Freestanding Bathtubs... an important consideration for your perfect bathroom renovation

One of the most popular changes clients are considering for their bathroom remodel is the removal of an old jetted or soaker type bathtub.  These old-style tubs often have bulky surrounds that take up a lot of valuable space in the bathroom. 

The current trend is towards slim line freestanding bathtubs, which provide extra area in your room and offer visual drama.  They are available in a wide range of shapes, styles and sizes that will transform your bathroom into feeling like a beautiful, luxurious spa!  Freestanding tubs can provide a more contemporary, sculptural modern look, or perhaps an old-fashioned statement with the installation of a clawfoot style!

The additional floorspace these bathtubs offer gives a more airy, spacious feel to your bathroom, and often provide the opportunity for a larger walk in shower, additional vanity storage, room for seating, or extra cabinetry.  Because they take up less floor area, these tubs also tend to showcase beautiful tile work and highlight stylish flooring or lighting.   

In addition, freestanding bathtubs offer the opportunity to be situated on an angle, or offset for additional visual interest in your bathroom.  They are both space saving and practical from a cleaning standpoint, as all sides of the tub are exposed to the room. 

Call or email us today to discuss the installation of a beautiful freestanding tub.  It may be the change you need to completely update your bathroom.

All It Takes is a Little Inspiration...

The other night my husband and I were watching the television show “Renovation Island”.  This production demonstrates how it is possible to take interior spaces or rooms which seem completely underused or obsolete and with a little imagination and know-how, turn them into something luxurious and appealing. 

This is certainly true of your bathroom!  No matter how small, outdated, or non-functional it may currently be, the team at We Do Bathrooms can help to turn it into the bathroom of your dreams.  We have the skills, knowledge and an inspiring team of professionals, who can work within your renovation budget to create the perfect bathroom for you!

An Essential Bathroom Renovation

There has been a fair bit of discussion lately about the word “essential”.   A lot of items, jobs, and activities have been scrutinized to determine if they fall within its meaning.   Definitions of “essential” include words and phrases like “absolutely necessary”, “extremely important”, “needed”, and “required”. 

Now that many of us have spent countless days in our own homes, it has certainly become obvious that there are some things that are “essential” to our personal wellbeing and to the enjoyment of our living space.  At We Do Bathrooms, we know that an updated, clean, refreshed bathroom is certainly completely essential, especially now that we are spending additional time in our homes! 

For that reason, our team of experienced professionals is ready and waiting to work with you on your bathroom renovation, be it large or reasonably simple.  We will take all the necessary precautions to ensure that your project will proceed as efficiently, cost effectively, and safely as possible.  After all, during these very trying covid times, there really is no place like home!

Current News...We Are Still Open To Serve Your Renovation Needs

What a strange and unprecedented time this is!  When we think back to only a few short months ago, it’s amazing how much the “regular world” we know has changed.  Certainly, priorities have shifted and the focus is on staying healthy and staying home as much as possible. 

The WE DO BATHROOMS team would like to extend our thoughts and wishes for continued good health to all of our friends and clients.  We know that many of you had plans to renovate or repair your bathrooms before the Covid-19 pandemic happened, and for some of you these projects are temporarily on hold.  We would like to let you know, however, that we are still renovating bathrooms and operating our business “as usual”.  We are available to book appointments and schedule projects either now, or into the summer and fall months ahead.  If you prefer, an easy and convenient way to receive a quotation for your renovation, is to email us photos of your bathroom with a short description of the work you would like to have completed.  We can send you an accurate quotation this way without even visiting your home.  Of course, all of our quotations are “fixed price quotes” so there will be no unwelcome surprises for you, once we have given you a proposal.  Work will be scheduled for your project in advance, so you will be aware of when to expect team members, and what the process will be.

If you would like to proceed with your renovation project sooner than later, please be assured that our capable team members are taking extra precautions.  Show rooms for products, tile and countertops are still open and ready to serve our clients by appointment.  Many products can be viewed on-line and we are happy to assist with these details.  While in your home, our workers are appropriately prepared to meet any new challenges we are faced with, and ready to go as needed.  Your project will be scheduled to be completed as quickly, safely, and efficiently as possible.

Thank you for your continued support of our company.  We look forward to working with you to create a beautiful bathroom, as we all appreciate the fine details in our homes so much more these days!

Be well!

Still a Great Time to Renovate

The coronavirus is a grave concern worldwide. It is causing us all to reflect on family, friends, community and home. At We Do Bathrooms, we are still open for business, even through this time of uncertainty.

Perhaps this is a perfect opportunity to improve one’s home and personal space, as we all spend more time indoors and in our own environments. Our skilled team of professionals is ready to work with you to quickly and efficiently create a beautiful, healthy, renewed bathroom for your home. Simply email us a few photos of your current bathroom with a short description of the work you would like to have completed. We will respond in short order with a complimentary quotation. If you need design suggestions, we are happy to help with that also! We look forward to working with you on your project!

2020 Vancouver Home and Garden Show Is On NOW!

The Vancouver Home and Garden Show is happening now! We hope you will plan to visit the WE DO BATHROOMS team at Booth 1343 to discuss your bathroom renovation plans! This is the perfect time to book your spring or summer project!

Tickets are available both at the door or at a $2.00 savings per ticket online. The event is held at the BC Place Stadium, 777 Pacific Blvd, Vancouver and runs until 6:00pm on Sunday afternoon (February 19-23). For full event details, visit the Vancouver Home and Garden website.

We would love to meet with you! Bring a sketch of your bathroom or just your dreams! You are sure to be inspired at this amazing home show.

If you are unable to attend, simply email at info@wedobathrooms.ca or call to book your in-home complimentary consultation to discuss your bathroom renovation.  We look forward to working with you!

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall...

As is the case with any renovation, the devil is in the details!  One of the “noses on the face” of your bathroom is the mirror you choose. It will likely be placed prominently above the vanity and can enhance the of luxurious feel of your room!  There are so many choices when it comes to mirrors, including the shape, size and framing finish.  They will each dictate a “look” in your renovated bathroom, as well as fill a very important utilitarian role!

Most often our clients will choose a “matching framed mirror” for their project.  In other words, our cabinet maker will create a beautiful frame that will coordinate with the custom vanity.  He will skillfully paint or stain it to match the other woodwork in your bathroom, resulting in a stunning, unified look.  Next, we will have the mirror
component fabricated by a glass company, specifically for your project.  It is up to the client to choose the size preferred, although typically mirrors extend the entire length of the vanity.  When more than one sink is installed, another option is to have two mirrors located over each sink. 

Another mirror style that is growing in popularity is the “front-lit style”, which offers built in LED lighting helpful for applying make-up, shaving, and other close up tasks.  These come in pre-determined sizes, and offer a very modern, clean look to your room. 

Of course, there are frames available in a wide variety metals, sizes and endless styles.  You may wish to have a beveled edge or perhaps a pivoting design.  For others, a practical “medicine cabinet” style is a must!  As with most things, the options are limitless!  Before choosing, consider the ambiance you wish to have in your room when your renovation is complete, the functionality of the mirror, and the type of lighting you will be installing.  The right mirror choice can greatly enhance your bathroom and customize it to reflect your personal style! 

A Perfect Year To Renovate Your Bathroom

Happy New Year! 
The team at We Do Bathrooms would like to thank our many Clients who gave us the opportunity to work with them on their bathroom renovations in 2019.  We look forward to the year ahead and are excited for many more successful bathroom transformations!  Be sure to book your complimentary consultation soon.  We will do our best to work with your desired renovation schedule and are already booking projects into the spring months. 

Let this be the year you enjoy a beautifully renovated bathroom!

Bathroom Renovations… Money Well Spent!

Seems like one of the first considerations people have when considering a bathroom renovation, is the potential cost of the project.  This is understandable, given the considerable investment of both time and money that is required.  Bathroom renovations, when priced “per square foot” can appear very costly.  This is because there are so many products and fixtures in one reasonably small room, including a bathtub, shower, toilet, one or two sinks, multiple fixtures, mirrors, custom vanities and potentially other millwork, tile, flooring, hardware and lighting!  It is no wonder a bathroom renovation is considered one of the top ways to add value to your home!  It is also understandable that many factors will enter the cost of your bathroom renovation. 

Probably the biggest consideration is the overall choice of products used for the project.  While many well-known “big box” retailers offer nice products at decent prices, it is very hard to beat the savings the team at We Do Bathrooms can get from our suppliers because we are able to utilize wholesale and volume discounts.  In addition, our clients are able to see a wide range of products from virtually any manufacturer at the major product showrooms we work with. 

Tile is often an item that clients feel they can shop for and save money on.  At We Do Bathrooms, we are able to source top quality porcelain tile at wonderful prices that will ensure a professional installation. Our suppliers can work with you on color and design choices to ensure that you are getting exactly the “look” and quality you are after. 

By supplying products for you, we are able to offer our personal warranty on the project plus any additional warranties provided by product suppliers.  We are also able to ensure delivery times that will work for the renovation schedule and of course, excellent pricing.

When you call or email wedobathrooms.ca to discuss your renovation, we will set up an appointment time to meet with you to review your project and get an understanding of the type and style of new bathroom you envision.  Within a few days, we will present you with a “fixed price quotation” and a full proposal for your bathroom renovation project.   In other words, you will be given a thorough, itemized list of items to be completed plus products to be used, and we guarantee we will do the work for the cost specified.  No surprises!  The only changes will come from you, should you decide to use alternate products from the ones we recommend.  In this case, the cost of your renovation could be adjusted either up or down!

At We Do Bathrooms, we take the worry and the guess work out of the cost of your renovation project.  Our team of professionals have decades of experience in this field and we look forward to providing you with a beautiful new bathroom.

The 2019 Vancouver Home Show Is Coming Soon!

We are only days away from the 2019 Vancouver Home Show!  The event this year takes place October 24 – 27th at the Vancouver Convention Centre West.  You can save $2.00 by purchasing tickets online, as well as find a great overview of all features of this fantastic show by visiting the Vancouver Home Show website.  Come meet the “We Do Bathrooms” team at booth number 1140.  We look forward to discussing your bathroom renovation plans with you and booking a complimentary in-home consultation!  See you then!

Photo by jjneff/iStock / Getty Images

Tips For Cleaning Grout in Your Bathroom

A frequent question is “how do I clean the grout around the tile in my bathroom”?  Firstly, it is helpful to know that most mold and mildew is caused by a build up of soap, shampoo, or other foreign particles that linger around your tile.  Although most porcelain and ceramic tiles resist staining, grout is porous and can absorb dirt, soap and shampoo more easily.  Frequently cleaning your bathroom will help alleviate stained grout.

The first step is to give your tile a good “once over” with warm water and a cloth to remove surface dirt.  If you are lucky enough to own a steamer, this is really helpful for this purpose.  Next, make a simple solution of equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle.  Spritz it on your tile, brush lightly and rinse.  Use this cleaning method weekly to help keep your grout clean and mold free. 

For tougher stains, try making a paste of three parts baking soda to one-part water.  Wipe this solution on the grout lines with your fingers (you may want to wear gloves), leave on a few minutes and follow up with the vinegar/water spray.  It will get fizzy, but this is part of the cleaning process!   Lightly scrub with a small brush – this is where the real work comes in, but it is worth the effort!  I find that an old toothbrush works beautifully to get around the small grout edges, but any small brush can be used for this purpose.   Next, rinse with a wet rag and water.  Most times this is a very effective cleaning method.

For very stubborn areas of mold or mildew on grout, a solution of bleach and water can be used.  I suggest you spray on and leave for about 10-15 minutes, lightly scrub with a soft brush and thoroughly rinse.  As this is a harsher product, use sparingly, and be sure to safe guard your clothing.    

Of course, there are many commercial products on the market that are very effective cleaners.  One of the great improvements over the years is that grout lines have become much thinner, making them less prominent and easier to manage.  After all, clean grout is the frame around your bathroom tile, and will make it look fresh and fantastic!

Choosing the Correct Grout Color to Compliment Your Bathroom Tile

Grout is the compound that goes between your bathroom tiles, and is available in a large variety of colors.   It is made primarily of a mixture of cement, water and sand, and it forms a waterproof seal when applied correctly. 

The color of grout you choose for your bathroom tiling project will greatly influence the overall effect of your design.  Choosing a grout shade is never particularly easy, but there are two basic rules to know that may be helpful. 

Firstly, if you want to have a more monochromatic look in your room overall, choose a grout color close to the color of your tile.  This is particularly effective if your tile has a minimal pattern, as it will give your room a cohesive, subdued, more refined feel.  It can even make your bathroom appear visually larger. 

Secondly, if your tile has a strong pattern or texture that you wish to accentuate, it is very effective to choose a darker, contrasting grout color.  This will frame the tile pattern, and can be very dramatic.  It is also effective if more than one tile choice is being used, as it will unify the design if a grout color is chosen that is common among all the tiles placed. 

When choosing your grout, keep in mind that light colored grouts are harder to keep clean, as dirt and spills are more easily noticed.  On the other hand, a dark colored grout may not show any dirt or discoloration, but could possibly stain the tile when applied if the tile has not been properly sealed or is very porous.  It is also worth keeping in mind that a darker grout color will highlight any imperfections or variances in the tile installation, which may be undesirable.

If in doubt, a safe color choice for grout is almost always a medium grey tone, unless you are using a light blue or grey tile, in which case be careful that the grey shades are in the same “color family”.   

The tile setter doing your renovation work is an experienced professional and can most certainly make an appropriate recommendation for a suitable grout color to use for your bathroom renovation project.  Another great resource is the design team at the tile store where your tiles were purchased. 

Maintenance Considerations Prior to a Renovation

Ensuring that your hot water tank is in good repair is an often-overlooked prerequisite for a renovation requiring the update of plumbing fixtures.

An aging hot water tank can result in sediment and rusty build up flushing through the system when new valves are installed, and water is shut on and off.  Occasionally we receive service calls for this problem following a bathroom renovation, and it is almost always traced back to a decayed or rusting hot water tank.

Prior to making any plumbing changes, a quick check to ensure that everything is working effectively is always a good idea, particularly in an older home.   Whether you are doing your renovation yourself, or hiring an outside contractor, this is always a helpful consideration. 

Langley Home Renovation Show Is Around The Corner

We are very excited that the Langley Home Show is only days away!  We hope you can join us at the 18th Annual HomeExpo on May 24 – 26th!  This great building/renovation/décor show will be held at the George Preston Rec Centre, located at 20699 42nd Avenue.  It is the perfect place to get fresh ideas and motivation for any home project you are considering.  One of the great perks for attendees is that the show is absolutely free of charge!!  You will find the We Do Bathrooms team at Booth #57.  Bring a sketch of your bathroom along and let’s brainstorm ideas for your dream renovation.  Hope to see you there!

Photo by damedeeso/iStock / Getty Images

Some Thoughts On Choosing A New Toilet

There are a lot of considerations when choosing a new toilet, and many exciting options to contemplate.  Perhaps the simplest and best advice is to visit a local showroom such as “Splashes” or “The Ensuite”,    to view first-hand the various configurations and styles available to choose from.   A new toilet can drastically improve your bathroom experience, so be aware of key considerations such as price, style, efficiency and a reputable manufacturer.  Before shopping for your new commode, remember to check the width, depth and height of your available bathroom space.  It is helpful to keep in mind that you will require about 30” for toilet placement in your bathroom, which is approximately 15” each direction measuring from the middle of the toilet bowl, side to side. 

One of the first considerations for most folks, is the style and configuration of a new toilet.  Of course, there are many toilet options to choose from, from traditional to those with a modern flair.  Most manufacturers offer similar toilet styles, although pricing can vary greatly.  Deciding between a one-piece toilet (sculpted into a single unit) and a two-piece toilet (which have a separate tank and bowl bolted together upon installation), is a personal preference.  At We Do Bathrooms, we are currently noting a preference towards a sleeker model that offers easy cleaning with an enclosed, skirted trap.     In our experience, the American Standard Studio Series two-piece toilet is a very popular choice and a good value. 

Most traditional toilets are approximately 15-1/2“ from the floor to the seat.  “Comfort height” toilets are approximately two-to-three inches higher than a standard toilet, and are especially ideal for tall people and those with back issues.  An elongated toilet is often considered more comfortable due to its extended front, but isn’t suitable for all bathrooms, due to space limitations.  Round front toilets, because of their compact design, fit beautifully into smaller spaces and powder rooms.  A wall hung toilet is another option, most suited to a very modern décor.

Water consumption and flushing systems are other things to think about.  Toilets are rated on their water consumption, so it is easy to compare the performance of units.  Most modern toilets use considerably less water per flush than their older counterparts, up to 50% less!  Some folks consider a high efficiency toilet to be good for both the environment and their pocket book in the long run.  Dual flush systems that offer a full or partial flush are important to some homeowners, but keep in mind that “top flushing” styles are not suitable for use in all instances.   For instance, in bathrooms with “porkchop” style countertops, the flush buttons would not be accessible.

Currently white is by far the most popular color choice for toilets and other bathroom fixtures.  Black, bone and other custom colors will add extra cost to the price of items, and can be trendy and quickly date your bathroom.  It is better to add color accents with towels, curtains or other accessories, which allow you to change the look frequently without a long-term commitment to a particular color scheme.

Bidets have become less popular over the past years, with some opting for a “washlet” as an alternative.  Because these fixtures require electricity to function, it is important to consider the installation of this item at the outset of your renovation.  The washlet is a two-piece system, consisting of a special seat and the washlet itself.

Other accessories for your toilet are completely arbitrary… there are soft seats, self-closing lids, even toilets that self-flush and self-clean!  These considerations, although luxurious and wonderful, completely depend on your personal needs and budget.  To assist you in making your decisions, a We Do Bathrooms team member will recommend a toilet suited for your renovation after meeting with you in your home.  We can discuss the various toilet features available, to assist you in making your final decision. You can consider all your options, and pick the toilet perfect for your bathroom.  Enjoy the process of choosing your new toilet…it is something you will use every day for many years to come!

How Long Does A Bathroom Renovation Take?

How long does it take to complete a bathroom renovation?  We are asked this over and over again by folks considering a renovation project.  Unfortunately, there isn’t a set answer for the question!

In general, most standard bathroom renovations take about two to four weeks.  This would include the removal and disposal of the original bathroom contents, full replacement all bathroom fixtures, removal and replacement of tile, construction of a new custom vanity, quartz countertop and backsplash, a 10 millimeter frameless glass shower, installation of a new fan and lighting, drywall repair and painting, and a professional cleaning at completion of the project.  Obviously, there are variations on this scope of work, depending on what the client wants to do.  Some projects are very simple, and others can be more detailed and complex!

Because at We Do Bathrooms, we only DO bathrooms, the process for a renovation is very efficient.  Our team and suppliers have a system that runs seamlessly to ensure every project is completed as discussed in advance with our client.  We plan for every renovation to run as smoothly as possible, and the end result is a beautiful, inspiring bathroom!

Bathroom Renovation Plans

The spring BC Home and Garden Show for 2019 has come and gone, and it was certainly a busy, successful event.  Our We Do Bathrooms team would like to thank the many folks who stopped by our booth at BC Place Stadium to discuss their bathroom renovation plans.  It was truly exciting to see so many families planning to make upgrades to their homes this year.  For some, it will be transforming a bathtub space to a large walk-in shower, for others it will be an entire “gut and re-do” of their existing bathroom.  We appreciate all of you who booked appointments with us for a complimentary in-home consultation, and to others who plan to call when they get closer to making their renovation plans a reality. 

We look forward to our next home show event, which will be the Tri-Cities 18th Annual Spring Home Expo on March 29, 30 and 31, 2019 at the Poirier Sport and Leisure Complex in Coquitlam.  If you didn’t have an opportunity to pop by to chat with us in Vancouver, we hope we will see you in Coquitlam!  Of course, we are happy to meet you in your home anytime for a complimentary consultation to discuss your bathroom renovation.  Call us at 604-807-0979 or email info@wedobathrooms.ca to schedule a convenient time and date!

Photo by ollegN/iStock / Getty Images

BC Home and Garden Show Is On This Week!

The 2019 BC Home and Garden Show starts tomorrow!  We hope to see you at BC Place Stadium February 20 – 24th.  The WE DO BATHROOMS team will be at Booth #1343.  We will be there to visit with you and to discuss your bathroom renovation plans!  Bring your dreams with you! 

Just a reminder, tickets can be purchased in advance at a discount on the Vancouver Home and Garden Show website, and Seniors (60 years+) can enjoy a $6.00 entry fee before 6:00pm on both Thursday and Friday!  See you there!

Choosing a Bathroom Sink

Years ago, when my husband and I built our home, pedestal sinks were very popular and considered a new trend for bathrooms.  I was excited to choose three different models for various bathrooms in our house, as they were available in styles that ranged from vintage to a very sleek, contemporary look.  Although ideal for small spaces, I have come to realize that the downfall of these sinks is their lack of storage and counter area.  They are most suited to a powder room where storage isn’t a necessity and floor space is at a minimum. 

Wall mounted sinks also take up very little space and no floor area at all.  Similar to pedestal sinks, they provide little usable counter area.  However, they are arguably one of the easiest styles of sinks to thoroughly clean, and are ideal for a small area and a modern setting.

Vessel sinks have been another popular trend, particularly in more contemporary decors.  They are simply a bowl that is mounted on top of the countertop.  The material options for these basins are really endless… they could be made of porcelain, glass, wood, stone, or virtually any other product that can hold water and be drilled for a drain!  Because of this, these sinks are often very beautiful and unusual in color and style.  Their downfall is that they require a very tall faucet and one that has a long enough reach to avoid splashing.   In addition, they can be difficult to clean around the base.  If you have young children in your household, they also are substantially higher than a regular sink to reach.

Self rimming sinks are a traditional option, and are easy to install.  They have a rolled edge or rim that sits on top of the countertop, and usually can be changed without causing damage to the surface. These are suitable for use with almost any countertop material, and are most often made of either porcelain or ceramic.

By far the most popular style of sink in recent years is the undermount variety.  These sinks are fitted so that there is a flush lip with the countertop, making cleaning a breeze and offering a sleek, modern look.  They are quite understated visually, leaving the focus on the fixtures.  These sinks are available in many shapes and colors to suit almost any décor or style.

Whatever your sink preference, the ideal place to begin viewing these options is a showroom that offers a wide variety of styles to compare.  Our team at We Do Bathrooms would be happy to assist with any product choices for your bathroom renovation project, based on our vast experience and knowledge of current industry trends.  We are committed to helping you achieve the bathroom of your dreams.

Bring Your Bathroom Renovation Dreams to the Vancouver Home Show

The BC Home and Garden Show at the BC Place Stadium in Vancouver is happening again this year on February 20 to 24, 2019.   Here you can get inspired with new ideas to upgrade your home and outdoor spaces, plus enjoy an opportunity to chat with experts about practically any project you plan to undertake. 

This year you can find the WE DO BATHROOMS team at Booth #1343, ready to meet with you to discuss your bathroom remodeling plans.  Whether you live in White Rock, Surrey, Coquitlam, Burnaby, Richmond, Vancouver, or one of the many other neighboring areas, we will be excited to work with you on your bathroom renovation project!  We hope to see you at the show, and a reminder that you can save $2.00 by purchasing your tickets online by visiting the Vancouver Home and Garden Show website!

Photo by ollegN/iStock / Getty Images