Tag: home improvement

2018 Kitchen Remodel Trends

Posted on by Eastern Plumbing

 

2018 is upon us and as with every New Year, trends are rolling in! Whether you are remodeling your current home or building a new house, these 2018 kitchen remodel trends are sure to have you feeling right at home in your new kitchen.

Smarter Kitchens

New devices and apps, which make your home smarter and life simpler, are trending. Which is why it should come as no surprise that technology has entered the heart of the home in full force and not just in the form of fancy kitchen gadgets and appliances. Today’s kitchens can have technology integrated into every function – from the faucets to the fridge to the lighting.

Here are just a few smart kitchen trends to keep an eye on this year:

  • High Tech Taps

In years past, motion censored faucets held the high tech tap market. Now, you can find them just about everywhere, from your favorite restaurants to your very own home. When motion censored faucets took over, the touch-on/touch-off faucets weren’t far behind, becoming somewhat of a smart kitchen staple. Although, the amenity of the touch-on/touch-off faucet is still a market leader, you won’t believe the direction these high tech taps have taken.

Hiding below unassuming spouts are innovative systems that will transform plain water into sparkling water, or even into a café au lait. Transforming tap water into delicious beverages isn’t the only thing that these new age fixtures can do. Attach an LED faucet light to the end of your tap and watch as your water lights up, changing colors with the water’s temperature (blue for cold/red for hot). From unexpected flavorings to changing colors the high tech taps of 2018 will not disappoint.

  • Smart Appliances – Ranges & Refrigerators

No smart kitchen would be complete without high tech appliances.

If you plan on going smart with your kitchen remodel, then a smart refrigerator should be at the top of your list. In recent years, refrigerators have become much smarter and the fridges on the market this year are no different. The GE Cafe Series French Door with Keurig K-Cup Brewing System literally combines your coffee maker with your fridge. However, brewing coffee and tea isn’t the only thing that this fridge has to offer, it also features advanced water filtration and a full-width electronic temperature-controlled drawer with colored LED lights. If a coffee brewing fridge isn’t smart enough for you, the Samsung Four-Door Family Hub Refrigerator should do the trick. Samsung’s smart fridge can connect to and control third-party devices that are part of the SmartThings smart home ecosystem such as lights, thermostats, home video cameras, and more. The new Family Hub has also added a food management app that provides recipes while accounting for food preferences and dietary restrictions.

If it’s a smart range you are looking for, the high tech ranges 2018 has to offer do not disappoint. Smart ranges like the, Samsung Slide-In Induction Chef Collection Range + Flex-Duo Oven, projects virtual LED flames onto your pot, so you will always know when a burner is on and the oven allows you to cook two separate dishes at completely different temperatures. Maybe you would rather have the capability to whip up something remotely? Then look no further than Dacor’s Discovery iQ Dual-Fuel Range which combines two electric stoves and has an integrated Android tablet/control panel along with an app that lets users control it from anywhere with an internet connection.

Need help installing your new high tech tap or smart appliances as part of your 2018 renovation? Call Eastern Plumbing.

Countertops – Marble & Quartz

Granite has been king of the countertops for decades. But over the past few years, new contenders are challenging the throne. Now high-end kitchen countertops call for marble and quartz. These countertop options match granite in durability as well as cost. Like granite, both marble and quartz come in a variety of colors, textures and veining designs. With all these options you are sure to find the perfect piece to fit your 2018 kitchen remodel!

Multipurpose Kitchen Islands

Kitchen islands are no longer an afterthought or something small to squeeze into the heart of your home for a little added counter space. Today’s kitchen islands are focal points and take multipurpose to the fullest extent. They have storage solution cabinets and can be fitted with various under-counter appliances while also providing seating. From simply growing in size to accommodating more storage to housing stove tops & sinks, 2018 kitchen islands do it all. But don’t forget, moving your kitchen appliances and/or sink to your new multipurpose island is going to mean a move for your plumbing, gas and electrical. If you think a new multipurpose kitchen island is the perfect 2018 trend for you, call Eastern Plumbing. We are experienced in kitchen remodels and our trusted contractors have all the tools needed to relocate any kitchen fixture or appliance.

MORE Storage

Think you have enough storage in the kitchen? Think again. 2018 is all about smart storage solutions. One of the biggest annoyances with kitchen cabinetry is the unnecessary waste of space. Try swapping out lower cabinets for drawers instead. This can double, even triple your storage capabilities. Plus, pull-out drawers are easier to organize and make it easier to see everything inside at a glance. 2018 will definitely see a range of new kitchen storage options throughout the whole kitchen!

If you are following trend and remodeling your kitchen this year, don’t forget to call Eastern Plumbing to help get the job done! We specialize in redesign and remodeling – with our experience and expertise, we can help you get your project done the right way, on time and on budget. Contact Eastern Plumbing today for remodel ideas and help!

New Year, New Bathroom Remodel

Posted on by Eastern Plumbing

 

The New Year means new resolutions. How about adding a bathroom remodel to your list? It may be 2018, but is your home stuck in years past? Eastern Plumbing can upgrade your home quick, easy and on budget. Here a few remodel ideas that will modernize your bathroom and make you more comfortable in the New Year.

Hide the Toilet

If you want a stylish and functional master bathroom for 2018, consider moving your toilet to a more discreet area. Hide this fixture in a “room-within-a-room” or behind a half wall. This will allow you to have more privacy and will also upgrade the look of your bathroom. If you aren’t sure of the best layout for your bathroom to incorporate this upgrade or if you need the toilet moved to a different location in the bathroom, contact Eastern Plumbing. We are experienced in bathroom design and our trusted contractors have all the tools needed to relocate any fixture in your bathroom.

Step Up Your Shower

Is your shower outdated? This year is the perfect time to upgrade it. Consider widening your shower, adding a modern tile design and replacing the shower head. Rain shower heads are quite popular. They are installed in the ceiling and create the feeling of standing out in warm tropical rain. Another popular type of shower head going into 2018 are body sprays. If one shower head just isn’t enough for you, these are the perfect solution. These swivel heads are mounted at multiple heights in your shower. You can add as many or as few as your heart desires for the perfect water massage.

Upgrade for Water Efficiency

Toilets, faucets and showers have all become much more water efficient in recent years. So, if one of your resolutions was to save money consider upgrading your bathroom fixtures. Upgrading your bathroom to be more water efficient can help you save money on your monthly utility bill. When planning your bathroom remodel, remember that these item maximize energy efficiency:

  • Tankless water heaters
  • Low flow toilets and faucets
  • LED lighting
  • Radiant floor heating
  • Insulated windows.

Make the Most of Your Space

Get rid of counter clutter in your bathrooms by adding more storage space. Consider replacing a pedestal sink with a custom vanity-mounted sink perfectly fitted to your space. Use the cabinets in the vanity to store towels, soaps and extra toilet paper. Consider replacing shower curtains with glass doors. This will add the illusion of more space and make your bathroom feel more open. Not to mention, glass shower doors are trending in 2018.

Go Low Maintenance

Do you want to be less stressed in 2018? Make your bathroom low maintenance by selecting finishes that are easy to keep looking clean and new. For example, opt for quartz counters instead of marble and get glass shower doors that are treated with water anti-spotting agents.

No matter your 2018 bathroom goals, Eastern Plumbing is here to help. We specialize in everything from shower and bathtub repair and installation, to redesign and remodel. With our experience and expertise, we can help you get your project done the right way, on time and on budget. Contact Eastern Plumbing today for remodel ideas and help.

What You Need to Know for Your Next Bathroom Remodel

Posted on by Eastern Plumbing

 

The Beatles, denim and Grease with John Travolta— just a few things that will never go out of style. It’s a shame bathrooms aren’t the same way. Years ago you may have loved the wallpaper that adorned your hall bathroom, admired the big gold fixtures on your soaker tub or smiled when you saw your pink tiled countertops. But now, not so much! Or maybe you need to add a tub where there once was a shower in order to accommodate your growing family. For whatever reason, you’ve decided it’s time to give the outdated or non-functional design a well-deserved retirement. So, now begins the remodel process. But before you get started here are a few things you should think about before “demo day.”

 

Toilets

If you’re simply changing out an old toilet for a new one, you may consider tackling this project yourself. But if plumbing is a completely new territory for you, you may want a professional to handle this one and ensure there are no leaks— and trust us bathroom leaks can be messy.

If you are moving a toilet to a new place in the bathroom, there are other things you will want to keep in mind. The first thing to consider is where there are toilet drains and toilet vents. If you move the toilet no further than 48” from the toilet vent, you won’t have to move the vent, you simply have to move the toilet drain. Also, know that the cost of moving both the toilet vent and the toilet drain can get pricey.

 

Sinks

Sinks can be tricky, not because of the installation process, but because of the number of options and varying costs. You could get a pedestal sink, a vessel sink, a wall-mounted sink; the list goes on and on. Decide what type of sink fits best in your space and what style you like the most. Don’t forget to consider if you need cabinet storage under your sink.

It is not unusual to move plumbing lines when it comes to sinks because there are so many styles of sinks. So, don’t be afraid of having to do this. This bathroom sink remodel will likely cost a few hundred dollars in addition to the cost of the sink itself.

 

Showers

When it comes to remodeling the shower, you may be presented with two options: a shower/bathtub combo or a stand-alone shower. A shower/bathtub combo will cost you between $300 and $900 for the tub and walls. For a stand-alone shower, the cost is limited only by your imagination. With this option you will get to choose the tiles, backsplash, doors, and lighting. You may also choose to add extra showerheads in the walls or ceiling.

If you’re relocating the shower, expect to pay about the same as toilet relocation. There are specific codes that plumbers must follow in order to make sure drains and vents are properly angled and securely fitted.

 

Tubs

When choosing a new bathtub, the first thing you need to decide is what general style of tub best fits your needs. Do you want a standard tub that is made for a quick bath? Or do you want a luxurious spa bath designed for soaking?

The average cost of a tub ranges from $200 to $2,000 or more. Moving bath drains and bath vents are comparable in cost to the shower and toilet.

 

If you’re considering a bathroom remodel or in the middle of your own bathroom DIY project, we would love to help.

Contact Eastern Plumbing:
With over 15 years of service experience, we have helped thousands of homeowners in Eastern, NC with their plumbing needs. Our top-notch plumbing technicians can accurately install any bathroom equipment for any renovation project you decide to tackle!

 

We’re available 24/7 for any plumbing emergency, contact Eastern Plumbing today.

House Mold 101

Posted on by Eastern Plumbing

The Spring and Summer months bring an increased risk of mold in and out of the home. Mold is a very serious issue that needs to be taken care of before it results in damage to your house and health. There are many different kinds of molds that have different physical appearances, effects on things around them and treatments to eradicate them.

While there are several types of mold that can be found inside the house, there are a couple forms that are more common than others.

Alternaria

While usually found outdoors, this form of mold fosters in damp places and under sinks. Water damage and leaky pipes can be big contributing factors to the development of this type of mold. Because of it’s ability to lodge in the nose and mouth, it can cause a reaction to people who are subjected to it.

Aspergillus

This type of mold is known as the most common one found in homes. Also found in wet environments, Aspergillus can be found in house dust. Exposure and inhalation of this mold can result in disease and lung problems.

Aureobasidium

Usually found outdoors, it can be found on wooden and painted surfaces. It can be black or pink in color (it’s also called “Pink Mold”), and most people will have a bad reaction when exposed to it.

Cladosporium

Known as the most common type of outdoor mold, this nuisance can enter the home through any opening and airway. HVAC is one of the most common and can result in it being spread to areas inside the house. If breathed, it can cause respiratory issues and trigger bigger health issues.

Mucor

This form of mold grows very fast and has a usual origin in soil. It appears as white or grayish in color and it’s physical makeup is like that of cotton. Inside the house, it might be found along ducts and air conditioning vents. This can cause infections of the sinuses called Zygomycosis.

Penicillium

A very mobile form of mold, it grows is areas that have been succumbed to water damage. It appears blue or green in color and can cause severe sinus infections.

Stachybotrys Chartarum

Also known as “Black Mold,” this slimy, toxic mold can cause several health problems. It produces mycotoxins that could potentially result in fatigue, asthma issues, depression and respiratory complications.

Don’t let mold grow out of control in your home. It can cause serious health issues and result in physical damage to your home. Contact a mold remediation specialist today to take care of any mold you may find in your home.

Frozen Pipes – Preventing and Thawing

Posted on by Eastern Plumbing

 

As colder weather sweeps the country, there are many threats to your home’s plumbing. One of these is frozen pipes. When water inside your pipes freezes, it expands. This expansion can wreak havoc on the pipes that run throughout your house, causing ruptures and cracks. There are several steps you can take to prevent freezing from happening, as well as thawing them back out if it does.

Preventing

The best method to ensure healthy plumbing is to prevent it from happening in the first place.

Disconnect outdoor water hose

A garden hose left out in the cold can cause a chain reaction of freezing to take place throughout your home. Water could freeze in the hose and then move into the water lines.

Insulating all water pipes

Use foam/rubber pipe insulator or some other safe method to keep pipes dry and help prevent freezing. This needs to be done correctly in order to prevent mold growth and decay by generating and retaining moisture inside.

Keep pipes heated

This can be done in a variety of ways. Heat tape and heated reflector lamps are two examples of ways to keep pipes from freezing.

Keep home warm

Turning up the thermostat will help in limiting the amount of cold air circulating throughout the home and increase the temperature of everything inside. It is also important to keep the thermostat at the same temperature day and night to help avoid the forming of condensation.

Turn off sprinkler system

Not only does the main water supply to the irrigation system need to be shut off, but it also needs to be protected. Make sure that it is wrapped in insulation or some other form of shelter to protect it from freezing temperatures. This can even be done with mulch or pine straw.

Drip faucets

Keep water running through the pipes at a slow rate by dripping your faucets. This helps to avoid the settling of water. Another tip is to attach a string to the faucet that hangs down to avoid annoying dripping sounds.

Thawing

If pipes do freeze, there are best practices when it comes to thawing them back out.

Apply heat to pipe and surrounding air directly

This can be done with a hair dryer, heat gun, electric heating pad, space heater, bare incandescent bulbs, heat lamps and other methods. This heating needs to be applied gradually and evenly and monitored closely to avoid pipe and water damage.

Wrap with heat tape/cable

This can be purchased from most hardware stores. Wrap this tape/cable around the pipe in a single layer and then plug it in. Do not overlap electric heat tape/cable. It is recommended to wrap around pipe in a spiral motion.

Open faucets slightly

This is the same idea as prevention. Flowing water will help reduce stagnant water and result in less freezing. Also, the running water will help thaw out the ice if it does develop.

Pour salt down frozen drain

Salt lowers the melting point of ice. Start with pouring a tablespoon of salt down the drain and then give it a few moments to start working.

If you’re leaving your house for an extended period of time this winter, there are certain steps that should be taken to avoid coming home to frozen pipes and subsequent damage. Shut off the main water supply and open all faucets. This will help empty the water out of the pipes and reduce the sitting water left. Also, flushing all of the toilets helps accomplish this. Before you leave, set your thermostat no lower than 55º F. Doing so will aid in limiting the amount of cold air circulating throughout your home.

There are many ways to prevent and thaw out frozen pipes. Prevention is always the better route to avoid any serious and long-term damage. If a freeze does happen, locating the frozen pipe and then taking the necessary steps can be very tedious and difficult. It is recommended to get the help of a professional before acting uninformed. Contact Eastern Plumbing for all of your frozen pipe needs.

Tips for Remodeling your Bathroom

Posted on by Eastern Plumbing

 

Spring is the busiest time of the year for remodeling your home. People are coming out of hibernation with the warmer weather and are ready to change their surroundings. The bathroom is a practical area to renovate first, and it’s one of the best ways to improve your home’s resale value. Are you considering remodeling your bathroom? Read the following tips before you begin your next home improvement project.

1. Investigate.

Before purchasing new materials for your bathroom, make sure you evaluate the current structure of the room. If you have any hidden rot, rusty pipes or frayed wiring your project can quickly escalate in cost.

2. Plan.

Check the blueprint of your home to determine the plumbing and electrical layouts. You’ll save time and money if you work with the existing system, as rerouting plumbing and electrical lines is expensive.

3. Measure.

Don’t forget to measure your bathtub and any fixtures that you’ll be replacing. Try the showroom samples out before you buy and check to see if the products are user-friendly before you mount them in your bathroom.

4. Choose the right products.

Think about your carbon footprint and choose plumbing fixtures that will help you save money on your water bill. Consider energy-efficient light bulbs to brighten your bathroom. Make the most of the space you have. Glass doors on showers and tubs can make your bathroom appear bigger than it actually is. Additionally, a pedestal sink takes up less space than a vanity. If you need extra storage, consider installing a medicine cabinet.

5. Order beforehand.

Large items like special-order toilets and vanity tops can take several weeks to arrive. Before you demolish your bathroom, make sure everything you need is on hand. Waiting for parts to arrive can be frustrating, but it’s better than tearing up your fixtures and having an unusable bathroom until the new items arrive. When your new products arrive, you’ll know if you need to do any extra work before you rip up your walls.

6. Don’t be afraid to call a professional.

If any part of remodeling takes you out of your comfort zone, call a professional. You might need Eastern Plumbing’s help if your water or drain lines need to be moved. When you’re dealing with electrical or plumbing, DIY mistakes can be a costly disaster.

At Eastern Plumbing, we specialize in remodels and installs. Give us a call today for help with your home renovations.