Wednesday, June 2, 2004

Don’t just think style

Quality, function important when designing a new bathroom

If building a new home is in your future, chances are you’re inundated with paint chips, fabric swatches, tile samples and carpet remnants. You probably also have a collection of home magazines tagged with your favorite design ideas. But while aesthetics are important, especially in a powder room or a master bath, it is equally important to ensure the building materials and decorative fixtures you choose for your new bathroom have lasting quality.

There are so many articles written about design and style options for the bathroom but very few which focus on functionality and long-term reliability; but if you don’t invest in superior products, you may find your beautiful furnishings ruined by mold or mildew or a plumbing leak from inferior pipes. That is why it is critical to not only research the items that will give your bath “sizzle” but also years of worry-free performance.

• Quality fixtures. Although they may look similar, not all faucets are created equal. Look for faucets constructed of high-quality materials. A quality faucet will give you superior performance and durability, and provide a stylish addition to your room.

Because a faulty metal washer is the usual cause of faucet leaks, install a washerless, cartridge-based faucet. With these faucets, you don’t need to worry about replacing worn-out or ill-fitting washers. And while you may pay a bit more for a quality faucet, in the long-run you will be glad you did.

• Corrosion-free plumbing. Although in the past metal pipe (in the form of galvanized steel or copper) was the only material available for plumbing purposes, today there are alternative materials. FlowGuard Gold CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) plumbing systems, for example, offer a number of benefits over metallic systems. Primarily, the system will never pit or corrode, which reduces the risk of premature failures and costly re-piping, in addition to possible property damage.

FlowGuard Gold CPVC systems are also highly energy efficient with natural insulating properties that keep hot water hotter and cold water colder than metallic systems. In addition, condensation, which is a common problem with metallic pipes and can cause drip damage to walls and foundation, is virtually eliminated.

CPVC piping also maintains water quality. There is no leaching or metal contamination into the water supply, so there are no related health concerns. And unlike copper pipe which can form a thick layer of hard minerals (scale) that can reduce the pipe’s water flow and water pressure, a FlowGuard Gold CPVC plumbing system will maintain full water flow capacity throughout the pipe’s entire service life. The material also resists water hammer (banging pipes) and minimizes water flow noise for quieter operation.

• Features set toilets apart. Under government standards, all new toilets sold today must only use 1.6 gallons of water or less per flush, but that hasn’t stopped manufacturers from introducing other innovations. For example, many toilets now offer extra large, glazed trap-ways to help eliminate clogs. A power gravity flushing system is another feature that can prevent you from plunging.

• Lightweight, energy-efficient tubs. Just a few years ago cast iron bathtubs dominated the market, but today acrylic tubs are gaining in popularity and are estimated to account for 40 percent of bathtub sales. As compared to cast iron, acrylic tubs are less expensive and lighter weight. Because they are composed of a non-porous, high-grade plastic, they retain heat which means hot water stays hotter for a longer period of time while cast iron actually absorbs heat. Acrylic is also the material of choice over fiberglass since it is stronger and more durable.

• Safety in the shower. For the shower, invest in a pressure-balanced shower system which automatically adjusts to changes in water temperature, avoiding the sudden blast of hot or cold water commonly referred to as “shower shock.” Even when running a dishwasher or flushing a toilet, the valve ensures that the water remains a constant temperature to keep the shower consistent, comfortable and safe. Some shower systems even feature temperature memory to keep water temperature consistent from the time the water is turned off until the next time it is turned back on. If you have an elderly person or children living in your new home, you may also want to consider installing a grab bar for extra safety when showering.

• Paint that holds up against moisture. Of course you want the latest colors reflected in your new bathroom, but because of the room’s high humidity, condensation and steam, be sure to select a paint that is specifically made for the bath. Bath paint offers moisture, mold and mildew resistance and will not spot, fade, or stain. These paints feature a washable finish that is easy to clean and can be used for interior walls, cabinets, ceilings, trim and doors.

• Flooring made to last. For the bathroom environment, choose either a vinyl sheet flooring or ceramic tiles. Experts caution to stay away from self-stick vinyl which is usually sold in 12” x 12” squares. Although these squares may be attractive from an ease of installation aspect, the heat and moisture in the bathroom may eventually work its way between the cracks of the squares and cause them to warp or peel off the floor. A durable vinyl flooring or ceramic tiles will eliminate these problems and retain their beauty even after many years of use.

• Real wood vanities create lasting impression. Walk into any home improvement store or bathroom retailer and you will be confronted with vanities of all types and sizes. From maple to cherry to oak, the possibilities are endless. But don’t be deceived; be sure to select a vanity made of real wood. There are many vanities that may look like real wood, but on closer examination you will find a veneer on top of pressed wood. In a steamy bathroom, the veneer may peel away from the pressed wood, leaving you with a problem.

So, whether you’re looking behind the walls at the plumbing system, or in the main room at decorative features, don’t be consumed by the stylish images in the latest magazines or the sales pitch at your local retailer; always go beyond the surface to look for quality. For more information, visit www.flowguardgold.com.

— ARA Content