Is It Better to Have One or Two Sinks in the Bathroom?

Whether you are designing a new bathroom from the ground up or remodeling an existing space, it’s essential to consider what style and size of vanity best fit your needs. With an expansive array of available vanity designs, it can be difficult to determine the most suitable and affordable option for you. The key to installing the most functional and visually appealing centerpiece in your bathroom often depends on your preference of sink style, and the amount of storage space/countertop surface area you need. With that in mind, the following guide should help to highlight the important pros and cons to consider when installing a bathroom vanity. With more than 13 years of professional plumbing experience, the Bird Dog Plumbing experts know a thing or two about bathroom remodels. A single sink bathroom vanity includes a cabinet and sink, normally extending anywhere from 16 to 70 inches in length. Single vanity sinks come in both freestanding and mounted styles. They are normally easier to install, fit nicely in small bathrooms, and provide ample storage space. On top of that, installing a single sink and faucet lowers the overall cost of the project. On the other hand, installing a single vanity limits the amount of available sink and counter space for more than one person. Sharing a master bathroom sink can be awkward and bothersome for all parties, even with enough storage space underneath. A double bathroom vanity includes two sinks installed into one larger cabinet. Having two sinks means that more than one person is capable of using the bathroom at the same time. The ability to use your sink and counter space whenever you want is hugely beneficial, especially during busy hours in the morning and at night. Not to mention, two sinks, more counter space, and cabinet storage significantly help to eliminate overall bathroom clutter. On the other hand, a double vanity may increase the price of remodeling and take up more physical space, which may make the bathroom feel cramped and small. Before you make a final decision, keep the following things in mind. Scale: Just because your bathroom space allows you to install a double vanity doesn’t mean it’s the best choice. Make sure to choose a vanity that will complement the bathroom layout, not overwhelm and crowd the space. Remember to leave enough room to move around with ease. Cost: Be sure to establish...
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How to Make the Most of a Small Bathroom

 Small and  poorly located bathrooms can be painfully difficult to design and use.  Choosing functional and appealing bathroom features in a small space is vital. Here at Bird Dog Plumbing in Longview, TX, we have over 15 years of experience. At times, restrictive building codes and guidelines can derail your plans. Despite the challenges, installing a small bathroom, when needed, is a great investment. The following renovation tips will help you bypass frustrating roadblocks and challenges along the way. Install a corner or trough sink. This will ease the flow of traffic in and out. Choose to install a shower curtain. This will help to save what space you have to use inside the bathroom. Mount the vanity. This will help the bathroom appear larger and free up floor space. Use large scale patterns. These patterns make the bathroom look large and spacious. Skip the shower door. Consider installing a shower curtain or a glass panel to free up space. Expand the mirror. Having a large mirror creates space for more than one person. Mount the towel bar. Install a towel bar on the wall or glass shower panel. Install a vanity with storage shelves. Vanity storage helps the bathroom stay neat and tidy. For more information on plumbing or bathroom renovations. Contact Bird Dog Plumbing in Longview, TX...
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The Advantages of Having a Laundry Room Sink

s a homeowner, it’s common to assess the value and utility of different features within your home. The bulk of homes include or accommodate installing features like washers, dryers, bathtubs, and showers. When it comes to the laundry room, however, the advantage of installing a utility sink depends on your personal preferences and particular situation. At Bird Dog Plumbing in Longview, TX, we’ve seen all kinds. For some people, installing a utility sink in the laundry room is a no-brainer. However, many others are unaware of the potential benefits that adding a utility sink can offer.   If you plan to renovate or upgrade the laundry room in your Longview, TX home, consider the following advantages of adding a utility sink before you begin the project.  Trapping Lint and Hair. The ability to drain your washing machine directly into the laundry room sink helps to filter out hair, fabric, and lint. Laundry sinks may be equipped with wide sink strainers which are designed to catch hair and lint that otherwise accumulate in the sewer line, potentially creating flow issues. If adding a laundry sink to your home in Longview, a professional plumber can advise on whether a wide sink strainer is recommended for your system. Pre-soaking & Hand-Washing. A laundry room sink affords a space to soak particularly stained or dirty clothes that require special attention and care. It additionally provides a convenient location to hand-wash delicate clothing items. Using buckets of water, small sinks, or bathtubs can be a painfully time-consuming alternative compared to a utility sink. Washing Pets. Many pet owners know that bathing their pets in the bathtub can be a difficult and messy task. Washing your pet in the bathroom often requires not only cleaning your pet but the bathroom area as a whole. The difference with a laundry room sink is it doesn’t need to be spotless all the time. It can quickly be wiped down and cleaned when needed.  Houseplant Care. Houseplants often require frequent watering and cleaning, the same way they would outdoors. The laundry room sink is an ideal space to temporarily store, water, and care for your indoor plants. In a utility sink, you don’t need to worry about plant debris or dirt, like you would when using the bathtub to water plants.  DIY projects. At-home art and DIY projects like dying or bleaching clothes can be unpredictably messy and damaging. Even...
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5 Benefits of Whirlpool Tubs

In the quest for personal relaxation and well-being, the luxury of a whirlpool bathtub can be a game-changer. If you’ve never experienced the soothing embrace of warm, bubbling water at the end of a long day, you’re missing out on a rejuvenating experience that can significantly impact your life. Let’s explore the many advantages of installing a whirlpool tub in your home, as it offers not only physical comfort but also mental and emotional relief. 1. At-Home Massages: One of the most delightful aspects of having a whirlpool tub is the ability to indulge in an at-home massage whenever you desire. The gentle yet invigorating water jets provide a soothing and therapeutic experience, effectively relieving muscle tension and promoting relaxation. 2. Spacious Comfort: Unlike traditional bathtubs, whirlpool tubs are designed with ample room to accommodate an adult comfortably. You can stretch out and soak in luxurious splendor, leaving behind the cramped confines of regular bathtubs. 3. Stress Reduction: Life’s daily stressors can take a toll on your well-being. A whirlpool tub offers a private sanctuary where you can escape from the hustle and bustle, allowing you to de-stress, unwind, and regain your mental equilibrium. 4. Muscle Relief: The water jet system in a whirlpool tub is an excellent way to alleviate sore and tense muscles. The pulsating water streams effectively target areas of discomfort, providing relief and enhancing overall comfort. 5. Improved Circulation: The warm water and the massaging action of the jets stimulate blood circulation and enhance oxygen flow throughout your body. This not only promotes relaxation but also contributes to better health. 6. Detoxification: Soaking in a hot detox bath in your whirlpool tub can help eliminate toxins from your body. The combination of warm water and hydrotherapy can aid in flushing out harmful chemicals, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. 7. Enhanced Sanitation: Public spas and shared facilities can harbor bacteria and germs. Having your personal whirlpool tub ensures a higher level of sanitation, as you are the sole user of the tub. This provides peace of mind and a cleaner, healthier bathing experience. 8. Privacy and Personalization: Your whirlpool tub is your personal oasis, and you can enjoy it exactly as you like. Whether you prefer a tranquil soak, a therapeutic massage, or a romantic retreat, the privacy of your own bathroom allows you to tailor the experience to your desires. Incorporating a whirlpool tub...
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The Do’s and Don’ts of a Bathroom Remodel

A professionally remodeled bathroom can be a luxurious addition to any home. The process, however, can be painstakingly expensive and timely if done incorrectly.  When the time comes to start a dream bathroom remodel, make sure to contact the experts at Bird Dog Plumbing in Longview, TX. Until that time, consider the following Do’s and Don’ts of bathroom renovations: Have a Realistic Budget. The bathroom is a significant and frequently used space, so before planning a major renovation, establish a budget. Establish a firm and mutual understanding of the costs associated with installing items like a new shower or toilet. In certain cases, establish a budget for unexpected repairs and potentially unnoticed water damage. An experienced Bird Dog plumbing specialist will do their best to explore the area and provide an accurate quote or estimation of the associated costs. Choose the right toilet. If you haven’t already, familiarize yourself with the different brands and models of toilets. There are plenty of different brands and toilet types which offer different levels of water consumption and performance. Some of the best residential toilet brands on the market include TOTO, Kohler, and American Standard. After deciding on a suitable brand and model of toilet, consider its placement. It’s never a bad idea to partially conceal the fixture behind a half wall or piece of furniture. Decide on the best surfaces for space. Carefully ponder your choice of tile, countertop, sink, and flooring. Consider the price, color, size, and durability of the material, whether that be marble, granite, quartz, porcelain, or natural stone. Decide on the most sensible material that best suits your interests and needs. Don’t skimp on the shower. The shower is an essential part of the bathroom space. Depending on the size of the area, determine the right number and style of showerheads you want to install. Try your best to align the fixture finish to the color or style of the bathroom as a whole. The decisions you make here will be significant and long-lasting, so go all out. Think about water efficiency. In recent years, toilets, showerheads, and sinks have all become increasingly water-efficient. To save money in the long run, research and install the best low-flow appliances. Replacing older, inefficient toilets, showerheads, and sinks can save thousands of gallons of water and more than hundreds of dollars per year. Of course, this is not a complete list....
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