daniel's tips
The right valves and fittings for reliable daily use…and peace of mind
Choosing high quality, long lasting valves and fittings
Choose products that have proven their quality and durability and are made by companies with solid reputations. Don’t be fooled by a low-cost faucet made in China. They are often knock-offs of popular brands made with lower quality materials, and they are likely to wear out quickly. It will be difficult, if not impossible, to get a refund on that faucet because the company that manufactured it in China probably no longer exists.
The art of daily living: A closer look at shower valves and fittings
Multi-jet showerheads are among today’s biggest bathrooms trends. Here’s what you need to know for maximum comfort and safety.
Whether you choose a panel with all the taps already connected or you select all your taps separately, the most important part is the central valve. Replacing this valve (because of a defect, breakage, or simple wear and tear) usually requires breaking the wall open, because very few showers have access traps.
- Rapid temperature regulation
- Reduced water consumption and energy costs related to hot water waste
- Safety for young children
- Steady temperature throughout your shower
- Instant flow adjustment in case of sudden temperature or pressure changes (like when someone flushes the toilet)
The right style of shower
Choose carefully—and get the most out of your shower!
The shower is one of the basic elements of your bathroom, so it’s important to choose one that suits your taste and requirements and fits into the available space.
The 3 styles of shower
1. Molded or prefabricated showers
For a reliable watertight seal, prefabricated showers are unbeatable. They come in a variety of dimensions, either in one piece (base and walls) or in sections.
Prefabricated showers are also the most affordable option—prices have literally plunged in recent years!
2. Ceramic, natural stone, or glass walls
This type of shower allows for larger surfaces and creatively designed ceramic, stone, or glass walls.
Remember to install an acrylic shower receiver at the base to avoid leaks. Acrylic receivers are available in a variety of dimensions. Good quality acrylic won’t stain, fade, or scuff.
3. Italian showers are spacious and beautiful
The hottest trend in 2009 was Italian showers, which are installed without receivers. You can walk right into them without lifting your feet! Regardless of design or dimensions, the focus is on comfort. The floor and walls can be covered with a wide variety of materials, including tile, ceramic mosaic, marble, teak, pebble stone, wood, concrete, and more.
High quality toilets
The environmental age has arrived. In the last fifteen years, toilets that use 13 liters of water per flush have been replaced by models that use 6 liters or less. New technology makes modern toilets much more efficient than traditional models.
Choosing a high quality toilet
The maximum performance (MaP) test measures toilet performance based on low water consumption. The MaP test has become an internationally recognized toilet testing standard, changing and improving toilet performance around the world.
