How to Determine If You Need a Professional Plumbing Service

Image courtesy of Blanco America

If you’re unfamiliar with plumbing systems for your home, you are at risk of causing more damage to your sinks, toilets, pipes, and plumbing system and cause more plumbing repairs and expenses than you can believe.

Professional plumbers have a good working knowledge of plumbing systems. They know what goes where and can install a flow meter that can help detect leaks as soon as possible.

If there happens to be a shortage on a part at the local hardware store, they are in the best position to recommend alternatives that will work just as well. This will save you a huge amount of time and effort, as well as not having the headache of doing the job yourself. Here are seven other advantages of hiring a professional plumbing service.

Plumbing Service Should Carry the Latest Industry Equipment

Professional plumbers always carry the latest equipment. They are also highly skilled will years of experience for resolving hard problems.

Local Plumbers Must Offer Permanent Solutions

Professional plumbers offer you permanent solutions. The repairs and installation the plumber does is going to be a permanent solution. You shouldn’t have the same problems again. If you are planning to remodel your bathroom or kitchen, a professional is the best person for the job. Angie’s List has important plumber questions to ask before hiring one.

Look for a Variety of Services Offered: Fixing Water Pipes a Clogged Toilet and a Disposal

Professional plumbers can provide different services. Installing new pipes, replacing old pipes, installing dishwashers, and repairing leaks, are just a few things a professional plumber can provide.

Other Plumbing Requirements to Consider:

• Emergency Plumbing Services

When you have a plumber that you hire come and work in your home, they are also able to provide you with emergency services. If you have a huge plumbing emergency, you will need to hire someone to come out quickly. When it’s an emergency finding a professional is essential.

• Detailed Diagnostics

A professional plumber is well trained to find the problem’s root cause and give you a full detailed report. Professional plumbers should always check your whole system to find any underlying problems.

• Professional Training & Good Customer Service

Professional plumbers are going to be fully trained in simple to complex plumbing problems. They know the best and the latest ways of doing things. This means there is a less chance for error than if you did the work yourself. They should give you awesome customer support. When you do have a contract with a plumber, they give you a direct number to call them. If you have any emergencies, you can contact your plumber quickly and easily.

If you are having any plumbing problems and are thinking about doing the repair yourself, consider getting a professional plumber instead. It might save you a lot of stress and headaches.

For more bathroom and kitchen plumbing tips on Stagetecture, click here.

Home Remodeling: Should You Hire a Professional or DIY?

Safety 

Above everything else, safety has to rule in any renovation or repair project. If there is any chance that you could compromise your own or someone else’s physical well-being along the way, give the pros a call. Remember, even if you have the right skill set for the work, you might not have the tools or manpower necessary to approach a given task safely. Additionally, your region might require specific licenses or certifications for some types of home improvement projects based on safety considerations.

Image via: Home Bunch

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Are You Physically Able to DIY?

Related to the concept of staying safe during a renovation or repair project is your physical status. Even if you’ve written the book on electrical design or spent most of your life installing cabinets and tiles, your health might stop you from pursuing your project alone. For example, you might need to get help if you have a heart condition and know the project requires a lot of heavy lifting. In the same way, medications or other treatments might limit your alertness or strength to the point where you can’t guarantee your ability to complete required tasks. Think about the health of others in your home here, too. You might not be able to work if you are busy caring for someone else.

Expense and Time

When you hire a professional to renovate or repair your home, hours of manual construction can add up quickly, especially if your project requires working with a crew of experts instead of just one. Doing the work yourself cuts costs, leaving you responsible for only supplies. For some individuals, this fact is the difference between scraping the project and turning it into beautiful, physical reality. On the other hand, if your schedule is filled to the brim already, or if you have a reason to finish within an unusually short timeframe, then it can be worth it to wrap up quickly with hired pros, particularly when you’re working on rooms that get lots of use, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Some individuals also are willing to pay more to try the work. They know they’ll likely have to spend a little extra to fix some mistakes along the way, but they want to gain experience for future projects.

Do you Have the Right Equipment?

Some renovations and repairs require pretty basic equipment, such as hammers, sandpaper, buckets or various pre-manufactured hardware. Others, however, take tools most people don’t have sitting around in their shed, basement or garage. For example, if you’re working on the foundation of your house or putting in piping, you might need a backhoe. Depending on your needs, you might or might not be able to rent the equipment for your project.

Image via: DIY and Mag

Security

If you’re in a small neighborhood or happen to have some connections to the construction world, you might get lucky and find a team of professionals you know and trust both in and out of business. More likely, however, hiring people to do a repair or renovation project in your home means allowing strangers onto your property. If you don’t feel comfortable exposing yourself, your friends or your possessions to people you’re not familiar with, tackling the job on your own might make more sense. Consider, too, that elements within your home, such as your security system, might make the project more complicated, as you might have to be home to grant the workers access at the proper times. All good estate agents should be able to give some basic advice on how to maintain security during the job–navigate here for related information on proper insurance coverage.

Insight

Modern renovation and repair professionals sometimes can be the best bet not only because they have more experience, but because they also stay on top of innovations happening within the building industry. They are aware, for instance, of better materials or products just coming onto the market, and they stay on top of design and regulation changes. Their insights into these areas can save you money, keep you safer and ensure that the project fits both immediate and future needs/preferences.

You have really only two choices for renovation or repair of your home–do the work yourself or hire someone. Both options can work equally well, so make the decision that’s best given your unique circumstances and budget.

For more home remodeling tips on Stagetecture, click here.

Oliver Corrigan is one of those homeowners who seems to be able to turn his hand to most DIY tasks with ease, but he understands others need more help and support, which is why he shares his tips and suggestions with an online audience. He regularly writes for a number of DIY and property websites.

Round Up Tips: Easy Bathroom Organization Ideas

Get Rid of Unused Items

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The first step to organization in any space is to declutter. As messy or overstuffed place cannot be tamed easily, get rid of items that are useless, expired, or outdated. Just make sure to purge ruthlessly and throw away anything that you no longer use because these things become less effective over time.

Create More Space with Baskets and Pockets

For a fun, inexpensive storage solution, take towels and piece together a hanging organizer. This will help you to create more space for those little toiletries. If you have towel rods you can also create more storage space by hanging small baskets on them. Alternatively, you can place them under the sink.

Utilize Over Head Storage

The wall area above your head is the storage space waiting to be used. Haven’t considered it yet? We thought so! You can install some hardware like inexpensive metal racks in order to store your essential items overhead. And the best part is it is just at a hands reach.

Divide the Storage Space

Organization becomes tougher when there are more than one people using the bathroom. If yours is the same scenario, divide up the storage areas evenly to cater for your belongings. Select a drawer, cupboard space, and shelving that you will each own for toiletries and other items. This way each individual can be held accountable for organizing their storage spaces.

Use these bathroom organization ideas and get amazed at how spacious and inviting your compact space can feel. The overall idea here is to figure out the dead unused spaces with a creative eye and then turn it into useful ones. Have more smart storage and organization tips? Share them through comments.

New Ravenna Introduces Designer Tile Dimensioni Collection

Città and Coliseum are made from Calacatta marble and pay homage to handcrafted stone while New Leaf is made from metallic glass. The mosaics are perfect for both interior and exterior surfaces.

Città

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An inventive mosaic that creates volume thanks to its faceted design, Città is truly gorgeous. It captures the innate beauty of natural stone and is astonishingly strong and durable. It is ideal for areas with a high amount of traffic. The beauty of Città is that no two pieces are the same. When used together, they create an exceptional look that fits many interiors.

Coliseum

This mosaic is characterized by geometric lines which begin in a classic hex. It is framed by a triple dimensional edge and completed with Venetian honing. It boasts an impressive combination of captivating beauty and incredible hardness. Coliseum adds visual warmth to interior spaces and introduces a unique level of luxury.

New Leaf

Made from metallic glass, New Leaf is impressive through and through. It is available in four hues: Champagne Gold, Rose Gold, Platinum, and Gunmetal. The colors amplify its outstanding beauty and are ideal for adding elegance and sophistication to any room. They add aesthetic value to both residential and commercial settings. New Life is ideal for those who want a classic look that is timeless.

About New Ravenna

New Ravenna specializes in the design and manufacture of glass and stone mosaics. The mosaics are handcrafted and made into murals, decorative borders, medallions, and fields. Each mosaic passes through a rigorous process to ensure it is unique. New Ravenna mosaics are loved by interior designers, architects, and their clients. Sara Baldwin, the founder of New Ravenna, says that the Dimensioni Collection highlights refraction by embellishing every piece of stone and glass to produce surface depth. It captures the stunning textures of Italy.

Which of the mosaics reflects your sense of decorative style?

For more bathroom tile ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

Kids Bathroom Decorating Ideas

Image via: ABID Kolkota

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Choose a fun color palette

Little ones don’t want their bathroom to have a spa look- that calming and tranquility bit is not their thing. They want a place that’s full of color and fun. So don’t be tempted to give their bathroom a mature palette just because it makes you comfortable. Consider pairing neutrals with contrast such as white plumbing fixtures and shocking green backdrops, or colorful stripes in a jaunty pattern. If you have older kids, make sure to involve them in the decision making process, however add your limits as necessary.

Image via: Southern Home Ideas

Opt for small plumbing fixtures

Believe it or not there are plumbing fixtures that are ideal for toddlers and smaller children. While it may not be a very inexpensive option, it does make a world of a difference. You can also consider a new shower head, faucet and handles of the sink. And while you are it, don’t forget cabinet handles and drawer pulls that come in various kid-friendly themes.

Image via: Vethan

Ensure their bathroom is safe

When it comes to decorating a bathroom for your child, safety should be most important. However, it does not have to be ugly. Functional items can work hand in hand with decorative pieces. Make sure that the bathroom tap is not very hot and opt for stick on colorful non-slip pads. A non-tipping step stool with non-skid feet in a bright color is also a great way to add color while maintaining safety. Also, window glass should be tempered but you can dress it up with printed curtain.

Use these bathroom decorating ideas for small hands and creative minds. However, make sure not to go overboard, because as much as we wish, they won’t be the same age forever. And their craze for a particular theme will soon wane.

How to Improve Your Home with House Water Filtration

Image via: Kitchen Depot

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In some instances, this water is not typically healthier or cleaner, and is just filtered tap water.

If you are an eco-conscious consumer looking to have pure filtered water that tastes great, you can remove any concerns of the quality of your tap water by using a water treatment system that removes contaminants.

Whole house water filters reduce the number of foreign elements and chlorine in your water and makes the water you drink, shower in, cook and wash clothes in odor-free and healthier.

If you are thinking about eliminating the expense of buying bottled water every week, here are the important benefits of using a total water filter, instead of using tap or bottled water.

How will water filtration help your home?

One ton of plastic bottles can produce 3 tons of CO2 or Carbon dioxide, which is a major source of climate change. And 80% of bottles that don’t get recycled end up in landfills, or in the ocean where they can harm fish and other sea creatures.

Installing a water filter, instead of using bottled water, makes a substantial improvement on the environment and our oceans.

Image via: Home Sense

How easy is a water filter to install?

You can purchase a home water filter online and in home improvement and plumbing supply stores.

Also, if you are comfortable with installing modifications to your pipes and valves, you can install this water filter yourself. Attach the whole house filter next to your water meter, where your house’s water line comes inside the home.

Some models offer a tiny storage tank to give you an uninterrupted and fresh supply of water.

What type of maintenance is required for a water filter?

For a home water filter, the product is generally covered under a warranty for half a million gallons of water or for 10 years. Several companies, however, sell self-cleaning filters that help to minimize the maintenance of the product.

If you are looking to save your cash, a filtered water product helps you save money on your bottled water habit. Replacement filters for pitchers and faucets are $20 to $30 for up to 100 gallons for water.  While whole-house filters are the cheapest per gallon with less than a penny per gallon or $40 for 6,000 gallons of water.

For more wellness and kitchen and bath topics on Stagetecture, click here.

Image via: DIY Homes

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Helpful Tips for Choosing the Right Tile for your Remodel

Glass tile

Most people don’t automatically think of glass when considering tiling, but if done well it can be incredibly beautiful. Glass tiles are most frequently used for kitchen backsplashes, walls, trims, and flourishes. They work well as decorative tiles because they can be stained with any number of vibrant colors that won’t fade over time. Glass tiles are also moisture-proof and extremely easy to clean and maintain, so they’re a great choice for people who want something that looks great and doesn’t need a lot of care. The only real drawbacks are that they are fairly expensive, and you don’t really want to use glass tiles for flooring because they can become a potential danger if they break under excessive weight or traffic.

Images via: Drury Designs

Porcelain tile

These clay-based tiles are more versatile than glass and can be used in for showers, walls, countertops, floors, ceilings, backsplashes, and more. That same versatility also carries over to the pricing, because it’s possible to find porcelain tile that will work within any budget. It’s also easy to clean and you can have an image screen-printed onto it to get the look you want, but there are drawbacks. First off, that image is only a façade, so if the porcelain chips, you’ll be left with the tile’s natural color. This might not be an issue except for the fact that porcelain tile is typically just white or gray. Additionally, it’s not easy to cut porcelain tiles, so you may not want it if you’re looking for rounded edges or specific custom shapes.

Ceramic tile

It can be used for everything that porcelain can be used for – at least indoors. Most people don’t like to use ceramic tile outdoors because it has a high moisture content and doesn’t do well in extreme temperatures. In short, it’s comparatively delicate. However, this very problem is also what makes ceramic tile ideal if you want customized shapes or need tiling in an area that’s shapely oddly. Ceramic tile is also one of the most budget-friendly materials out there and requires very little in the way of cleaning and maintenance, so there are definitely reasons you may want some ceramic in your remodel.

Natural stone

Where is natural stone tiling appropriate? Pretty much anywhere. Besides the areas mentioned above, many people also like to use natural stone for their baseboards, tub decks, and grill areas, as well as other outdoor areas like patios. But though stone tiles may look rugged (and great), they’re only in the middle of the pack when it comes to durability, and you’ll spend a lot more time, money, and effort maintaining them than the other options mentioned so far. They should be sealed because they are porous, and you’ll still need to clean them regularly with a non-acidic cleaner or regular soap and water.

Exotic tile

With a name like “exotic tile,” it’s probably no surprise that the materials falling under this category tend to be the most expensive ones out there. The level of durability and maintenance required vary greatly depending on the actual materials you’re using, and some of them require a lot from you. Why use exotic tiles, then? Because you can pretty much get whatever look you’re going for since the materials used are endless – mirrored glass, sea shells, and animal hide (!) just to name a few.

Want to learn even more about possible tile choices? Check out the actual infographic from Drury Designs.

For more DIY ideas for your bathroom or kitchen on Stagetecture, click here.

There is something about grabbing onto a cabinet knob or handle that feels like it’s been designed just to conform to every curve of your hand. That is the feeling of Du Verre Hardware’s new line – Botero.

Cabinetry hardware that sets all of your senses into motion. Over the last month you have seen all of the wonderful highlights from #BlogTourLA and today I feature Du Verre Hardware, a company steeped in tradition and quality.

Du Verre’s New Botero Hardware

Designed by the amazing designer and thought leader William Harvey, this new collection is subtly inviting – pleasing to the eye and hand.
Harvey had this to say about his inspiration of the new collection “Designing this collection was a journey I followed as my hands slowly sought the essence of new form.

After many days of work, the sinuous, curvaceous and generous forms slowly emerged from hard wax. The forms were then painstakingly honed to a finish that only a dedicated craftsperson can achieve. Botero is living form.

Experiencing the Botero Hardware

“To touch it, is to love it!” Gina Lubin, CEO of Du Verre says. “When I got my first prototypes of the Botero collection in hand, I was so excited. Bill Harvey had shown a sexy, sensuous side of himself that I loved immediately. The curves, the beautifully proportioned shapes work beautifully. I especially like the 17” pull which is just fantastic!”

Crafted entirely from recycled aluminum, BOTERO features a small knob, a large knob (which also makes a great hook), a 4” pull, a 9” pull and a sensational 17” pull.

In addition to their well known finishes such as Oil-Rubbed Bronze, Polished Nickel and Satin Nickel, BOTERO is also available in White.

Experience Botero in your home:

• Du Verre Hardware is a leader in quality and original design for contemporary cabinet hardware. With an outstanding roster of award winning designers, Du Verre Hardware collections are an indispensable resource for design loving consumers and professionals alike.
• Du Verre Hardware can be found in some of the most beautiful interiors being created today.
• Du Verre Hardware is environmentally friendly. The cabinet hardware is made from recycled aluminum and is compatible with LEED objectives. All items are in stock for quick shipping. Du Verre ships around the world.

For more information about BOTERO or any of Du Verre Hardware’s other collections you can contact them at DuVerre.com.

For more BlogTour LA Highlights on Stagetecture, click here.

Regardless of what time of year it is, bathroom and kitchen remodeling are the top priorities for homeowners. Adding value to your home and beautifying it for years to come is enhanced with innovative finishes and glass tile is one of them. Glass Tile Store has a gorgeous new tile that has come out that resembles waves of water and it reminds you of the ocean when installed on your walls. See how this revolutionary product would look gorgeous in your next kitchen or bath remodeling project.

Vertical and Horizontal orientation glass tile is popular in interior design trends:

Idea for vertical orientation glass tile

Image via: Megan Crane Designs, Inc.

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Allure Linear Glass Tile

If you have admired linear glass tile in the traditional horizontal or vertical orientation, have a look at Allure linear glass tile. Available in your choices of all glass, glass and stone blend, glass and marble, or translucent and transparent glass varieties the wave-like pattern is perfect for showers, backsplashes, stove walls, cabana baths or anywhere you’d like to bring the feeling of the ocean and movement into your home.

Receive Samples to See in your Home

Have you ever wanted to visualize tile in your home before you invest? Receive larger 6 x 6 sizes instead of the industry standard 4 x 4 samples to visualize in your home. If you are in the interior design field samples are free.

Here are more benefits for you:

• Original and unique designs
• 365 day return policy
• Free shipping
• 6 month financing to make it easier to afford
• Price matching other competitors

To find Allure Glass Tile visit the Glass Tile Store here and let me know how you enjoyed these beautiful and innovative tiles in your remodeling project.

Idea for horizontal glass tile orientation

Image via: Insignia Kitchen and Bath

Before you install ordinary glass tile have a look at the Allure line from Glass Tile store, you’ll love it’s innovative look and how it makes your kitchen and bath come alive with movement and sophistication.

For more kitchen ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

Note: This is a sponsored review and I was compensated for review of the product. Although, all thoughts are strictly my own.

DIY Relaxing Bath Teas

Image via: Martha Stewart

One of the best gifts you can offer for your mom is relaxing treat with soothing tub teas. There’s no way your mom can resist the calming and soothing treat she’s about to experience. The soothing scents rejuvenate the whole body and revitalize the mind for an ultimate relaxing treat.

Image via: Cottage Soap Company

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Materials Needed

• Peppermint leaves
• Lavender buds
• Heat-sealable tea bags
• Chamomile buds
• Dried organic lemon verbena

Image via: Garden Therapy

Procedure

1. Prepare the heat-sealable tea bags in the filling process. Fill in the bags with peppermint, ¼ cup lemon verbena, chamomile or lavender. A piece of tea bag can gratify a single relaxing bath. For smaller bags, fill in five ¼-inch starched muslin circles with a tablespoon of botanicals. You can always adjust the quantity as desired.
2. Fasten it with waxed twine. Make sure that the tea bags are securely fastened to prevent clutter.
3. Get some pieces of used tea storages. This can be your typical tea storage made of corrugated paper. You just need to creatively cover it up with colored paper and personalized its design. Choose the favorite color/s of your mom.

Bear in mind that anything that you give to your mother will always be appreciated. Much more when it’s heartily given and extra efforts are made. With the great scents of these relaxing tub teas, your mom will surely enjoy the experience and feel your love all throughout a soothing bath. You can ask your mom for her personal favorite tub tea scent and make some more for her.

For more wellness ideas and Mother’s Day gifts on Stagetecture, click here.