Tip #42 Bathroom Moisture

Moisture is inherent to any bathroom, and yet it can be a real pest for creating a grimy appearance, encouraging mold or mildew growth, damaging your decorating, and creating other problems.

Look around your bathroom, and ask yourself the following moisture-related questions:

• Are any of the finishes moisture-damaged?

• Are there visible waters stains on any surfaces?

• Is there any mold growth on any surfaces?

• Is there any paint blistering or peeling?

• Are there any swollen, buckled, or rotten surfaces?

• Is any of the grout or caulking chipped, cracked, or peeling?

If you have answered “yes” to any of the above questions, then go over the following plans of action that may be ideal for your bathroom issues.

• Find out if any of the moisture is coming from building leaks, plumbing leaks, or high levels of humidity. Fix the cause of the moisture if at all possible.

• Repair or replace the damaged or deteriorating parts of your bathroom.

• Remove any visible mold growth with a quality cleaning product that is specific for that purpose.

• If possible, keep the window open to increase ventilation and release excess humidity.

• Replace or repair grout and caulking, and maintain it to prevent water from escaping.

Tip #43 Bathroom Plumbing and Electrical

To be certain that the plumbing and electricity are up to snuff in your bathroom, ask yourself the following questions:

• Is the water pressure satisfactory?

• Do the pipes make a banging noise (known as water hammer)?

• Do the drains flow slowly?

• Are there any unusual noises or smells in the drains?

• Is the electric wiring safe and adequate?

• Is the lighting good enough to light the area?

If you are faced with any of the above issues, consider the following techniques to better the situation:

• Install water pipes with a larger diameter to allow for greater flow, or use pressure balancing valves

• Provide your plumbing an air cushion to get rid of the water hammer

• Make certain that your drainage system is sufficiently vented, and that the proper traps have been installed.

• Unclog any drains that used to drain more quickly, and are now slow to flow.

• Have an electrician inspect your electric wiring. Have the wiring upgraded for safety reasons, if required.

• Update the lighting in the bathroom so that it is adequate for the space.

Tip #44 Rapid Fire Bathroom Tips: Keep it Clean

Your bathroom should be cleaner than brand new whenever someone comes to view the home. This includes the floor, walls, mats, tub, toilet, sink, and counter.

Tip #45 Rapid Fire Bathroom Tips: Keep it Neat

Counter space should look as large and clear as possible. This allows the people viewing the home to see it when it looks the biggest, cleanest, and most hygienic. It also de-personalizes the space, so that they can imagine the space for their own uses.

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