FAQs & Handy Hints
Some people love DIY. Others hate it. So,
for the former, here are some hints we think you’ll find
helpful.
For the latter – here’s an even handier hint: leave
the whole job to us!
Big Ideas for Small Spaces
In our experience almost everyone wishes their bathroom were a little more spacious. But you don’t have to start building extensions to make that space feel bigger and more luxurious – here are a few tips that make all the difference, many at no extra cost!
• A compact suite, corner bath or a back-to-the-wall suite that conceals all the plumbing creates a simplicity of layout that cuts space wastage
• Avoid fussy decorative detail and pattern – big blocks of colour and larger tiles create a sense of space
• Use chrome, glass, mirrors and shiny tile to bounce light around – again creating an illusion of space
• Soft, pastel colours, neutrals and whites also make rooms feel more spacious – so reserve dark or bold colours for accessories.
• Add extra lighting to open up the room – such as recessed can lighting, wall sconces or even new skylights or larger windows
De-clutter the walls by removing hanging ornaments and shelving, all of which tend to ‘shrink’ the space
Finding A Good Plumber
There’s no better way to ensure that the plumber you choose is skilled, experienced and trustworthy than by asking friends and family for recommendations. If they can’t suggest anyone, contact The Institute of Plumbing or The Bathroom and Shower Information Service. Either will be happy to put you in touch with a reputable service in your area.
Changing Your Bathroom Suite
Although installing a new bath, shower and basin is relatively straightforward, it’s important to think about whether your new plan will mean moving the WC. If it does, there’s the Soil Vent Pipe (SVP) to consider. It will be a lot easier and therefore much cheaper if you keep the WC close to the existing SVP – because installing a new one can be a major project – especially if you want the WC in a position that’s not adjacent to an outside wall. With that in mind, it’s a good idea to contact a number of plumbers and ask them for estimates along with suggestions for positioning.
Shelving and Storage
If space is at a premium, your choice of shelving and storage can make all the difference. For example, ladder-style high level shelving’s a great way of using every inch of space in every niche and nook, while glass shelves add storage space without dominating the room – so they’re ideal for the smaller room. If you have the room, fully fitted cupboards are perhaps the neatest solution – and as well as giving you lots of storage space, they provide the mounting for cleverly concealed mood lighting. Don’t forget to leave access flaps so you can get at the plumbing though!
Remember..., if you don’t enjoy DIY, a bathroom’s not the best project to take on
– and of course we’re here to handle the job from start to finish.
DIY bathroom tiling tips
Some people dread the idea of tiling – and indeed it can be tricky. But as long as you equip yourself with the right tools it’s actually a job that most good DIYers can take on. In fact, unless your bathroom’s particularly big, you should be able to finish the job in a weekend – even without any tiling experience!
Buying your tiles
It’s important to buy all you need in one go – because if you buy more later the tiles could be from a new batch that won’t quite match. Buy 10 – 15% more tiles than you need to allow for breakages – most dealers let you return unopened packs, so you won’t be spending any more than is necessary.
Preparation
Make sure the walls are clean and dry, remove any wallpaper and cover any flaky paint with a stabilizing primer.
Setting Out The Tiles
Decide where the lowest row of tiles will go, mark it and then nail a batten along the marks, using a spirit level to ensure it’s exactly level. Then mark the horizontal centre of the wall and use your gauge stick to work out how many tiles you need either side. If the space at the edges is less than half a tile’s width, simply shift the row by half a tile’s width to minimise cutting and place a vertical batten to mark the edge.
The Adhesive
Start by covering about a square metre off wall with adhesive and then ‘plough’ it with the toothed edge of the spreader. Place the first tile in the bottom corner formed be your lower batten (or skirting board) and your upright batten and work outwards will you’ve completed the first row. Don’t forget to add plastic spacers between them if the tiles don’t have lugs – these create the space for grouting. Then keep working upwards and outwards, wiping away any excess adhesive with a damp sponge.
Cutting The Border Tiles
Once you’ve covered most of the wall, you’ll need to cut tiles to fit into the remaining gap. Place the edge of a border tile face down against the corner, mark where it needs to be cut (leaving the same space as between the other tiles) and then transfer that mark to the tile’s surface. Hold the tile cutter against a straight edge and score firmly across the tile. Then stretch a piece of thin wire across a board, align the scored line over the wire and push down on either side to break the tile. Finally, smooth the edges with a tile sander.
Grouting And Sealing
Don’t start grouting till the tile adhesive has had 24 hours to harden. Use a rubber-bladed spreader to apply the grout, wipe off the excess with a sponge and smooth the edges with a blunt-ended stick.
Sealing Around Bathroom Fittings
Use silicon sealant for waterproof seals. Press the tube’s nozzle into the gap at a 45-degree angle and squeeze in the sealant. To ensure the seal will take the weight of a full bath, stand in the bath as you apply the sealant. To finish off, smooth off using a wetted teaspoon handle.