31% of Americans want to Remodel Their Bathrooms and Reduce Utility Costs...

LIGHTHOUSE SHOWER DOORS

2240 Light Street, Bronx NY 10451

-516-543-8672 / F-516-203-4250

www.LighthouseShowerDoors.com

In a survey conducted by Better Homes and Gardens magazine, a third of Americans or 31% reported they want to remodel their bathrooms while 25% reported wanting to remodel their kitchens. Bathroom remodeling has increased by 17% over the past two years and has become the most popular remodeling job.

Many people aren't interested in luxurious master bathrooms anymore. They would rather a bathroom that is practical, classic and basic. Whirlpool tubs are being removed and larger showers with a bench, a ceiling-mounted rain shower head and a hand-held shower is what is most commonly being seen throughout homes. 

Homeowner’s main concerns nowadays is reducing utility costs. Many are doing so by incorporating efficient LED (light emitting diode) fixtures and water-saving toilets seem to be an increasing popular demand as well. Besides conservation, some other popular trends include larger varied tiles and sunlight inviting windows.

Here are some space-saving tips for your next bathroom remodeling project!

• Enhance space and storage by swinging the door outward. Use hooks or pegs to hang towels, put a storage cabinet or shelves above the toilet and use below-sink cabinetry and mirrored medicine cabinets.
• In smaller bathrooms, create a larger, spa-like shower bygetting rid of the shower/tub combo. If a dedicated bather, go with a space-saving built-in soaking tub.
• Install lighting that can dim as well as go off (along with exhaust fans) automatically after a period of time.
• Separate the toilet from the sink area with a frosted glass wall, or if there's more space, with a toilet room (add venting for noise and odor control).
•  To enhance counter space, use a single-bowl rather than a double-bowl vanity. If there's enough room, use two sinks and add privacy by separating them with built-in wall storage.

Spring Cleaning "Must-Do's" According to Bob Vila!

LIGHTHOUSE SHOWER DOORS

2240 Light Street, Bronx NY 10451 

P-516-543-8672 / F-516-203-4250 

www.LighthouseShowerDoors.com

Now that spring is in full bloom, it’s time to make sure all your spring cleaning projects are checked off the list. May is a great time of year to fix up the house from damage from the winter, and prepare it in full for the upcoming sunny summer months. 

Here are five “must-dos” for your spring maintenance, provided by Bob Vila, that if you haven’t got to yet, you can now add them to the list!

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• Seal your driveway. Winter has many mysterious ways of taking a toll on the exterior of your home, but don’t let the driveway be an exception. Damage from the sun, oil, gas spills, rain, wind and fluctuation in temperature all contribute to the breakdown of the driveway overtime. Water creates cracks and can then settle into the base. If your driveway hasn’t been sealed in two years, get to it now! This is the perfect DIY (do it yourself) weekend project.

• Check air conditioning units. Now that the warmer weather has arrived, it’s assumed that you will be putting your air conditioning units to good use. Check the filter, check hose connection for leaks, and make sure the drain pans are draining freely. Also, make sure to vacuum any dust that has settled on the unit and its connections- it can affect its functioning! If you’ve experienced any trouble with the unit in the past, it may be time to call in a professional to check it out. Warm weather is known for elevating humidity, especially in the basement and garage, so be sure to set up a dehumidifier to reduce any issues!

• Tend to your lawn. The winter months allow for many soil complications, along with chemical changes that alter the soil’s PH levels. Even if you are unable to physically see weeds, they are more than likely waiting for optimum conditions to propagate.  If you want to reduce the chances of them germinating, consider an organic herbicide. Also, reseed on a regular basis!

• Ready the grill. If your gas grill has any remaining gas from the winter months, check the burner jets for any clogs or obstructions. Also, be sure that all gas hoses and connections are sound and secure. For charcoal grill owners, make sure your grill is ash free and free of grease and residue.

• Inspect deck and patio. Inspect the deck for any warped or splintered boards. Give the deck a good sweep to remove and excess leaves or debris that may have accumulated over the winter. No matter if your deck is wood, plastic or composite; a deck should be cleaned thoroughly every year to extend its life. If the wood finish on your deck is faded or worn, May is the perfect time to clean, stain and reseal it.