For Your New Bathroom Design

You’ve been thinking about it for a while and you know it’s time. Your bathroom is ready for a fresh, updated look and you’re ready to start the remodeling process. While it’s exciting to think about the possibilities and beauty of the finished bathroom design, taking on a remodel can also be a little daunting and overwhelming. Before you embark on giving your bath the dream look you’ve always imagined, here are a few checkpoints to keep in mind:

1) Start with the basics: budget and time

As an important first step, determine how much you want to spend on your bathroom renovation. It will help tremendously as you make decisions about what to include and where you can splurge or save. Time is another crucial component, no matter the size of your bathroom. You need to consider not only the time needed for construction, but also ordering and purchasing materials so they’re ready to be installed when needed. Unfortunately, hidden problems sometimes do occur, such as water damage and plumbing issues, which can add to the overall time of the remodel.

2) Putting it all together: Measurements and configuration

Before embarking on a bathroom remodel, it’s crucial to measure, measure, measure, particularly since it’s often the smallest room in the house. You’ll want to measure the overall size of the bathroom, determine the location of existing plumbing and electrical wiring, figure out where everything is going to go, and know the specifications for cabinetry, fixtures, etc. when you shop for new materials.

3) Consider all the new possibilities

Part of the fun of remodeling your bathroom is choosing the cabinets, fixtures, bathtub, and other details that reflect your unique style. You want a functional bathroom that fits your needs, but also has a creative and unique look. There are so many options available now that you will at least want to consider! Here are just a few of our favorites at Del Rey:

• Built in cabinetry that provides the look of furniture in a variety of styles
• Stainless steel and glass countertops
• Unique vanities built from creative materials, such as wine barrels
• Wall hung toilets for a sleek and modern look
• Drains that blend seamlessly to match the rest of your shower
• Design your own faucet for a custom look
• Medicine cabinets and mirrors with built-in lighting that’s flattering on the face!

A beautiful bathroom can feel like a vacation to the spa. With the right game plan and a little creativity, your bathroom remodel will bring you enjoyment for years to come. Our showroom can help you start dreaming. Stop by. Del Rey Fine Plumbing and Hardware is ready to help you get started on your dream bath!

There’s a phenomenon going on in Japan and it’s happening in the most unexpected place – the bathroom. Specifically, it’s the toilet seat that’s found on Japanese toilets called a Washlet (combining the words “Let’s” and “Wash”). A modern and revolutionary take on the bidet, the Washlet is a seat that fits on your toilet and, with the touch of a remote, a wand sprays comforting water to wash your backside. There are a variety of bells and whistles also available, including a heated seat, automatic open and close lid, dryer, features specifically for women, and much more.

The Washlet is beginning to see a rise in popularity in the U.S., particularly by those who have travelled overseas and experienced the benefits of its comfort and cleanliness. The toilet seat you’re using in your home may not be something that you think about often or even care to discuss, but the benefits of a Washlet are numerous, including:

• Provides an eco-friendly and cost effective alternative – Using a Washlet dramatically cuts down on the amount of toilet paper used, reducing strain on the environment, as well as on your wallet.
• Increases hygiene while reducing pain – The warm cleansing water is soothing and more comfortable than using traditional toilet paper. It also increases the cleanliness of your toilet by spraying electrolyzed water around the bowl.
• Provides greater accessibility – For seniors or those with disabilities or medical conditions, a Washlet can often mean the difference between using the toilet independently rather than needing assistance.

Nearly 72% of Japanese homes now have Washlets in the bathroom and, as of 2016, 40 million have been sold worldwide. The Japanese company, Toto, introduced the product in 1980 and the first television commercials appeared in 1982. While a little shocking at first, it began what would become the cultural norm in Japan. The Washlet came to the US in 1990, and while it has not experienced the same popularity as it has in Japan, the demand for the product is growing.

Del Rey Fine Plumbing and Hardware carries a variety of Washlets, so you can learn more and take advantage of this Japanese bathroom phenomenon in your own home!