Upcoming Toilet Install

While there are no plans to replace the current toilet I am planning on replacing the carpet with something. That will require removing the commode and re-installing it. I found this link on the Internet that did a pretty good job of explaining what is required.  How to install an American standard cadet 3 toilet. I hope it turns out that easy.

Laundry Hide-Away

Found this cool idea on a way to hide the stacked washer and dryer combo.

Eclectic Laundry Room design by Other Metro Interior Designer Interior Works Inc

Trash Idea

While visiting the ReStore in Troy we came across this interesting kitchen Trash Bin idea. Along with the Pull Out for the Hideaway Trash Can instead of a drawer on top they made a cutout so you could dispose of small trash without opening the door. I'm not sold on the concept but my son Tony likes it.

Vanity in a small bath

The bathroom is small. 6x10 at best and the space includes a tub, hot water tank and two entry doors. The sink plumbing comes out of the wall and not the floor. I would like to replace it with a small vanity but the one we both like is $250.

Tony likes the open shelf and legs vs the traditional box style.  I even toyed with the idea of a DIY re-purpose of an end table and sink vessel. My biggest worry is not just the cost but the height and width. There is not much space between the sink and the toilet.

Here is a picture of what we are looking at. I didn't have a measuring tape but my guess would be it is about 29 inches high and too short for our plumbing.

Of course I could cut off and extend the legs..........or not.....I am glad this is on the down the road list of things to do.

As much as I like the idea of a vanity for the added storage a peddle based sink might be the best option. 

Floored

Tony and I had a great night shopping and ciphering on how best to tackle the remolding of our new project home. I was first leaning toward cheap $.68 cent tongue and grove wood laminate till I saw a large section on display. The pieces slide together but do not lock and I could see this could cause an issue with the seams. I found an upgrade for $1.09 not top of the line but has locking edges. The wood laminate will go in the living room and kitchen. It too has mixed reviews but I think it is worth a shot.

ReStore

I was researching on the Internet for recycled building material and supplies when I came across the Habitat for Humanity Restore Website. While I was familiar with Habitat for Humanity and the wonderful work that they do, I did not know that they had stores open to the public. There are several location within a 50 mile radius of where I live. The Troy store is the closest and I am planning giving it a visit next Wednesday. With any luck I may be able to score some bargains for our upcoming remodel.

The Cost of Water Just Went Up

I got an unpleasant surprised when I called the utility department today - Not only are water rates going up in 2013 but there will be an additional $20+ monthly fee. The Inflow & Infiltration (I&I) fee as it is called comes from EPA mandates for changes to the City's Waste Water Treatment Plant. The city has created a brochure to explain it all - EPA Brochure.  While I find the increase frustrating to say the least, I found the brochure very informative.