Brought to you by HBA Platinum Industry Partner, ProSource Wholesale

Online sources state that the average person will spend approximately 416 days in the bathroom. No matter the accuracy of that figure, we can all agree that we spend a lot of time in the bathroom. They’re typically the smallest room in the house, often making them cheaper but trickier to upgrade.

We suggest doing some research before diving into a bathroom remodel. Here are some simple tips to get you started!

Consider your colors

If your bathroom feels a bit tight, consider switching the color of your walls. White easily reflects light, making a space feel larger. However, you should avoid white walls in bathrooms lacking natural light. Light colors in dim spaces have the opposite effect, making a space feel cramped and drab.

Build into walls

Building into walls helps you maximize your bathroom without expanding the room. Creating niches or alcoves into your walls increases storage without sacrificing space. Depending on your bathroom walls, everything from shelving to soap holders can be recessed.

Choose durable flooring

Choose bathroom flooring that is strong enough to deal with daily splashes and then some. Some durable bath flooring options include:

Ceramic Tile

A tried-and-true option. Ceramic tile is sharp and durable but beware of slipping.

Vinyl or Linoleum

The floors are lower-cost and easier to clean. However, these materials are more susceptible to water damage than other options.

Bamboo

A great alternative to traditional hardwood. Bamboo is stylish and water-resistant, though they are prone to scratching.

Consider inset cabinetry

Every inch makes a difference in smaller bathrooms. Inset cabinet doors lay flush with the cupboard, increasing the room’s perceived scale. They give a more refined look while reducing damage from nicks and bumps.

Pick the right counters

It takes a hardy material to support a bathroom sink. Bathroom counters deal with everything from sink splashes to hair product stains. While finding a stylish countertop is important, ensure it is strong enough to sustain daily use. Consider the bathroom countertop materials below:

Granite

A favorite among homeowners, granite countertops are easy on the eye while remaining durable. While commonly thought of as a luxury material, granite composites are becoming more and more affordable.

Laminate

Laminates may be more affordable. However, they can still make your bathroom appear high-end. They offer design flexibility with styles mimicking other materials like marble. Just be careful with your flat iron, as laminate may burn or warp.

Tile

Tile is for more than just your shower space. These countertops are sturdy and have plenty of design potential. Be sure to keep a regular cleaning schedule, as residue often collects in grout lines.

Keep major fixtures in place

If you want to cut costs on your remodel, avoid moving plumbing appliances like toilets, sinks, and showers. Transporting fixtures means spending more on tearing out floors and rerouting plumbing. Instead of moving appliances, just replace them while keeping them in the same position.

Know your tubs

There’s nothing like a peaceful bath. Before shopping for your tub, it helps to know the common tub types.

Alcove (Recessed)

Alcoves are the most common type of tub. They are mounted between three walls, helping you maximize space. You will most likely see these tubs accompanied by built-in showers.

Drop in

Drop-in tubs are like alcoves; however, these are fitted with frames. These enclosures often match cabinets or tiles for an unobtrusive look.

Undermount

These tubs are built directly into the floor and are usually lined by surrounding tile.

Freestanding

These tubs have a bowl-like appearance that stands independently in a bathroom. Freestanding tubs do not need walls for support. However, we recommend locating them near water lines.

Talk to an Expert!

Here at the Home Builders Association of Greater Baton Rouge, we are fortunate to work with trusted partners who are experts in their fields. If you want confidence in your bath remodel, we recommend working with one of our partners, ProSource Wholesale. ProSource offers expert advice and online tools to ensure an excellent remodel. Contact them today to learn more.

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Brought to you by HBA Gold Industry Partner, Arrow Termite and Pest Control

It’s nearly summer down south! Which means it’s time to break out the swimming trunks and gardening gloves. Unfortunately, the warm, humid weather may attract some uninvited guests – specifically termites. However, you don’t have to let these pests ruin your summer fun. Here are a few expert home tips for preventing termites!

1. Know the common types of Termites

Not all termites are the same. Understanding the difference between these termites better prepares you for preventing them. The three most common types of termites include:

Dampwood

As the name suggests, dampwood termites thrive off water-logged, decaying wood. They use wood for both food and shelter, creating tunnels to get around. The insect needs highly moist conditions to survive, therefore they are least likely to be found inside your home.

Drywood

On the other side of the spectrum are drywood termites. The insects both live in and eat dry wood material. These species can be harder to detect as they don’t create tunnels or demand high moisture levels.

Subterranean

Unlike the last two species, subterranean termites do not live in their food sources. However, they are the most common types of termites. Subterranean termites live in underground colonies that tunnel their way to and from food sources.

2. Understand what attracts Termites

The three main ingredients for a termite infestation are wood, water, and soil. You can cut termites off at the source by limiting these elements. Below, we discuss how termites interact with these materials:

Wood

The average diet of a termite consists primarily of cellulose. Since wood is rich in cellulose, it’s a usual target for termite colonies. That said, wood isn’t the only meal for termites. The insects also feast on cellulose-based material like paper, cardboard, and plant debris.

Water

Like all creatures, termites need water to survive. Dampwood and subterranean termites need high levels of moisture to survive. Keep an eye out for standing water near your foundation. Leaking pipes, vents, and air conditioners are also prime spots for colonies to subside.

Soil

Dirt, soil, and sod can act as an entryway for termites. Termites typically take shelter in the darkness of soil to avoid predators. Subterranean termites, for instance, establish their colonies in the soil.

3. Look for signs of Termites

Termites spend most of their time hidden away in soil or wood. However, there are warning signs to look for when searching for termites. Some common red flags to watch out for include the following:

Shelter Tubes

Shelter tubes are brown, pencil-width tunnels created by termites to pass through soil and wood. Termites create these tubes with debris from burrowing and cement them with saliva and fecal matter. You can find these tubes in foundations, sills, piers, and joists.

Damaged Wood

Cracked or decaying wood lined with soil is a tell-tale sign of termites. As mentioned earlier, termites leave behind shelter tubes made of soil and wood particles. If your wood feels soft or hollow, there’s a chance the insects have made their way through. If there are no exterior signs, probe the wood with a screwdriver for signs of decay.

Winged “Swarmer” Termites

Check your windowsill for flying “swarmer” termites. Even if there are no apparent signs of burrowing, this signals that colonies may be forming near your home. Though swarmer termites look like flying ants, you can see the difference in their wings. Flying termites have two sets of equal-sized wings, while ants have larger wings in the front and a smaller set in the back.

4. Consider Pest Control

There are simple preventative measures you can take to keep termites from damaging your home. However, accessways are often hidden, and signs are unlikely to be found before damage occurs. Pest control experts know where to look and which measures effectively eliminate termites. Additionally, they continuously monitor your property, preventing potential infestations.

Talk to an Expert!

Here at the Home Builders Association of Greater Baton Rouge, we are fortunate to work with trusted partners who are experts in their fields. If you want peace of mind regarding pests, we recommend working with one of our partners, Arrow Termite & Pest Control. Their experts use cutting-edge methods to keep your property pest-free. Contact them today to learn more.

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