Beat the Winter Blues with These Bathroom Fixes

Suffering from the winter blues?  

Cold temperatures and short days leave us spending more time indoors during the winter months.  Fortunately, there are ways to beat the winter blues and brighten up your space - even on cold, dark days.  

Here are a few simple ways to update your bathroom this winter.

Winter Bathroom Remodeling Ideas:

• Upgrade to Shower Doors - Now that the days are shorter, bathroom lighting can be hard to come by.  Adding shower glass doors to your bathroom can brighten up your space.  Unlike shower curtains, glass allows light to pass through your space, making it appear bigger and brighter. 
• Add Additional Lighting - Does your bathroom seem dim?  Adding more lighting options can help make getting ready on a dark winter morning a little bit easier.  
• Add New Fixtures - New faucet and shower head fixtures can make your bathroom feel new again.  
• Add a Vanity Mirror - Mirrors naturally reflect light and make your bathroom space appear larger than it is.  They're a great way to add light to a dark space.

If you're bathroom tub is in need of a serious upgrade - don't forget to enter our ugliest tub contest!  Click here for complete rules.

You can call 585-216-3058 to contact our office or visit our website to learn more about the plumbing and remodeling services that we offer to the Rochester area.

Don't forget to check out our social pages!  Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

Plumbing FAQs

Have a question about your plumbing system?  You're not alone.  Take a look at a few of the most frequently asked plumbing questions.

Plumbing FAQs:

What Causes Clogged Drains?
Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing problems that homeowners face.  Most bathroom clogs are due to hair and soap clogging the drain pipes.  When this accumulates over time, it can keep the water from going down the drain.  Kitchen sinks are often clogged by oil and grease.  If you want to prevent these clogs, try to scrape food dishes before washing them in the sink.  Even small amounts of oil can clog your drain over time!

How Do I Turn Off Water to My House?
All of the water in your home is connected to your main water shut off valve.  It is likely that you will find this valve in your basement or crawl space below your house.

Why Should You Drain Your Water Heater?
Your water heater is an often overlooked part of your home, so how often do you need to perform maintenance on it?  You should drain your water heater once a year to improve the overall energy efficiency of your system.  Read more about when to drain your water heater here.

Why Should I Stay Away From Liquid Drain Cleaners?
Slow draining sinks can be frustrating, but liquid drain cleaners can damage your plumbing.  You should always give a professional plumber a call before purchasing a liquid drain cleaner.  Read more about why here.

How Can I Remodel On a Budget?
Bathroom and kitchen remodeling doesn't have to break the bank.  By updating your fixtures, keeping your plumbing in the same locations, and choosing decorations wisely, you can significantly reduce the cost of your remodel.  Read more about how to remodel on a budget here and give us a call for a consultation.  We'll always give you an estimate in writing for you to approve before we begin any work!

If you run into any of these common plumbing problems - or you don't see your plumbing problem above, give us a call!  Our technicians are here around the clock to help you with all of your plumbing needs.  

You can call 585-216-3058 to contact our office or visit our website to learn more about the plumbing and remodeling services that we offer to the Rochester area.

Don't forget to check out our social pages!  Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

Enter Our "Ugliest Tub" Contest!

Do you have the ugliest tub in the Rochester area?  

Prove it!

Send us photos of your ugly tub for a chance to win a new, Sterling Accord Smooth bath/shower, Moen single handle posi-temp pressure balanced tub and shower trim with shower head AND a Moen shower rod.  

We are accepting entries now through February 29th!  Send us your photos and email address for a chance to win!

See Below for Contest Rules:

The winning entry will receive agrees to allow AP Plumbing to use images an likenesses of the old and new unit, the homeowner’s name and photo in promotional materials

Entrants must own the home entered in the contest and reside within Monroe CountyEntries must be received by February 29, 2016No entry fee or purchase is required

(Contest not open to mobile or manufactured homes)

Submit your email address so that we can contact you, if you are chosen as the winner. 

Winning entry will receive the following: 

(1) Sterling Accord Smooth bath/shower (Model #-71240120/10) 

(1) Moen Single Handle Posi-Temp Pressure Balanced Tub and Shower Trim with Showerhead, w/ chrome finish 

(1) Moen 5 ft. Fixed Curved Shower Rod in Chrome

Prize is non-transferable and may not be redeemed for cash. If customer opts to upgrade, applicable charges will be quoted upon selection.

AP Plumbing will cover basic installation costs.

Any permits, or improvements needed to bring installation in compliance with existing building and mechanical codes will be the homeowner’s responsibility. Including mold remediation, or floor replacement if applicable.

Employees of AP Plumbing employees and their family members are not eligible.

Visit our Facebook page to enter for a chance to win!

How to Keep Your Bathroom Clean and Organized for the New Year

Everyone wants to start the year off with a clean slate - why not start (and end) each day off fresh too?  With a clean and organized bathroom, you can ease into your day without the chaos of looking for a lost hairbrush.  Here are a few tips to help you keep your bathroom organized and clean in 2016.

Bathroom Tips:

• Go Through Your Medicine Cabinet - When was the last time you really went through your medicine cabinet?  It's time to get rid of outdated medicines and keep your medicine cabinet clean and organized with products that are useful to you in the new year.
• Keep Hair Products Under Control - Hair products can take up a lot of space int he bathroom.  Keep your styling routine organized by storing all of your products in a plastic tub under the sink.  If you haven't used a product recently, it might be time to toss it!
• Squeegee Often - After a long shower, water will sit on your shower curtain or shower glass doors.  This can lead to mold, mildew and hard water stains.  Stay on top of your cleaning routine by simply using a squeegee to wipe down your shower after each use.  This will help keep your bathroom clean and cut down on cleaning time when you do your bathroom cleaning each week.
• Clean Your Grout - Grout is porous and can absorb oils from any products you use in the bathtub.  This includes shampoos, conditioners, and soaps.  Keep your shower tiles clean by cleaning the grout with a mixture of 10 parts water to 1 part bleach.  Just be sure to remove the bleach solution after you're done cleaning
• Set a Schedule - Put a plan in place for 2016.  Once a month (or every other month) you should give your bathroom a thorough clean.  Pour 1/2 cup baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 cup white vinegar to help keep your pipes clear of grease, oil and hair.

Check out this Martha Stewart article for more information on how to clean your bathroom.  If you're looking to really give your bathroom and overhaul this year with a remodel, give our office a call.  Our professionals will help you decide on the right bathroom design for your home needs.   Call 585-216-3058 to contact our office or visit our website to learn more about the plumbing and remodeling services that we offer to the Rochester area.

Don't forget to check out our social pages!  Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

Celebrate National Bubble Bath Day!

It's National Bubble Bath Day!  

Now that it's finally cold out, a nice, warm bubble bath is the perfect way to relax at the end of a long work week.  Here are a few ways to make your next bath a little bit more spa-like.

Play your favorite music. Listening to your favorite artist, radio station or song can be a great way to relax.  Add some tunes to your bath to make your bubble bath even more relaxing.  Of course, be sure to keep all electrical devices away from the tub.

Read a book.  If you have the time, sit down and read a book while you soak in the bubble bath.  Just try not to get it wet!

Add essential oils.  Lavender, eucalyptus and rose oil are known for their relaxing scents.  Add a few drops to your bath to make your bathroom smell great!

Use a bath pillow.  Inflatable bath pillows or pillows mad from soft fabric can help you rest your neck while you bath.  If you don't have a pillow on-hand, use a cotton bath towel folded up instead.

Ready to give your bathroom a makeover this year?  We can help you remodel your bathroom for your family's needs (and so that you can enjoy a relaxing bubble bath)! 

Call 585-216-3058 to contact our office or visit our website to learn more about the plumbing and remodeling services that we offer to the Rochester area.

Don't forget to check out our social pages!  Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

Holiday Gifts for the Bath

Looking for the perfect holiday gift?  Give a gift the whole family will appreciate!  Here are a few bathroom gift ideas that will help add comfort, convenience and even luxury to your home bathroom!

Holiday Gifts Ideas:

• Scented Pantry Soaps - Freshly scented soaps can be the perfect bath and spa gift for anyone in your family.  They are the gift of comfort and relaxation!  Opt for aromatherapy blends for an added sense of spa-like luxury.  If you prefer the DIY route, try this method and make your own!
• Bath Tub Teas - Fill a few seal-able tea bags with calming scents.  You can then add these next time you're looking to take a relaxing evening bath.  Use scents like lavender buds, peppermint leaves and chamomile buds for the perfect spa gift.
• Body Scrubs - Body scrubs are a great way to make your skin feel fresh again.  They moisturize and exfoliate at the same time!  Purchase a few as a gift or make your own body scrub here.
• Monogrammed Slippers - Adults and children alike will love having their own pair of comfy, personalized slippers to put on after a nice warm shower.
• Nightlight Toilet Seats - The new nightlight toilet seats from Kohler add convenience and safety to your bathroom - even on the darkest nights!  This unique toilet has LED bulbs that illuminate your toilet in a soft glow.  It's perfect for kids bathrooms, or for seniors looking to age in place.  Since the light is low in intensity, it illuminates for guidance without disturbing your nighttime vision.  Read more about the nightlight toilet seat here.
• Glass Shower Doors - Give your bathroom an updated makeover this holiday season by upgrading to new glass shower doors.  With all of the designs that exist, you can add beauty to your shower, while still having privacy.

Looking to add any new appliances to your bath?  Contact the professionals at AP Plumbing.  We're happy to answer any questions you have about how you can improve your bathroom for the upcoming new year!  

You can call 585-216-3058 to contact our office or visit our website to learn more about the plumbing and remodeling services that we offer to the Rochester area.

Don't forget to check out our social pages!  Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

How to Prep Your Bathroom for Holiday Guests

Holiday guests often mean more bathroom traffic.  Before you invite friends, family and loved ones over to celebrate, you'll want to prep your bathroom for your weekend visitors.  

These tips will help keep your guest bathroom running smoothly through the holiday season.

Bathroom Prep Tips:

• Have Hand Sanitizer On Hand - Leave hand sanitizer in plain sight, so that your guests will be reminded to put some one before they leave the bathroom.
• Light a Festive Candle - There are so many festive candle scents available.  They help give your bathroom a holiday feel, and the soft light helps make the space a little bit more welcoming.  Some candles even contain germ-busing essential oils like Eucalyptus that will help ensure your holiday guests don't bring any winter colds into your home!
• Keep Hand Towels Nearby - Keep fresh hand towels near the sink for your guests.  If you want, sprinkle them with lavender, peppermint or eucalyptus essential oil to keep your bathroom smelling fresh.
• Clean the Bathroom Beforehand - Give your bathroom a thorough clean before your guests come over.  This will help prevent germs from spreading and keep your bathroom looking impressive to holiday guests.
• Prep Your Vanity - Add small bathroom essentials to your vanity.  Guests may have forgotten to pack cotton balls, toothpaste, a toothbrush or even a razor.  This is a great way to make your guests feel at home!

If you run into any problems with your bathroom this holiday season, we encourage you to contact our office.  Call 585-216-3058 or visit our website to learn more about the plumbing and remodeling services that we offer to the Rochester area.

Don't forget to check out our social pages!  Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

How to Cozy Up Your Bathroom This Fall

As we embrace the crisp air of fall, coziness has never been more important.  These tips well help you create a warm, cozy and inviting bathroom this fall.

Fall Bathroom Tips:

• Add Candles - Candles are a great way to bring a warm glow to your bathroom.  Scented candles can add a spa-like atmosphere to your bath.  Worried about an open flame?  Try a flameless candle instead!
• Update Your Cabinetry - Wooden cabinetry can add a cozy feel to your space.  If your vanity is due for an update, consider a dark wood in contrast with lighter paint and tiles.
• Change Your Bathroom Tiles - Updating your bathroom tiles can give your space an entirely new look and feel.  If your tiles are old and outdated, try a more modern and comforting design.
• Purchase a Cushy Bath Mat - A soft and comfortable bath mat can add cozyness too your bathroom without breaking the bank.  Choose a color that is warming, but matches the style of your bathroom.

Call 585-216-3058 to contact our office or visit our website to learn more about the plumbing and remodeling services that we offer to the Rochester area.

Don't forget to check out our social pages!  Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!