Category: Brandpoint Home & Garden

2023-09-18T08:01:00

(BPT) – Today’s homeowners want to use materials in their homes that fit their busy lifestyles. Porcelain countertops and extra-large slabs meet this need perfectly as they are beautiful, durable, very low-maintenance and affordable. Porcelain slabs can be used on many surfaces, including countertops, floors, walls, fireplaces, vanities, backsplashes, shower walls, tub surrounds and even exterior flooring and cladding. They bring the stunning on-trend colors and patterns of marble, slate and other natural stones, as well as modern concrete looks, to a space while still standing up to real-life activity.

Daltile, America’s leading porcelain tile and countertop provider, knows how porcelain slabs can transform a home from fine to fab. Check out its eight reasons you should consider using porcelain slabs in your next home design venture.

1. Luxury at an attainable price

Porcelain slabs are a great solution for designs that require a high-end look on a budget. They easily bring the scale and style of natural stone slabs to projects where real stone, like marble, might be cost- or installation-prohibitive. Thanks to modern technology, the industry’s top manufacturers can create realistic designs that make it hard to tell the difference between porcelain slabs and the natural materials they emulate.

2 Stops bacteria in its tracks

In today’s “germ-aware” world, you’ll want a surface that is durable and easily cleanable. Porcelain slabs are up to the task. Not only are they easy to clean, but they’re also resistant to the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew. Regular, basic cleaning with water and mild soap is all you need. Also, if you use professional cleaning services, you can rest at ease knowing your porcelain will not be damaged.

3. Easy to install

A porcelain countertop can be installed right over your existing countertop. No demolition needed!

4. Powerful design impact

One of the hottest trends in interior design is using seamless, continuous design to create style and luxury. This design trend is easy to achieve with extra-large porcelain slabs. They add powerful design impact whether you use it for a single installation, a floor-to-wall-to-countertop continuum or even book-matched for a stunning feature wall.

5. Perfect for kitchen islands

A kitchen island is a useful and eye-catching feature in any kitchen. Porcelain slabs create beautiful kitchen islands with minimal or no seams. A porcelain slab island can also withstand the wear and tear of busy family life and frequent entertaining. For example, Daltile’s Panoramic Porcelain Surfaces line is heat resistant, so you can set hot pans and pots on its surface. It’s also water- and stain-resistant, so your porcelain kitchen island will look good for years to come.

6. Ideal for a master bathroom oasis

Master bathrooms act as an oasis in a chaotic, kid-friendly home or as an escape from today’s stressful, fast-paced world. That’s why many new home constructions and renovations focus on turning master bedrooms into personal retreats. Opt for porcelain slabs to create a seamless design with wrap-around luxury in your bedroom.

7. Solid base for super shower

The “Super Shower” has also become a must for many homeowners. This luxurious shower features various amenities like rain showers, multiple showerheads and digital water temperature controls. Here again, porcelain slabs offer a seamless design that flows across several surfaces (floors to walls to countertops), creating luxury and elegance.

8. Fitting for exterior spaces

Porcelain slabs aren’t limited to interior designs. They’re also an excellent material for outdoor spaces for relaxing and entertaining, including outdoor bars, kitchens and beautiful sitting areas. With porcelain, you can enjoy the same high level of sophisticated indoor design style but in the great outdoors.

Are you ready to update your home with quality porcelain tile? Visit Daltile to find countertops and a variety of porcelain slabs to turn your home into your dream space.

2023-09-16T05:01:00

(BPT) – If you like exposed brick, neutral colors, metal accents, glass and concrete, you’re probably a big fan of modern industrial design. By starting with a few details, it’s easier than you think to integrate this on-trend aesthetic into your home décor — without breaking the bank.

Try these ideas for incorporating industrial elements into your home.

Have a light bulb moment

Whether you use Edison-style light bulbs as string lights or swap out some of your regular bulbs, the exposed filaments of these bulbs instantly transport you to the early industrial age. Today’s Edison-style LED bulbs come in a variety of shapes and sizes to suit a wide range of fixtures.

Enter the neutral zone

A coat of paint easily transforms any room’s appearance. For the industrial aesthetic, choose a monochromatic look using white, black, gray or brown, then add a few accents like light fixtures, art or vases that use metal, brick, glass or wood.

Put the pedal to the metal

Switching out drawer and cabinet hardware with mixed metals is another quick and easy way to emphasize the industrial feel. Opt for matte black and brushed metals to create visual interest.

Set it in concrete

Creating a concrete countertop is a simple project to undertake — and easy on the wallet. Concrete countertops are also not just for kitchens anymore. You can create a concrete countertop for a bathroom, living room, outdoor kitchen, entryway — if you can imagine it, you can make it.

Concrete is very versatile, so you can create a one-of-a-kind statement piece as a simple weekend project. All you’ll need is Quikrete^® Concrete Countertop Mix and a base. You could build your own base like this iron bar table, or repurpose something you already own or find at a thrift store. Because concrete is endlessly customizable, Quikrete Concrete Countertop Mix can transform an entry table, patio island or coffee table into a signature masterpiece. Whatever you build will be extremely durable and practical — while also enhancing your modern industrial look.

Here are basic instructions for creating a concrete countertop for your home:

Safety first: Before beginning any concrete project, make sure you have proper safety gear like eye protection and waterproof gloves.

1. Determine the dimensions of the countertop. If it will serve as a bar, make sure it extends at least 6 inches beyond the base to allow room for stools.

2. Build the countertop forms. Design and construct the forms in multiple sections to allow for the weight of the concrete. For example, if you’re creating a concrete countertop for an entry table, build forms from 3/4″ melamine-coated particle board by screwing four 1.5″ strips to a base sheet according to the countertop dimensions. Another advantage of smaller sections is that if they’re less than 4′ rebar is not required.

3. Apply a bead of silicone caulk in the seams of the forms. Then smooth with a caulk tool or your fingertip to give the countertop a smooth edge.

4. Mix the Quikrete Concrete Countertop Mix by following the directions on the bag. Then pour into the forms in two 1″ layers. If necessary, place metal rebar or wire mesh between the two layers for additional strength.

5. Overfill the forms slightly before pulling a 2×4 in a sawing motion over the surface several times in each direction. This process, known as screeding, will level what will be the underside of the countertop.

6. Consolidate the mix and remove air voids by tapping the forms with a rubber mallet or vibrating with an orbital sander without the pad.

7. Remove the forms after 18 hours. Once each countertop section is removed from the forms, smooth the edges with fine sandpaper.
Note: Although you have to wait a few days before the countertop fully forms with many concrete mixes, Quikrete’s Concrete Countertop Mix doesn’t have to sit for more than a day.

8. With the help of another person, place the newly formed countertop pieces on top of the base. If your countertop project requires any hardware or appliance installation, make sure you follow the manufacturer instructions.

9. Seal your concrete countertops with Quikrete Acrylic Concrete Cure & Seal to protect them from stain-causing contaminants like dirt, oil and grease.

Pro tip: To customize your concrete countertop, add liquid cement colors during the mixing process and stain the surface. You can also fill air holes with Polyblend Non-Sanded Grout from Custom Building Products.

Ready to get started? Watch this how-to video on Quickrete.com.

Using these tips, you can become your own interior designer, creating a modern industrial look that’s visually appealing, minimalistic and flexible for just about any space in your home.

2023-09-12T11:01:01

(BPT) – Fall is just around the corner and many homeowners are starting to compile their home maintenance checklists. With cooler temps on the horizon, it’s a good time for seasonal projects like inspecting your roof for summer storm damage, sealing windows and doors, or moving outdoor furniture to storage. Culligan International, a world leader in the treatment of water, says it’s also the perfect time to ensure that your water is cleaner and safer for both you and your home.

Water contamination can happen through a local municipality, an underground well or a homeowner’s own pipes. It’s important to have your water tested by a trusted water expert who can determine the necessary steps to eliminate any harmful impurities that may be present.

Here are five telltale signs that you should have your water tested:

1. Changes in Taste, Smell or Appearance.

A change in the taste, smell or clarity of your water could indicate that contaminants are present. A water test will be able to detect harmful contaminants that might be in your water and help determine the proper treatment solution. While there are many treatment options, Culligan’s Aquasential^® Smart Reverse Osmosis (RO) Drinking Water System is generally regarded as the World’s Most Efficient RO Drinking Water System.* With up to seven stages of filtration and 14 different filter options, it is certified to reduce 59 contaminants including lead, arsenic, pharmaceuticals, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and PFAS. Homeowners can have peace of mind with an unlimited supply of great-tasting, cleaner, safer water.

2. Mineral Build-up.

If you notice mineral deposits, stains or a white film on bathroom fixtures, dishes and sinks, this may be because you have hard water in your home. Hard water is high in mineral content like calcium and magnesium carbonates, bicarbonates and sulfates. These minerals can also clog showerheads and appliances, make soap and detergent less effective and leave clothing looking dingy and wear more easily. Water softener systems remove these minerals. Culligan’s Aquasential^® Smart High Efficiency (HE) Water Softener offers high-efficiency water softening for your home and is regarded as the world’s most efficient water softener**. It can optimize salt, water and electricity, with smart features that let you track water usage and set goals and receive service notifications like low salt alerts. With soft water, your appliances, dishes and clothing can remain in good health and even last longer.

3. Dry Hair and Skin.

You may also have hard water in your home if you notice changes in your skin and hair. Showering or bathing in hard water can leave a film of soap on your skin. This can prevent the removal of dirt and bacteria and irritate the skin. Washing your hair in hard water can cause build-up that makes it tangle more easily, look dull and feel rough. Softening your water will help keep hair and skin silky smooth.

4. Frequent Plumbing Repairs.

Since your home’s pipes are constantly in contact with your water, water that contains harmful impurities can lead to damage in your home’s plumbing system. Frequent clogging and leaks are signs that you may have problem water that needs treatment. In addition to a plumber, you’ll want to call a water expert to test your water and determine the appropriate treatment solution.

5. Expensive Water Bill.

If you notice a sudden increase in your water bill, this could point to untreated water. Since your plumbing system needs to work harder when there are mineral build-ups in your pipes and home appliances, the impact can often be felt on your pocketbook.

For more information about water treatment solutions or to schedule a free in-home water test, visit www.culligan.com.

2023-09-09T05:01:00

(BPT) – Looking to make improvements to the overall look of your property before it gets too cold or snowy? This is a great time of year to address any cracks you may have noticed in your concrete driveway, patio, pathway or steps. As long as the temperature is staying above 45 degrees Fahrenheit, you can still take care of this type of task during the early fall months.

While concrete is very durable, cracks can occur due to weather conditions and temperature changes, amongst other issues, and over time could make your property look unkempt, as well as growing to cause a potential safety hazard. Taking care of the cracks you see as soon as possible — before they get any bigger — is an ideal way to help prevent further problems with your concrete surfaces. This is an easy way to help keep your property looking tidy, safe and well maintained.

Before the temps drop and the snow flies, here are steps you can follow to address any cracks you may be noticing. This is a project you can tackle in a single weekend, with the right supplies. One of the easiest products to use is Quikrete^® Concrete Crack Seal, which is a pre-mixed blend of latex emulsion formulated to fill cracks in horizontal concrete surfaces.

Before you begin, here’s what you’ll need for the project:

• Quikrete Concrete Crack Seal
• Wire brush
• Chisel
• Gloves
• Safety glasses

Then, follow these steps to ensure you get the job done right.

1. Check the forecast: If rain is expected within 24 hours, you should postpone this project until you know the weather will be dry. You’ll also want to be sure the temperature outside will be between 45 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit (or 7-38 degrees Celsius). Do not use the sealant product if freezing temperatures are in the immediate forecast.

2. Prep the area: Use your chisel to remove debris inside the crack, and your wire brush to clean loose dirt, grit or gravel from the surface. You could also use a leaf blower, if you have one, to help clear away unwanted material. AA pro tip is to thoroughly clean the area with Quikrete Concrete & Asphalt Cleaner to ensure the best bond with the sealant.

3. Measure the crack size: If the crack you need to fill is deeper than 1/4 inch, it’s recommended to use a filler first, such as all-purpose sand. Fill the crack with sand to within 1/4 inch of the surface. When combined with the sealant, the filler will help ensure that a larger crack is completely sealed. Do not apply in cracks that are wider than half an inch.

4. Use the sealant: Start by shaking the container of Quikrete Concrete Crack Seal to make sure that the product is well blended. Next, cut the tip of the spout to make a 1/4-inch to 3/8-inch opening. Squeeze the formula into the crack, working slowly. Overfill the crack slightly, as the product will shrink. The sealant is self-leveling, and its color blends well with gray concrete.

5. Let it cure: After pouring the sealant, wait 24 hours for the product to cure. You can apply a second coat after 24 hours, as needed, to provide a more uniform finished surface.

Crack sealing is an easy and low-cost fix, but if you’re seeing multiple cracks and holes, it may be time to consider a more complete and permanent solution. However, sealing cracks now will help prevent future damage and give you time to plan for bigger projects in the future. With these minor repairs in place, you can be confident that your driveway or other cement surfaces will be in better shape by the time spring rolls around again.

2023-09-08T10:31:00

(BPT) – Planning a home renovation project? You may be feeling some excitement, anxiety or a thrilling mix of both. Of course, making changes to your home can be fun, but there are so many choices to be made, especially when it comes to choosing flooring that will serve you for years to come.

Flooring can make a huge impact on your space, and choosing the right material and style can make the difference between a room you like and one you love.

To help you through this process from selection to installation — and even make it enjoyable — LL Flooring created a simple, guided four-step flooring process for homeowners and pros alike to ensure that they find the flooring of their dreams.

“We’ve seen how the task of selecting flooring can be challenging, especially for first-time shoppers,” said Charles Tyson, President and CEO of LL Flooring. “This four-step process draws from our deep understanding of our customers’ needs and our ever-evolving flooring options to provide a smart, simple and streamlined experience that makes selecting floors easier than ever.”

1. Find the right material

First, you need to find the best material for your flooring project. Between solid hardwood, engineered hardwood, vinyl, laminate and tile, there are seemingly endless options of flooring styles to choose from.

To pick the right one, you’ll need to consider your lifestyle and space to ensure the material you choose will hold up to the elements in your day-to-day life. Factors to consider can range from your family, pets, regional climate and area of the home.

If you need help picking the right material for your home renovation project, check out LL Flooring’s Floor Finder. Flooring experts are also available to speak with you online or at your local store.

2. Find the right style

How do you want your space to feel? When choosing a flooring style, make sure it fits the overall aesthetic of your room and home by choosing colors and textures that appeal to you and your unique sense of style.

You can see how your space will look using a digital tool like LL Flooring’s digital floor visualizer, Picture It! Paired with an in-store consultation, you can find the right flooring that expresses your style and complements your home.

3. Finalize your choice

Now that you’ve considered your needs and style, it’s time to get your hands on flooring samples. Order free flooring samples to test at home, so you’ll know exactly how they’ll look in your space. Seeing and feeling the potential options underfoot can help you make your final decision with confidence.

When reviewing your flooring samples, ask an LL Flooring expert about previous customer reviews and double-check that they will suit your lifestyle and interior design. This will help you narrow down the final purchase decision.

4. Install and celebrate

Finally, you’re ready to make your vision a reality. Whether you prefer to do it yourself or hire professional installers — available through LL Flooring — all the previous steps have come together to bring your home project to life. Once the final piece is in place, it’s time to celebrate your renovated space.

2023-09-06T01:01:00

(BPT) – Are you looking for eye-catching and practical ways to upgrade your home? Consider investing in an outdoor renovation project! From installing or remodeling a patio to adding an outdoor fireplace, these outdoor projects can make your home an inviting space in which you and others will want to spend time.

To inspire and help you along your outdoor design journey, Belgard^® — a leading provider of outdoor home products like pavers, retaining walls and other landscape features — offers five outdoor design inspirations you can implement in your next home improvement project.

1. Upgrade your patio

A patio or deck can be a wonderful addition to your home. It acts as an extension of your home and provides another livable space to relax and socialize with family and friends. You can even incorporate an outdoor dining area and workspace to create a multi-purpose patio.

Whether you want to add a patio or upgrade your existing one, doing so also adds value to your home. According to the National Association of Realtors Research Group (NAR) 2023 Remodeling Impact Report, a new patio typically costs $10,000-$10,500. However, homeowners that installed a patio recovered 95% of the value from the project.

When designing your patio, consider using concrete pavers to incorporate textures and colors. Concrete pavers are a great way to complete the feel of your outdoor space and seamlessly blend the hardscapes in with the existing layout because they complement various design styles. They’re also a great investment and have a life span of 30 to 100 years to withstand extreme weather and bear heavy weight.

2. Invest in landscaping

If you want to improve the appearance of your home and get an instant return on investment, upgrade your landscape. Not only does investing in landscaping enhance your home’s curb appeal, but it also extends a warm invitation into your home for visitors.

The NAR report found that lining your walkway of pavers with plants, or adding in raised beds and shrubs, allowed homeowners to recover 104% of the project’s cost. However, if you want to start small, adding flowering shrubs, shading trees or mulching are easy, cost-effective ways to revive your yard.

3. Add shade structures

During the warmer months, you’ll want shade structures so you can get the most out of your outdoor space, no matter the temperature. Escape the heat by installing a pergola on your patio.

Pergolas are a popular option because homeowners can choose various materials, styles and colors to fit their layout. A well-designed pergola can boost property values and increase the usability of the backyard.

Decorate your pergola with sun-blocking curtains and hanging plants to create the perfect private getaway in your backyard. For a more cost-effective option, a trellis with plants or greenery can provide both privacy and shade.

4. Install an outdoor kitchen

Outdoor kitchens are becoming increasingly popular with homeowners and potential buyers. They allow people to spend as much time outdoors as possible while entertaining and feeding guests. It also means that you don’t heat up your house during the summer months.

Compared to other outdoor home improvement projects, outdoor kitchens offer a substantial return on investment. NARS found that homeowners recovered 100% of the cost of building an outdoor kitchen. The report also found that 99% of homeowners who added an outdoor kitchen felt a greater desire to be home and 71% felt an increased sense of enjoyment with their home.

Note: Ensure the kitchen is functional within your space and has shelter from rain or intense sun, so you have optimal time to utilize it throughout the year.

5. Incorporate a fire feature

Whether you choose a fireplace or pit, an outdoor fire feature will add value to your home and allow you to make memories with friends and family in a cozy environment huddled around whichever feature you choose.

Fire features also add 32% better functionality, livability and personality to your home and make your outdoor space more usable, so you can enjoy your outdoor space during a brisk summer evening or in colder climates.

Consider your budget, space layout and function for fire features to ensure you choose the right one for your backyard and family. A DIY fire pit is a great inexpensive option with versatile use and style. Opt for an outdoor fireplace if you’re looking for a more premium option. It can double as a privacy wall and takes up less space than a typical fireplace.

Let these five outdoor renovation projects inspire you to upgrade your home, add value to your property and make your home a place you and others want to spend their time. For more outdoor design inspiration, visit Belgard.com.

2023-08-29T07:01:01

(BPT) – Homeowner demand for elevated outdoor spaces is on the rise across the country. Among the trends shaping outdoor designs, one material is emerging as a standout choice: tile.

“The appeal of stunning and functional outdoor living areas constructed with stylish, long-lasting materials is undeniable. Tile is the go-to for so many outdoor applications because its durability, design flexibility and functionality can’t be beat,” said Laura Grilli, director of product design for Daltile.

Grilli shares the top tile trends for creating beautiful outdoor living areas:

1. Blending the indoors and out

Flowing cohesive design from the indoors to outdoors connects aesthetics and elevates spaces. For example, the outdoor living space will be a visual continuation of the adjacent indoor living space. This is often achieved by using similar materials in both spaces, often including tile, to create consistency and connection.

2. Porcelain is the tile of choice

Tile is available in many different materials, but porcelain tile is trending for outdoor applications. Porcelain is inherently durable, stainproof, scratchproof, waterproof, frost resistant and fire resistant. Plus, advances including Daltile’s Xteriors porcelain line include many options in size, design, color and slip-resistance that are ideal choices for outdoor designs.

3. Focus on functionality and entertainment

Due to the bevy of benefits of porcelain tile, it can be used in near-endless ways. Many people desire outdoor spaces for relaxing and entertaining, so outdoor bars, fancy kitchens and beautiful sitting areas are trending. Porcelain lets homeowners enjoy the same high level of sophisticated style in outdoor tiles and countertops that historically was only available indoors.

4. Walkways and walkable surfaces

Creating pathways between outdoor spaces connects a property and facilitates movement. Products such as porcelain 2cm pavers are now making authentic stone and wood looks available to replace common concrete pavers that used to be the standard outdoor walkway option.

5. Style without maintenance

When it comes to outdoor porcelain tile, planks, slabs and countertops, you get the high-end look of stone, marble and wood without the maintenance, upkeep or wear concerns. No sealing is ever needed. Simply clean with mild soap and water to keep spaces looking like new.

“Incorporating tile into your outdoor design brings a multitude of benefits that go beyond aesthetics. Its durability and resilience make it a practical choice for withstanding the elements and maintaining its beauty over time. With an array of styles and patterns available, tile allows you to unleash your creativity and personalize your outdoor space,” said Grilli.

2023-08-29T05:01:00

(BPT) – Whether you’re taking a shower, cleaning the dishes or simply washing your hands, access to hot water is considered an essential in American homes. When you have to wait too long for that soothing warm flow, you may start to wonder if it’s time to upgrade your water heater. And worse, if access to hot water suddenly disappears, you may be forced to replace it quickly — and deal with chilly bathing in the interim.

A new water heater provides a fast fix to your problems, but it’s important not to make a decision in haste that impacts your comfort and operating costs for years to come. By educating yourself now about the difference between two main types of modern water heaters — tank and tankless — you’ll be prepared to make the best decision for you and your home whenever the time comes.

Jason Fleming, Executive Vice President at Noritz America, is an expert on water heaters and understands this can be a difficult decision. He answers homeowners’ top questions about tank and tankless options.

Do tank or tankless water heaters cost more?

The cost advantages depend on whether you want a quick fix or a long-term investment. Tank heaters cost less up front but are expensive to run and wear out sooner. Tankless heaters cost more up front, but save you substantially on your monthly bills. Comparing a standard 50-gallon tank heater with an equivalent tankless (condensed gas-fired unit), the tankless unit can reduce energy costs by 60% or more. Plus, tankless lasts up to two times longer.

Key takeaway: Tankless saves more long-term.

Which option is most efficient?

Energy efficiency is one of the biggest perks homeowners want from a new water heater. A tank heater operates continuously. That means it’s running even when you’re asleep, heating water that sits in a holding tank, which is not energy efficient. Tankless heaters are designed to save energy because they only heat water on demand. It’s a smaller, compact system that flash-heats water when you need it and turns off as soon as you turn off the faucet. That equates to less energy use and lower utility bills.

Key takeaway: Heating unused water is like dumping money down the drain.

Which is the greener option?

Homeowners have a growing interest in a green home that is eco-friendly. Tankless water heaters work to reduce carbon emissions. They do this by using less energy to heat the water since it’s heated on demand rather than maintaining a full tank of heated water. Additionally, tankless models last longer, equating to a decrease in landfill waste.

Key takeaway: Tankless options are ideal for eco-friendly homes.

Which is harder to install?

Both types of water heaters should be installed by a qualified, licensed contractor. Traditional tank water heaters are large and may require multiple service technicians to move and navigate in a utility room. Tankless units are compact and ideal for small spaces, great for opening up an existing space and making it easier for professional installers to navigate. In fact, tankless water heaters are about the size of a carry-on suitcase.

Key takeaway: Tankless are small but mighty.

Which is more expensive to install?

Tank water heaters may cost slightly less to install, but recently installation costs on tankless heaters have come down. In particular, the EZ Series of high-efficiency, condensing tankless water heaters from Noritz America is designed to cut installation time and cost when replacing larger, storage tank-type units. And because they are far more energy-efficient, you can further save on installation costs through federal and state rebates.

Key takeaway: Smaller units can make installation easier and less costly.

Are there leak concerns with tank or tankless?

It’s an unhappy scenario familiar to many homeowners: coming home to water everywhere, leaking from a busted water heater. With a tank water heater, that can be 40, 50, even 60 or 100 gallons pooled up, causing significant damage to the property. With a tankless water heater, you no longer need to stress about this because the system does not store any water. Even if the heat exchanger should become damaged (a rare occurrence), the leaks would be measured in dribbles and drops — far from the massive headaches too often caused by a leaking tank heater.

Key takeaway: No holding tank means no catastrophic leaks — ever.

Do tank or tankless heaters provide more hot water?

Tank heaters pre-heat a limited amount of water in their tank. If you use up all the hot water in the tank, you run out until it refills and reheats. Tankless heaters heat up water as it’s needed — whenever you turn on the faucet or shower. They can bring a steady flow of water up to soothing temperatures in a matter of seconds and provide it indefinitely. Water pressure may be a concern with tankless heaters if multiple sources are pulling hot water at once, but proper sizing and recent technology have made this much less an issue than in the past.

Key takeaway: Modern tankless technology helps ensure an endless flow of hot water.

Everyone wants to be comfortable in their home and that includes reliable access to hot water. These guidelines help you make the right water heater decision whether you’re replacing a dated unit proactively or are faced with a last-minute replacement decision.

2023-08-25T07:01:00

(BPT) – The home is the ultimate place for creative expression. Each room acts as a canvas that can be crafted to reflect one’s unique sense of style and personality. From the color on the walls to the material of the furniture, every detail is important. When designing a room, consider how materials, colors and shapes play off each other and blend together, as the home is not just meant to be a place of function — it is also a space for fashion, creativity and style.

Matte sophistication

Color within the home can evoke many feelings, from using muted tones to create a sense of serenity to selecting a strong tone to make a bold statement. It is an important piece of the puzzle when bringing together a space and should be a thoughtful choice when considering every accessory, fixture and element within a room. When choosing fixtures, especially in the kitchen and bath spaces, carefully consider the finish. Whether you use a matte finish to create a timeless and classic look, or a polished finish to create a glamorous look, there’s an option to suit every aesthetic. The Jason Wu for Brizo™ Kitchen Collection features its signature Matte White finish and Brilliance^® Polished Nickel handle, which captures both a modern yet elegant feel that takes its inspiration straight from the runway. A room does not require vibrant color to make a statement; sometimes the boldest statement in the room is one that is strikingly simple.

Intriguing details

Customization is a true marker of luxury. While one may be drawn to a particular faucet shape and style, the finish is a chance to really make it feel personal. Select a polished or brilliant detail with a shine, like the Brilliance^® Polished Nickel finish available in the Invari^® Bath Collection, to make the faucet the jewelry of the room. The tone itself is a juxtaposition of cool and warm, which adds a captivating touch to any space. A dark, moody hue conveys a modern sleekness that can quickly make an outdated space feel fashionable. For a dramatic look, select the Levoir^® Bath Collection in the daring shade of Brilliance^® Black Onyx. The onyx brings a sense of allure to the bath and intrigues the eye with its dark, luxe lacquer. Mixing and matching tones or using split finishes can add a unique perspective and creates an aesthetic that artfully blends materials. Look at finishes as a way to make a statement in a space. They should not be overlooked in the design process, as they are the very detailed element that brings a room — and the home — together.