Rhodri Chase – Tampa Remodels

Shower Doors Atlanta can brighten a bathing experience and modernize bathroom design. When designed well, they can even boost a home’s resale value.

Typically, shower and bathtub glass doors are made with safety glazing. This type of glass breaks into small pellets rather than sharp shards to avoid injury. Popular choices include frosted and patterned glass to provide privacy and aesthetics.

The bathroom is one of the most used rooms in any home, so it’s no surprise that homeowners are always looking for ways to improve its look. One of the most common options is installing a new shower door. A framed or frameless shower door can add both beauty and functionality to any bathroom.

A framed shower door has a metal frame that holds the glass, and can come in a variety of designs to fit different decor themes. The frames are often made of aluminum and can be powder-coated in a wide range of colors and finishes. They can also be textured, which allows for easier cleaning of mineral deposits and soap scum. Framed doors usually use thinner tempered safety glass than frameless options, which saves money on materials and installation costs.

Framed showers are generally less expensive than frameless or semi-frameless enclosures, and they can be a good option for older bathrooms with a traditional opening. However, they can be difficult to keep clean because the metal framing is susceptible to mold and rust. They also tend to collect more hard mineral deposits around the edges of the glass, which can corrode over time.

Another drawback of framed showers is that they only open one way, which can be a problem for seniors or children. In contrast, frameless doors can open both inward and outward to make it easier for people to get in and out of the shower without worrying about slipping or getting hurt. They also offer a more modern aesthetic and are a great choice for anyone who wants to give their bathroom a more updated, contemporary look. Unlike certain design trends that can come and go, the appeal of frameless doors is timeless, making them a wise long-term investment.

Frameless

Frameless shower doors offer a sleek, minimalistic look that many homeowners love. They also require less maintenance and repair work than framed enclosures, which have metal frames that can collect mineral deposits and mildew over time. Additionally, they are typically easier to clean than framed enclosures because they have no nooks and crannies for soap scum to collect in. Frameless glass can also be treated with Diamon Fusion to make it more resistant to water spots and grime.

Framed shower doors have a metal frame that supports the glass. This helps to ensure the glass doesn’t crack or break under the stress of regular use. The frames can be made from a variety of materials, including aluminum and bronze, depending on your preference. They may be a smooth or textured finish and can come in a range of colors. Framed enclosures often feature sliding doors, but they can also swing on pivot or wall mounted hinges, slide along metal tracking (bypass doors) or open inward like a French door.

Frameless showers are a popular choice for modern bathrooms. They provide a clean, sleek look and can help to open up smaller bathrooms or add more light to larger spaces. They also tend to be sturdier than framed enclosures and require less maintenance over the long term. However, they do need to be installed by a professional, and they are more expensive than framed enclosures. In addition, frameless showers need to be made from thicker glass, which can lead to them being heavier. This makes them harder to install in older homes that are already built with a traditional framed shower. However, this can be offset by using specially-designed clips to secure the glass to the walls.

Pivot

Pivot shower doors are a popular choice for equipping alcoves in your bathroom. They are made of tempered safety glass and have high-quality pivot hinges that allow the door to be opened inward and outward. They can be easily installed using the included hardware set and the supplied mounting instructions. When choosing a pivot shower door, it’s important to make several measurements to ensure that you choose the right size. First, measure the height from the bottom of the fiberglass or tile on the wall to the floor of the shower opening. This will tell you the standard door height needed. Next, measure the width of the opening at the top, middle, and bottom to get the total width. Finally, measure the depth of the opening to ensure that you have enough space for a hinged shower door.

Pivoted doors add light to your shower creating a pleasant and soothing environment. They also keep water from getting onto the floor and making a mess. If you’re tired of buying a new shower curtain at Bed, Bath and Beyond each time one gets dirty, then these are the best solution for you.

Hinged shower doors require adequate room to open so are not ideal for small bathrooms. They can be more expensive than sliding doors but if you want to show off the intricate stone or tile designs in your luxury shower, then these are the way to go.

These are typically framed but they can be semi or fully frameless. They are often used to upgrade a stand-alone shower stall or tub/shower combination and are suitable for most any style home. They are available with a wide variety of glass styles and finishes, hardware options and sizes. Some models offer a reversible installation option, allowing the door to be installed with the opening on either the left or the right side of the shower enclosure.

Swing

Hinged shower doors swing out to open, and they are available in both framed and frameless options. The frameless design offers a sleek, seamless appearance that is conducive to modern bathroom styles. They also provide a larger opening into the enclosure than sliding shower doors, which makes them safer for users with mobility issues.

Often, shower heads and benches are built in to the wall above the hinged shower door. Depending on how far these features stick out, they may interfere with the proper opening and closing of the shower door. It is recommended to place the door on a side of the enclosure closest to the wall mounted controls and shower head. This provides easy access to these important fixtures while still allowing the door to open and close properly.

Bath screens (also known as bi-fold or tri-fold doors) are another variation on the swing shower door. These feature one fixed panel and two other glass panels that fold in on top of each other, similar to the way a bifold closet door works. They can be used in almost any type of shower enclosure, but are particularly well suited to corner showers in small bathrooms and mobile home bathrooms.

A framed swing shower door features a black metal framework glazed around the edges of clear tempered safety glass. This style of shower door is typically paired with white or other light colored shower tile for a striking contrast. Often, these doors are hinged on the same wall as the shower controls to make it easier for the user to reach the controls. This placement also helps direct water past the gaps that would occur if the door was hinged on the opposite wall.

C10

Upgrading your shower curtain to glass is one of the best investments you can make in your home. Glass adds style and value to your bathroom, while making the room feel larger and easier to clean. If you want your glass shower doors to last longer and keep their shine, consider using a glass coating to help them resist water stains, mineral deposits, soap scum, and corrosion.

A common choice is to use a shower coating such as Cardinal 10, also known as C10. This product seals the pores of the glass and prevents minerals and soap scum from sticking to your shower enclosure. It helps reduce cleaning time by up to 90%, giving you more time to enjoy your sanctuary.

Another great option for your glass shower doors is to choose a product with built-in antimicrobial protection, like Microban. HMI’s C10 glass protectant, powered by Microban, works around the clock to actively reduce the growth of microbes on the surface of your shower enclosure. The product is applied during the manufacturing process and becomes part of the molecular structure of the glass.

While a shower guard or C10 is an excellent way to maintain your new glass shower doors, the best option is to regularly clean your shower with a squeegee to remove dirt and grime from the microscopic pores of the glass. Invest in a quality squeegee and follow the recommended care instructions to get the most out of your investment.

Plumbing

The Importance of Drain Cleaning

March 22, 2024 Rhodri Chase

Drain Cleaning Los Angeles is the process of removing any build-up that has collected within a home’s drain pipes. This includes soap scum, hair, fats, oils, and other debris that can cause serious problems.

Many homeowners use chemical drain cleaners or a plunger to unclog their plumbing systems. But these DIY solutions are usually corrosive and may damage the plumbing system.

Clogged drains are among the most common reasons for homeowners to call a plumber. Not only can serious clogs result in a loss of water flow, but they can also cause significant damage to your pipes. The most effective way to prevent clogs is by practicing good habits and regularly performing basic maintenance.

The most common causes of drain clogs are hair, food waste and grease, coffee grounds, and other gunky substances. The best way to prevent these is by regularly flushing your drains with hot water. This will help break down soap scum and dissolve any greasy buildup in your pipes. For extra effectiveness, pour a cup of baking soda into the drain before running the hot water.

It’s also important to avoid dumping any kind of food waste down your sink or garbage disposal. Instead, let the grease cool before putting it in a sealable container for disposal. This will help prevent kitchen drain clogs caused by fat and oils that solidify as they cool. Another simple but effective prevention method is to place a mesh strainer or drain cover over your drains to catch any hair, food particles, and other debris. It’s important to clean and replace these mesh covers regularly.

Foreign objects can also cause major problems with your drains, such as toys that fall into the toilet or pieces of metal from rusty pans that make their way down the kitchen drain. To avoid these issues, be sure to store items away from your drains and toilets, and to keep rags, paper towels, and other items out of the sink and shower.

Regular professional drain cleaning can also prevent clogs by thoroughly cleaning your pipes. One of the most common techniques involves using a hydro-jetter, which blasts water at high pressure. This not only breaks up clogs, but also cleans the inside of your pipes, making it harder for them to clog in the future. This is a great option for anyone who wants to prevent the need for expensive drain-clearing services in the future. If you’re considering having your drains professionally cleaned, be sure to contact a reputable plumbing company.

Prevents Bacteria and Mold

What goes down your drains may seem harmless enough — hair, soap scum, dirt and other organic material — but when it builds up inside your pipes, it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and mildew. These organisms love damp, dark places and thrive in the nooks and crannies of your pipe system, where they can hide from your immune system and multiply quickly. When they infiltrate your home, you can suffer from toxic shock, food poisoning and more. If you’re immunocompromised, the effects can be even more serious.

When these bacteria get into your home, they can contaminate your drinking water and cause even more health problems. Regular drain cleaning prevents these organisms from building up inside your pipes and can help ensure that they don’t reach your drinking water supply.

If you’ve already dealt with bacterial contamination in your sink drains, it’s important to schedule regular drain cleaning services to prevent it from happening again. The bacteria can linger in your pipe system even after you’ve cleaned the drain, so you need to keep them at bay.

Mold also loves to grow in damp, dark places like sink drains and pipes. This can be a huge problem for homeowners, as it can cause respiratory issues, such as a runny nose and cough. In addition, it can lead to more severe health conditions, such as a chronic sinus infection or lung disease.

Fortunately, mold growth in your drains is easy to prevent with regular drain cleaning. Many plumbing companies use oxidizing drain cleaners, which contain chemicals that react with the organic material blocking your pipe to decompose it. These cleaners are safer than acidic drain cleaners, which can corrode your pipes.

You should also be sure to clean out your drains regularly to avoid hair buildup, which can also clog your sink. Use a drain brush and baking soda to clear out any visible buildup and regularly flush your drains with hot water. A well-maintained drainage system will last longer and can protect the value of your home, so don’t neglect it!

Prevents Odors

Even if you’re careful about what goes down your drains, food particles, hair, soap scum and grease will still build up over time. This gunk can clog your pipes and, when it does, attracts bacteria that produce foul odors. If you use a sink strainer and are regular about cleaning your drains, this shouldn’t be a problem. But if you have smelly drains, there may be a deeper issue that needs to be addressed.

There are many things that can cause stinky drains, including trapped food and other debris, bacterial growth, empty P-traps and sewer gas infiltration. The best way to address these issues is through regular cleaning and the use of drain-cleaning products.

A good drain cleaner can be found at your local hardware store. Our top pick is Drano Max Gel, which is great for tackling both slow and fast-moving clogs. This product is also eco-friendly and safe for your pipes.

Other popular drain cleaners include baking soda and vinegar. The fizzing reaction they create can loosen built-up gunk and help eliminate odors. To use this method, first pour one cup of baking soda down the drain. Then, add two cups of vinegar. Wait for the fizzing to stop and then rinse with hot water.

Another easy way to prevent odors is by regularly running water down your less-frequently used drains. This will fill the trap and prevent sewer gases from escaping. You can also try pouring a little mineral oil down your drain to slow the evaporation process.

If your smelly drains are caused by a more serious underlying issue, it’s probably time to call in the professionals. A professional can remove the clog and clean out your drains, leaving them fresh and smelling good.

Although there are many different reasons your drains might stink, most of them can be prevented with regular cleaning and the use of sink strainers. Be sure to keep up with your drain cleaning routine and use a natural enzymatic drain cleaner, like the Bio-Clean Drain Septic Bacteria, to avoid a stinky fate. If your drains are already smelling bad, give us a call and we’ll be happy to help.

Prevents Damage

The accumulated debris that causes clogs can lead to water damage that can be costly to repair. Neglecting drain cleaning can also allow harmful bacteria to grow, creating a health hazard for your family or employees. Keeping your drains clean can prevent these issues and keep your property in good condition.

When a drain becomes clogged, it’s usually due to food scraps, hair, grease, soap scum, dirt, or other organic waste that binds together and forms a blockage. These blockages can cause slow-draining or completely stopped drains that can be frustrating and inconvenient. Regular drain cleaning can help prevent clogs and reduce the risk of expensive repairs or replacements.

Clogged drains can lead to overflowing sinks, toilets, and bathtubs that create a mess. They can also cause standing water in the home or business that can ruin floors, walls, and furnishings. Some clogs may even require water to be shut off, causing inconvenience and potentially resulting in costly repairs.

While DIY drain cleaners like chemical solutions and the trusty plunger might work in a pinch, they are not safe for your pipes or the environment. Most of these cleaners contain acid that can eat through the material and points in your pipes. They can also release fumes that are damaging to your health. A better option is enzymatic drain cleaners that are biodegradable and environmentally friendly. We recommend CLR’s Monthly Build-Up Remover because it is non-toxic, free of caustic chemicals, and formulated with natural bacteria to dissolve clogs at their source.

Regularly incorporating these simple steps can dramatically improve the health and function of your home’s plumbing system. If you’re interested in drain cleaning services, call the experts at Frank Gay Services. Our trained technicians can provide you with the best options for your home or business. Call today to schedule an appointment! Our services are available to customers in the greater Pittsburgh area. Our team can install, repair, and maintain your plumbing systems. We understand the importance of proper maintenance, and we are dedicated to helping our customers keep their homes and businesses running smoothly for years to come.

Home Improvement

How Replacement Windows Can Improve the Look of Your Home

November 21, 2023 Rhodri Chase

New windows can make you feel secure in your home. This is especially true if you’re upgrading from old, single-paned windows that don’t lock.

Having windows made specifically for your home also ensures an airtight seal to prevent heat or air leaks. This will lower your energy bills and increase comfort. Visit Website to learn more.

When it comes to a home improvement project that has the potential to pay for itself in energy savings, it’s hard to beat new windows. Not only do they allow in natural light, give the house a fresh look and boost curb appeal, but they’re also designed to reduce your heating and cooling costs by helping to regulate temperatures and putting less strain on your HVAC system.

While many factors go into a window’s energy efficiency, one of the most important is its frame. Old aluminum frames tend to be poor conductors of heat, while modern vinyl and fiberglass frames offer more insulation and protection against air leaks. Additionally, the more glazing layers a window has, the more efficient it is.

Moreover, it’s wise to choose replacement windows that are rated by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). This label shows that the window has been independently tested and verified as meeting energy-saving guidelines.

Another way to increase your window’s energy efficiency is to invest in low-E glass coatings, which reflect heat and UV rays. This helps to protect carpet, furniture and curtains from fading, while cutting down on the amount of time your home needs to be heated or cooled.

It’s also worth noting that replacement windows tend to be more energy efficient than new construction windows. This is because they are designed to fit into existing window openings, meaning that the work required to open and repair drywall and trim around them is reduced. Additionally, replacement windows do not require nail fins like new construction windows, making them easier and faster to install in an existing frame.

If you’re planning on replacing your windows with more efficient models, it’s important to note that the supply chain issues that have affected so many other businesses have also affected manufacturers and installers of replacement windows. This may lead to longer wait times for your new windows than expected, so make sure to plan ahead and ask your contractor about the timeline they expect for your project. In the meantime, you can also try slipping a business card between any slidable sashes of your current windows to see if there are any gaps or ill-fitting components.

Curb Appeal

The windows on your home play a big part in the overall look of your home. The best replacement windows not only look beautiful, they’re also easy to maintain and can help you save on energy costs. This makes them a great investment for any homeowner, and they can even improve your home’s resale value.

If your house’s windows are old, broken, or sagging, they can make it look run-down and less well maintained. Even if you have a well-maintained lawn and attractive shrubs and flowers, it’s hard to boost your home’s curb appeal if the windows are out of style or dated. New windows, however, will immediately boost your home’s look and feel, making it more inviting to buyers and increasing its value.

There are many different window styles to choose from, so you can easily find one that fits your taste and complements your home’s architecture. Additionally, you can add more curb appeal by choosing a window color that stands out. Traditionally, white was the go-to color for windows, but you can choose to be bolder and opt for something different like black or another dark shade.

In addition to enhancing your home’s appearance, replacement windows can also reduce outside noise pollution. Old or damaged windows allow outside noises to infiltrate your home, disrupting your peace and quiet. However, high-quality replacement windows will block out most of these noises, creating a quieter and more relaxing living environment for you and your family.

There are many ways to improve the curb appeal of your home, from painting and landscaping to adding a porch or patio. But if you’re looking for a cost-effective and quick way to boost your home’s appearance, installing new windows is the perfect option. They’re easier to maintain, easier to clean, and can add a lot of value to your home. Plus, they’re made with better materials than older windows so they’ll last longer and keep your home looking great for years to come.

Comfort

The windows you choose are a huge part of how your home looks to passersby. Whether you have a colonial, ranch, or modern style house, the windows you choose help determine the overall look of your home. The right frames and grids can add to the curb appeal of your home and complement other elements of the exterior, including the siding, roof, door, and driveway.

Replacement windows keep out noise and the elements while letting in plenty of light. They’re easy to open and clean, and they’re energy efficient. Plus, they’re made with high-quality materials that require little maintenance compared to old wood windows.

If you’re considering replacing your windows, we suggest scheduling a free in-home estimate with a Champion Window expert. Our windows are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, and our advanced sealing systems ensure the best performance. We also offer a variety of customization options to match your style and needs. For example, obscure glass allows you to enjoy natural light without compromising your privacy by obscuring the view inside. We offer a variety of tints and textured patterns, from translucent to semi-opaque. You can even add a transom window or skylight to your existing windows for extra light and air flow. We also offer a variety of financing options to suit your budget.

Durability

Whether they’re new or used, windows tend to break down over time. But what matters most to homeowners is how long they last before that happens. Fortunately, modern replacement windows are designed for lasting performance. But the type of window you choose and how well you maintain it will determine how long they last, as will the weather in your area.

The Material Frame

Most replacement windows come in either vinyl or aluminum frames. The vinyl product is the most popular because it’s affordable, weather-resistant, and highly insulating. However, it has one drawback: it expands and contracts in response to temperature changes. This can cause the seal to break down, resulting in water leaks and other problems. The best solution for this problem is to upgrade to a fiberglass option, which resists expansion and contraction and will keep the seal intact longer.

The other major consideration is how much maintenance you’re willing to perform. Wood frames, for example, have a classic look that’s hard to beat, but they require proactive maintenance to stay in quality condition. This includes regular sanding and refinishing to prevent warping and cracking over time. Similarly, aluminum is an attractive and cost-effective choice, but it can corrode over time and require expensive repairs or replacement.

Other factors that contribute to longevity include glass and hardware upgrades. Tempered glass is treated by heating it to a high temperature and then rapidly cooling it. This boosts tensile strength so the glass is less likely to break and shatters into smaller, less dangerous pieces if it does break. Upgrades like this can extend the lifespan of your windows by a decade or more.

Another sign that it’s time to replace your windows is if they are difficult to open or close. This is a common symptom of aging windows that can be caused by shifting frames, moisture accumulation, or simply wear and tear. Regardless of the reason, it’s important to have functional windows that protect your home from the elements and enhance your daily comfort.

It’s also a good idea to shop around for the best warranty options. The more reputable brands will offer warranties of 20 years or more for both the glass and non-glass parts of your windows.

Author: Rhodri Chase

How Shower Doors Can Brighten Your Bathroom and Boost Your Home’s Resale Value