A Few Steps to Ensure a Bathroom of Luxury

The bathroom has always been a place offering pure escapism to the stresses of everyday life.  Talk to anyone with the modern day bathroom and they will describe it as their ‘retreat’ or a place to ‘relax and unwind’.  The demand for bathroom luxury is the highest it has ever been, as people no longer want to just ‘hop in and out’ of the shower, but to indulge themselves into a calming experience in an environment which offers them a tranquil escape.

Latest Shower and Bath technology

The most obvious step in accomplishing your dream bathroom is having luxurious baths and showers which offer the very best performance. Having a quality bath and shower allows you to escape into your own peaceful world.

If you want to take the luxurious experience that little further, there are technologies which offer personal pre –sets. These enable you to switch on your morning shower from the comfort of your own bed,  as they come with intelligent remote controls, which able you to pre-set your shower so that it is ready and waiting for you.

It’s not just showers which come accompanied with clever technology, there are some baths which able you to pre-set the temperature and depth, at the touch of a button.  Whether you want a full bath, half bath or a shallow fill, the pre-set bath fills can leave you to prepare for your well-deserved soak, while the bath fills itself to your desired temperature and depth.

Space

Many bathrooms are quite small to allow for larger areas upstairs. If you’re lucky enough to have a larger bathroom, this in itself is a luxury asset.

Unfortunately, unless you're renovating and expanding the size, physically creating more space isn’t an option. However, you can create the appearance of more space by removing unneeded clutter. Have a modern and spacious unit where you are able to keep all bath and beauty products away and out of sight. Try not to clutter your bathroom with unnecessary storage holders as these will take up a lot of room, and probably won’t compliment your luxury shower and bath units.

Avoid patterned walls as these can make a space seem smaller. Keep to neutral decoration to keep your bathroom looking as spacious and contemporary as possible.

Décor

Natural stone has always been associated with a luxury appeal.  Neutral tiled walls and floors can instantly improve the appearance of any bathroom. Not only do they look great, large stone tiles can also make a small space appear bigger and can create a calm feel to a room.  Bathrooms are not a cheap project so it’s best to choose hard wearing materials. Stone floors will last a life-time and don’t require a lot of maintenance. Just be sure the material you select is safe and slip free!

Compliment your bathroom with a stylish bath mat, and some quality bright - coloured bath towel sets. These will finish your bathroom decoration off nicely and ensure there is a homely feel, making it a little more personal to you.

Natural light

If you have large windows in your bathroom, these can enhance your bathroom experience by creating that desired and all natural environment.  If you have smaller windows, consider using a neutral coloured blind which can be easily adjusted up and down, or even consider leaving it bare to let in maximum light.  

Ensure your bathroom is to your taste and gives you that desired luxury feel.  If you haven’t yet treated yourself to luxury bathroom facilities, try Aqualisa, as they have many idyllic bathroom features which will compliment your bathroom with stylish and unique technologies.   

For bathroom products such as Aqualisa please visit http://www.bathroomsandshowersdirect.co.uk

FAQs Related To Installation Of Saniflo Systems

Q. I would like to install a Saniflo system but do I have to dig up the floor?

A. The aim of using a Saniflo system is to pump away waste and water, so it is not commonly required to dig up the floor in order to lay the pipework.

Q. It is possible to install pipework from a low to higher level?

A. Yes. Discharge pipework can be ran from a low to higher level, e.g a basement to ground floor and then join to a soil stack.

Q. What types of WC’s can be fitted with a Saniflo system?

A. WC’s which are BS EN 33 or 37 Horizontal outlet can have a Saniflo macerator.

Q. I want to discharge the waste into a manhole, can this be done?       

A. Typically, Saniflo systems lead waste into a soil and vent pipe or discharge stack. However, if required it can also be directly connected to the sewer at invert level. If this is the case, waste should be discharged into the gulley in the direction of the flow.

Q. What regulations do I need to adhere to if the waste is led to a manhole?

A. There are a few regulations that need to be adhered to and they are as follows:

·         Entry should be made through the wall of the manhole
·         The gap created should be sealed in order for a watertight joint
·         Pipes used should be suitable for underground
·         Pipes used should be protected against frost
·         Pipes used should be protected from the effect of passing vehicles above

Q. What material is suitable for the discharge pipework?

A. Materials used should be copper or rigid solvent weld plastic. Saying this, flexible pipes can also be used. If you choose the latter it will only be suitable if used without joints, as these can narrow the bore of the pipe. Such pipework should also be supported every ½ metre to avoid the pipe run dipping.

Q. Is there a maximum distance allowed between WC and Saniflo unit?

A. Saniflo systems are often placed behind the WC, but if needs be it can be installed under panelling using a short extension piece no longer than 150mm in length. If it is longer, a build-up of waste at the entrance of the macerator will result.

Q. Do pipework sizes differ?

A. Yes, dependent on the product. Saniflo, Sanitop, Saniplus, Sanichasse, Sanishower, Sanislim, Sanipack, Sanipro & Sanibest will discharge in 22mm, however the following discharge in 32mm; Sanivite, Sanispeed, Sanicom and Sanicompact.

Q. I want to install a system but am worried about noise levels.

A. You can use noise insulation to reduce noise levels, such as installing the unit on a material which will absorb vibration (e.g carpet). If needs be the unit can be boxed to further reduce noise levels, or the void can be filled with rockwool. If this is the case, make sure that it is still accessible to carry out maintenance when needed.

Q. Is planning permission required?

No. You are not legally obliged to gain planning permission before installing a Saniflo system. However, in the event of new toilet facilities, they should comply with building regulations.

For more information please visit: www.bathroomsandshowersdirect.co.uk.

Ultimate Guide To Revamping Your Bathroom

Bathrooms in UK households are no longer viewed as just being functional and practical. Many are used as a main feature or selling point and thus homeowners are putting a substantial amount of time, money and effort in perfecting this room. There are many factors to take into consideration when designing a bathroom; we have narrowed it down into 5 main areas, which are below:

Add a splash of colour

According to Luarence Llewelyn-Bowen, best known for his television show on BBC Changing Rooms, adding a splash of colour is the simplest way of revamping a bathroom. Try exploring by adding different textures or subtle pops of colour. This is the most cost effective way of updating even the dreariest of bathrooms. Keep in mind everyday items like towels, mats and curtains if you’re looking for a less permanent change.

Explore with flooring

Gone are the days where only plain and functional tiles were used. Explore different applications that are not only functional, but also aesthetically pleasing. Mix up conventional tiling with mosaics or smaller tiles to create an interesting range of textures. Also keep an eye out for linoleum flooring that is not like the ones you remember in Grandma’s bathroom, modern day styles are not only cost effective, but also offer a variety of styles as well. How about going completely off the charts with tiles made to look like wood? Now you can have that cosy look in every room in your house.

Don’t leave the walls bare

Sometimes the most effective changes are the ones we have right in our homes. We tend to decorate every wall in our homes, except the bathroom walls. Adding some art or spending a little bit more on an exquisite mirror could take your bathroom to the next level. Another thing to consider would be to move away from the older styles of having the walls drenched in tiles. Instead, explore with wallpaper, panelling, subway tiling and wall tattoos.

Let it glow

Every designer worth their weight in gold knows that the effect is lost if the lighting is of poor quality. By trying different lighting and fixtures, you can instantly transform the focal points and ambience of the room. In some instances, if space permits, adding a fireplace can instantly change any bathroom into a warm inviting haven to chase away those cold winter nights. If space is an issue, adding a few candles can achieve a similar effect.

Unique hardware

By breaking away from standard issue bathroom items, a stylish bathroom can be achieved in no time. Have a look at the variety of different types of sinks, baths and toilets are available to suit your needs. If you’re concerned about pricing, how about updating your bathroom around your old hardware and giving it a retro look? A simple change of fittings will also make a world of difference. Taps and showerheads can easily be updated.

With so many choices available on the market, the modern day UK family is spoilt for choice. Housethome.co.uk and uktv.co.uk have some insightful tips and guides where design ideas are concerned.

Author Bio; Hannah Scott writes about topics related to showers, bathrooms and overall home improvement.

Putting Your House On The Market? How A Bathroom Revamp Can Increase Value

Now that you have decided to put your home up for sale, you want to make sure you get the best return you can on your investment. Often, one of the best ways to do this is to renovate. The two rooms most likely to add value to your home are the bathroom and kitchen as they are used most frequently. If you have to choose between the two, usually the bathroom is the best option.

This article will explore the factors to take into consideration when giving your bathroom a revamp:

Market

Do your research and take into account the value of your home in relation to others on the market in your neighbourhood. If at all possible, take a look around inside, especially at their bathroom and ask yourself how does yours compare? Also, compare houses and see what makes one house worth more than the other? Perhaps one has a recently reconditioned bathroom, whereas the other doesn’t?

Budget

Bathrooms will often require structural as well as cosmetic improvements. Thoroughly inspect the condition of all plumbing, surfaces and fittings. Prioritise things like rising damp, leaks and broken tiles. Then decide if you have the ability to do the work yourself or hire a professional. Remember to keep your bathroom renovation costs in line with the overall value of the house.

Quality

Avoid poor workmanship and cheap products. You are better to do less and make it top quality than do more and have it look substandard. It will give prospective buyers a lower opinion of your home and make them less inclined to buy it. Even if you are on a very tight budget you can at least add quality taps, showerheads and possibly replace the shower door or toilet seat.

Size

Take into account the size of the bathroom compared to the size of the house. If your bathroom is currently quite small, consider a home extension. As this will increase the house size, it will also help to increase the resale value. You could also reduce the size of adjoining rooms but only if this doesn’t greatly affect their function.

Functionality

Bathrooms need to be practical and to make efficient use of the available space. Everything needs to be accessible. Simply replacing the cabinetry with better storage and shelving options can make a big difference to how buyers perceive the room. Adding more natural light by changing the windows or adding a skylight could have a very positive effect on the sale value but check that the cost doesn’t eat up all your profit.

Style and Taste

The general tone and style of the bathroom should be relatively consistent with the rest of the house. Add interest by using feature tiles, alcoves or shelves for plants or use creative splashes of colour.

Overall, a bathroom revamp could be the biggest factor in putting more money in your pocket when you sell. However if you are going to do it, be sure to do it well.

Author Bio: Hannah Scott often writes about topics related to house renovation often exploring showers, bathrooms and kitchens