DIY: Add a Bathroom to your Basement

No one ever said to to having an extra bathroom.  Here are the steps to install one in your basement with a simple plumbing system.

You will need some tools for this project, lets start with your basic carpenter, electrical and plumbing tools.   As for materials, you would need framing lumber, CGCI outlet, PVC adhesive, PVC pipe and Saniflo SaniAcess3.

The additional full bathroom of shower, sink and toilet is a great improvement to any home, especially if you one have on bathroom and a growing family.

With the design of an Upflow bathroom system the plumbing of the basement bathroom, makes this project great for a DIYer.  This system includes a macerator/pump that can be tucked into a wall directly behind the toilet.

All the fixture drains flows to the macerator/pump, which solids and then pumps waste upward to connect to your main drain line, instead on gravity.  The shower and sink drains to reach the pump, and they are easily installed.

 

What is a Macetaring Toilet?

The system works similar to a garage disposal in your sink, in a macetaring toilet, waste is channeled to the macetor/pump, which reduces solids to be easily pumped through a 3/4 discharge pipe.

The SaniAccess3 from Saniflo, the system includes a rear-discharge toilet and a macerator/pump with fittings.

System Advantages

The greatest advantage of an upflow system is not breaking up a concrete floor to run floor drains.

The discharge line is much smaller that a standard drain line, so you can fit it into small places.  Second, you can install a bathroom anywhere.

We are ready to get started, in 10-steps you’ll have a new full bathroom in your basement.

Basement Toilet Electrical outlet Plumbing STEP 1: Set the macerator/pump in place behind the wall framing.  The unit would need to be at the same level as the toilet. Install the rubber feet and secure the pump to the floor.

You would need to allow space between the pump and the wall for insulation, if you are in cold climate.  Insulate in front of the pump will help dampen  the noise from the pump.

STEP 2: Install the GFCI outlet inside the wall framing, near the pump.  The outlet needs to be within 12 inches of an access panel and facing the room.

STEP 3:  Building the shower pan step-up.  With the shower plumbing in hand, calculate the height of the platform, including the P-traps as well as 1/4″ drop per foot of horizontal run to the pump.  The minimum height is six inches, and the that’s sufficient but would depend on your P-trap and the distance to the pump.  You may need to add an extra step, depending on the finish height.

 

STEP 4: Connecting the Shower to the Sink Drain.  You’ll need to hook up the shower drain and run the pipe into the wall.  Us an elbow turn pipe towards the pump.

STEP 5: Install the vents and connected them to existing vent system. Mechanical vents would work with the system, you would need a free air vent.

STEP 6: Connecting the discharge to the pump by slipping the flexible tube onto its port on the pump and secure it with a hose clamp. Install a shutoff ball valve at the end of the tube.  This would prevent backflow if you need to remove the pump.

STEP 7: Connect the discharge to the main sewer line.  The easiest place to tie into the main drain is at a cleanout using a reducer fitting.  It this is not an option you can install a Y-fitting.

Toilet plumbing Toilet vent Discharge Installation Toilet Connection

STEP 8: To connect the toilet, set it into position, connect the flexible boot to the toilet’s discharge port.  Next, connect the boot on the other end to the pump.  Make sure the connection boot faces the right direction.  Zip ties keep the boot in place.

STEP 9: Install the toilet.  Mark holes on the floor through the holes on the toilet base.  Slide the toilet out of the way, then  drill holes for the supplied concrete anchors.  Slide the toilet back into place and install screw anchors.

/by

DIY: Replace your Shower Curtain with a Glass Doors

Did you know that you can replace your shower curtains with glass doors in four simple steps. This weekend project is fun and will upgrade the value of your home, while giving you a spa like feeling.

You’ll need to start by selecting a glass door that matches your existing décor.  If you working on an overall upgrade, make sure the select a design that matches your new design.

Shower Doors coming in varying styles, they can be frameless, frameless, and sliding models.

Frameless Shower Doors

The sleek design of frameless shower doors creates a spacious, open feel.  Manufactures make this king of shower door with tempered glass, without frame or support around the edges, frameless shower doors prove easy to clean and maintain.

Framed Shower Doors

Framed shower doors usually have an aluminum frame and tempered glass panel to ensure user safety.  A framed shower door offers a traditional look with your choice of finish and color.

Sliding Shower Doors

Sliding glass shower doors feature two operable doors with a smooth gliding mechanism for seamless entry into your new shower enclosure.  Their stylish design will also improve your bathroom’s overall aesthetic.  Sliding door panels contain a glass or plastic window with a metal shower door frame to provide stability.

Most shower doors installation can be accomplished in four basic steps.  However, a lot of work goes into each stage of the process.  You’ll need a few tools to complete your project: Screw guns, tile drilling drill bits, level, screwdriver, tape measure, silicone caulk, putty knife and utility knife.

Installing Shower Doors

STEP 1: Before installing your shower doors remove all items from shower area, you’ll need ample space to work and move around in your bathroom.

STEP 2: You would need precise measurements of the opening of the shower enclosure.  Start by measuring the opening height, width, and depth.  Then you’ll need to verify the quality or state of being vertical, of each wall to guarantee your shower door fits well and functions as it should.

STEP 3:  You’ll need to remove the old shower rod.  Remove all the screws, nuts, and bolts that hold the rod in place.  You can use a drill to expedite the task.

STEP 4: It’s time to install your shower door.  Here are the instructions for the most popular Shower Doors

Sliding Shower Door Installation: This door requires the securing the tracks with screws and anchors to the doors.  Affix the rollers and carefully glide the door onto its tracks.  Then test the door to confirm that the open and closed as intended.

Frameless Shower Door Installation: This installation requires drilling holes for the wall anchors.  Use the level to ensure proper alignment when attaching the glass panels to the wall.  After you install the doors, apply silicone caulk between the U-channels and the walls and doors.  You’ll need to wait 24 hours for the caulk to dry before use.

Framed Shower Door Installation: Position the frame with shims to ensure it is level before attaching the hinges with screws.  Connect the door handles and latch set after hanging the door.  Finally, verify that the doors open and closed smoothly and make adjustments if necessary.

Replacing your shower doors will improve the look and feel of your bathroom.

/by
,

Upper Saddle River Bathroom Remodel

Bathroom Remodel

Bathroom Remodel

Shower with Sliding DoorsUnless your home is brand new, chances are you have at least one bathroom that is in need of a remodel. With so many types, styles, and colors of tile, it’s difficult to know where to start. We are showcasing our latest bathroom projects featuring designed and installed. Hopefully, these photos will provide some inspiration and help you find a look for your remodel project!

Most homes have a hallway bathroom that features a shower over a tub. A bathtub is a great feature for bathing kids, pets, and maybe even enjoying a relaxing soak on a rare occasion. Tiling above a tub is necessary to protect the walls from water and you are typically working above a white or off-white bathtub.

SHOWER TILE IDEAS

In the master bathroom, many homeowners are opting to remove their bathtub and replace it with a large shower.  Showers are more practical for most people. Plus, a large walk-in shower with a bench, grab bar and removeable showerhead are perfect for homeowners who are aging in place.

As for shower tile designs, neutral colors are still the most popular. White, grey, and beige are the most requested tile. While the color patterns are simple, we can add interest through texture, pattern, and color combinations.

For this project the blue and white is off-set with light gray walls. the Subway pattern is featured on the bathroom floors, while the shower and accent wall have large tiles.  The pedestal sink makes the space feel open and storage is provided with a wall cabinet.

Sliding Glass Shower Doors

TEXTURED SHOWER TILE

A modern, streamlined look is possible without being boring. Another way to add character to a tiled shower is to use tile with some texture. Tile with an irregular surface is becoming more popular.  Ceramic and porcelain tile is manufactured with both uniform and irregularly “shaped” surfaces which can appear to be molded. For a more masculine look, stone-look tile adds authenticity with a rough, raw surface. This tile is also great for shower floors to help prevent slipping.

LARGE FORMAT TILE

Large format tile is another trend we’ve been installing in our customer’s bathrooms. These large format tiles give a sleek, modern look. They can be used on shower walls and bathroom floors for a consistent appearance. Large format tiles are typically porcelain which is low maintenance and durable. The limited grout lines make cleaning a breeze.

BATHROOM FLOOR TILE IDEAS

Various wood-look tile continues to be very popular for bathroom tile floors. Of course, these faux wood tiles are actually made of porcelain so the floor is watertight. These wood-look tiles vary from very rustic looking, to more modern with just a hint of a hardwood appearance. To make these floor tiles a little more unique, playing with the layout of the tile is an idea. In the last photo, we laid these tiles  in a subway tile pattern  in the powder room area.

/by
,

Elevate Your Home with the Experts at Four Star Construction

Four Star Construction & General Contractors is a well-known and reputable contractor since 1999, Top Rated in Northern NJ for its full-home, kitchen and bathroom remodeling services. Despite their apparent differences, kitchens and bathrooms actually have more in common than you may imagine. Both rooms are usually high activity areas in your home and have counters, water and sewer connections. Since we have been remodeling kitchens and renovating bathrooms for as long as we have been renovating homes in New Jersey, at Four Star Constructions, we know how important it is to create attractive and functional home.

Design Services

Our in-house Designer & Color coordination services if offered automatically with every project at no additional cost.  We want to ensure that regardless the project,  you home maintains a cohesive look throughout.

Arrangement and Scheduling

In New Jersey and Rockland County NY, remodeling a bathroom can need just as much organization and preparation as remodeling a kitchen. Bathrooms are usually smaller spaces, but there are often more features and nuances to take into account. At Four Star Construction, our skilled crew is accustomed to managing these difficulties. Together, we develop a complete strategy that enhances practicality and reflects your unique style for your bathroom.

Unique Styles and Elements

The chance to add unique elements and ideas that improve a bathroom or kitchen appearance and usefulness is one of the most important parts of upgrading bathrooms or kitchens. Every little detail matters to us, from elaborate tile patterns to integrated accessories like towel bars and robe hooks for your bathroom. To custom build kitchen islands in your kitchen to become an opulent haven from a practical place with well-thought-out upgrades.

From the cabinetry in your bathroom and kitchen, to the floors and lights we believe the final design should represent your own needs and style. For this reason, we supply quality cabinets, vanities, water fixtures, flooring, tiles and paint colors from reputable vendors. This guarantees that the craftsmanship and quality of weather you we remodeling your home, a kitchen or a bathroom.

Making the Most of Functional Space

Bathrooms in New Jersey and Kitchens in Rockland County NY are often small rooms in houses, making the most of every square inch is essential. Our crew is skilled at making the most of usable space in constrained spaces, so you may have plenty of storage and convenience without compromising design. Whether it’s ingenious storage options or compact fixtures, our knowledge will help you maximize the possibilities of your bathroom or kitchen.

In New Jersey, Four Star Construction & General Contractors is the company to call when you need full home remodel, kitchen or bathroom remodeling services. We can turn your home into a stunning haven with our experience, attention to detail, and commitment to designing unique spaces. We’re here to ensure the success of your home makeover, whether you’re in NJ or Rockland County NY, Get in touch with us right now to start your road toward a upgraded home that meets your particular needs and style.

/by