FAQs
General FAQs
How long does it take to remodel a kitchen or bathroom?
At the risk of sounding elusive, it depends. The scope of the kitchen or bathroom remodeling will dictate how long each project will take. For example, if you're relocating your fixtures and reconfiguring the room, the actual construction will obviously take a bit longer. A quick facelift and replacing fixtures can take a relatively short amount of time. It is important to remember that moving fixtures will generally require building department permits, which will also add to the project time so check with your professional contractor. Also, please schedule time to meet with your local Frank Webs Home consultant. When you do having timeline information ready based on your discussions with your contractor is helpful. This will allow your consultant to not only help you select products that fit your style and budget but that also fit your time table as well.
At the risk of sounding elusive, it depends. The scope of the kitchen or bathroom remodeling will dictate how long each project will take. For example, if you're relocating your fixtures and reconfiguring the room, the actual construction will obviously take a bit longer. A quick facelift and replacing fixtures can take a relatively short amount of time. It is important to remember that moving fixtures will generally require building department permits, which will also add to the project time so check with your professional contractor. Also, please schedule time to meet with your local Frank Webs Home consultant. When you do having timeline information ready based on your discussions with your contractor is helpful. This will allow your consultant to not only help you select products that fit your style and budget but that also fit your time table as well.
What do I need to do to prepare for my kitchen or bathroom renovation?
You can start by getting a good idea for the type of look and style you want. If you don't know yet, look at some magazines, websites, or watch some home remodeling shows to get some design ideas. Then, contact us for a free consultation with a Frank Webs Home expert, and we will help you determine the steps you will need to take. Generally speaking, before construction begins, you'll want to clear out the area being worked on of all your personal belongings that can be removed. Check with your contractor for a "to do list". Another important tip is do not rip out your kitchen or bathroom fixtures until you have the new product onsite!
Kitchen FAQs
I have a double bowl kitchen sink but would like a big single bowl sink for my baking dishes. Is it hard to make that change?
Not too hard. Manufacturers make single bowl sinks that fit in the same size area your double bowl sink is in. You will need to make changes to your drain piping. Call your contractor to check on the feasibility.
A kitchen sink is just a kitchen sink isn't it?
Not anymore! There are many options available today. There are many classic, commercial and contemporary styles to choose from. In addition there are different shapes, sizes, depths and configurations from which to select. You can have drop-ins or undermounts with different materials to choose from, such as: cast iron, stainless steel and granite. Now you can select a sink for its utility or entertainment value. It's not just your grandmother's kitchen sink any more.
What does "gauge" refer to in a stainless kitchen sink?
Gauge is a reference to the thickness of the stainless steel used to make the sink. The lower the gauge number, the thicker the stainless steel.
Pull-out, pull-down, pot filler... how do I know what faucet to pick?
First you will need to consider the Function and Depth of your sink. Pull-outs faucet spray heads that pull straight out of the faucet spout toward you are connected to a long hose for utility. A pull-down works the same but the head pulls down from the neck of the faucet. While Pot fillers are installed at your cooking surface so you can fill a pot and not have to transfer it from the sink to your cooking surface. Pot fillers can be wall mounted or counter top mounted.
I have a stainless steel sink with 4 holes but want to change to a single hole faucet. What do I do?
You have a couple of options. One option is to place covers into the holes. Although this may not be the most aesthetic look, it does assist in remedying the holes in the sink. Another option would be to add a soap dispenser in one or more of the holes. You could have one for soap and the other for lotion. If that is not what you are looking for you may consider a hot water maker or a filtered water dispenser; As you make the plumbing changes for the new faucet this will be a great time to hook up some of these other items.
I want to install a garbage disposal with my new sink but I really am nervous about sticking things in it when it's running. What do you recommend?
There are garbage disposals that have an activating switch built right into the cover. You first place your food waste in the disposal. Next place the cover over the opening. Twist the cover to activate the disposal and you don't have to worry about your fingers reaching inside. A great safety feature for little children.
What do I need to consider when buying a kitchen sink?
Think of these factors when selecting a kitchen sink:
- Surface-choose a finish that fits your space and function
- Strength-the lower the gauge number the thicker the sink
- Sound-insulation is important for sound and condensation reduction
- Size-you have many choices today. Consider function as well as form
- Shape-square, round, "D" bowl, kidney and so on... many options for your beautiful kitchen counter or island
Bath FAQs
What is the best way to clean an acrylic bath?
A soft cloth and soapy water is all that is needed to get a good finish. Rinse with clean water and wipe dry. There are also special cleaners available that will clean and protect the finish on your tub available at Frank Webs Home.
Which type of bath gives more choice of style?
No single type of bath gives a greater choice. If you're looking for roll-top or slipper bath, then cast-iron offers the most choice. If you are looking at standard baths, then acrylic and fiberglass have a wide range of shapes and sizes.
My bathroom has limited space but I still want to include a tub, what are the options?
A standard small tub is 60"x 30". If you are talking about replacing a tub with a new larger or different style tub, measure width right to left and depth front to back to see what you can comfortably fit. You can probably get any feature (air, whirlpool, deeper soaker) without having to increase the length or width of your current tub. If you are looking to get a larger tub for soaking, then it is possible to gain space other places in the bathroom by downsizing a vanity or switching to a pedestal sink.
Will my water supply stain my porcelain-enamel steel bath?
While porcelain-enamel steel and acrylic baths are generally excellent in their ability to withstand water-soluble materials, they can be affected over time. Cleaning after use will help reduce problems. Lemons left on a hard water stain will help remove it
I want to change the position of my faucets when I install a new bath, is that possible?
Yes, with the wide range of designs available, faucets can be located in various positions for use in any bathroom. Be aware there may be additional costs if plumbing work is required.
I want to install a bath with faucets mounted on the wall, are baths available without faucet holes?
Yes, most suppliers have baths in their range with no pre-cut faucet holes.
Do baths come with guarantees?
It varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Some offer up to a 25-yr guarantee.
Do you need a special water supply to have an air tub?
No, air tubs utilize standard hot and cold supplies found in all households.
Are air tubs noisy?
If installed correctly, they should work quietly and efficiently, but expect some noise. See a working air tub in a Frank Webs Home near you.
Do I need a big bathroom for an air tub?
No, they are available in a range of sizes. All the plumbing and the pump are usually hidden beneath the unit, so they do not need to take up more space than a standard bath.
Do air tubs need special installers?
As always any bath fixtures are best installed by professional contractors.
What is Sanitary ware and is all Sanitary ware white?
Sanitary ware refers to toilets and sinks generally made of vitreous china. All suppliers offer models in a variety of colors and finishes to complement any bathroom or washroom design. White is the most popular color chosen today.
What are the advantages of vitreous china?
It is the perfect finish for toilets and sinks because it is extremely durable, easy to clean and can be in service for many years without any deterioration in performance and appearance.
What are the advantages of wall-hung washbasins?
By leaving the floor exposed beneath them, they help make the room appear larger and make it easier to clean around them. Keep in mind that you may want to select more decorative supplies, stops & drains for a wall hung sink since they will be exposed. There are options available in finishes and styles to match the overall style of your bathroom.
Does a bidet have to be installed in a bathroom with a toilet?
They can be installed along-side a toilet, but today there are modern bidet options that are a part of the toilet to save space and can provide a spa-like experience. These have become increasingly popular and come in a number of options. Bidet style seats can also be installed on your current toilet.
Will a Frank Webs Home expert help me choose all of the materials (vanity, faucets, sinks, countertops, etc.) for my project to make the process less overwhelming?
Yes. Our experts will help you choose everything you will need from the tub to the toilet paper holder.
Do I need to have design ideas before I start the renovation process?
It's not absolutely necessary but it helps if you do. Having design ideas is always a good starting point whether it is pictures from a magazine or online. If you have at least an idea of what you're looking for we will work with you to narrow down the options and find the pieces that are best for you. If you're not sure what you want, we can also help you find the products that fit your needs, your style, and your budget.
What features should I plan to invest the most in for my new bath?
Depending on your style and taste, the floor and wall tiles can be the most expensive. Other possibly considerable expenses are the fixtures and the shower system. Sometimes we recommend that people spend the most on the fixture or item that is most important to them. If the shower system or vanity is going to be the crowning glory of the bathroom, it makes sense to invest there.
What type of return on investment can I expect from remodeling my bathroom if I sell my home?
It is generally accepted by experts in the remodeling industry that updating kitchens and bathrooms add the most value. It is true that in certain markets, these improvements may add more than 100 percent of their cost to the value of the home.
What can I expect to do while a remodeling project is being done in my home?
Most importantly, keep the lines of communication open between you and the remodeling contractor. Let them know what your family schedule is and whether you have pets confined somewhere. It is important to keep work areas off limits to children and pets for their safety. Because you may have a little extra dust and dirt in your household but keeping the work area off limits will avoid them tracking the dust to other parts of the house.
How important is it for my remodeling contractor to be licensed and insured?
It's very important. If licensing is required in your state or town, ask for proof of licensing or call the issuing municipality for proof of license. For insurance, ask for a proof of insurance or call the insurance company with whom the contractor is insured to determine coverage.
Lighting FAQs
Is there a general rule of thumb for lighting around a bathroom sink?
To eliminate shadows around the face, fixtures are best mounted on either side of the mirror. Mounting height off the floor works well between 60-66" and should also be 36-40" apart. This provides a nice even cross illumination.
When a light fixture is marked 100 watts maximum, does that mean for each socket or the entire light?
The marking is for each individual socket.
What lighting is best for the kitchen or bath?
Both rooms require task and ambient light. Work areas, such as an island or sink, should have task lighting. Ambient lighting can help eliminate shadows and fill the room with a soft glow. Try replacing your switch with a dimmer so you can control the mood and conserve energy.
I'm not sure I want a big light over my kitchen island. Do I have any options?
A kitchen island is a great place for decorative pendant lights. There are many styles, shapes, and colors to choose from which can make it sophisticated, casual, or a retro look. They are also great fixtures for providing the task lighting needed for over an island.
Do you have lighting that matches my faucet finishes?
Lighting is available in many finishes including today's latest trends. You will find brushed nickel, oil rubbed bronze, polished nickel or hammered pewter. There are different styles for every décor.
Are there different types of lighting?
Yes. There is Ambient, Task, Accent, and Decorative lighting. Any room can contain a combination of these types of lighting. Here is an explanation of each one:
- Ambient lighting illuminates the entire room.
- Task lighting provides focused lighting for work areas.
- Accent lighting highlights objects or architectural features in a room.
- Decorative lighting draws attention to itself, for example: a large chandelier in a grand foyer.
ADA FAQs
What does it mean to age in place?
To age in place means that you will be remaining in your own home for the later years of your life.
What does it mean to be ADA compliant?
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant products are designed to make their use easier, safer and more comfortable for people with disabilities or limited mobility. The most prevalent aspect of ADA compliance is the measurement and spacing of these products within your space. Meeting ADA is not a requirement for private residences. Residential new building and remodels can incorporate the ideas in the ADA standards as guidelines to improve overall functionality.
Are you looking to age in place or do you need products that are ADA compliant?
Products that are designed for you to age in place, which we also call accessible living products, are there to provide safety and add convenience and comfort to your daily routine. They include shower seats, flat drain systems, grab bars, specialized medicine cabinets and more. For those with disabilities or limited mobility, these products must meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) specifications where needed. The most prevalent aspect of ADA compliance is the measurement and spacing of these products within your space. Contact us for a free consultation with a Frank Webs Home expert, and we will help you make your bathroom safe and accessible.
How can I incorporate accessible living/ADA-compliant products without sacrificing style?
Today, there are more sleek, subtle and stylish options available than ever before. Especially since remodeling a space with accessible products has become more popular regardless of age and ability. It can benefit families with kids or whose older family members visit often, it can add value to a home and allow homeowners to stay in their homes as they age. For example, well-crafted shower seats and wrap bars come in designs and finishes that add beauty to your bath. Or a towel bar can serve double duty as a grab bar. Visit one of our accessible living showrooms to experience the products firsthand and get inspiration for your own space.
Are touchless faucets considered ADA compliant?
Touchless bathroom and kitchen faucets are a perfect solution for people with disabilities because there is no turning and twisting required. They make it simpler for people with physical disabilities to reach and access water, and also protects against scalding since there is a mixing valve that can control the temperature.we
What is the benefit of incorporating safety aids into my remodel?
Now that the old institutional look is gone, it's never too early to incorporate safety aids into a remodel. People don't like to think about needing these aids if they're still young, but you'll save a bundle by including them in a remodel or build, instead of trying to retrofit later.
What accessible living products should I consider for my bathroom?
A curbless shower is ideal for people using a wheelchair, walker or for someone who is at risk for falls. A Handheld showerhead also helps those with physical challenges. Bidets that are a part of the toilet or bidet style seats can help people with disabilities use the toilet unaided. We have specialized medicine cabinets that allow for wheelchair access and much more. Schedule a free consultation with a Frank Webs Home expert to find the styles and solutions that best fit your lifestyle.