Nothing is more luxurious in winter than a warm bathroom. Fortunately, this is one luxury that almost anyone can achieve without sacrificing period style or your pocketbook. So many of the more desirable options are completely affordable. For instance, plug-in electric towel warms are under $150, and overhead rain shower fixtures begin at only $60. You can find a good pressure-balance mixer for as little as $200. However, if you have money to spend, you can find luxuries such as jetted pedestal tubs and steam shower systems that will set you back a few thousand dollars.
You will find that towel warmers and radiators come in two basic styles: the traditional round tube shape and the flat-panel “Euro” style. If your bathroom is cramped, one option is a tubular towel-warming basket, which can be mounted to keep your towels hot and within easy reach.
Every towel warmer will generate heat, but some of the more powerful hard-wired versions can rightly be considered radiators. Inexpensive electric models that put out 100 watts or so are great, because they not only dry the towels in the bathroom but also reduce dampness and mildew. If they’re sized and placed properly, the more powerful hard-wired electric or hydronic towel radiators can easily heat larger spaces. Neither option gets too hot to touch. Electric towel warmers should only reach 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Depending on how hot you keep the system, hydronics will generally range between 120 and 150 degrees Fahrenheit. You can think of these radiators as zoned heating.
When choosing a unit, you need to consider the amount of tile or stone, the type and location of existing heat sources such as steam radiators or forced air, and how many windows. A good dealer can help you find the perfect unit to suit your needs. For those of you will really tiny bathrooms that won’t even fit a small towel warmer, you can probably find room along the baseboard to put a couple of horizontal radiator panels.
When it comes down to it, however, it’s the water in the bath or shower that warms the most. You might consider installing a pressure-balanced or thermostatic mixing valve, especially if you are already upgrading the shower. If you’re looking for something inexpensive and simple, consider a pressure-balance valve, which keeps the water pressure in the shower constant, preventing sudden fluctuations in water temperature, as often occurs when the toilet is flushed, for instance.
Thermostatic valves are more sophisticated. They mix the hot and cold water to fairly precise temperatures, usually within one degree Celsius of the setting. You can count on these valves to regulate fluctuations in the incoming water pressure as well.
Not surprisingly, prices for these truly luxurious valves begin at about $1,000, though you can easily spend more. No matter your décor, you can find a valve that fits beautifully in your bathroom. Many of these mixers are available in suites that include period-inspired shower heads and cross-handled knobs or levers. Higher-end valves even come with memory settings, allowing each family member to choose and record a preferred shower temperature.
If you are a shower lover who can’t get enough humidity in winter, consider a steam shower. You’ll probably need a major retrofit to install one. The generator needs its own space, and usually modifications need to be made to accommodate the steam shower doors. But on the plus side, a twenty-minute steams uses very little water: only about two gallons. But a basic system—including a generator, steam head, and temperature controls—starts at about $3,000. And if you’re thinking about adding stereo speakers, light, or aromatherapy packages, expect the price to climb higher.
Are you one of those people who prefer an old-fashioned tub for your bath? Reproduction roll-top designs with claw feet begin at about $1,000, and you can choose between either cast iron or the more environmentally friendly acrylic. These deep tubs are the ultimate soaking paradise. They also come in double-ended styles to accommodate two (or multiple children). These tubs will fit any décor, as you can specify claw feet in the style and finish of your choice. For a dramatic flair, you can go with a custom-made tub in copper, steel, marble, and even teak.
If your dream bath is a traditional tub with a water- or air-jet system, your best bet is to go with a pedestal or Roman tub. Strategically placed jets will turn any bathtub into a home spa. And don’t worry, the skirt will conceal the tubes and motor. A fully equipped air-jet tub isn’t cheap. Expect to pay upward of $4,000.
For the past 25 years Avo Barsoumian has helped home owners with their home flooring and interior design needs. He is the owner of Carpet Wagon, a family owned carpeting company in Glendale. They have a huge selection of elegant hardwood flooring, beautiful laminate flooring and plush carpeting. So whether you’re looking for pre finished wood flooring for your new home or carpeting estimate to makeover your older home then Carpet Wagon carries everything you need.
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