Nothing is more luxurious in winter than a warm bathroom. Luckily, this is one luxury available for everyone, without you having to sacrifice period style or your pocketbook. Surprisingly, some of the most desirable options are also the most affordable. Plug-in electric towel warmers, for instance, can be had for under $150. Overhead rain shower fixtures begin at just $60. A good pressure-balanced mixer can be had for as little as $200. However, there is another side of the spectrum. Jetted pedestal tubs and steam shower systems can easily 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. Another option is a tubular towel-warming basket. This handy basket can be mounted in tight spaces to keep hot fluffy towels within easy reach.
Although every towel warmer generates some heat, many of the hard-wired versions are powerful enough to be rightly 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. If you’re worried about safety, neither version gets too hot to touch. Electric towel warmers only reach 140 degrees Fahrenheit, whereas hydronics range between 120 and 150 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on how hot you keep the system. These radiators can provide your bathroom with zoned heating.
Visit your local dealer to help find the perfect unit for your space. You need to consider variables such as the amount of tile or stone, the type and location of existing heat sources (steam radiators or forced air), and the number of windows. If you can’t even fit a small towel warmer, see if you can find room along the baseboard for a couple of horizontal radiator panels, which should keep your tiny bath nice and warm.
When it comes down to it, however, it’s the water in the bath or shower that warms the most. If you plan on upgrading the shower anyway, consider installing a pressure-balance or thermostatic mixing valve. Inexpensive and simple, a pressure-balance valve will keep the water pressure in the shower constant, preventing sudden fluctuations in water temperature caused by such incidents as a flushed toilet, 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. These valves also compensate for fluctuations in the incoming water pressure.
For a truly luxurious valve, plan on spending at least $1,000, although you can easily spend more. Conveniently, many of these mixers are available in suites that include period-inspired shower heads and cross-handled knobs or levers. Even better, some come with memory settings. This feature allows each family member to choose and record a preferred shower temperature for the perfect shower every time.
If you crave humidity in the winter and you love your shower, 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. Once it’s installed, a twenty-minute steam uses a fairly low amount of water: only about two gallons. But a basic system starts at around $3,000, including the generator, steam head, and temperature controls. And if you’re thinking about adding stereo speakers, light, or aromatherapy packages, expect the price to climb higher.
Do you dream of 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.
For a traditional tub that will accommodate a water- or air-jet system, go with a pedestal or Roman tub. The skirt will conceal the tubes and motor. Strategically placed jets will turn any bathtub into a home spa. This kind of luxury doesn’t come cheap. Expect to pay upward of $4,000 for a fully equipped air-jet tub.
Avo Barsoumian has been in the home flooring and interior design industry for over 25 years. He owns and operates a carpeting company in Los Angeles. The offer the largest selection of elegant hardwood flooring, beautiful laminate flooring and plush carpeting under one roof. It doesn’t matter whether your searching for laminate floors for your new condo or office carpet to makeover your older home then Carpet Wagon has exactly what you’re looking for.