Adding a Shower Stall

Photo taken from KHI gallery

Most people prefer stand up showers over bath tubs for a number of reasons. Taking a shower is so much quicker than spending time soaking in a tub; on average showers use less water than baths; shower stalls take up less space and in turn make your bathroom look bigger; and showers actually


make you cleaner than baths because the water and dirt is running past you and down the drain.

 

Bathroom remodeling projects tend to have a high return on their value. Homeowners who plan carefully and choose the right shower stall for the bathroom can feel confident that they have made a good investment for the home. In addition to a great return on the initial investment, shower stalls offer convenience for homeowners and their guests, and safety for the elderly.  A master bath can become a luxurious suite with the addition of a separate shower stall.

 

When cleaning your shower stall, try this homemade solution courtesy of TLC:

1.  Mix 1/2 cup vinegar, 1 cup ammonia, 1/4 cup baking soda and 1 gallon of hot water. Be sure to wear rubber gloves and work in a well-ventilated area when using this powerful solution.
2. Apply it to the walls of the shower with a sponge, scrubbing with a brush if necessary, to remove all the scum.
3. Rinse well with clear water and wipe dry.

To keep your shower stall clean, follow these guidelines:

Photo taken from KHI gallery

• Keep mildew from taking hold by wiping shower walls with a towel after each shower.
• If the shower area is subject to mildew, periodically spray it with a mildew inhibitor and disinfectant.
• Leave the shower door slightly open to allow air to circulate; this will discourage the growth of mildew.
• Remove hard-water deposits on shower enclosures with a solution of white vinegar and water.
• Glass shower doors will sparkle when you clean them with a sponge dipped in white vinegar.
• Add 1 cup liquid fabric softener to 1 quart warm water, and use to loosen and clean soap scum from shower doors.
• Mix 1 part mineral oil with 4 parts water in a clean, empty spray bottle. Spray on soap scum and dirt in your shower or tub. Wipe off with a sponge.
• Remove water spots on the metal frames around shower doors and enclosures with lemon oil.
• If the grout or caulking in your shower breaks away where the walls join the tub or shower floor, recaulk immediately to prevent water damage.
• Never use harsh abrasive powders or steel-wool pads.
• Coat the tile walls of your shower with furniture polish to prevent soap scum buildup and water spots.
• Clean mineral deposits from a shower head by removing the head, taking it apart, and soaking it in vinegar. Then brush deposits loose with an old toothbrush. Clean the holes by poking them with a wire, pin, toothpick, or ice pick.

 

 Source: Stand Up Shower Ideas | eHow http://www.ehow.com/list_6660985_stand-up-shower-ideas.html#ixzz2VLnQvPZn