Tureks Plumbing Services Blog: Posts Tagged ‘residential plumbing’

Bathroom Remodel Approach – 3 Elements For Success

Tuesday, 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

Tuesday, 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

Friday, 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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5 Bathroom Remodel Ideas That Won’t Break the Bank

Wednesday, November 16th, 2016

bathroom remodel ideas

5 Bathroom Remodel Ideas

The bathroom is no longer just a place for taking care of one’s hygiene. Over the years, it has become that one space in the house where people can have time to relax and completely rejuvenate themselves. So, if you’re one of the many people who like to do more in the bathroom, one of the great projects to undertake in the coming new year is to remodel the bathroom. This way, you’ll get more enjoyment out of the time you spend in this room.

Here are five bathroom remodel ideas that don’t cost much to carry out but will significantly change the look and even the function of the room.

Bathroom Mirrors

The first of many bathroom remodel ideas is to place more mirrors or replace the small mirror you used to have with a much bigger one. Mirrors do not only provide the benefit of letting you see yourself; they can also make a room look bigger. Also, with mirrors, you can improve the lighting in the room even if you don’t add new lighting fixtures.

Replace your Bathroom Vanity

A bathroom vanity can seem like an expensive bathroom upgrade but the truth is you can replace it for less than $1,000 in some cases. Check with your local bathroom remodel company to see if they can find something in your price range with the style you are looking for. Often times they will have wholesale catalogs with vanity’s you can’t find with the mass retailers.

Pop of Color

Create a color contrast. Incorporate accessories and bath essentials that come in really bright colors such as canary yellow, red, cobalt blue, or fuchsia. These will instantly give the bathroom a completely different appeal.

Wallpaper

As bathroom remodelers in Fox Valley we know that a new trend for bathrooms is creating some texture on the walls. This can be achieved by laying regular or paintable wallpaper. Not only does wallpaper come in a variety of really nice designs to give your bathroom a new look, but it can also conceal the imperfections (such as holes, cracks and even discoloration) present on your walls. The cost is anywhere from $10 to $30 per roll. In a bathroom you may only need a couple of rolls to get the job dome.

Decor

Add a rug and new towels or countertop accessories. Give your bathroom an even plusher appearance by choosing an interestingly shaped rug for the “dry” area of your bathroom. Bathroom accessories come in so many designs that will really give the room loads of character. They’re quite affordable, too, so purchasing new bathroom decor is truly a fantastic way to upgrade the room without spending too much money.

If you have more money to spare for the project, you can do even more to upgrade the room. But if you don’t have the financially flexibility for something bigger, these remodel ideas are perfect to try. Any questions, contact the experts in home remodel at Turek’s Plumbing!

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Increase Your Home’s Value With a Kitchen and Bath Remodel

Monday, November 14th, 2016

kitchen and bath remodel

How to Increase Your Home’s Value With a Kitchen and Bath Remodel

If you want to increase your home’s value, you need to start out by making a plan. Your upgrades should best be intentional and not impulsive, so list the changes and updates you want to achieve. Factor in your choices the duration in which you plan to live in the house. If you plan to sell soon, it’s a good idea to be guided by a realtor regarding improvements you should implement.

In making your list, be sure to categorize according to cost, both in time and money. It’s important that you be realistic and keep your financial limits in mind. Once you have your list categorized, figure out what’s doable.

With your plan in place, do your research on the potential returns of your intended improvements. Understandably, some will add more value to your home than others.

Now, if your budget only allows you to focus on a couple of areas in your home, the expert recommendation is that you do a kitchen and bath remodel. Any real estate professional will tell you that a kitchen upgrade brings in the greatest return. The bathroom, on the other hand, is a workhorse, so you need to remedy all the wear and tear it has suffered to ensure that everything’s in tip-top shape and looking great.

What can you do to upgrade your kitchen?

  • Change the paint. It’s simple, but the difference it makes is huge. You could also change the look of your cabinets using a faux-wood finish.
  • Install a new backsplash. New tile looks attractive and adds color to your kitchen.
  • Switch to stainless steel. This gives your kitchen a new, shiny, and modern appeal.
  • Put in a rolling island. This gives you adjustable storage and counter space.
  • Hang a pot rack and a wine bottle holder. This will allow you to display new pots and pans as well as an interesting assortment of wines, which will emphasize the functionality of your kitchen.

What can you do to beautify your bathroom?

  • Put in attractive faucets and switch to under-mount sinks. Drop sinks look dated.
  • Invest in a granite countertop. This should be cheaper than a kitchen countertop since it would be smaller.
  • Use wall mounts instead of overhead lighting. They are warmer and make the bathroom look more chic.
  • Install heated floors. These should win many buyers over if you’re looking to sell.
  • Improve the bath area. Consider installing a stone surround tile shower with body sprays. This will give your bathroom a Zen feel.
  • Freshen up your grout. Old grout usually causes the dingy look of a bathroom.

These kitchen and bath remodel ideas are sure to make your home look better while gaining value. If you are interested in a few remodel ideas, call your local Fox Cities Plumber at Turek’s Plumbing today!

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Water Heater Facts You Need to Know

Thursday, October 27th, 2016

Water Heater Facts

Water Heater Facts

You use your water heater, like millions of people, on almost a daily basis, especially when the cooler seasons arrive. But despite the ubiquity of these appliances, have you really given much thought to these? You may have a hard time picturing a life without a water heater, but what water heater facts should you be aware of?

Here are Some Fun Water Heater Facts That You Might Want to Know

Energy Factor

  • Your heater accounts for a fourth or 25 percent of your overall energy consumption. If your energy bills seem to be steadily climbing, one of the first things that you need to check is your heater. Also, if you want to reduce your energy consumption, you may want to switch to a more efficient heater.
  • A conventional tank water heater has a lifespan between 10 and 13 years. A tankless water heater, on the other hand, has a longer lifespan, lasting somewhere between 18 and 20 years.
  • The average person will use six to eight gallons of hot water for a shower. A person taking a bath, on the other hand, will consume between 15 and 20 gallons of water. An average load of laundry consumes roughly 20 to 30 gallons of water while washing the dishes uses about two gallons of water per minute. If you opt to use a dishwasher, it will use between six and 10 gallons of water.
  • Before water heaters were invented, you needed to heat water on a stove. The first water heater was developed in England in 1868 after a painter found a way to place gas burners beneath water pipes to heat cold water. In turn, a Norwegian engineer named Edwin Ruud found inspiration from this idea and developed what is to be the ancestor of the first tank water heater.

Exploding Water Heater?

  • It is possible for a water heater to explode. However, such cases occur very rarely. If you wish to avoid this situation, you have to check the heater’s temperature and water pressure and look for signs like the smell of leaking gas and rust.
  • If you want hot water fast, consider investing in a hot water recirculating system. This system shortens the delay in getting hot water by continuously circulating the heated water throughout the building. It is ideal for large homes and commercial applications. However, be aware that the system uses a huge amount of energy if the pipes are not properly insulated.
  • The right way to choose heater size is to count the number of occupants. When choosing a water heater is it also important to consider the peak hour water demand. 

If you are thinking about water heater replacement in Fox Cities, contact the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing.

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Types of Plumbing Pipes

Tuesday, October 25th, 2016

Plumbing Pipes

Types of Plumbing Pipes

Whether you are having a new house built or you are planning to have your current home remodeled, it is a good idea to know what your options are when it comes to building materials. This allows you to make a sound investment decision, anchored not only upon the price but other factors as well, including safety.

The same concept applies to your home’s plumbing. Whether there’s a burst pipe that needs replacement or a remodel, or you are planning to add a bathroom to the house, there are a few types of plumbing pipes that you can choose from.

Copper Pipes

Copper pipes rank as one of the most popular types of plumbing pipes because of their longevity and reliability. Initially introduced 80 years ago, many of these pipes still remain in use.

Another advantage of copper pipes is that these do not pollute drinking water. On top of that, these pipes are among the most sustainable because these can be recycled.

Cross-linked Polyethylene

Cross-linked polyethylene or PEX pipes are typically used for tricky retrofits, like situations where it can be difficult or costly to embed other types of pipes beneath walls. Because of the unique properties of PEX pipes, it is relatively easy for plumbers to snake these into walls. Some plumbers even use a single PEX pipe across entire houses while forgoing the need to create joints or soldering. On top of that, these pipes have a relatively long lifespan.

However, if you are considering using these pipes for your home, you have to be aware that there have been studies which suggest that the process of fabricating these pipes involves the use of a toxin commonly found in gasoline called methyl tertiary butyl ether. Traces of this toxins can be absorbed by the water as it passes through the pipes. The state of California, however, has approved the use of PEX pipes.

According to some experts, the new crop of PEX pipes available in the market is generally safer than older counterparts.

Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride

CPVC pipes have long been a favorite of avid DIY-ers because these are straightforward to install; practically anyone can use these, even without special tools.

Additionally, CPVC pipes have been available in the market for 40 years, attesting to the value these pipes offer. Using these pipes won’t affect the quality of the water in your home.

However, if you have eco-friendly leanings, be aware that these pipes produce a high amount of pollution during fabrication. Plus, these pipes cannot be recycled and require the use of chemical solvents, which are volatile.

Polypropylene Pipes

In terms of water safety, the number one name for that is Polypropylene pipe. Although PP has been used in Europe for 30 years, it is a relative newcomer in America. But despite that status, PP has a proven record of both durability and water safety.
Unlike other pipes, PP does not require the use of chemicals to join together different ends. However, these pipes have a steeper price tag and require the use of specialty tools.

If you would like more information about pipes available for your home, contact your Fox Cities Plumber at Turek’s Plumbing today!

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Components You Need in Building a Bathroom to Grow With Your Age

Thursday, October 6th, 2016

Bathroom

Components You Need in Building a Bathroom to Grow With Your Age

Different countries have different ways of investing in the care of its elderly population. For instance, in Japan, where the majority of the population is comprised of people above 60 years of age. Structures are especially built with elderly convenience in mind. This can be observed in most public bathrooms where every single implement is measured and placed strategically so that the elderly and individuals with mobility issues won’t have a hard time using the space. Therefore, if you’re thinking of building a bathroom to grow with your age, you should definitely take a cue from Japan’s bathrooms.

You might think that Japan’s bathroom designs would be challenging to translate in Wisconsin’s environment, but that need not be the case. Trusted bathroom remodel contractors that service Fox Valley and Applegate residents keep abreast with bathroom design trends for the needs of different homeowners — senior citizens included. You can discuss your requirements and preferences, and they’ll go about finding the appropriate solutions.

So, what design components must be present in a bathroom that will age well with you? Here are six features that are highly recommended by Wisconsin bathroom remodel specialists.

Automatic Lights

Eliminating one basic task is actually a huge convenience for everybody, especially the elderly. Not needing to fumble with switches, like when you’re in a hurry to go, is something you will appreciate greatly when you’re older.

Strategically Placed Grab Bars 

These are helpful for folks with balance issues due to aches in different parts of the body, or weakness. Also, they are highly functional because they can double as robe racks or towel holders.

Walk-in Bathtub 

These are musts because as you get older, you can benefit a lot from regular hot soaks to treat your aches and pains. A walk-in tub is a whole lot safer to use as well because it already comes with a seat. Getting in and out of the tub won’t be a big challenge, particularly when your knees are already wobbly.

Handheld Showerheads

Rinsing will be so much easier with these. You can make sure that you get that blast of water where it’s needed, even if you’re seated while bathing.

High Quality Toilet at a Comfortable Height

A great toilet that has some techy features is a fantastic investment. One with heated seats, an automatic electric bidet for both soaping and rinsing. You can also get a toilet with a tank that automatically lifts for easy cleaning, and water jets for “self-cleaning” can be purchased either online or from top home improvement stores. This toilet will make bathroom routines very comfortable and easy for you when you get older.

Textured Flooring

This will easily prevent slips and other accidents.

If you are looking for a great plumbing remodel contractor in Applegate, contact the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing today!

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More Bathroom Tile Trends to Consider for Your Bathroom Remodel

Tuesday, September 20th, 2016

Bathroom Tile

More Bathroom Tile Trends to Consider

Planning on upgrading your bathroom? Maybe you have been looking at blogs and magazines for bathroom design inspiration. Or perhaps you are starting to draw up your shopping list. But before you finalize your design and shopping list, here are a few more bathroom tile trends that you may want to check out.

What’s hot now among designers and property owners? Although the new bathroom tiles that are becoming increasingly popular are diverse, one common thread you will notice is the emphasis on both shape and texture. Additionally, the availability of new technologies has made it possible for designers to explore new designs and materials.

Triangles

Triangle tiles are not exactly novel. However, this classic shape has experienced a resurgence in popularity of late due to the visual textures and lines these can instantly provide. It certainly helps that there are hundreds of colors to choose from. On top of that, the shape of the tiles lends itself to creativity and different design possibilities, ranging from more subdued ones like stripes and squares to more creative patterns like pinwheels and Chevron.

Carved tiles

Carved tiles encompass different styles and textures, from angular to soft curves. You can buy these tiles from local dealers or request manufacturers for bespoke designs for that added unique and exclusive feel. Although these tiles mimic the look and feel of concrete, the use of 3D technology allows for a high degree of customization. However, be aware that these tiles are heavy, weighing as much as two pounds apiece, and you may have to wait a month or two for bespoke orders.

Origami

Want to infuse a sense of Japanese aesthetics to your bathroom wall? Consider origami mosaic tiles for your bathroom. These tiles utilize pioneering cast glass techniques which result in delicate angles which mimic origami.

Glass mosaic

Another tile trend that is being increasingly used not only for bathrooms, but also for backsplashes and feature walls, is the use of glass mosaic tiles. Available in marble and glass, these hexagonal tiles are available in six colors including white, gray, and blue.

Wood-inspired

Wood is not exactly the first material that you would think of when creating a shopping list for your bathroom upgrade due to the material’s poor performance in high moisture areas. But with the release of wood-inspired tiles, you may have to rethink that idea. These tiles use bold wood grain to mimic the texture of real wood.

To get your bathroom remodel started call the remodel specialists in Fox Cities at Turek’s Plumbing!

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Proven Ways to Open Up a Small Kitchen

Thursday, September 8th, 2016

Small Kitchen

Proven Ways to Open Up a Small Kitchen

Don’t let a dark, dreary and cramped kitchen dampen your love for cooking and eating or even entertaining. With a few smart tweaks, you can boost its look and enhance its functionality and make it appear bigger than it really is. The right kitchen redesign, renovation or remodel can even make your kitchen the centerpiece of your home, if you make the right changes. All it takes is a little creativity, expert advice, and the help of highly skilled contractors who can turn your vision into reality.  

Here are some of the best ways to open up a small kitchen:

Play with textures and opacity

Expand the space with see-through or opaque materials that let light in, reflect light or multiply it. For this approach, glass is your best bet. Install glass doors on your cabinets. Choose glass tiles for your backsplash or for a statement wall. Mirrors, glass tabletops and glass counters all add that light, bright and fresh appeal.

Let the light in

Another way to make the kitchen appear lighter and therefore more expansive is to use good lighting. The right choice and placement of lamps, light bulbs, ceiling lights and track lighting will make working in the kitchen easier and safer, too. Maximize natural light as much as you can. Adding or resizing a window, installing a skylight or adding a glass wall – these are some of the changes you can make to add more light while saving energy at the same time.  

Slim it down

If you need to add floor space and lessen visual bulk, choose furniture and fixtures that are sleek and streamlined. Choose tables and chairs with thin legs. Even your faucets, curtains and other fixtures can follow the thin and slim theme.

Use color strategically

The traditional choice is to choose white and pastel colors to make the room look more open. But this will depend on the layout of the area and the amount of natural light coming in. If the room doesn’t get that much light, an all-white approach may only make the kitchen appear dingy. For some kitchens, painting the walls with deep or darker colors that make the “flow” seamless does the trick.

Use storage smartly

Clutter can make a room look more cramped than it is. Freeing surfaces and counters and putting stuff away can solve this problem. Open shelves, raised breakfast bars, recessed nooks on the wall and vertical cabinets are not only useful for containing your kitchen and pantry supplies, but can also direct the eyes upward, making the room appear taller.

If you would like more ideas about how to open up a small kitchen, contact your local Fox Cities plumber at Turek’s Plumbing today!

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