Jet Flair,1

Simple Tips For Warming Up Your Bathroom

A warm bathroom is a true luxury in the winter. Luckily, this is one luxury available for everyone, without you having to sacrifice period style or your pocketbook. Many of the most desirable options are also the most affordable. For instance, plug-in electric towel warmers can be had for under $150, whereas overhead rain shower fixtures start at around $60. You can find a good pressure-balance mixer for as little as $200. However, if you have money to spend, you can find luxuries such as jetted pedestal tubs and steam shower systems that will set you back a few thousand dollars.

Today’s towel warmers and radiators come in two basic styles. There’s the traditional round tube shape and the flat-panel “Euro” style. If you’re dealing with a smaller space, a great option is a tubular towel-warming basket, which can be mounted to keep your hot fluffy towels within easy reach.

Although every towel warmer generates some heat, many of the hard-wired versions are powerful enough to be rightly considered radiators. Even the inexpensive electric models that put out 100 watts or so are a wonderful addition to your bathroom. Not only do they dry the towels, but they also reduce dampness and mildew in the room. The more powerful hard-wired electric or hydronic towel radiators will easily heat a larger space if they’re sized and placed properly. Even better, neither gets too hot to touch. An electric towel warmer should only reach 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Hydronics can range between 120 and 150 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on how hot you keep the system. These radiators can provide your bathroom with zoned heating.

Visit your local dealer to help find the perfect unit for your space. You need to consider variables such as the amount of tile or stone, the type and location of existing heat sources (steam radiators or forced air), and the number of windows. If you can’t even fit a small towel warmer, see if you can find room along the baseboard for a couple of horizontal radiator panels, which should keep your tiny bath nice and warm.

When it comes down to it, however, it’s the water in the bath or shower that warms the most. If you plan on upgrading the shower anyway, consider installing a pressure-balance or thermostatic mixing valve. If you’re looking for something inexpensive and simple, consider a pressure-balance valve, which keeps the water pressure in the shower constant, preventing sudden fluctuations in water temperature, as often occurs when the toilet is flushed, for instance.

Thermostatic valves are more sophisticated. They mix the hot and cold water to fairly precise temperatures, usually within one degree Celsius of the setting. These valves regulate fluctuations in the incoming water pressure as well.

These truly luxurious valves go for at least $1,000, although you can certainly spend more. Conveniently, many of these mixers are available in suites that include period-inspired shower heads and cross-handled knobs or levers. Some even come with memory settings, so each family member can choose and record a preferred shower temperature.

If you can’t get enough humidity in winter and you love your shower, a steam shower is another great option. To install one, you’ll probably need a major retrofit, since there must be a spot for the generator and you may have to make modifications for the steam shower doors. On the upside, you’ll use very little water for a twenty-minute steam: only about two gallons. But a basic system—including a generator, steam head, and temperature controls—starts at about $3,000. If you’re going to add an extras such as stereo speakers, light or aromatherapy packages, expect that price to be higher.

Do you prefer an old-fashioned tub for your bath? Reproduction roll-top designs with claw feet begin at about $1,000, and you can choose between either cast iron or the more environmentally friendly acrylic. There is no place better to soak than in one of these deep tubs. They also come in double-ended styles that will accommodate two, or multiple children. With the claw feet available in different styles and finishes, you can choose a tub that will complement any décor. If you’re looking at high-end options, you can find custom-made tubs in copper, steel, marble, and even teak.

If your dream bath is a traditional tub with a water- or air-jet system, your best bet is to go with a pedestal or Roman tub. Strategically placed jets will turn any bathtub into a home spa. And don’t worry, the skirt will conceal the tubes and motor. A fully equipped air-jet tub isn’t cheap. Expect to pay upward of $4,000.

Avo Barsoumian has been part of the interior design and interior flooring community for the past 25 years. He is the owner of Carpet Wagon, a family owned home flooring company in Glendale. The carry the best in elegant hardwood flooring, beautiful laminate flooring and plush carpeting. Searching for area carpeting for your new apartment or floating wood floors to redecorate your older home? Then Carpet Wagon carries everything you need.

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