will wear out and need to be replaced.
When you go to replace the washer, you must first shut off the water supply to the faucet. Sometimes it is possible to do this at a more local spot close to the faucet, but other times it is necessary to shut off the main water supply to the home to isolate the faucet. It is a good idea to protect the enamel of the bathtub with towels to protect it from chips from dropped tools. Another good preparation idea is to cover drains to prevent small pieces from being dropped into them.
When you take apart the faucet to get to the washer, make diagrams or notes of exactly how you do so. This will make it easier to put it back together. Normally, the replacement of the washer will solve the leak problem. Keep spare washers handy in your tool box. You will need them again before long.
The newer type of faucet is called a washer less faucet. The name tells it all. The valve opens and shuts by an actual physical closing of the valve. You can usually tell if your faucet is compression or washer less just by feel. A compression faucet needs to be tightened to get it closed. The washer less faucet glides easily into place and does not need additional pressure to cut off the flow. There are fewer problems with leaking on washer less faucets. They tend to be either working or not. When they wear out, or do not operate properly, they should be replaced.
Fred Linson is with PlumbingStop.com - providing basic plumbing information and more resources.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Fred_Linson

Disassembly Of Pegasus Faucet

The following simple steps will help dry up the problem of a leaky compression or stem-type disassembly of Pegasus faucet.
Turn off the water at the water-supply valve. You can find them usually under the sink. Sometimes, you can also find them in the wall behind the shower assembly. There, you can find them in a closet behind a removable panel.
However, if there are no localized shutoffs for the disassembly of Pegasus faucet, you should use the main water shutoff for the building.
Now, open the faucets to let water in the lines drain before beginning the disassembly of Pegasus faucet.
Once you are through with that, remove the faucet handle. You can do this by removing the screw and then lifting or jiggling the handle off.
Now, loosen the locknut inside with a crescent wrench. Once the nut is loosened and removed, pull out the stem.
With some types of Pegasus faucets, the stem itself may be threaded into the body of the faucet assembly. In that case, you will have to turn it counter-clockwise to loosen and remove the same.
For the disassembly of Pegasus faucet, now, replace with a new washer. Take the stem to your local hardware or plumbing supply store and pick out the proper-fitting replacement washer.
Reassemble the stem and Pegasus faucet assembly in reverse order
Turn the water supply back on and test for drips.
As you can see, it is not that difficult. However, you must make sure that yopu are following the above steps with proper care.
William Samson has written many more articles about kitchen and bathroom plumbing.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=William_Samson

How to Fix a Leaking Showerhead Faucet

A leaky showerhead can be both annoying and costly. After a few hours, the constant dripping noise is as brutal on the eardrums as nails on a chalkboard. And, even though a singular drip is only a few milliliters of water, it doesn’t take long before that leaky showerhead wastes hundreds of gallons – adding an extra zero to the end of the water bill.
Most homeowners don’t realize that a leaking showerhead is pretty simple to fix. There’s no need to buy a new one or, worse yet, hire a plumber. You can finish the job yourself in just a few short minutes with nothing more than a screwdriver, an adjustable wrench, and a washer that you can buy for a nickel at any hardware store.
Now that you’ve decided to take on the job yourself, you need to understand the two most common things that go wrong with showerheads. Either they start leaking at the point where the pipe screws into the actual showerhead, or the holes in the showerhead become clogged, causing water backups and creating a leak.
First, you’ll need to unscrew the showerhead from the outlet pipe. To protect the showerhead from damage, wrap a towel around the point where the head screws onto the outlet piping. Take the pliers and remove the head from the outlet. You’ll see the washer. Pull it off and replace it with the new one. If you think you need a tighter seal, use plumbers tape across the threads before screwing the showerhead back in.
Also, if you have a rotating or swiveling showerhead, you might as well take an extra step while you have it taken apart. To increase the swivel range and flexibility, take some lubricant, preferably silicone, and lube up the interior swivel ball before you screw the head back in.
If the holes in the showerhead are clogged, take off the faceplate by removing the screws attaching it to the head. If you can’t remove the faceplate, that’s okay, just keep the entire unit unscrewed. The reason showerheads get clogged is the lime deposits that are formed and get stuck in the holes over time. To get rid of the lime deposits, take either the faceplate or the whole showerhead, and soak it in a bowl of white vinegar for at least eight hours. This will dissolve the deposits, and make them easy to remove by sticking a toothpick or small nail through the holes in the showerhead. After that, scrub the faceplate with a stiff plastic brush and screw the unit back into the wall.
Nancy Dean is a freelance author who contributes to several websites, including All Faucets . Coming from a family full of carpenters, she enjoys both doing and writing about home improvement projects.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nancy_Dean

Give Your Kitchen A New Look With The Right Kitchen Faucets

When it comes to making your kitchen stand out and look great even the littlest things can make a big difference, so if your kitchen faucets are causing you a problem it is well worth forgetting about trying to mess around with repairing them and instead consider replacing the faucets altogether. This is a very cost effective and simple procedure that can make a huge difference to the appearance and practicality of this room. You can find faucets to suit all needs, and by installing faucets that fit in with any theme you have going in your kitchen or with the general décor you can enjoy really adding to the appearance of the room. You will find the perfect sink faucet to match your kitchen, as there is such a great choice available, and you can find accessories to match your kitchen cabinets, countertops, sinks, and decoration of your kitchen.
Replacing your kitchen faucets can make a real difference
When you replace the faucets in your kitchen you will enjoy a range of benefits. You can look forward to finding accessories that really fit in with your décor. You can add to the style and class of your kitchen as well simply be replacing the faucets for one of today’s modern and sleek styles. And with these faucets boasting a range of features you can also increase practicality in the kitchen, making life easier for yourself and others that use the kitchen. You will be able to select from many wonderful styles, with designs and features to suit all needs. Enjoy a choice of brass, copper, chrome, stainless steel, and more, which ensures that there is something to suit every taste and pocket. You can select the features that best meet your needs too, with choice that include filter faucets, double or single handle faucets, wall mount faucets, mixer faucets, shower faucets, and many others.
You won’t have to spend a fortune on your faucets
By shopping for your faucets online you can make really huge savings, as well as enjoy a far greater choice of faucets. You will find many top manufacturers offering great deals on faucets via the Internet, and the deep discounts on offer mean that you can enjoy excellent value for money. Enjoy comparing the faucets on offer to find the designs and features that best meet your needs, and look forward to saving money on the cost, ordering with ease, and even getting fast and convenient delivery of your order. Plumbing your faucet in should prove no problem, so once you receive them you can get your kitchen looking perfect in next to no time.
Whatever the theme or décor of your kitchen, you will be able to really complement it by installing the right faucets to match the style of your kitchen and the kitchen fixtures. This is a great and cost effective way to add to the look and functional benefits of your kitchen.
Concentrating on informating about kitchen cabinets, the columnist writes at large for http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com .His work on kitchen faucets can be discovered on http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com/kitchen-faucets.html and also other web publications.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kenneth_Morris

Great Bathroom Decorating Ideas for Every Budget

Think about it - what other room (besides your kitchen) do you use as much as your bathroom? A bathroom is a great place to really make your own, whether as a showcase for a great antique vanity mirror, to a handcrafted artisan glass sink, to a spa-like retreat - or even just a fun place for the kids' bath time. The choice is yours!
Let's start with these two basic questions: 1) what would you like to do, and 2) how much would you like to spend to do it?
Some older homes' bathrooms tend to be on the smaller side - so you may want to earmark extra cash for any plumbing upgrades within the wall, or possibly expanding the footprint of the room itself. On the plus side, if everything looks ok structurally speaking in your older home's bath, you can focus on just re-decorating, which will be significantly easier - and less costly.
If you're in a newer home, you may be in luck- most of the modern plumbing upgrades were probably built in. Now you can start to have fun making the bathroom your own. So let's get down to business.
Budget Details
Less than $300
On a shoestring? Not to worry - you may be a little more limited, but remember - a smaller upgrade can make a big difference. Consider a quick new coat of paint in a new color scheme, brand new hardware (like towel racks, soap dishes, drawer pulls - even a new doorknob)...these little changes can make your bath feel brand new.
$300 - $600
If you can afford to spend a bit more cash, think about the suggestions above, and consider some additional upgrades like a new shower curtain, hotel quality bath & hand towels, a cozy rug, even a new mirror or medicine chest. To top it off, look into new light fixtures to show off all your efforts.
$600 and Up
When you're committed to making a change. At this stage, look into options for bigger-ticket upgrades: a spa tub, furniture-quality vanities, artisan glass or fired clay sinks, and designer toilets and faucets. If you're handy, you can take some of the punch out of the bottom line by doing some work yourself - such as replacing sink or bath faucets - but the larger-scale work will need to be done by a professional. Typically, this is where the bulk of your costs will fall.
Other OptionsRather than doing a full demolition, you can also look into some cost-saving alternatives such as tub re-glazing (about $500) and re-grouting or re-tiling bathroom walls. The work typically takes only a few days (as opposed to weeks) and can make an immediate change for a fraction of the cost of a full remodeling.
Remember, you don't have to spend a fortune to get the look you want. Check out your local home center and independent bathroom showcase stores. Another great place for inspiration is online. You'll get a better idea of what you're looking for, and you might be able to find a bargain at the same time!
Russ Roman - Express Décor public relations. ExpressDecor is offering bathroom fixtures and accessories, including glass vessel sinks, faucets, showers, vanities and bathroom accessories. Guided by a commitment to value, exceptional customer service, an expanded collection and an eye toward design, their vast product line incorporates a distinguished style, superior functionality and affordability.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Russ_G_Roman

Low Price Bath Faucets - Give The Bathroom A Character

Low price bath faucets are one of the core elements of bathroom hardware. These faucets are available in the market in a variety of shapes and materials. These shapes and designs can be the centerpiece of your design. Open showers are currently popular with the younger upwardly mobile crowd. Claw-foot bathtubs are almost always considered to be classic and attractive.
However, when you are selecting Low price Bath faucets and figuring out a floor plan, you should also think about the privacy issues. Also, make sure that you do not put the toilet and tub too close together. Tiling is another big element in the bathroom. Whatever tiles you choose, you must make sure your tiles can be easily cleaned and sanitized and that they are easy to install and do not require special adhesives, which can become costly.
You should think out of the box when you are choosing tiles and Low price Bath faucets. When it comes to tiles, you should not use only porcelain tile but consider marble, clay, and anything else you see in the store that catches your eye. Once you have chosen the major elements, you should focus on decoration accessories to bring out personality and individualism. Always remember that the bathroom does not have to just be functional and that putting interesting items on the walls or shelves is a great way to give the room some character. Be innovative, do not fear using your own ideas, and put what you want into the room when redecorating your master bathroom.
William Samson has written many more articles about kitchen and bathroom plumbing.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=William_Samson

Danze Faucets: Brassy and Sassy

Danze faucets are popular today and they owe it to their beauty and their finish that meets the highest of standards. It has touch of brass that gives class to any bathroom or shower décor. Another popular finish is the oil rub bronze finish that looks exceptional because of the dark, burnished look that playfully reflects light to add visual appeal. Once you actually witness this vision of beauty and class in person, you will never even consider another faucet.
Danze is a manufacturer of one of the best showerhead faucets on the market today. These shower faucets of the future come with uniquely styled showerheads that feature smooth operation and have a lifetime warranty. By offering wide selections and models to their customers, Danze brings the feel of personalization to customers who demand the best. This makes for a very loyal customer base. Danze faucets are top quality and have a price tag that anyone can appreciate. This pleasing company offers consumers both a unique style with a gorgeous finish; the great price offers clients an affordable luxury not easily had. The faucets have elements of both traditional and contemporary styling, allowing it to be at home in any environment. There popularity can be summarized as the following:
1. Color: People love color. Yet, very few people can agree on a single color. Danze understands that clients are unique and have unique tastes. Shopping for a Danze faucet allows a wide range of colors and styles to the eager client.
2. Customization: Who doesn't like to customize? Nothing feels quite as good as entering into a home and feeling like it is your space. While many people may not exactly appreciate the feeling of comfort added by a faucet, it is guaranteed to be missed if it was gone. Danze offers the chance for people to customize their living space the way they choose.
3. Cost: Everyone loves a good deal. Danze caters to a wide variety of economical classes: from the very poor to the extremely rich. When you want a good deal, Danze has affordable excellence. No one can beat that.
4. Coordination: Danze clearly understands that the world is an ever-changing trend. People like brass one day and like sterling the next. When you are ready to change the décor of your bathroom - or any room - most people look for simplicity. Nothing says simplicity like a coordinated bathroom. Daze offers accessories that all coordinate together for your ease of use. Often, these coordinating items can be purchased at a lower price when bought in an available set.
Danze faucets are an original work of art from a respectable company to the consumers that company serves. By offering affordable excellence, Danze has created itself a loyal customer base that can never get enough. Because Danze listens to its loyal customers, the company has been able to not only stay on top of the newest trends, but the company has been the sire of more than just one popular trend in its time.
Phil has been working as a repairman for more than 7 years. He has plenty of experience in repairing homes, especially in bathrooms since that is where he started his career. He is focused on water conservation, since the bathroom is the number one place of water consumption in the home. Visit http://www.3falk.com/ to learn more about conserving water and shower faucets.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Phil_F._Hambly

The Dripping Faucet in Every Organization

Each day millions of workers spend 8 hours or more at their respective jobs with many contributing to the dripping faucet within every organization. This faucet much like the leaking kitchen or bathroom faucet’s steadily waste drops of a previous resource – water – every minute of every day until fixed. Yet, the dripping faucet is considered a minor annoyance until the drips become steadier. During this time, thousands of gallons of water are wasted costing the owner probably more money than it took to correct the problem.

Organizations also have dripping faucets not only in their physical plants, but within their people’s productivity. During the last 5 years, I have surveyed thousands of individuals who all believe that their plates are full, but admit to wasting a minimum of 12 minutes each day. For employees who are paid $30,000 not including benefits, this amounts to $14.42 each week for the one lost hour of work or $721.12 annually. If you have a facility with 50 people, the annual cost is at least $35,056. For organizations with at least 1,400 employees, the annual cost rises a minimum of $1,000,000. Dripping faucets are very expensive!

How can you repair this expensive drain on your limited resources? First, consider that most people don’t intentionally come to work to waste your resources. Their performance in many cases is a result of lack of knowledge and skills supported by negative attitudes and habits. These negative attitudes and habits probably contribute much more to their performance.

Second, begin to ask questions about how the organization is communicating its message. If you were to survey 10% of your employees from upper, middle and front line levels and asked them to name the top 3 goals of the organization, would you receive the EXACT SAME ANSWER from each individual. Different responses contribute to people not knowing what they may need to do next and contribute to that ongoing dripping faucet.

Third, determine if your employees truly understand how to plan and achieve their personal goals. If your employees are achieving their personal goals, the likelihood of them achieving corporate goals has been greatly enhanced. Time management is the apex of goal planning and achievement. If individuals don’t have goals, then why worry about time?

Fourth, as you train your employees include interpersonal development along with the job specific skills. If your company promotes from within, the individual is recognized for her or his job specific skills. However, as these individuals moved up through the organization, job specific skills become less while interpersonal skills become greater. Yet, much of the training fails to develop these individuals and the result is that these individuals leave which increases bottom line costs or return to their original position again increasing bottom line costs.

Five, finally, think about the words that you select. For example, ask your employees how they are investing their time instead of spending their time? Frame your questions and statements using positive words that generate powerful mental images. People hear words, but they think in pictures.

Six, align your systems, strategies and people to create loyal internal customers that discover those “moments of truth” leading to external customers. Southwest Airlines understands the power of alignment.

These are just 6 ideas that will help you begin to repair your dripping faucets. So, grab the toolbox and begin to create a culture that does not support wasting your resources, but instead looks to invest them. Remember, the faucet continues to drip and this is very expensive.

Leanne Hoagland-Smith, M.S. President of ADVANCED SYSTEMS, is the Process Specialist. With over 25 years of business and education experience, she implements and realigns processes to build sustainable change for individuals and organizations and delivers ROI solutions within a variety of industries. As co-author of M.A.G.I.C.A.L. Potential:Living an Amazing Life Beyond Purpose to Achievement due for August 2005 release, Leanne speaks nationally to a variety of audiences. If you desire AMAZING RESULTS, please call Leanne a call at 219.759.5601 or leanne@processspecialist.com.

Copyright 2005(c) Leanne Hoagland-Smith http://www.processspecialist.com/organizations.htm

Permission to publish this article, electronically or in print, as long as the bylines are included, with a live link, and the article is not changed in any way (grammatical corrections accepted).

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Leanne_Hoagland-Smith

Plumbing Tips

If you have ever gone camping for a weekend, you know it doesn't take long to miss running water, flushing toilets, clean clothes, and hot showers. These modern conveniences are the benefits of plumbing systems. Your house has several separate plumbing systems. Sinks, toilets, washers, bathtubs, and related fixtures. Types of pipes for different plumbing usage may vary, from:

1. Copper

2. Plastic

3. Lead

4. Concrete

5. Steel

6. Cast iron

Plumbing is something we use every day and which most of us know little about. Shopping for your own plumbing fixtures rather than getting them through your plumber allows you choose from a wider selection and save money.

Most people are familiar with plumbers, who come to their home to unclog a drain or install an appliance. When construction plumbers install piping in a house, for example, they work from blueprints or drawings that show the planned location of pipes, plumbing fixtures, and appliances.

Water enters your house through a pipe that connects either to a municipal water line or a private well. Faucets, like all plumbing fixtures with moving parts, are apt to require more repair than non-moving fixtures. The less strain you put on your faucets, the less frequently they need repair.

If your plumbing fixtures drain slowly, the problem may be a clogged vent. This happens when vents are improperly located and when birds or animals deposit debris in the vent where it exits the roof.

Whatever your intended plumbing projects, the first step is to familiarize yourself with the water system in your home. At the very least it is important to know where to switch off the mains in case of an emergency.

About The Author: Roger King has been writing articles on home decorating ideas for several years, and has been helping people find and review the best value for interior design solutions.

Visit his web site www.all-homeinteriordesigns.com for free tips and guides for your home improvement projects

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roger_King

Winterize Used Campers

As fall approaches most of us are trying to fit those last one or tow camping trips in before the cold weather hits. When you decide your camping season is over, it is very important that you winterize your camper. Used campers require a great deal of care and winterizing and prolong the use of your camper, save on maintenance bills and problems down the road.

In order to get started, you will need a few things to winterize your camper. Most of these things can be found at your local camper supply store or online. I prefer to buy these things online because it is cheaper than any of the local camping supply stores in my area.


Non-toxic RV antifreeze. Not automobile antifreeze, which is toxic. You want the red RV antifreeze.
A water heater bypass kit.
Water pump converter kit.

Once you have these things, you can get started winterizing your used camper. It's important to note that the following list is just a general guide of things that you should do to winterize your camper. You really need to consult your owners manual for specific instructions on how to perform each task. If you don't have an owners manual, call the manufacturer or search the net for your make and model. Your owners manual should have detail instructions specific to your camper.


Drain the fresh water holding tank.
Drain and clean out the gray and blackwater tanks. You will want to use a chemical cleaner on these tanks to kill any bacteria.
Drain the hot water heater.
Open all of your water faucets and turn on the water pump until all of the water has been drained from the lines. Close all of the faucets after they are drained.
You will now want to install the bypass for the hot water heater.
Install the water pump kit according to the kit's directions, connect the inlet tube into your gallon of RV antifreeze, and then turn the water pump on and pressurize the system.
Open each faucet, open the hot and cold valves until antifreeze appears.
If you have a toilette, flush it until antifreeze appears.
You will also want to pour a cup or two of antifreeze down each drain.
You may want to double check your holding tanks to make sure they have antifreeze in them.
You will also want to pay close attention to the outer areas of your camper. Make sure the roof is in good shape because it will only get worse during the winter if you have any problem areas.
You will specifically want to patch any cracks or seams that are worn to prevent rain, snow and ice from getting in. If this happens, come spring time you will have a terrible mildew and mold problem.

That should cover the basics of winterizing your used camper. Again, please consult your owners manual for the specific winterizing tasks that your used camper requires.

Brian Kroll is the author of Used Campers and is an avid camper, used camper owner and expert on camping on a budget.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brian_Kroll

Successfully Installing Bathroom Basin Taps

If you are doing a bathroom remodeling project, and that project involves the installation or refurbishing of your bathroom vanity, then you will probably need to install a new set of bathroom basin taps. This is not a difficult or complicated thing to do, but you will need a few tips and pointers.

First of all, what is the difference between a tap and a faucet? Well, in simplest terms a tap is a water control valve with its own separate spigot. A faucet will usually have hot and cold water controls with a single spigot, into which both the cold and hot water will flow. If you have both hot and cold water basin taps for your bathroom vanity you will have two spigots as well. Typically spigots are used instead of water faucets because they are smaller and more compact and are more suitable for bathroom vanities because of the limited available countertop space.

Before installing your new bathroom basin taps you will of course need to disassemble the old ones. Make sure your hot and cold water lines into your bathroom vanity have been turned off. Then drain the lines of water by turning the faucets on. You will probably need a screwdriver and a wrench to take your old taps off. Be careful when you take your old taps off that you do not scratch or crack the porcelain basin around the mounting holes.

Once your old taps have been removed, clean the mounting holes on both the top side and underneath of the basin. Your new basin taps will probably have a leaflet with some manufacturers instructions and guidelines included -- read these over very carefully, and make sure you follow their directions to the letter.

During the installation, if your basin tap manufacturer indicates that you should use washers or gaskets or other special hardware or preparations, make sure you use the exact items that they recommend. You will need to make absolutely sure that your new taps do not leak water -- you will need to check underneath the vanity to make sure there are no leaks where your waterline joins with the tap, and you also need to check topside to make sure there are no leaks around the sink or basement area.

Again, when installing your new basin taps make sure that you do not damage the porcelain sink basin by cracking or chipping it near the basin tap installation holes. Do not use a wrench to tighten the taps on the top side, as you can scratch the metal finish. Follow your manufacturers instructions and hand-tighten and then adjust it from below with a wrench, as necessary.

When everything is in place, turn on your new bathroom basin taps and let them run for a minute or so. Check for leaks again, both above and below the countertop. If you can't feel any moisture around the threads or mountings, and don't see any drips below on your vanity shelf, then your installation has been successful. Congratulations!

Learn more about installing Bathroom Basin Taps by visiting http://www.total-bathroom.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simon_Harris

Update Your Bathroom With Bathroom Accessories Online

One of the quickest and easiest ways to give your bathroom a new look is by updating your bathroom accessories. Numerous online resources are available to purchase your bathroom accessories online. The first thing that comes to mind is a new set of towels with matching rugs and a toilet cover, but the possibilities don’t end there. There are many options to explore when looking to update your look with bathroom accessories online. A few ideas when looking for bathroom accessories online would be towel bars, soap dishes or pump dispensers, shelves and toilet paper roll holders. Maybe you would like to add a little luxury with a heated towel rack.

Further ideas for bathroom accessories that can be purchased online would be new plumbing fixtures such as new faucets and faucet handles. These come in a variety of colors and finishes and may even be the centerpiece for your bathroom theme. Lighting and mirrors are two of the most important additions as they provide the overall ambiance of the bathroom.

When you begin your quest for bathroom accessories online, you will quickly notice that many manufacturers offer complete matched sets including everything you need to update your bathroom’s appearance. Many different styles, colors, textures and themes are available; there is literally something for everyone. Once you have found your favorite website for bathroom accessories online, finding the matching bathroom accessories for your style, taste and budget will be a breeze. If you prefer a more eclectic look, that is fine, too. The important thing to remember is to keep one element of your bathroom accessories consistent throughout. For example, you might choose different styles of faucets, doorknobs and handles for your bathroom accessories, as long as they are all the same type of finish, such as brushed chrome they will compliment each other well.

A great advantage to shopping online for bathroom accessories is that you can put the pictures all together and see how the items compliment one another. Shopping in a big department or home improvement store may give you a lot of options, but it is more difficult to picture how they will look in your home. Shopping for bathroom accessories online is as comfortable and relaxing as flipping through a magazine, and even more convenient. You can visualize and order a whole new bathroom without ever having to leave the house. You will save time and money, no gas to buy and no parking spot to fight over.

Take a quick look at your current bathroom. Just imagine it with a new coat of paint, some carefully selected bathroom accessories, and a fresh set of towels. Just a few items will make the bathroom look and feel as though the bathroom has been completely remodeled. When you realize how simple and inexpensive changes like this can make your old bathroom seem like new you will quickly find yourself shopping for bathroom accessories online. Who knows, you might even decide to start updating every room in your house with fresh new accessories online?

Gregg Hall is an author living with his beautiful wife and family in Navarre Beach, Florida. Find more about bathroom products as well as bathroom accessories at http://www.exclusivebathroomaccessories.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gregg_Hall

Bathroom Faucets and the Single Versus Double Situation

There are many kinds of bathroom faucets, and you may have both single and double faucets in your house, if you own an older home. But most newer faucets are singular, and this sometimes confuses people who do not understand why this is necessary, especially if they are asked by an official buidling inspector or real estate inspector to change out the dual type of faucets and replace them with single ones, which can and usually does require also changing out the whole sink apparatus. If you have these for example in your kitchen or bathroom, built into the counter or vanity or other furniture that is part of the permanent fixtures of the room, the act of simply changing faucets to comply as single faucets can in some cases mean you have to rip out all of that stuff and start over, because the sink is frequently an intregal part of the built in fixtures of a room.

The reason that many of the older type bathroom faucets that offer water out of one faucet that is cold and hot water out of another one are frowned upon by inspectors is unknown to many people who think this regulation is irrational and unreasonable, with no basis in common sense. But the reason that some ordiances call for a single source of water controlled by both hot and cold valves or taps, is because in the past there have been safety issues with having a single hot water faucet, because people turned it on and their hands were scalded by the water. Another issue is that with both, the user is not able to mix hot and cold, to get a hot temperature that is tolerable but hot enough to be sanitary.

So it is preferred to have two taps that control both hot and cold water than flows out of a singular central faucet, where the water can be mixed by adjusting the flow of hot and cold, until the temperature is ideal for the user. These kinds of bathroom faucets are found in all home improvement stores and modern sinks are all made to function nicely with this type of faucet.

For lots of information on shower curtains and other bathroom related topics, visit Bathroom Info at http://www.bathroom-info.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ken_Wilssens

Update Your Bathroom With Bathroom Accessories Online

One of the quickest and easiest ways to give your bathroom a new look is by updating your bathroom accessories. Numerous online resources are available to purchase your bathroom accessories online. The first thing that comes to mind is a new set of towels with matching rugs and a toilet cover, but the possibilities don’t end there. There are many options to explore when looking to update your look with bathroom accessories online. A few ideas when looking for bathroom accessories online would be towel bars, soap dishes or pump dispensers, shelves and toilet paper roll holders. Maybe you would like to add a little luxury with a heated towel rack.

Further ideas for bathroom accessories that can be purchased online would be new plumbing fixtures such as new faucets and faucet handles. These come in a variety of colors and finishes and may even be the centerpiece for your bathroom theme. Lighting and mirrors are two of the most important additions as they provide the overall ambiance of the bathroom.

When you begin your quest for bathroom accessories online, you will quickly notice that many manufacturers offer complete matched sets including everything you need to update your bathroom’s appearance. Many different styles, colors, textures and themes are available; there is literally something for everyone. Once you have found your favorite website for bathroom accessories online, finding the matching bathroom accessories for your style, taste and budget will be a breeze. If you prefer a more eclectic look, that is fine, too. The important thing to remember is to keep one element of your bathroom accessories consistent throughout. For example, you might choose different styles of faucets, doorknobs and handles for your bathroom accessories, as long as they are all the same type of finish, such as brushed chrome they will compliment each other well.

A great advantage to shopping online for bathroom accessories is that you can put the pictures all together and see how the items compliment one another. Shopping in a big department or home improvement store may give you a lot of options, but it is more difficult to picture how they will look in your home. Shopping for bathroom accessories online is as comfortable and relaxing as flipping through a magazine, and even more convenient. You can visualize and order a whole new bathroom without ever having to leave the house. You will save time and money, no gas to buy and no parking spot to fight over.

Take a quick look at your current bathroom. Just imagine it with a new coat of paint, some carefully selected bathroom accessories, and a fresh set of towels. Just a few items will make the bathroom look and feel as though the bathroom has been completely remodeled. When you realize how simple and inexpensive changes like this can make your old bathroom seem like new you will quickly find yourself shopping for bathroom accessories online. Who knows, you might even decide to start updating every room in your house with fresh new accessories online?

Gregg Hall is an author living with his beautiful wife and family in Navarre Beach, Florida. Find more about bathroom products as well as bathroom accessories at http://www.exclusivebathroomaccessories.com

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How to Fix a Leaking Showerhead Faucet

A leaky showerhead can be both annoying and costly. After a few hours, the constant dripping noise is as brutal on the eardrums as nails on a chalkboard. And, even though a singular drip is only a few milliliters of water, it doesn’t take long before that leaky showerhead wastes hundreds of gallons – adding an extra zero to the end of the water bill.

Most homeowners don’t realize that a leaking showerhead is pretty simple to fix. There’s no need to buy a new one or, worse yet, hire a plumber. You can finish the job yourself in just a few short minutes with nothing more than a screwdriver, an adjustable wrench, and a washer that you can buy for a nickel at any hardware store.

Now that you’ve decided to take on the job yourself, you need to understand the two most common things that go wrong with showerheads. Either they start leaking at the point where the pipe screws into the actual showerhead, or the holes in the showerhead become clogged, causing water backups and creating a leak.

First, you’ll need to unscrew the showerhead from the outlet pipe. To protect the showerhead from damage, wrap a towel around the point where the head screws onto the outlet piping. Take the pliers and remove the head from the outlet. You’ll see the washer. Pull it off and replace it with the new one. If you think you need a tighter seal, use plumbers tape across the threads before screwing the showerhead back in.

Also, if you have a rotating or swiveling showerhead, you might as well take an extra step while you have it taken apart. To increase the swivel range and flexibility, take some lubricant, preferably silicone, and lube up the interior swivel ball before you screw the head back in.

If the holes in the showerhead are clogged, take off the faceplate by removing the screws attaching it to the head. If you can’t remove the faceplate, that’s okay, just keep the entire unit unscrewed. The reason showerheads get clogged is the lime deposits that are formed and get stuck in the holes over time. To get rid of the lime deposits, take either the faceplate or the whole showerhead, and soak it in a bowl of white vinegar for at least eight hours. This will dissolve the deposits, and make them easy to remove by sticking a toothpick or small nail through the holes in the showerhead. After that, scrub the faceplate with a stiff plastic brush and screw the unit back into the wall.

Nancy Dean is a freelance author who contributes to several websites, including All Faucets . Coming from a family full of carpenters, she enjoys both doing and writing about home improvement projects.

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Bathroom Faucet Configurations

The configuration of a bathroom faucet is determined by the style of sink used, because both must be compatible with each other. The most popular bathroom faucet configurations are 4” center set (4cc) and 8” center set (8cc). Other styles are 1-hole and/or 12-16” widespread configurations. Wall-mount or deck-mount vessel fillers are used on vessel style bathroom sinks. They are available in two handle and single lever designs, and have various spout lengths to accommodate different bowl sizes.

Single Hole Faucet
This style of faucet is generally used on smaller bathroom sinks. They are available in two handle and single lever designs and some have an optional deckplate for 4”center set applications.

4 Inch Centerset Faucet
This style of faucet is usually used on smaller sinks and the spout and handles are attached to the base. Styles include two handle and single lever designs. They are also available in “mini-spread” designs.

4 Inch Minispread Faucet
This style of faucet is usually used on smaller sinks. The hot handle, spout and cold handle are 3 separate pieces giving the look and feel of a larger widespread model. These minispread faucets are only available in two handle designs. 8'' Widespread Faucet & Sink

8 Inch Widespread Faucet
This style of faucet is usually used on larger sinks and most styles stretch up to 16” center set. The hot handle, spout and cold handle are 3 separate pieces and are only available in two handle designs. They can also be used for deck-mount vessel style sinks. Please check the spout height and spout reach to determine proper use.

Vessel Filler Faucet
Vessel fillers or wall-mount faucets are usually used with vessel style sinks. They are available in two handle and single lever designs, and have various spout lengths to accommodate different bowl sizes.

Bathroom sink faucets are available in various styles; high arc, single handles and two handle styles – many with interchangeable handles and many more options and finishes. Each have their own purpose and appealing qualities.

Many faucet models also come available with anti-scald protection for children and are ADA (American Disabilities Act) compliant.

Visit Faucet.com for a wide variety of quality bathroom sinks and bathroom faucets.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dan_Auer

Make Your Bathroom a Showpiece with New Vanity Options

New styles of bathroom vanities are all around, bringing elegance and fresh looks to your bathroom. You can make your bath a centerpiece with modern, traditional, and even antique styles.

Wood is a popular choice for many homeowners - look for favorites in oak, cherry, maple, or mahogany. It's easy to make your vanity stand out with a new, unique design that expresses your own personality.

The standard items in everyone's bathroom are vessel sinks and faucets, toilets, vanities, and mirrors. You can change one, some, or all of the elements in your bath to make it feel fresh.

Great new choices are now available in vanity tops. Choose from standard Formica, or go for a special look with granite, ceramic or glass tiles, even marble. Think about upgrading a pedestal sink with a new vanity to allow for extra storage and a great new look.

Some things to consider:

1. quality furniture piece as your vanity - this is a great option for applying makeup, as a dressing table, etc.

2. Size matters! Make sure the vanity is small enough to fit your space, but large enough to maximize extra room for storage.

3. Punch up your vanity with color - you can be as bold or traditional as you like; a white sink with a bright vanity top, or a simple marble top with a unique sink and faucet combination will make your bathroom a showpiece.

4. Multiple sinks for multiple users - whether it's lots of kids or a shared master bath suite, don't be afraid to use all the extra real estate for a double sink.

5. Budget shopping - if most of your key pieces are in good shape, why not just splurge on a fancy new faucet or upgraded bathroom fixtures? A little bit can go a long way.

New bathroom vanities and plumbing fixtures (waterfall faucets, glass sinks) are a great way to add drama to an often-overlooked room!

Russ Roman – Express Décor public relations. ExpressDecor is offering bathroom fixtures and accessories, including glass vessel sinks, faucets, showers, vanities and bathroom accessories. Guided by a commitment to value, exceptional customer service, an expanded collection and an eye toward design, their vast product line incorporates a distinguished style, superior functionality and affordability.

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How To Fix Kitchen Faucets

Kitchen faucets is only small accessories in your kitchen, you may use them just occasionally and see no important of it. Many of home owners have even less attention to care about how it looks or whether it needs to be repaired or replaced. Due to this reason, many it is really hard to imagine for many of people about how damage in terms of time and cost when this small accessory is broken, such as leak and need to be replaced. Even though there is very less chance for a kitchen faucets broken be cause they occasionally used, but when it happens there will be very messy and disastrous for home owner. Therefore, if you are one of home owners and has kind of similar situation in the kitchen, now it's time to prepare yourself to fix this problem, which may occur from time to time.

The most common problem that you will have with your kitchen faucets is leaking. When you found that there is water spraying around the room due to the leaks of faucet, first thing that you have to do is do not panic and focus on the problem as well as finding out where the problem is and get it fixed. In most case, there may not due to the leak of faucets but because of indoor plumbing. This problem can be found very easily in everyday use. However, it is very good for you if you can learn some basic knowledge of indoor plumbing. This is not only benefit to you in terms of you will be able to fix those problems but also useful for you to prevent the problems in the future.

Basically, your kitchen function is quite similar to the function of your bathroom, where there are few of faucets install and there also be greater chance that those faucets become leaking very often. However, faucets in the kitchen may have less chance to leak than ones in the bathroom. In many cases for kitchen faucets, the most problem of leak happens to the faucets that install in the kitchen cabinet, but this problem can be easily fixed. Please follow the instruction described in following paragraph about how to fix it properly.

Firstly, immediately you found out that the faucet start to leak, you must turn off the water valve that connects to the kitchen sink. Then after you make sure that there is no water supply from the main valve, then remove the leaky section of pipe and hold it up to the light to check for cracks or holes. During this process, you may have to check other possible crack that may be leaks in the future so you can repair it before it is broken. Apart from sealing of pipe and faucet, there might be some other part of pipe that damage and you have to fix.

Once after you replace the part that leaks, then you have to use Teflon tape to wrap the open end of the pipe, for some of you may use plumbers tape to wrap on the first layer and then use Teflon tape to wrap over the plumber taps again. The last process is you have to put the faucet back to the sink, do not forget to re-check whether there is another possible leak again. Finally, turn the water back on to check that there are no more leaks in the pipe.


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About the Author:
Cherdkiat Taesookavat is an architect, providing information and directories about home decor, please visit Kitchen Faucets

Kitchen Cabinet Design

Consider changing the faucets on your sink. There is a tremendous range of beautiful faucets available today, and you can find some really nice ones at reasonable prices. Among this choice of design is surely the one that will perfectly suit the style and decorating scheme your kitchen follows. You can have a look that complements the room and is pretty and practical. You will be amazed at how changing the faucets can make an impact on the look of the room. You can obtain any kind you like, including wall mounted faucets, free standing faucets, ones that pull out from the top of the sink, ones that have single or double handles. On top of that, you can choose from a wide variety of materials such as chrome, copper and brass.

Besides choice of design and material, you can also have a choice in color. The faucet you pick can be so perfectly chosen as to match with your cabinet, counter tops and general decor, in addition to matching the sink. And today's faucets are easy to install, so you will not have to engage in the services of a plumber. You can pick sleek, modern designed faucets, or faucets with an antique look that nevertheless have all the modern features you would want even though they exhibit the antique beauty of yesteryear. No matter how you have decorated your kitchen, no doubt you will find something to suit from the many designs available.

When it comes to budget, the same principle holds true. There are so many designs to choose from that you will find something that will please you within your price range. Even lower priced faucets give you great value, offering quality workmanship with fine design. You can really extend the choice of these items for your own kitchen by shopping on line, where most of the manufacturers have sites that have great deals. Comparing styles, features and prices is easy to do on the Internet with just a touch of your fingers, and you can often great great buys as well, on the same quality goods that are in stores.

You can even shop on the Internet by manufacturer, style, color, material and price range. You will be able to easily find the exact choice for your kitchen design as well as within your price range. And you will be dealing with the same top manufacturers that sell faucets in the big home improvement stores, so you know the quality will be good. Installing the "just right" faucet in your kitchen sink will go a long way to improve the way your kitchen looks and you will benefit from great new features and functions while you improve the look of your kitchen.


Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/kitchen-cabinet-design-156135.html


About the Author:
Clinton Maxwell writes first and foremost for http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com , a website on countertops . You might find out more about his work on kitchen faucets over at http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com .

Faucet, One Of The Most Important Accessories In The Bathroom.

Faucet, one of the most important accessories in the bathroom that people often ignore, which they think that they can use any type and any size of faucet. Instead, they give priority to choosing design of flooring tiles, colour of lavatory or other furniture design and seem that faucet is almost the last thing that you consider to by.

There are some important factors that you have to consider. First is the usage and functions that have to match to your needs. Second, you have to choose colour and design of faucets to match to the style and decoration of the bathroom. Third, you should consider about other function of the faucet such as whether it has the switch for hot-cold water adjustment so you have to be careful if you have elder and children in your family and you want to use this type of faucet.

The function of faucets has been developed these days. For example, the faucets brand called Grohe has the function that a thermo strut will control automatic temperature adjustment every time the tap being used or the cold water are allocated to be used by any function in the house. Beside, this brand also use ceramic valve, which believed that is the most effective material for controlling on-off valve.

Apart from factor above that you have consider, which about its function and design, you should also consider about following;

1. The wall-fixed faucet has disadvantage when you have to service, fix or replace. You may have to crack down the wall in order to replace the faucet, which very time consuming and also use a lot if money. So you should use the type that easy to install in order to avoid this problem.

2. The faucet should not have pattern on its texture or skin, because it is very difficult to clean.

3. The material that made the faucet should be easy to clean, but doesn't have to be very shiny, but should not be easily dirty and got scratch.

Today, the wall-fixed type had been developed and we do not have to break the wall in order to replace a new one. But you have to be aware that not all model and brand has this type of function, so you still need to consider carefully. The chemical that can get rid of stain on a tap very effectively is the mild Citric Acid, which will help you to clean soap stain, mould very easily and good for the environment.

From what I mention above, you will realise that choosing faucet for a bathroom is not an easy job and should not be ignore, as there are many factor that you have to consider. If you think very carefully o which type of faucet that you will use at first, you will never have problems or if some problem happens it will not a big deal that will make to crazy, until you design to change the new one.


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Home Faucet Bath Towels

Bathroom Faucet Function And Selection

Bathrooms need to have faucets for a decent functioning. There are lots of kinds of faucets available in many styles, colors, shapes. All the faucets can be grouped in four categories as per their working mechanisms. They can be grouped in following categories:

• Cartridge • Compression • Ball • Disc

These are in fact parts of faucets that control the water flow from them. Three of these faucets are mixing faucets while the fourth is not. The compression faucet has two controls: Hot and Cold.

Compression faucets have washers or seals that close against a valve seat to restrict water flow through the faucet body. This control is turned off when you turn the handle off. The other three types don't use washers for the off-and-on action, though they do have O-rings and neoprene seals to prevent leaking. They're referred to as "washerless." Because washers and seals wear out with use-resulting in the familiar drip, drip-washerless faucets are generally favored.

When you are out buying faucets do consider following:

• Type of handles • Style you prefer • Finish you want • Your budget

The fasces you purchase must be synchronized with the architecture of your bathroom. Some faucets will remind you of old fashioned pumps while others will be quite modern. The two handled faucets are more stylish then single handle ones.

Single-handle faucets are more practical then two handled ones. When you buy faucet, keep in mind the spout's height and reach also. You need to choose the sink and this choice will affect your other purchases. The spout should be long enough to reach into a sink's multiple basins and high enough to provide ample working room. Buy high arch or gooseneck spouts if you have large pots and shallower sinks. They will not suit a compact kitchen setting. Pullout sprayhead spouts have grown to be quite popular, but look for a retractable double-interlock hose that won't kink.

If you want you can buy faucets and handles separately. Many manufacturers sell separate stuffs. When you buy the lavoratory faucets be more careful as its generally them not kitchen ones that leak. When you buy bathroom faucets keep in mind the shape of sinks etc.

When buying for tubs and whirlpools, you'll need to know whether your installation needs a wall-mount, a deck mount, or a hand spray.

Make sure you discuss the shower faucets with your plumber or designer. This will help you make the right choice as you might get overwhelmed if you choose on your own from the large array of faucets available in many styles and shapes. The supply lines will need consideration also. Therefore take your designer along or discuss in advance what you want.

These days you have an option to choose the various trims also for your facets along with handles. Try to buy the faucets and sinks from same place as that ways you can be sure that you are buying congruent things.



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#1 Bathroom Faucets Resource
Bathroom faucets.
http://www.faucets-sinks.com

Kitchen Cabinet - Complementary Accessories For Kitchenscountertops - Complementary Accessories For Kitchens

Kitchen faucets should be a stylish addition to your kitchen that complement both your kitchen cabinet style and countertops, and with the broad range of choices available, getting something affordable is quite simple. The options for products is wide and you can find something to suit most kitchen themes and looks, making it that much easier to get pleasure from practicality, style and consistency. Having the correct fixtures can make the difference in the overall appearance of this vital room, and you can choose between kitchen faucets ranging from wall-mounted to free-standing, from filtered to pullouts, and from double to single handled ones. You have the choice between copper, chrome, brass and much more, so there should be few problems in finding the one that suits yours and your kitchen's needs.

The other exciting thing about kitchen faucets is that not only can you have such a broad selection of designs and styles, but also you can complement the many fixtures in your kitchen, including cabinets, sinks, décor and countertops. In fact, installing faucets nowadays is a breeze and helps you avoid the extra plumbing costs they once did. So many high end manufacturers offer top quality ones that give you sleek, modern and beautiful designs, or, if you prefer, you can still opt for the classic beauty of bygone eras with the antiqued versions that incorporate modern technology. However, whatever you choose for your kitchen style, you can locate the perfect faucet that suits your personal needs through a stunning range that the market has to offer.

The most important criteria in buying faucets is that whatever the finances you can still get the one you want that combines top quality and excellent workmanship for a reasonable price. Value for your money is important. You will find the best place to look is online where many reputable companies, retailers and manufacturers, offer a wonderful selection of accessories and faucets for your kitchen and even better deals. The advantage of checking out the Internet is that you can make the needed comparisons between the features and faucets that are available before you make your final purchase. The other definite plus is that shopping on line provides you with some of the lowest prices on the market, giving you much more value for money, without the risk of compromising your accessories' quality.

Again, there is no better place to research your kitchen faucet designs, styles and colours to get what you want, with the features you need, and to do it all quickly and speedily. You will have instant access to the top manufacturers that will instantly guarantee top quality, class and style. You may be somewhat surprised at the great difference the correct faucet can have on your kitchen's overall appearance, and that you are able to greatly increase the functionality and appearance of this most important room by basically replacing the simple faucets for ones that truly complement your current fixtures and décor.



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About the Author:
Focusing on the area of kitchen cabinet, Clinton Maxwell is publishing especially for http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com . You can learn about his contributions on kitchen faucets over at http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com .