How to Choose an Efficient Toilet

January 31st, 2017

How to Choose an Efficient Toilet

Face it – the toilet is not exactly the most glamorous item inside your house. But for certain, it is one of the most important.

Whether you are rebuilding a bathroom or considering adding one more in your home, one of the most important things that you need to do is to pick an efficient toilet. Beyond style and color, it is crucial to find a toilet that conserves water and allows you to save money over the long term.

The friendly professionals at Turek’s Plumbing help give some insight on how to choose the toilet that is right for you.

A brief word about toilets

Low flow toilets have undergone different design changes, starting in 1994 with their introduction. The first generation of these toilets used 1.6 gallons per flush (gpf) or less. However, you had to flush these twice.

After revamping the design of these toilets and introducing added features like larger trapways, many homeowners are now enjoying the benefits of reduced water consumption and more savings.

It may be tempting to pinch pennies and choose a low cost toilet, but as the old adage goes, you get what you pay for. However, the same thing also applies for unique features. You might think that features like custom seats and unique flush mechanisms add value to your bathroom, but the truth is that you can end up spending more over the long term when you need to have these replaced.

How to choose the right toilet 

One of the first things that you need to do is to compare flush ratings of the toilets you are considering to buy. The easiest way to do that is to go online.

If you want to save more money, consider looking for rebates on some high efficiency models. A high efficiency toilet, for example, will use just 1.28 gallons of water and is well worth your attention. But be aware that some models of these toilets are prone to staining and clogging.

Consider a pressure-assist toilet. Many plumbers have the consensus that these toilets save more water compared to gravity toilets. These toilets may be noisier and costlier, but these are but a small price to pay for long term savings.

High-efficiency model toilets

If you want a toilet that is easy to clean, consider buying a wall-hung toilet. There are some high-efficiency model toilets that you can consider.

Consider buying a taller toilet if you are taller than the average person. Taller toilets can make it more convenient for you while also helping to save your knees and back from discomfort.

If you are not making serious modifications to your bathroom, choose a toilet with the same rough-in as your current toilet. Also, be aware that toilets with bigger bowls can take a lot of space and can get in the way of the door and cabinets.

If you put a premium on water conservation and if you are willing to pay a higher price for your toilet, consider a dual-flush toilet. These toilets have two buttons: a 0.8 gpf button and a 1.6 gpf button.

Its important to pick the right contractor for the job when replacing your toilet. If you are looking for a plumber in Fox Valley to install your new efficient toilet, contact the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing.

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Planning a Master Bathroom Remodel? Consider Following These Tips

January 26th, 2017

Planning a Master Bathroom Remodel? Consider Following These Tips

Homeowners remodel their master bathrooms for a diverse number of reasons. Sometimes, the bathroom simply needs an upgrade after years or even decades of remaining the same. Others see the bathroom remodel as an investment for the future. There’s hope that the project will increase the value of their property.

In some cases, the bathroom space is being poorly utilized. A remodel is also often a good way to make efficient choices. The addition of low flow showers and dual flush toilets could be a great idea for your master bathroom.

Whatever your reasons may be for planning a master bathroom remodel, you would want to achieve your goals and make efficient use of the resources you are investing.

How do you achieve that? Here are a few important things to bear in mind.

Go beyond your visual scrapbook

Most likely, you have begun putting together a visual scrapbook comprised of design inspiration collected from magazines, blogs and other websites.

But do not rely solely on these visual inspirations. If you still do not have a clearly defined idea of what you want to achieve, it is worthwhile to visit showrooms. This will allow you to have a tactile feel of the different possibilities available to you.

Don’t be afraid to splurge on materials

If there is one phrase that will best describe the current trend in bathroom remodels, it would be “over the top.” If you can afford it, do not be afraid to splurge.

But that does not necessarily mean that you should go after each of your whims. It can be as simple as going for well-made materials that provide superior value for your money.

Get the help of a professional

One of the best ways to ensure that you will be using your space efficiently is to hire a bathroom designer. Your designer can help you determine whether the elements you wish to include in the remodel actually work or you would fare better by finding an alternative.

One thing that you might want to discuss with your designer is giving your new bathroom a universal design. This trend has become popular in recent years due to the design which is geared toward accommodating the diverse needs of people.

Adding finishing touches

Many homeowners are now splurging and adding luxurious elements to the master bath. These range from chandeliers to elaborate entertainment setups.

But there is something important to consider before you even think about additions. Remember that the master bath should be your private retreat inside your home. Instead of adding the aforementioned elements in the bath, consider subtle yet equally luxurious additions like fabric window treatments and plush towels.

Are you thinking about starting a master bathroom remodel in Fox Valley? Contact the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing for the best advice and a quality remodel experience.

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Bathroom Remodel Approach – 3 Elements For Success

January 24th, 2017

Bathroom Remodel Approach – 3 Elements For Success

Planning a bathroom remodel? Then you’re on the right track. Improving the bathroom offers the following proven benefits:

A sure ROI

Remodeling magazine estimates a 62 percent return for bathroom makeovers done right. The daily safety, productivity and efficiency you can experience from an improved bathroom also result in direct financial savings.

Improved quality of life

Homeowners who have updated their baths successfully said the changes they made are a constant source of joy for them. That means aside from the monetary returns, you also get priceless satisfaction from a great bathroom project.

Practicality and value for money

The renovation industry has become more sophisticated than ever. You can now find a wide range of materials, solutions and services to suit your budget and preferences, making bathroom remodels easier and more practical to execute.

However, these paybacks can only be possible with the right bathroom remodel approach. Make sure the following elements are present to get the bathroom you want at the budget you have.

A well laid-out plan, developed with advice from the experts

Make sure you have a solid plan – the costliest mistake you can ever make is to start all over again because of vague vision or disorganization.

Work with bathroom remodeling professionals early on as they can help you develop an efficient timeline and a cost-effective budget. A reputable contractor will also have the industry connections and experience to help you realize your vision through solutions that are right for you.

A design that maximizes the existing space

Another practical approach is to implement changes that make the most impact but won’t require complicated work.

Remember that the more complicated a project is, the more expensive it will be and the longer it will take to finish. For instance, update the look by changing fixtures, but try to follow the existing plumbing system to minimize demolition and waste.

A focus on safe and healthy living

A major factor that is commonly neglected during renovations is ventilation. But if you pay attention to improving how air circulates in the bathroom, you will get a huge benefit. One of those benefits including improved indoor air not just for the bathroom but also for the entire home.

Good ventilation also minimizes moisture, thus reducing slippery floors and walls and mold growth. Moreover, it prevents damage caused by mildew and moisture to furniture and finishes, allowing you to avoid premature repairs, replacements and costly mold remediation. Strategic installation of air vents, exhaust fans and humidity detectors all help in improving the air quality in your bathroom.

If you aren’t sure how to handle a bathroom remodel approach, contact your plumbing professionals in Fox Cities at Turek’s Plumbing.

 

 

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Common Plumbing Terms That Can Help You

January 17th, 2017

An Introduction to Common Plumbing Terms

You do not have to be an avid DIY-er to understand the importance of learning common plumbing terms. No matter how diligent you are in keeping your home’s plumbing system well-maintained, there will come a time when you will need to call upon your plumber for help. Awareness of the most used plumbing terms will help you better understand what your plumber is doing and enable you to communicate with him more effectively.

What are these terms that homeowners should add to their vocabularies?

Aeration

Aeration is a process wherein water is mixed with air through the use of a piece of equipment known as an aerator. The goal of aeration is to release dissolved gasses and eliminate foul odors.

Air gap

The term refers to the space between a water outlet that delivers water to a plumbing fixture and the flood rim level of a receptacle like a sink or dishwasher. The primary purpose of an air gap is to prevent the cross-contamination of potable water.

Backflow

When the water flow is reversed in the plumbing system, this can create backflow. Sometimes backflow can lead to the contamination of drinking water.

Branch drain

Refers to the part of the plumbing system which leads to the main drainage line.

Check valve

This is a type of valve that ensures that the water flows toward one direction and prevents it from backflowing.

Cleanout

A cleanout is the space in a drainage line that is placed there in order to facilitate the entry of drain cleaning equipment. The drain cleaning equipment is used for clearing out drains and eliminating line blockages.

Closet auger

A closet auger is a tool which has a flexible rod with a curved end. This is used to remove clogs in toilets and obstructions in the built-in trap.

Hydro-jetting

Hydro-jetting refers to the process of using blasts of high-pressure water to clear blockages accumulated on sewage lines.

Plumber’s putty

Plumber’s putty is used by plumbers on areas which are exposed to unpressurized water. These include joints and fixture bases. It has the consistency of clay.

Shutoff valve

The shutoff valve is used to stop the flow of water toward a sink or toilet. Typically, you will find this underneath the toilet or sink.

If you are not sure what a particular term exactly means, do not hesitate to ask your Fox Cities plumber for an explanation.

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A Helpful Guide to Choosing Kitchen Cabinets

January 13th, 2017

A Guide to Choosing Kitchen Cabinets

Kitchen remodeling can be fun, especially if you’re going for a completely new style that aligns with your current personal aesthetic preference. However, you need to approach the task very seriously as well because it’s important to make sure that you’re not sacrificing function for beauty.

Now, if you’re choosing kitchen cabinets to install, you need to think about this carefully; this is a piece of advice from trusted kitchen remodelers that service Applegate and Fox Valley, Wisconsin homeowners. Kitchen cabinets do not only serve as visually appealing storage for dinnerware or kitchen essentials; they are known to improve space dimensions as well.

If you have off-center built-ins in the kitchen, the strategic installation of cabinets can achieve a more balanced look for the space.

To help you choose the right kitchen cabinets to install, here is an easy guide to follow.

Take the DIY route or hire professional builders

A DIY route is advisable if you’re purchasing ready-made cabinets that you don’t intend to permanently fix to a wall. Basically, all you need to do here is to drag it to your chosen location in the kitchen. Now, if you want to fix cabinets to the wall, it’s best to let professional builders accomplish this task; ditto if you’re fitting in custom-made cabinets.

Clearly identify the cabinet design you want

Do you want framed cabinets or frameless ones? Framed cabinets are perfect if you have traditional aesthetics. Frameless cabinets are more ideal for modern and transitional designs because they have a sleek profile.

Bespoke or stock cabinets

Custom-made cabinets work best for the space you have. Opting for these can better streamline the kitchen since they will not create weird corners and awkward protrusions. They are, however, more expensive. Stock cabinets come in a variety of designs, but you need to make sure that you have the right location for them, and that you measure spaces for installation accurately so you can go with the cabinet sizes that are most appropriate to the dimensions of the space where they’ll be installed.

Study the cabinet material, especially if you’re gravitating toward stock kitchen cabinets

Of course, you need to make sure that the cabinet will be durable enough for everything that you intend to put in it. Also, the kind of material you choose can enhance the kitchen’s overall style.

Establish your budget

It’s best to work with a clear budget. This will make selection and installation a whole lot easier and organized. It can also make the process easier if there are other things that you want done in your kitchen.

Are you having trouble deciding how to move forward with your kitchen remodel? Contact the kitchen remodel pros in Fox Cities. Turek’s plumbing can answer all of the most common remodel questions.

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How to Address Low Water Pressure Issues

January 11th, 2017

low water pressureHow Should You Handle Low Water Pressure Issues?

You woke up energetic, ready to take on the day. You hop off the bed, run to the bathroom, all pumped and ready for your invigorating morning shower. You turn the shower knob… only to get water falling down in agonizingly small, slow trickles.

Low water pressure greatly reduces your daily convenience, efficiency and productivity. Since water serves a primary role in housekeeping, cleaning and personal hygiene, difficult water access can also negatively impact your health and safety. The problem can also be costly since you may be forced to rely on other products, services and additional installation, such as a new water pump, just to get the water flowing properly.

Low water pressure issues may also indicate serious problems in your plumbing and water systems. It is thus crucial to take immediate action to prevent bigger, costlier complications and to finally ensure adequate water flow in your home.

The following are some steps to take when you notice water pressure issues:

Check for leaks

The slow and scarce flow of water in your showers and faucets may be caused by a leak in your pipes. If you suspect that this is the case, turn off all taps and water-using appliances in the property. Go to your water meter to take note of the reading. Then wait for a few hours and go back to check the meter again. Compare the first and second reading to see if water use is still registering even after you have stopped using water. Call the plumber to fix the leaks.

Call your water supplier

Low water pressure may be due to an issue in the main water supply in your area. Check your water supply company’s website or call their office to confirm if there are repairs, maintenance or emergency work being conducted. Get the details on the schedule so you can plan and prepare contingency measures.

Flush mineral and debris buildup in the water mains

Another possible reason for low water pressure is the accumulation of minerals, dirt, sand and debris in your pipes and water systems. These foreign particles and pollutants can block the water flow and significantly reduce water pressure in your home. Your plumber will have the chemicals, equipment and know-how to break down and flush out the buildup.

Replace rusty pipes

If your plumbing system has been around for many years, the pipes may already be suffering from corrosion. The rust can block the smooth flow of water, making it difficult for it to reach your shower and faucets. This is a serious issue and may require complex work and the replacement of the entire system. To handle this delicate work, call your local Fox Valley plumber for help.

 

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Why Should You Choose a Tankless Water Heater?

January 9th, 2017

Tankless Water HeaterBenefits of Installing a Tankless Water Heater in 2025

Need a new water heater? Whether you are investing in a new one for your recently built house or thinking of replacing the current one installed in your home, there are plenty of reasons you should consider a tankless water heater installation.

What Is Tankless Water Heater Installation?

  • Involves replacing a traditional tank system with a tankless, on-demand unit
  • Requires removal of the existing water heater
  • May involve upgrading gas or electrical connections
  • Includes installing proper venting for safety and efficiency
  • Must comply with local building and plumbing codes
  • Best performed by a licensed professional due to complexity

More space

Using tankless water heaters, as the name implies, means that you do not have to worry about finding a space for the tank. Typically, conventional water heaters have tanks that measure 20″x13″x3″ and can thus take up a considerable amount of space in your home. Just imagine what you can do with that amount of space freed up.

Safety

If you are currently using a conventional water heater in your home, you have probably experienced being scalded with hot water at some point. That won’t happen with a tankless heater because there is no hot water stored. Instead, the hot water is processed on demand. That also means that you do not have to worry about losing hot water or waiting long to get hot water as this can be produced when you need it.

Apart from that, the risk of explosions or accidents related to steaming water are practically eliminated. Plus, you do not have to worry about pets and kids getting near a spigot. These can all give you greater peace of mind.

Reduced heating costs

A tankless water heater can allow you to reduce your water heating costs by as much as 50 percent.

With a conventional water heater, you can lose a significant amount of heat through standby losses. This occurs when the heat evaporates either through the sides of the tank or through the flue.

Less water loss

Unlike conventional water heaters, tankless systems do not leak. That means extra savings for you as there is no water wasted. Additionally, you can save more money through reduced maintenance and repair costs.

Other advantages

These water heaters are known for their superior reliability. In terms of parts, should your water heating system need parts replaced, sourcing these is fairly easy.

And even if you run two or three showers simultaneously, you do not have to worry about running out of hot water. With adequate planning, running out of hot water becomes a thing of the past.

A few downsides

However, before you commit to buying a tankless heater, you have to be aware of a few considerations. Depending on your usage, hot water may gradually emerge. If you have been accustomed to conventional water heaters, you may have to adjust a little. For one, you will need to find a reliable contractor in Fox Cities who has adequate experience in maintaining and servicing tankless heaters.

If you are thinking about installing a water heater in Fox Cities, contact the plumbing professionals at Turek’s Plumbing to schedule an estimate and learn more information!

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8 Bathroom Remodeling Tips Definitely Worth Trying

December 29th, 2016

Bathroom Remodeling8 Bathroom Remodeling Tips Definitely Worth Trying

Home improvement is such a big thing these days. Flip through different cable channels and you’re likely to find different shows all dedicated to helping people make over” their homes. Bathroom remodeling is one of the really popular projects that people are inspired to carry out. Since the bathroom has become every home’s own “spa,” many want to beautify it and make it even more ideal for maintaining cleanliness and experiencing relaxation.

It’s important to note, however, that this project is not as easy to pull off as it is often depicted on TV; therefore, you need to plan or prepare for it well. Here are eight bathroom remodeling tips from trusted bathroom remodelers in Fox Valley and Applegate that will help you adequately prepare and go about this task in a cost-effective and time-efficient way.

Look for Inspiration Regarding the Layout for Your Bathroom

One idea that’s quite trendy these days is making sure that the toilet is not the first thing seen once the bathroom door is opened. Find a different focal point for your bathroom and make it the most visually appealing one.

Think of a Smart Lighting Scheme

Effectively combine beauty and function for this. Also, consider new kinds of lighting implements or strategies. Candles are popular; a skylight is also a popular idea worth trying out.

Study Your Bathroom 

Study your bathroom dimensions properly (especially if you’re not resizing your bathroom) and see how your style and functional preferences will fit.

Measure, Measure, Measure

The height of your sink, toilets and even bathtubs should be measured correctly to ensure safe and comfortable use, especially if young children will be sharing the bathroom. Wrong measurements are no-no’s as they can accumulate unnecessary costs and waste a lot of time.

If You Have a Small Bathroom, Look for Innovative Ideas for Layouts or Placements so You Can Maximize Space

One great space-saving solution worth considering is a corner sink, which is actually easy to incorporate into any bathroom design.

Tiny Tubs are Actually Trendy and They are Quick to Install and Cheaper, Too (Most of the Time)

The tubs are perfect for soaking because while they’re short in length, they can be quite deep.

Pick the Right Vanity Size

You don’t want to make your bathroom too cramped because you opted for a really big vanity. You also don’t want to choose one that’s too small that it cannot accommodate the different activities you wish to carry out on it.

Get Creative With Tiles

There are so many designs and shapes to choose from. You can really create a unique bathroom by combining the shapes and designs effectively. 

Thinking about starting a bathroom remodel in Fox Valley? Contact the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing today for more bathroom remodeling tips!

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A Few Kitchen Remodeling Project Tips

December 27th, 2016

Kitchen Remodeling Project How to Get the Most Out of a Kitchen Remodeling Project

It is fairly easy to understand why kitchen remodeling ranks as one of the most popular home improvement projects; the modern kitchen has certainly become the centerpiece of home living. But apart from that, a well-built kitchen can increase functionality, makes it easier to entertain guests at home, and increases property value.

But remodeling a kitchen entails spending a sizeable amount of money and involves a few inconveniences while work is ongoing. It is also not unusual for property owners to encounter a wide variety of problems ranging from overspending to project timelines being continuously pushed back.

If you want to minimize (if not totally avoid) these problems and ensure that you get good returns on your investment, here are some kitchen remodeling project tips for you to consider.

Planning is Key

Planning is the most essential step that homeowners need to undertake, and yet is one that is often overlooked. Failing to plan accordingly can only lead to mishaps during the construction stage as well as overspending.

Ideally, you should spend at least half a year toward planning. This will give you enough time to decide on what you really want to achieve and prevent changing your mind mid-stream.

Think of the Remodel as an Upgrade

One critical factor that can drive up costs and extend the project timeline is changing the location of pipes and electrical systems. Additional works like tearing down walls can also lead to higher costs and extended timelines.

To streamline the kitchen remodel process, opt to keep as much of the existing kitchen in place.

Prioritize Design and Functionality

Want to avoid overspending? Choose your appliances well. One of the most common pitfalls encountered by homeowners is the temptation to upgrade appliances more than necessary. Instead of spending lavishly on new equipment and tools, think about how your remodel will improve both the design and functionality of your new kitchen.

Don’t Forget About the Lighting

Choosing the right type of lighting can instantly upgrade the look of your kitchen without needing to spend an inordinate sum of money. Additionally, the right type of light can make the kitchen look bigger and safer to work in.

There are two types of lighting to choose from. Task lighting is ideal for dark work areas. Ambient lighting, on the other hand, is primarily used to create a specific mood in an area.

Look Beyond the Price

Unless you are working on an unlimited budget, you may have some corners that you need to cut. But do not simply trade in low cost for quality and durability. Remember, you are making an investment. If you must splurge, focus on quality and durable items which will last long.

Establish a Good Working Relationship With Your Contractor

Quite simply, you need to be involved with the project if you wish to achieve great results.

From time to time, drop by during work hours and check on the project progress. This sends a signal to the contractor that you expect nothing less than quality work.

Make it easy for the contractor to contact you should any concern arise.

Set ground rules for both the contractor and his workers, especially if you are not moving out of the property while the kitchen is being rebuilt.

Are you starting a kitchen remodel in Fox Valley? Contact the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing and allow them to help take the stress out of your upcoming kitchen remodeling project.

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A Few Things To Think About Before Starting a Bathroom Remodel Project

December 22nd, 2016

Bathroom Remodel ProjectComponents You Should Never Forget About When Starting a Bathroom Remodel Project

The bathroom is a very important room in any house; everybody spends a good amount of time in it each day. This is the main reason why it makes complete sense that a lot of people want to make it as visually and functionally satisfying as possible.

If you’re thinking about starting a bathroom remodel project, it’s important to plan this carefully. You need to make sure that your normal routines won’t get too disrupted by the project. Do determine where you will shower and perform your other hygiene practices while your bathroom is getting a makeover.

As for the project itself, plan how to make it as cost- and time-efficient as possible. For this, trusted bathroom remodelers in Applegate and Fox Valley have rounded up below the components you need to consider when carrying out a bathroom remodel project.

Budget

You need to establish how much money you’re willing to spend in order to achieve the new look and level of function you want for the room. Having a clear budget for the project will bring better focus to your shopping, and at the same time, it will allow you to get a better sense of how much time you need for the job, and even who to hire for the job.

Schedule

Study how much time is needed for the job and when to carry out the project; also, expect delays. A Wisconsin-based plumbing company says that delays are simply the reality for every project, so take this into consideration and prepare for it the best way you can.

Problems

Clearly identify the current problems with the bathroom and create a checklist of these for your remodelers so they can tackle them one by one. Doing this will ascertain that the project will be carried out in the most efficient manner.

Beauty and Utility

Decide what new style, as well as improved functionality, you want for the bathroom. Determine the color scheme and the kinds of tiles, lighting, accessories, and other visual implements you want. As for functionality, think about the experience you want to have every time you use the bathroom, and perhaps, think about how it can boost your home’s market value, too.

Contractor

A bathroom remodel project is a highly technical job; you will need the services of a professional contractor to ensure the best results and even to stick with your budget. With a contractor, you can avoid all sorts of costly and time-consuming mistakes.

If you are thinking about starting a bathroom remodel in Fox Cities, contact the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing to set up a consultation.

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