Bathroom Tip Wednesdays

Today we are going to talk about some simple ways to save energy costs in the bathroom.

1. Install energy star fixtures. These are designed to conserve energy.

2. Install LED light bulbs. Just replace any that are not LED.

3. Use warm or cold water while showering. The savings really add up over the year.

4. Install motion sensors for lights.

5. Turn off exhaust fans 10 minutes after you shower.

We know that if you use this simple tips you can save energy and money in the bathroom!

Bathroom Tip Wednesdays

What are the different flooring options that are the best for your bathroom. These are in no specific order:

– Natural Stone Tiles

– Hardwood

– Ceramic or Porcelain Tile

– Cork

– Vinyl

We Love the look and feel of all of these and they make a great addition to any bathroom

Bathroom Tip Wednesdays

What are the benefits of a walk-in tub? We have one of these installed in the house and it is awesome. Perfect if you don’t like to climb over the tub wall. It also has jets and a heated seat. These are ideal for elderly as well. The model that we have has jets and a heated seat. The jets are great for improved circulation and can also help improve mobility. It also is really good for stress releasing.

Bathroom Tip Wednesdays

Today we discuss great ways to do very simple updates to your bathroom on a budget. One way to make a very simple change to the bathroom is to upgrade your current tiles. If painting the tiles or grout repair does not work, you can replace tile in small sections. maybe around the sink or bathtub. Even smaller changes can be a new toothbrush holder that matches the storage basket. Also some matching towels can make a drastic difference. Another big change is a fresh coat of paint to add some color to the bathroom.

5 Ways to Make your Bathroom More Eco-friendly

Here at Keith Green Construction, we live up to our name in more ways than one. We care about our environment and finding eco-friendly approaches and building materials whenever possible.

There are lots of reasons why eco-friendly construction methods and materials make sense. They support local Oregon businesses and strengthen our economy, and also improve the health of the planet and that of our own families.

So in that spirit, we’d like to share some ideas on how you can make your home a little greener, starting with one of the most used rooms in the house: the bathroom.

1. Green planning from the start

Think eco-friendly right from the start, before you actually start any renovation work.

If it’s the first time you’re considering making eco-friendly renovations, read these tips and then look into the types of materials that you’d like in your bathroom. You want to aim for eco-friendly, but also functional and luxurious so you’ll love your new bathroom.

Speak to your construction contractor about greener materials, like non-toxic paints, recycled or sustainable flooring and countertops options, and ways to reduce energy and water consumption.

2. Reduce your water consumption

Water overconsumption is widespread but there are plenty of ways to go more eco-friendly in the bathroom.

  • Toilets tend to use more water than washing machines or dishwashers! Replace them with a low-flow model with a dual-flusher, which uses just the right amount of water to flush.
  • Adding a motion-sensor faucet to your sink will also help save water: many people use more than they want or need to when brushing their teeth or washing their faces and hands.
  • Install a low-flow showerhead that uses less water with the same water pressure (Portland’s water isn’t hard, so simple low-flow showerheads will do: you don’t need a hard-water softener.)
  • Look for the WaterSense label for your showerheads, sinks, and faucets, and check for rebates for WaterSense labeled products in your area.
  • You can also install a grey-water system, which collects water from the shower drains, sinks, and washing machines and redirects it to the garden, for example.

3. Save energy

Reduce your energy consumption and save money on your energy bill with small and significant changes:

  • If you have windows, consider repairs and upgrades to keep the seal airtight. If you have a fan instead, upgrade it with an Energy-Star fan, which will give you lots of energy savings compared to old models.
  • When you’re ready with light fixtures, switch to LEDs, which now come with the warm colors that give that cozy glow we were used to with incandescent bulbs. LEDs not only consume less energy and function at a lower wattage, but they also last nearly 25 times longer.

4. Use renewable and natural materials

Using recycled and sustainable materials is a great eco-friendly option for your bathroom.

  • Buy pre-loved cabinets and fixtures, or shop around for some made out of reclaimed or recycled wood.
  • Wood from sustainably grown trees is renewable and recyclable, and we’re lucky in Oregon to be a national leader in wood production, so you can shop green AND local. Thanks to the Oregon Forest Practices Act, sustainable forest management practices are enshrined in law in Oregon.When looking for sustainable wood materials, ask about FSC, American Tree Farm System, or Sustainable Forestry Initiatives certification. You should also know that thanks to strong state laws and practices, Oregon wood meets the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) criteria for green building projects.
  • Quick-growing bamboo, is very strong and perfect for walls or flooring. Hardwood is also a good green choice, as it’s durable and sustainable.
  • Ask your contractor about using recycled steel, which is gaining in popularity as a green building material for structural use, and recycled concrete.
  • When it’s time, replace your hot water heater with a more efficient one, which can save you a lot of money off your energy bills.

5. Green your products

One of the easiest ways to “greenovate” your bathroom is to go more natural with your bathroom and cleaning products.

  • Replace your PVC shower curtain liner with a glass shower door.
  • When it’s time to replace your towels, choose comfy, organic towels: conventional cotton production uses enormous water resources and is very polluting.
  • Ditch the anti-bacterial soaps and conventional shampoos and shower gels. Replace them instead with natural, organic ones, free from parabens, toxic preservatives, and other harmful chemicals. Swap biocides and harmful cleaning products for natural ones with baking soda, vinegar, and essential oils.
  • Chemical-saturated products aren’t good for the planet, and they’re not good for you, either. By buying natural, organic products, you support organic farmers, fair-trade organizations, and companies that place value on sound environmental practices.

Final Thoughts

Building green is really about reducing our impact on the world around us. For some, it means reducing energy consumption by upgrading your roofing and house insulation; for others, it means using non-toxic or sustainable materials.

However you see it, if you’re ready to transform your bathroom into a greener version of itself, call us at Keith Green Construction. Together, we can find ways to make your home more environmentally friendly in a way that suits you.

9 Quick & Easy Tips for Updating your Bathroom on a Budget

What if you could walk into your bathroom and instantly feel relaxed and calm, in a cosy and private space? Not everyone can afford the deluxe bathroom we dream of, but you’d be surprised by what fabulous renovations you could bring to your bathroom on a budget.

If you’re planning on selling your home, if you’re thinking of buying a house but the bathroom isn’t up to snuff, or you simply feel sad when you walk into your bathroom, you should know that it’s fairly good value to renovate a bathroom – especially if you can do it on a shoestring. (Reports suggest a bathroom remodel can yield a 60% return, if it’s done well). When you’re ready to remodel your bathroom, put your trust in the expert abilities of Keith Green’s  construction services.

In the meantime, a DIY renovation and a little elbow grease could actually go a long way.

 

Here are some ideas to get your started. Before you get started, clear out the bathroom so you’re starting with a new canvas – and a new pair of eyes.

 

  1. Replace the cabinet and sink

One of the prime focal points of a bathroom is the sink. If it’s outdated, with an old cabinet that’s seen better days, it’s a good place to invest some of your budget. Look for deals on sink bowls or simple pedestal sinks that are graceful and elegant. Replace the cabinet with a clean wooden dresser. If you’re creative and handy with a paintbrush, why not stain the wood of the dresser and varnish it? Simple bowls and lines are best.

 

  1. Shiny new fixtures

Fixtures are generally inexpensive and can add an instant touch of glamour. Look for shiny new tapware with a chrome finish throughout for hand rails, mirrors, and cabinet and door handles. Alternatively, find antique or vintage-style fixtures online or at flea markets to add a bit of boho-chic quirkiness to your space. Replace the lighting for something bright and clean. These easy fixes will refresh the entire look of the bathroom.

 

  1. Replace the toilet seat

All the renovations you make won’t have the same impact if your toilet seat is old and haggard. You don’t have to buy a whole new toilet – aim instead for the low-hanging fruit by buying a brand new seat only. This will instantly rejuvenate your toilet and make it look clean.

 

  1. Update your shower curtain

Shower curtains can really date a bathroom. An elegant, good quality shower curtain and curtain rod doesn’t cost that much more than the cheap kind, but it will add a touch of luxury. Take a step back and reevaluate your curtain rings as well – try to find a curtain rod that matches your fixtures, or that suits your new shower curtain. If you have a slightly bigger budget, price installing glass doors instead of curtains, to up the glam factor even more.

By DiaNoche Designs
  1. Fix the caulking and grout

We’ll talk about updating your tiling further down, but if you’re not willing to re-tile the entire bathroom, make it a point to fix the grout and caulking. If you see black or pink discoloration in between the tiles, this needs to be removed pronto. It’s icky and you’re better off not knowing – just trust us and remove it. To clean the tiles, spray with a vinegar-and-water solution, scrub hard with a stiff-bristle brush (wear gloves!) and rinse. If this doesn’t work the first time, repeat with bleach. Once the caulking is white, you’ll see what a difference it makes to your shower and bathtub.

 

  1. Re-tile your bathroom

If you have a bit more of a budget and patience, think of tiling your bathroom over again. Many people learn to do it themselves, with the right instructions and tools. Changing the color of the tiles on the walls or floors (choose one if you don’t want to spend too much) can give the bathroom an entire new look & feel. White often is thought to add sophistication to a small room, and a dash of color (like an unusual or more artistic tile) every few tiles will give it personality. Make sure to buy a few extra tiles in case you need to make repairs later on. If you have linoleum on your floor, scrub it clean with bleach to give it a lift.

 

  1. Replace the showerhead and faucets

Back to the chrome! Find a glitzy, shiny faucet and tap to spritz up your bathroom. Make sure it matches your other fixtures for ultimate elegance. These individual items are generally inexpensive, but if you are willing to spend a little more, you can also replace the showerhead. This will not only look good, but if you find a good massage showerhead, your body will thank you too!

 

  1. Repaint the walls

There’s no easier way to freshen a room than to give it a new coat of paint. Remove wallpaper, fill any existing holes in the wall, give the wall a quick clean, and place masking tape over edges before applying primer. Find non-toxic paint specifically made for bathrooms (to withstand the dampness). Light colors are best for small spaces and tend to last through various design fads, so choose neutral paint colors like beige, cream, white and very light grey.

 

  1. Accessorize

Now you’re ready for the finishing touches that really transform a room. Add a splash of color to your bathroom with new, fresh towels. Refresh the walls with simple photo frames. Replace the window blinds and treatments. Replace the bin and hamper. Buy matching sets that will brighten the room. Keep it simple and elegant, without too much clutter. You’ll be amazed at what a few simple touches can do to rejuvenate your bathroom.


Does your bathroom need more than a little update? Contact Keith Green Construction to find out about our bathroom remodeling and other construction services.

16 Ways to Maximize the Potential of a Small Bathroom

What word best describes your bathroom? If it’s somewhere in the vicinity of “small”, “tiny”, or “minuscule”, then you may feel very limited in your renovation options.

In fact, there are many ways to remodel your bathroom to make it feel bigger. Read on for 16 of our favorite tips.

1. Pocket Doors

To make the most of your small bathroom, start from the outside in. Rather than fret over allowing for your bathroom door to open, opt for a pocket door that recedes into the wall.

2. Sliding Shower Doors

Open doors can eat up precious space inside your bathroom too. Select a shower curtain or sliding glass door instead of one that opens wide.

3. Keep Things Light & Bright

In a bathroom, like in any room, keep your color palette light and bright, in order  to supersize your small space.

4. Mirror, Mirror on the Wall

Using a large mirror to fool the eye is the oldest trick in the book… and extremely effective at making your minute bathroom feel airy.

5. Full-Length Mirrored Medicine Cabinet

Let your mirror perform double duty, as a full-length medicine cabinet.

6. Shelving Above the Toilet

In a tiny bathroom, look for charming ways to make use of space that is often overlooked, like the wall above the toilet.

7. Shelving Above the Door

Install a shelf above a door to stow items to which you need less frequent access.

8. Build In Extra Space

Built-in units are a good way to elegantly pack heavy duty storage into a small area.

Beach Style Bathroom by Evens Architects

9. Time for Recess

Recessed shelving in the wall or shower offers the perfect opportunity for more space-efficient storage.

10. U-Shaped Drawers

Use U-shaped drawers under the sink to maximize usable storage around the pipe.

11. Wall-Mounted Faucet & Vessel Sink

Consider the space-efficient combination of a wall-mounted faucet and vessel sink, which leaves room to hold additional items, and frees up an extra drawer that a traditional sink would have monopolized.

12. Trough Sink

Opt for a trough sink, which steals less real estate from a small bathroom, leaving you more room to move.

13. Cut Some Corners

Save yourself from bumping into hard corners in a confined space, by choosing a round vanity.

Contemporary Bathroom by C.P. Hart Bathrooms

14. Make the Most of your Corners

Make maximum use of your corners, which are all too often wasted space, with a stunning corner shower like this one.

15. Be Off the Wall

Corner vanities also make optimal use of small corners. Choose a wall-mounted model to make your small bathroom feel less confined.

16. Claw-Foot Tub

Finally, opt for a claw-foot tub, which lends an airier feel to a small bathroom than its more modern counterpart.

Are you inspired to turn your diminutive bathroom into a thing of beauty? Call Keith Green Construction to get started on your bathroom remodel today!

Bathroom Tiles

by Keith Green Construction

With quality work and waterproofing in mind, Portland tile contractor Keith Green Construction offers tiling projects for remodeling bathrooms. Keith Green ensures that every job is “done right the first time,” eliminating any remodeling worries.

For bathroom tiling projects, Keith Green Construction always keeps the following in mind:

  • Uses the best tiles available, gathering materials locally, eliminating any unwanted middle-man costs.
  • Beautifies your home while supporting other community businesses.
  • Assures clients that sustainability and green practices are always a priority.
  • Turning any job into something to be proud of for both adding elegance and value to a home while protecting the environment.