Choosing the right toilet and getting it installed correctly can feel surprisingly daunting. Its not just a porcelain throne anymore; its a fixture youll interact with multiple times a day, so comfort and functionality are key. Plus, a bad installation can lead to expensive plumbing problems down the road. So, where do you even begin?
First, consider the type of toilet. The two main categories are gravity-fed and pressure-assisted. Gravity-fed toilets rely on, well, gravity, to flush waste. Theyre the most common and generally less expensive. Pressure-assisted toilets use compressed air to create a more powerful flush, which can be great for larger households or if youve experienced frequent clogs. However, they can be noisier and pricier.
Next, think about the toilets rough-in measurement. This is the distance from the finished wall to the center of the drainpipe. Measuring accurately is crucial to ensure the toilet fits properly in your existing bathroom space. Dont just assume its a standard size; older homes, especially, can have variations.
Then theres the bowl shape: round or elongated. Elongated bowls offer a bit more seating room and are generally considered more comfortable, but they take up more space. Round bowls are better for smaller bathrooms. Youll also want to consider height. Standard toilets are around 15 inches high, but "comfort height" or "ADA-compliant" toilets are taller, making them easier for people with mobility issues to use.
One-piece or two-piece? One-piece toilets have a sleeker, more modern look and are easier to clean since theres no seam between the tank and bowl. Two-piece toilets are typically less expensive and easier to maneuver during installation.
Once youve selected your perfect toilet, installation is the next hurdle. While some adventurous homeowners tackle this themselves, hiring a licensed plumber is often the wisest choice. A professional can ensure the toilet is installed correctly, preventing leaks and other headaches. They can also handle any unforeseen issues, like a flange that needs replacing. A proper installation ensures a secure, leak-free connection to the drain and water supply lines, and a level, stable toilet that wont rock or shift.
Choosing and installing a toilet might seem like a minor detail, but taking the time to research your options and invest in professional installation can make a big difference in your bathrooms functionality and your overall peace of mind. After all, nobody wants a toilet trouble!
Choosing a sink can feel as overwhelming as picking the perfect paint color – there are just so many options! But dont worry, breaking down the styles and considerations can make the process much easier. Think of your sink as the functional centerpiece of your bathroom, bridging the gap between the toilet and faucet. Its style should complement both, while also meeting your practical needs.
First, consider the size and layout of your bathroom. A pedestal sink offers a classic, space-saving solution for smaller bathrooms, while a larger double vanity might be perfect for a shared bathroom or master suite. Undermount sinks offer a sleek, seamless look with easy countertop cleanup, but require a solid surface countertop like granite or quartz. Vessel sinks, which sit on top of the counter, add a touch of modern flair and come in a variety of shapes and materials. Farmhouse or apron-front sinks bring rustic charm and offer deep basins, but can be quite large and require specific cabinet modifications.
Material matters too. Porcelain is a popular and affordable choice, offering durability and easy maintenance. Fireclay sinks are known for their resistance to chips and scratches, while stainless steel provides a modern, industrial look. Glass and stone sinks can add a luxurious touch, but require more delicate care.
Dont forget about practicality. How much counter space do you need? Do you prefer a single or double basin? Think about your daily routine and choose a sink that fits your lifestyle. A deeper basin might be better for washing your face or hair, while a shallower basin can be more stylish and space-saving.
Finally, consider the overall aesthetic youre aiming for. Do you want a sleek and modern look, a rustic farmhouse vibe, or something in between? Your sink should complement the style of your toilet, faucet, and other bathroom fixtures. Choosing a cohesive style will create a harmonious and inviting space. So, take your time, do your research, and choose a sink that not only looks great but also functions perfectly for your needs.
When it comes to sinks, the faucet is often an overlooked but crucial component. Beyond simply delivering water, todays faucets offer a surprising range of options and functionalities designed to enhance both practicality and aesthetics in the bathroom or kitchen. Choosing the right faucet can significantly impact water usage, ease of cleaning, and overall user experience.
One of the first considerations is the faucets mounting style. Common options include deck-mount, wall-mount, and single-hole configurations. Deck-mount is the most traditional, with the faucet attached directly to the sink or countertop. Wall-mounted faucets create a sleek, modern look and free up counter space, while single-hole faucets offer a streamlined minimalist aesthetic.
Beyond mounting styles, faucet handles play a significant role in both function and design. Separate hot and cold handles are a classic choice, offering precise temperature control. Single-handle faucets, operated with a lever or joystick, allow for easier one-handed operation and often come with built-in temperature limiters for safety. Touchless faucets, activated by motion sensors, are becoming increasingly popular in both residential and commercial settings for their hygienic and water-saving benefits.
Water flow and spray patterns are also key features to consider. Standard faucets typically have a single aerated stream, while others offer multiple spray options, from a powerful jet for heavy-duty cleaning to a gentle spray for rinsing delicate items. Some faucets even include pull-out or pull-down sprayers for added reach and versatility.
Finally, technological advancements have brought smart features to the faucet world. Some models can be programmed to dispense specific amounts of water, while others offer voice control for touch-free operation. These innovations not only enhance convenience but also contribute to water conservation efforts. With the variety of faucet options available today, theres a perfect fit for every style and need, making it easy to find the ideal blend of form and function for your sink.
Choosing a toilet, sink, and faucet might seem like picking out individual pieces, but the real magic happens when they work together seamlessly. Think of it like putting together an outfit – a great top, pants, and shoes can look mismatched if they dont share a common thread. Integrating fixtures creates that cohesive "outfit" for your bathroom, transforming it from a purely functional space into a stylish and relaxing retreat.
The key is to consider the overall design language youre aiming for. Do you envision a sleek, modern sanctuary with clean lines and minimalist forms? Or perhaps a more traditional, ornate space with vintage-inspired details? Once you have this vision, you can start selecting fixtures that complement each other. This doesnt necessarily mean everything needs to match perfectly. In fact, a little contrast can be interesting! But the fixtures should share certain characteristics, whether its finish, shape, or overall style.
For example, if youre going for a modern look, you might choose a rectangular sink, a wall-mounted faucet with a geometric spout, and a toilet with a similarly angular tank. All these elements would share a clean, contemporary aesthetic, creating a sense of unity. Alternatively, in a traditional bathroom, you might opt for a pedestal sink with ornate detailing, a faucet with cross handles, and a toilet with a classic, rounded design. These choices would create a cohesive, timeless feel.
Beyond aesthetics, integrating fixtures also improves functionality. A properly sized sink and faucet combination will prevent splashing, while a toilet that complements the sinks height will create a more comfortable and ergonomic space. By considering how these elements interact, you can create a bathroom that is both beautiful and practical. Its about more than just picking out pretty things; its about creating a holistic, well-designed space that enhances your daily routine.
A contractor[1][2] (North American English) or builder (British English),[3][4] is responsible for the day-to-day oversight of a construction site, management of vendors and trades, and the communication of information to all involved parties throughout the course of a building project.[5]
In the United States, a contractor may be a sole proprietor managing a project and performing labor or carpentry work, have a small staff, or may be a very large company managing billion dollar projects. Some builders build new homes, some are remodelers, some are developers.[6]
A general contractor is a construction manager employed by a client, usually upon the advice of the project's architect or engineer.[7] General Contractors are mainly responsible for the overall coordination of a project and may also act as building designer and construction foreman (a tradesman in charge of a crew).
A general contractor must first assess the project-specific documents (referred to as a bid, proposal, or tender documents). In the case of renovations, a site visit is required to get a better understanding of the project. Depending on the project delivery method, the general contractor will submit a fixed price proposal or bid, cost-plus price or an estimate. The general contractor considers the cost of home office overhead, general conditions, materials, and equipment, as well as the cost of labor, to provide the owner with a price for the project.
Contract documents may include drawings, project manuals (including general, supplementary, or special conditions and specifications), and addendum or modifications issued prior to proposal/bidding and prepared by a design professional, such as an architect.The general contractor may also assume the role of construction manager, responsible for overseeing the project while assuming financial and legal risks.There are several types of risks can occur include cost overruns, delays, and liabilities related to safety or contract breaches.
Prior to formal appointment, the selected general contractor to whom a client proposes to award a contract is often referred to as a "preferred contractor".[8]
A general contractor is responsible for providing all of the material, labor, equipment (such as heavy equipment and tools) and services necessary for the construction of the project. A general contractor often hires specialized subcontractors to perform all or portions of the construction work. When using subcontractors, the general contractor is responsible for overseeing the quality of all work performed by any and all of the workers and subcontractors.
It is a best practice for general contractors to prioritize safety on the job site, and they are generally responsible for ensuring that work takes place following safe practices.
A general contractor's responsibilities may include applying for building permits, advising the person they are hired by, securing the property, providing temporary utilities on site, managing personnel on site, providing site surveying and engineering, disposing or recycling of construction waste, monitoring schedules and cash flows, and maintaining accurate records.[9]
The general contractor may be responsible for some part of the design, referred to as the "contractor's design portion" (JCT terminology).[10]
In the United Kingdom, Australia and some British Commonwealth countries, the term 'general contractor' was gradually superseded by builders during the early twentieth century.[citation needed] This was the term used by major professional, trade, and consumer organizations when issuing contracts for construction work, and thus the term 'general contractor' fell out of use except in large organizations where the main contractor is the top manager and a general contractor shares responsibilities with professional contractors.
General contractors who conduct work for government agencies are often referred to as "builders". This term is also used in contexts where the customer's immediate general contractor is permitted to sub-contract or circumstances are likely to involve sub-contracting to specialist operators e.g. in various public services.
In the United States and Asia, the terms general contractor (or simply "contractor"), prime contractor and main contractor are often interchangeable when referring to small local companies that perform residential work. These companies are represented by trade organizations such as the NAHB.[11]
Licensing requirements to work legally on construction projects vary from locale to locale. In the United States, there are no federal licensing requirements to become a general contractor, but most US states require general contractors to obtain a local license to operate. It is the states' responsibility to define these requirements: for example, in the state of California, the requirements are stated as follows:
With a few exceptions, all businesses or individuals who work on any building, highway, road, parking facility, railroad, excavation, or other structure in California must be licensed by the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) if the total cost of one or more contracts on the project is $500 or more.
In every state that requires a license, a surety bond is required as part of the licensing process, with the exception of Louisiana, where bonding requirements may vary in different parishes. Not all states require General Contractor licenses - these include Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, among others.
Some general contractors obtain bachelor's degrees in construction science, building science, surveying, construction safety, or other disciplines.
General Contractors often learn about different aspects of construction, including masonry, carpentry, framing, and plumbing. Aspiring general contractors communicate with subcontractors and may learn the management skills they need to run their own company.
Experience in the construction industry as well as references from customers, business partners, or former employers are demanded. Some jurisdictions require candidates to provide proof of financing to own their own general contracting firm.
General Contractors often run their own business. They hire subcontractors to complete specialized construction work and may manage a team of plumbers, electricians, bricklayers, carpenters, iron workers, technicians, handymans, architects and roofers. General Contractors build their business by networking with potential clients, buying basic construction tools, and ensuring that their subcontractors complete high-quality work. General Contractors do not usually complete much construction work themselves, but they need to be familiar with construction techniques so they can manage workers effectively. Other reasons include access to specialist skills, flexible hiring and firing, and lower costs.
A property owner or real estate developer develops a program of their needs and selects a site (often with an architect). The architect assembles a design team of consulting engineers and other experts to design the building and specify the building systems. Today contractors frequently participate on the design team by providing pre-design services such as providing estimations of the budget and scheduling requirements to improve the economy of the project. In other cases, the general contractor is hired at the close of the design phase. The owner, architect, and general contractor work closely together to meet deadlines and budget. The general contractor works with subcontractors to ensure quality standards; subcontractors specialise in areas such as electrical wiring, plumbing, masonry, etc.
The concept of home improvement, home renovation or remodeling is the process of renovating, making improvements or making additions to one's home.[1] Home improvement can consist of projects that upgrade an existing home interior (such as electrical and plumbing), exterior (masonry, concrete, siding, roofing) or other improvements to the property (i.e. garden work or garage maintenance/additions). Home improvement projects can be carried out for a number of different reasons; personal preference and comfort, maintenance or repair work, making a home bigger by adding rooms/spaces, as a means of saving energy, or to improve safety.[2]
While "home improvement" often refers to building projects that alter the structure of an existing home, it can also include improvements to lawns, gardens, and outdoor structures, such as gazebos and garages. It also encompasses maintenance, repair, and general servicing tasks. Home improvement projects generally have one or more of the following goals:[citation needed]
Maintenance projects can include:
Additional living space may be added by:
Homeowners may reduce utility costs with:
The need to be safer or for better privacy or emergency management can be fulfilled with diversified measures which can be improved, maintained or added. Secret compartments and passages can also be conceived for privacy and security.
Home or residential renovation is an almost $300 billion industry in the United States,[5] and a $48 billion industry in Canada.[6][full citation needed] The average cost per project is $3,000 in the United States and $11,000–15,000 in Canada.
Professional home improvement is ancient and goes back to the beginning of recorded civilization. One example is Sergius Orata, who in the 1st century B.C. is said by the writer Vitruvius (in his famous book De architectura) to have invented the hypocaust. The hypocaust is an underfloor heating system that was used throughout the Roman Empire in villas of the wealthy. He is said to have become wealthy himself by buying villas at a low price, adding spas and his newly invented hypocaust, and reselling them at higher prices.[7]
Perhaps the most important or visible professionals in the renovation industry are renovation contractors or skilled trades. These are the builders that have specialized credentials, licensing and experience to perform renovation services in specific municipalities.
While there is a fairly large "grey market" of unlicensed companies, there are those that have membership in a reputable association and/or are accredited by a professional organization. Homeowners are recommended to perform checks such as verifying license and insurance and checking business references prior to hiring a contractor to work on their house.
Because interior renovation will touch the change of the internal structure of the house, ceiling construction, circuit configuration and partition walls, etc., such work related to the structure of the house, of course, also includes renovation of wallpaper posting, furniture settings, lighting, etc.
Aggregators are companies that bundle home improvement service offers and act as intermediary agency between service providers and customers.
Home improvement was popularized on television in 1979 with the premiere of This Old House starring Bob Vila on PBS. American cable channel HGTV features many do-it-yourself shows, as does sister channel DIY Network.[8] Danny Lipford hosts and produces the nationally syndicated Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford. Tom Kraeutler and Leslie Segrete co-host the nationally syndicated The Money Pit Home Improvement Radio Show.
Movies that poked fun at the difficulties involved include: Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House (1948), starring Cary Grant and Myrna Loy; George Washington Slept Here (1942), featuring Jack Benny and Ann Sheridan; and The Money Pit (1986), with Tom Hanks and Shelley Long. The sitcom Home Improvement used the home improvement theme for comedic purposes.
Building design, also called architectural design, refers to the broadly based architectural, engineering and technical applications to the design of buildings. All building projects require the services of a building designer, typically a licensed architect. Smaller, less complicated projects often do not require a licensed professional, and the design of such projects is often undertaken by building designers, draftspersons, interior designers (for interior fit-outs or renovations), or contractors. Larger, more complex building projects require the services of many professionals trained in specialist disciplines, usually coordinated by an architect.
An architect is a person trained in the planning, design and supervision of the construction of buildings. Professionally, an architect's decisions affect public safety, and thus an architect must undergo specialized training consisting of advanced education and a practicum (or internship) for practical experience to earn a license to practice architecture. In most of the world's jurisdictions, the professional and commercial use of the term "architect" is legally protected.
Building engineering typically includes the services of electrical, mechanical and structural engineers.
A draftsperson or documenter has attained a certificate or diploma in architectural drafting (or equivalent training), and provides services relating to preparing construction documents rather than building design. Some draftspersons are employed by architectural design firms and building contractors, while others are self-employed.[1]
In many places, building codes and legislation of professions allow persons to design single family residential buildings and, in some cases, light commercial buildings without an architectural license. As such, "Building designer" is a common designation in the United States, Canada, Australia and elsewhere for someone who offers building design services but is not a licensed architect or engineer.
Anyone may use the title of "building designer" in the broadest sense. In many places, a building designer may achieve certification demonstrating a higher level of training. In the U.S., the National Council of Building Designer Certification (NCBDC),[2] an offshoot of the American Institute of Building Design,[3] administers a program leading to the title of Certified Professional Building Designer (CPBD). Usually, building designers are trained as architectural technologists or draftspersons; they may also be architecture school graduates that have not completed licensing requirements.[4]
Many building designers are known as "residential" or "home designers", since they focus mainly on residential design and remodeling.[5] In the U.S. state of Nevada, "Residential Designer" is a regulated term for those who are registered as such under Nevada State Board of Architecture, Interior Design and Residential Design, and one may not legally represent oneself in a professional capacity without being currently registered.
In Australia where use of the term architect and some derivatives is highly restricted but the architectural design of buildings has very few restrictions in place, the term building designer is used extensively by people or design practices who are not registered by the relevant State Board of Architects. In Queensland the term building design is used in legislation which licenses practitioners as part of a broader building industry licensing system. In Victoria there is a registration process for building designers and in other States there is currently no regulation of the profession. A Building Designers Association operates in each state to represent the interests of building designers.
Building surveyors are technically minded general practitioners in the United Kingdom, Australia and elsewhere, trained much like architectural technologists. In the UK, the knowledge and expertise of the building surveyor is applied to various tasks in the property and construction markets, including building design for smaller residential and light commercial projects. This aspect of the practice is similar to other European occupations, most notably the geometra in Italy, but also the géomètre in France, Belgium and Switzerland. the building surveyors are also capable on establishment of bills of quantities for the new works and renovation or maintenance or rehabilitation works.[6]
The profession of Building Surveyor does not exist in the US. The title Surveyor refers almost exclusively to Land surveyors. Architects, Building Designers, Residential Designers, Construction Managers, and Home Inspectors perform some or all of the work of the U.K. Building Surveyor.
I truly cannot say enough good things about Tamari and TNT Design and Build. We had a pipe leak in our kitchen that caused extensive damage. We ended up needing to do an entire kitchen renovation on a tight timeline. Because it was unexpected we weren’t prepared with many ideas. Luckily, with guidance from Tamari’s team and his extensive showroom we were able to choose quality products that we were really happy with. TNT does top quality work everywhere—from replacing pipes, putting up new drywall, flooring, custom cabinet installation, countertop installation, custom tiling, painting and more. The team is professional and punctual. The small hiccups we encountered along the way were dealt with quickly—the team is very solution oriented. The work exceeded our expectations and was completed ahead of our agreed upon timeline! We highly recommend TNT Design and Build and will definitely use them for any future house projects
I have worked with TNT Design & Build on over 15 remodels and flips of my personal properties, and I can confidently say that they are the best in the business. From start to finish, every project has been handled with professionalism, expertise, and attention to detail. Tamari, the owner, is truly outstanding. His leadership, vision, and commitment to excellence ensure that every project is completed on time and with impeccable quality. He takes the time to understand my goals and always goes above and beyond to bring them to life. His team of workers is just as impressive—skilled, hardworking, and dedicated to delivering top-notch craftsmanship. What sets TNT Design & Build apart is their reliability and consistency. No matter the size or complexity of the project, they have always delivered results that exceed my expectations. Their work is not only high-quality but also beautifully designed and built to last. If you’re looking for a trustworthy, efficient, and talented team for your next remodel or construction project, I highly recommend TNT Design & Build. They have been my go-to company for years, and I wouldn’t trust anyone else with my projects!
We have used TNT for multiple projects from building an addition to full house flooring and complete kitchen and bathroom remodel. Mor and her team continue to amaze me! The work is impeccable and the customer service is top notch. Highly recommended!
https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&origin=33.139033989698,-117.22217364532&destination=3142+Tiger+Run+Ct+%23108%2C+3142+Tiger+Run+Ct+%23+108%2C+Carlsbad%2C+CA+92010%2C+USA&destination_place_id=ChIJmVKU_cB03IARH1lDZZgiNIE&travelmode=driving&query=Licensed+General+Contractor+Carlsbad%2C+CA
https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&origin=33.066184161172,-117.23718877468&destination=3142+Tiger+Run+Ct+%23108%2C+3142+Tiger+Run+Ct+%23+108%2C+Carlsbad%2C+CA+92010%2C+USA&destination_place_id=ChIJmVKU_cB03IARH1lDZZgiNIE&travelmode=driving&query=Carlsbad+Building+Contractors
https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&origin=33.173453254344,-117.24838058611&destination=3142+Tiger+Run+Ct+%23108%2C+3142+Tiger+Run+Ct+%23+108%2C+Carlsbad%2C+CA+92010%2C+USA&destination_place_id=ChIJmVKU_cB03IARH1lDZZgiNIE&travelmode=driving&query=Carlsbad+Building+Contractors
https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&origin=33.135884393968,-117.15565592798&destination=3142+Tiger+Run+Ct+%23108%2C+3142+Tiger+Run+Ct+%23+108%2C+Carlsbad%2C+CA+92010%2C+USA&destination_place_id=ChIJmVKU_cB03IARH1lDZZgiNIE&travelmode=driving&query=Carlsbad+Building+Contractors
https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&origin=33.147241480345,-117.22486020593&destination=3142+Tiger+Run+Ct+%23108%2C+3142+Tiger+Run+Ct+%23+108%2C+Carlsbad%2C+CA+92010%2C+USA&destination_place_id=ChIJmVKU_cB03IARH1lDZZgiNIE&travelmode=driving&query=Carlsbad+Residential+Builder
https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&origin=33.155371835311,-117.31744951591&destination=3142+Tiger+Run+Ct+%23108%2C+3142+Tiger+Run+Ct+%23+108%2C+Carlsbad%2C+CA+92010%2C+USA&destination_place_id=ChIJmVKU_cB03IARH1lDZZgiNIE&travelmode=driving&query=Renovation+Contractor+Carlsbad%2C+CA
https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&origin=33.090563689888,-117.19634622589&destination=3142+Tiger+Run+Ct+%23108%2C+3142+Tiger+Run+Ct+%23+108%2C+Carlsbad%2C+CA+92010%2C+USA&destination_place_id=ChIJmVKU_cB03IARH1lDZZgiNIE&travelmode=driving&query=Local+Contractor+Carlsbad%2C+CA
https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&origin=33.071662470686,-117.23255602295&destination=3142+Tiger+Run+Ct+%23108%2C+3142+Tiger+Run+Ct+%23+108%2C+Carlsbad%2C+CA+92010%2C+USA&destination_place_id=ChIJmVKU_cB03IARH1lDZZgiNIE&travelmode=driving&query=Home+Remodeling+Carlsbad%2C+CA
https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&origin=33.152350022328,-117.22644508983&destination=3142+Tiger+Run+Ct+%23108%2C+3142+Tiger+Run+Ct+%23+108%2C+Carlsbad%2C+CA+92010%2C+USA&destination_place_id=ChIJmVKU_cB03IARH1lDZZgiNIE&travelmode=driving&query=Home+Construction+Carlsbad%2C+CA
https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&origin=33.198141319043,-117.24404202552&destination=3142+Tiger+Run+Ct+%23108%2C+3142+Tiger+Run+Ct+%23+108%2C+Carlsbad%2C+CA+92010%2C+USA&destination_place_id=ChIJmVKU_cB03IARH1lDZZgiNIE&travelmode=driving&query=Home+Improvement+Carlsbad%2C+CA