February 2019 - Our Thoughts

Give Your Shower a Facelift With DreamLine™

When it comes to creating an upscale, luxurious look for your bathroom, few features will have a greater impact than your shower or tub enclosure. Not only do these spaces play a significant role in your bathroom’s visual appeal, but they also need to be highly functional so you can take care of your normal bathing routine without any complications or inconveniences.

With a DreamLine shower enclosure, you will enjoy the perfect blend of style and functionality. Here is a closer look at which factors you should consider when upgrading your existing bathroom layout, as well as the many high-quality options available from this manufacturer that will help you transform your space.

Should You Choose a Tub or Shower?

Whether you are adding a new bathroom to the house or renovating a pre-existing bathroom, one of the most important things to consider is whether you should select a shower-only setup or a shower/tub combo. Of course, you also can’t forget about a third option: to have separate shower and tub enclosures in the same bathroom.

There are several factors to take into consideration when determining which setup will work best for you and your family.

Available Space: Naturally, the first factor you should consider is how much floorspace is available in your bathroom. This should account for both the total square footage and the layout of the space. According to The Spruce, the average bathtub takes up about 15 square feet, while a walk-in shower will only take up 12 square feet. When you consider that most bathrooms are only about 40 square feet, even a relatively small difference in size can make a significant difference for how big the room feels. This can make a walk-in shower especially beneficial for bathrooms that have an unusual layout, where a slightly larger bathtub would create a “cramped” feeling. Of course, if you are working with a larger bathroom space, this likely will not be as much of a concern.

Water Usage: We live in a time when the way we consume water, electricity, and other energy resources is increasingly scrutinized. Data from Water Footprint Calculator reveals that the average bath can use up to 50 gallons of water. On the other hand, homeowners who install a low-flow showerhead only use 25 gallons of water per 10 minute shower. For many, this makes either a walk-in shower or a combination shower/tub a preferable choice. Not only will this help decrease your monthly water bills, but it will also make your home more desirable for environmentally-conscious buyers should you decide to sell your home in the future.

Lifestyle: How you plan to use the bathroom — both now and in the years to come — should play a significant role in the type of upgrade you choose. While bathtubs are great for athletes who want to relax after a tough workout or for parents who will be bathing young children, tubs can present a significant slipping hazard for the elderly or those with an injury that limits their mobility. While walk-in showers aren’t ideally suited for bathing children, they can easily be equipped with benches, grab bars, and even non-slip tiles to ensure safe conditions for those who might otherwise be in danger of a slip and fall accident. When planning your upgrade, consider how you and your family plan to use the home in the coming years. Is this more of a starter home where you plan to raise your kids? Or is this the place where you plan to stay throughout your retirement years? Anticipating current and future needs will help you make the right choice.

Cost: A final important factor to take into consideration is the cost of installing a tub or shower. When doing a full-scale bathroom remodel, building a walk-in shower can cost almost twice as much as installing a tub or a shower/tub combo. This can make upgrading to a walk-in shower a bit too pricey for some homeowners. However, if you are simply looking to improve a pre-existing space without overhauling the layout or design, both shower and tub upgrades are relatively affordable and can still have a big impact on your home’s resale value.

Generally speaking, while walk-in showers are considered more upscale and energy efficient, home remodelers recommend that families have at least one bathtub or tub/shower combo in the home, particularly if they have young children. Even if the bathtub features won’t be needed very often, having the versatility available for when your family needs a tub will be a much-needed convenience.

Why Glass Doors?

Determining whether you want a walk-in shower or a tub/shower combo is far from the only step in creating the right look for your newly upgraded bathroom. To create a truly luxurious look, DreamLine offers a wide range of glass tub doors, shower doors, and shower enclosures that allow you to avoid the standard metal rod and shower curtain look.

Upgrading to a glass shower door does more than simply enhance your bathroom’s look. Standard shower curtains require continual maintenance to prevent mold and mildew growth. Even forgetting to straighten the curtains after getting out of the shower could lead to mildew buildup, which can aggravate allergy symptoms and contribute to other respiratory issues.

On shower/tub combinations, another frequent problem is that the shower curtain will be left outside the bathtub after a bath. Then, when someone goes to take a shower, water will be able to drip onto the floor, making a big mess and potentially damaging bathroom items.

Many shower curtains also contain dangerous chemicals such as polyvinyl chloride, which can contribute to headaches, breathing trouble, and even kidney damage when they release toxins into the air.

Needless to say, a glass shower enclosure — or even glass tub doors — will help you avoid many of these problems. Glass shower doors require little maintenance, as the tempered surfaces can be easily cleaned with a standard glass cleaner or a sponge with soapy water. This can even be used to address scale buildup or hard water stains.

Wiping down the glass surface with a squeegee after you shower makes it easy to prevent mildew growth, the pre-applied protective coating found in DreamLine products will also make the surface easier to maintain.

Thick, tempered glass offers the durability you expect as part of this major bathroom upgrade. You don’t have to worry about accidental bumps or other mishaps breaking the glass thanks to its long-lasting design.

While simplified maintenance is a key advantage of glass shower doors, what truly sets them apart is their distinctive style. Transparent glass creates a more open feeling that can help even the smallest of bathrooms seem more spacious and inviting. Clear glass allows light to travel freely throughout the room, making the most of both natural and artificial lighting sources. This creates a timeless, elegant look that will be sure to impress guests or potential homebuyers — a look that you’ll be able to enjoy on a daily basis.

DreamLine Door Options

No matter what type of shower installation you think will work best for your bathroom, there is a door or enclosure option available from DreamLine that will prove to be a perfect fit. Here is a closer look at the different styles you may wish to consider.

Tub Doors: Tub doors are designed for shower/tub combination models. Both semi-frameless and fully frameless models are available to create a truly luxurious look for your bathroom. These glass doors are coated with ClearMax, DreamLine’s own unique water repellent coating that prevents stains and ensures easier maintenance of the door. Tub doors feature stainless steel top guide bars, as well as specially-designed large wheel assembly rollers that allow for smooth, easy opening of the sliding doors. Depending on the model you select, additional features include dual towel bars on each glass panel or reversible opening installations. Frameless hinged tub doors with a curved glass design are also available for those seeking a more distinctive look. These glass doors are perfect for those who wish to add a touch of luxury found in glass shower doors while still having the option to take a bath.

Shower Doors: Frameless shower doors are ideally suited for a standard walk-in shower enclosure. As with DreamLine tub doors, ClearMax coating provides the ultimate in protection to reduce your maintenance needs. Top and bottom guiderails keep the shower doors properly aligned, while water guards on select models account for uneven walls and ensure that the shower doors create a watertight seal when in use. Several different shower door options are available to suit your usage preferences. Whether you want a door with dual towel bars to better utilize your current space or you need a more compact single panel swing door, there is an option for you. Both sliding and swing open doors offer a distinct, stylish appearance that matches the restrictions of your bathroom layout while also delivering on the watertight functionality you need.

Shower Enclosures: When you need more than just a glass shower door, DreamLine offers elegant shower enclosures to match the layout of any bathroom. Prism Plus models create a net-angle enclosure with minimalist hardware and L-Bar support brackets that provide solid structural support without compromising the all-glass appearance of this three-sided enclosure. Quatra shower enclosures balance the glass door on pivot bars and hinges, while utilizing a full-length magnetic door latch for a superior watertight design. Enigma shower enclosures feature a similar two-sided “box” style as Quatra designs, but utilize a sliding glass door. With so many size and framing options available for these stunning shower enclosures, it’s easy to find a model that will be ideally suited to your bathroom layout. Shower enclosures are generally best suited for larger bathrooms, but a wide range of sizes makes them a realistic option for smaller areas as well.

Additional Features

DreamLine has more to offer than just the shower doors themselves. After all, a key part of creating a stylish shower enclosure are the additional features that can further enhance its overall appearance and functionality. For new shower enclosures, a quality Shower Tray plays a crucial role in ensuring proper water drainage, while also helping to prevent splashes from causing leaks.

DreamLine shower trays utilize a high-gloss acrylic with fiberglass reinforcement to prevent stains and reduce maintenance needs. A textured design also enhances safety by reducing the risk of slips when the surface is wet. Shower trays are available in several different colors with varied drain locations to better suit the overall appearance and design of your bathroom. All shower trays are cUPC certified, which means they meet public health and safety standards for the United States and Canada.

DreamLine also offers a series of luxurious shower columns to further enhance your shower experience. Options like the Rainfall Hydrotherapy Shower Panel utilize a large handheld shower head and adjustable body massage sprays to create a spa-like atmosphere. Toccoa Shower Panels have a cutting edge design that combines a rectangular overhead shower, a hand shower wand and two body jets to create a one of a kind look. Thermostatic mixers give you precise control over water temperature.

The modern design of these shower columns ensures that they will blend perfectly with other shower decor, such as shelving or mirrors. With both back to wall and corner installations available depending on the model you select, these upscale shower columns are sure to help you create a truly luxurious atmosphere.

Installing Your New Shower Door

DreamLine shower doors (and their accessories) are designed to stand the test of time — it’s why almost all DreamLine products come with a limited lifetime manufacturer warranty that covers material and workmanship defects. However, to ensure that everything goes smoothly with your bathroom upgrade, you must follow installation guidelines — perhaps most notably, the need for professional installation.

Selecting the right measurements for your shower door or enclosure is crucial. Though the top and bottom guardrails on most DreamLine shower doors can be trimmed by as much as four inches to adjust for width, the glass doors themselves have specific measurements that must be adhered to.

To ensure that you order the right size shower door, you must wait to take measurements until all other renovation work has been finished. Back walls and tile installations should be completed before you take measurements, as adding new tile would alter the dimensions of the shower space.

For shower installations, you will also need to measure the threshold depth, as proper installation of a DreamLine door will require a depth of at least 2 and 3/4 inches. A shallow threshold depth will cause serious problems during the drilling that must be performed for the installation of the threshold. This is why many homeowners also purchase a DreamLine shower base for their new installation, as these adhere to the threshold height requirements.

Similar factors should also be considered for tub doors. DreamLine tub doors are only suited for straight bathtubs — a curved bathtub won’t have the right dimensions for the door installation. The tub itself must allow for drilling, as tub door components will be drilled into the edge of the tub. If your current tub does not allow for drilling, you will need to replace it if you wish to install a glass tub door.

Even with the rest of the bathroom remodeling work completed and the right tools in place, installing your new tub or shower door should be left to the professionals. Amateur work could cause damage to the shower doors or increase the risk of future glass breakage, while improper fitting could leave your bathroom vulnerable to leaks.

Most notably, however, DreamLine’s warranty policy specifically states that the warranty will be made void if the installation is performed by someone who is not a fully licensed and insured professional.

You are most likely already hiring a professional remodeler to assist with other bathroom upgrades. Don’t leave one of the most complex features (and one that you will use on a daily basis) to chance. Let a professional do the work and you will save time and enjoy peace of mind knowing that you’re covered in the rare likelihood that something goes wrong.

The Right Pick

There’s a reason why bathroom remodeling projects tend to deliver a higher ROI than other home improvements — few parts of the house get more use on a daily basis. Regardless of whether you plan to age in place or hope to sell your home for a profit in a few years, upgrading your bathroom with DreamLine shower doors will go a long way in enhancing your bathroom’s overall appeal.

These glass shower enclosures won’t just help your room look more open and spacious; they will also help you make better use of your space and minimize maintenance and water cleanup.

If you are planning a major bathroom upgrade, work with your contractor to determine which type of glass shower door installation would be best suited for your available space and your lifestyle. Once you make the switch to these gorgeous glass shower doors, you will wonder how you ever did without them.

How the Toto Neorest Will Change Your Bathroom Experience

When it comes to redesigning your bathroom, the cabinets, countertops, and flooring typically get most of the attention. Despite how much use it gets every day, however, the toilet is usually an afterthought.

But bathroom brand Toto is poised to change all of that with its impressive Toto Neorest line. These tankless toilets don’t just help you conserve water — they also implement a host of innovative tech and features that will completely transform your bathroom experience, creating a true “smart bathroom” that does things far more useful than simply playing your favorite songs off Spotify.

Though Neorest toilets have been on the market for a few years, they aren’t quite as well known as they should be. Still, there is no denying that these luxury toilets are on the rise, and for good reason. Here’s a closer look at the many ways that a Toto Neorest toilet can make a difference for your bathroom.

A New Way to Flush

The average toilet uses about 3.6 gallons of water per flush, meaning that the average family of four will use over 26,000 gallons of water each year, just from flushing the toilet! Not only does this use a lot of water, but in most toilets, the flushing mechanism doesn’t fully wash away waste and debris — which of course means that you will need to spend a fair amount of time scrubbing and disinfecting the toilet.

The Toto Neorest doesn’t feature a tank like you would find in a standard toilet. Instead, it relies on an electric pump to help provide a powerful blast of water for each flush. Known as the Cyclone Flushing System, this results in a hole-free rim that uses a pair of nozzles to send jets of water spiraling down from the top of the toilet.

By moving at a high speed, the water creates centrifugal force and is able to efficiently collect any waste within the toilet and send it into your plumbing. By eliminating the rim holes found along most toilet bowl rims, this nozzle system also reduces the potential for dirt and germ buildup that so often occurs in these locations. This system also reduces noise and splash back that sometimes occur when flushing standard toilets.

The top nozzle is further complemented by a siphon trapway located at the bottom of the toilet bowl. The design of the trapway restricts airflow to create a vacuum at the time of the flush, preventing air pockets that result in inefficient flushing. The siphoning force and spiraling water combine to ensure that everything gets flushed away, with no need to worry about potential clogs. Better still, the sleek exterior design of Neorest toilets conceals this feature for a cleaner overall look.

These aren’t the only features that help reduce water usage. Another key attribute of the Toto Neorest line is its use of a patented glaze known as SanaGloss. SanaGloss creates an ionized barrier to seal the porous ceramic of your toilet. As a result, the ionized glaze doesn’t just prevent mold and bacteria buildup — it actively repels waste particles, making them that much easier to flush away.

All of these elements combine to greatly reduce how much water a Toto toilet needs to use. Depending on the model you choose, the toilet will use a mere 0.8 to 1.28 gallons of water per flush, which could help your family save tens of thousands of gallons of water each year.

As proof of the Neorest’s water conservation, it is a certified WaterSense and CalGreen product — designations given to eco-friendly products that promote the efficient use of water.

Easier Cleaning

The aforementioned attributes of a nozzle flush and SanaGloss glaze will greatly reduce your need for bathroom cleaning by eliminating bacterial growth, but Toto Neorest toilets actually make it so you will never have to scrub your toilet bowl again!

This is made possible through the use of Toto’s ewater+ system, more generally known as electrolyzed water. Electrolyzed water is created through the process of electrolysis, which allows regular tap water that contains dissolved salt to become a powerful sanitizer and disinfectant. Electrolysis makes the water acidic to form hypochlorous acid, which has been found to be more effective at killing bacteria than bleach.

The acidic water has a relatively short lifespan, typically returning to its normal pH level after about two hours. The Toto Neorest line utilizes ewater+ after each flush, misting the inside of the bowl with the acidic water. As a result, any lingering bacteria are wiped out, leaving your toilet bowl clean and sanitary without needing to use harsh chemical cleaners.

A pre-mist also occurs when the toilet detects you are about to use it. Misting the toilet bowl in advance further ensures that all waste will be flushed away. If the toilet isn’t used for 8 hours, misting will also occur automatically to prevent even the possibility of germ buildup or foul odors.

This automated cleaning system won’t just save you time — it will also help you save money at the grocery store and further reduce your environmental impact by eliminating the need to continually purchase chemical wipes, toilet bowl disinfectant, and other cleaners. Many of these cleaners are much less effective than electrolyzed water, which means you wouldn’t get as good of results by using them anyway.

Select Toto Neorest toilets also use what is referred to as the “Actilight” system. Actilight uses ultraviolet light to react with the toilet bowl’s coating to form activated oxygen, which works in conjunction with ewater+ to further sanitize and disinfect the toilet.

The Bidet

Bidets, or personal cleansing systems, aren’t exactly commonplace in the United States. However, there is no denying that they can also have a significant impact in improving your home’s environmental impact.

Consider this: the average American uses about 50 pounds of toilet paper each year — and unlike other paper products, that toilet paper isn’t going to get recycled. Toilet paper production contributes to deforestation, while also wasting water and electricity.

In fact, according to Scientific American, the annual manufacturing of toilet paper in the United States kills 15 million trees, while also using over 473 trillion gallons of water and 253,000 tons of chlorine. Needless to say, a lot of waste goes into making our toilet paper — and that doesn’t even account for what could happen if bleach or other products used in the manufacturing process were to leak into the local environment.

Because of the wasteful nature of toilet paper, many environmental advocates have encouraged Americans to start adopting what is already a commonplace technology in other countries — the bidet.

With Toto being a Japanese manufacturer, it shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that Neorest toilets also feature a bidet, also referred to as a Washlet personal cleansing system.

Smart technology allows users to fully customize their wash according to their needs and preferences. Unlike other bidets, which only provide a preset wash position, Neorest owners can use a remote to control the operation of the system.

This remote allows you to set whether you will use the front or rear cleaning spout, while also adjusting the position of the wand. For additional comfort, you can also control the water temperature and pressure, and even set the flow of water to an oscillating or pulsating setting to ensure a more thorough clean.

The initial cleaning is followed up by a soft-spray rinse and a warm air dryer, leaving your rear completely clean! On average, these bidet cleanings only use one-eighth of a gallon of water, significantly reducing both the water consumption and other forms of waste associated with toilet paper consumption.

For further convenience, the Toto Neorest can save your washing preferences for faster, easier cleaning in the future. Though adjusting to a bidet may take some getting used to, many homeowners wonder how they ever got by without one. Better still, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you are playing a small role in helping the environment.

As with the toilet bowl itself, the bidet’s cleaning wand is automatically sanitized with ewater+ after each use. This keeps any waste from accumulating on the wand, while also killing off any potential bacterial growth so you don’t have to do the cleaning yourself.

Additional Features

While the previously mentioned elements are perhaps the most notable ways in which a Toto Neorest toilet differs from the competition, these toilets also come packed with a wide array of small quality of life features that further enhance everyday use.

For example, the toilet lid detects when you are about to sit down. As such, the lid opens automatically in preparation for your use. After you use the toilet, it flushes automatically and even closes the lid when you leave — no more arguments about who left the toilet seat up! Sensor sensitivity levels can be adjusted via the remote to improve operation based on the size of the bathroom, the toilet’s placement within the room, and other factors. As a backup, manual operation of these systems (including the flush) are also available.

For added comfort, the toilet seat is heated. As with other features, the heat settings are fully adjustable so you can find the temperature that feels best to you. You can also turn the heat off entirely, if desired. Neorest toilets also feature an automatic air purifying system to remove odors. A programmable night light makes it easy to find your way to the bathroom in the middle of the night without needing to turn on other lights. These settings (as well as opening and closing the lid) can be controlled from the system’s remote.

Another noteworthy element of Toto Neorest toilets is their ADA compliance. With a universal height, these toilets have been designed so that users of all ages and physical abilities can enjoy standard use without the need for extra assistance or accessories.

Toto Neorest toilets further enhance their energy efficiency thanks to their Energy Saver System. This system can either be programmed manually by the user, or the toilet will self-program based on detected usage frequency for different times of day. This allows it to enter a “sleep mode” during times of infrequent use to further conserve energy.

Installing a Neorest Toilet

With so many extra features, you might think that installing a Toto Neorest toilet is more complicated than the average installation. In reality, however, the lack of a tank makes it slightly easier to install.

The only distinct difference in installing a Toto Neorest toilet is that an electrical outlet will need to be located near the toilet. This will be necessary to provide the power needed for the toilet’s automated smart features and flushing pump. Because many bathrooms don’t have an electrical outlet located in this area, homeowners may need to have an electrician install a new outlet prior to purchasing the toilet. Due to its location, this should be a GFCI outlet. Pipe extenders may also be necessary in some bathrooms.

Once the water supply and power outlet are ready, the toilet can be easily installed. Neorest toilets feature a 12-inch rough-in, allowing you to quickly replace an old toilet without the need for extra work. The toilets come with a Universal Socket that ensure proper mounting with the floor flange. Because the toilet itself comes as a single piece, you won’t have to worry about the extra mounting and attachment troubles that so often accompany the installation of a standard toilet with tank.

Thanks to this easy installation process, you won’t need any extra tools beyond what you would need for a standard toilet installation, such as a caulking gun and Phillips screwdriver. The toilets come with a 3-year residential and one-year commercial limited warranty.

There are several available models in the Neorest toilet line, ranging from a wall-hung dual-flush toilet to the compact 550H model. Included with each toilet are the tank and mounting covers, fittings, and the Washlet so you will have everything you need to start enjoying your new toilet. Some models offer a more compact size or use less water per flush, so it is well worth looking into the different options available to find the best fit for your home. Models featuring Actilight cleaning are typically more expensive than those with ewater+ alone.

Are There Any Issues to Be Aware Of?

Though Toto Neorest toilets are highly efficient, it is important to remember that the things that make them different from a standard toilet also mean that repairs and maintenance (if needed) will be different as well.

The most important difference to be aware of is that the toilet’s flush is powered by electricity. As a result, a power outage or an electrical failure would prevent you from being able to use the toilet’s automatic flush features. Some models have an “emergency flush” setting specifically designed for these situations, but for others, you might have to use a bucket of water to flush during a power outage.

Of course, if the flush doesn’t work, it never hurts to double check to make sure the GFCI outlet for your toilet hasn’t tripped!

Getting repairs or replacement parts can also be a bit trickier than with a standard toilet, as Neorest toilets use components that are unique to the Toto brand. You won’t find what you need at your local hardware store, and your favorite plumber likely won’t be able to help with any troubleshooting. Unless the problem lies with your household pipes or water supply, all assistance will have to come directly from Toto.

The good news is that maintenance issues are rare, with Neorest toilets landing high review scores here on Kitchen & Bath Authority and on many other prominent sites across the web.

Is it Right For Your Bathroom?

The high price tag on a Toto Neorest toilet may be off-putting to some. But for those who have adopted these unique high-tech toilets, they have proven to be a truly life-changing experience.

As just one example, an article in the New York Times highlighted a businessman who waited through a nine-hour flight before going to the bathroom just so he could use his Toto toilet. The article cites other users who similarly find that they can’t go back to a standard toilet after purchasing a Toto Neorest, saying that doing so would feel like “going back to the Stone Age.”

The host of innovative features and a sleek, modern design are what make Toto Neorest toilets worth the initial investment. When it comes to the many smart toilets that are starting to emerge in today’s market, the Toto Neorest line pushes itself ahead of the competition with features that will actually make a difference in your day to day life.

Automated cleaning, reduced water usage, a customizable bidet feature, and even having the lid open and close automatically will completely transform the way you use your bathroom. Like many other users have discovered, you will have a hard time going back to using a standard toilet.

At Kitchen & Bath Authority, we offer several Toto Neorest products at fantastic discounts. Members can save even more on select products, while new customers can score additional savings through special promo codes. There’s never been a better time to buy a Toto Neorest toilet, and with these deals, you can find the right match for your home today!

How Your Bathroom Can Benefit From a Robern Medicine Cabinet

When it comes to maximizing the usefulness of your bathroom, few additions can have a greater impact than a medicine cabinet. Medicine cabinets don’t merely add extra shelving — they do so in a manner that has a minimal impact on the available space in your bathroom, ensuring that the room doesn’t become cramped and cluttered.

Of course, not all medicine cabinets are created equal, and in our opinion, few brands are better suited for meeting your needs than Robern.

With so many different styles available, it’s easy to find a Robern medicine cabinet that perfectly matches what you’re looking for. Whether you need a simple replacement for your current cabinet or you’re interested in a brand new, high-tech upgrade, you’ll have plenty to choose from.

Here’s a closer look at some of the factors you should consider when installing a Robern medicine cabinet, as well as which options are available to help you get the most out of your bathroom.

Things to Consider For a Medicine Cabinet Installation

Before you purchase a medicine cabinet, you must first determine what type of cabinet will work best for your bathroom space. After all, you don’t want to waste your time and money by ordering a cabinet that doesn’t fit the room!

If you aren’t replacing a pre-existing medicine cabinet, start by determining which location will work best for your new installation. Take measurements with a tape measure along the wall where you plan to install the cabinet. Keep in mind that many of the features of your bathroom — even full-size mirrors — can be adjusted to make room for a new cabinet installation. According toThis Old House, the top of your medicine cabinet should generally be about 72 inches above the floor.

When choosing a spot for your medicine cabinet, you will need to be aware of what is behind the wall. Many medicine cabinets are recessed or semi-recessed, meaning they are fitted inside the wall to save space and improve aesthetics.

Behind your wall could be a load-bearing stud, plumbing pipes, large vent pipes, or even electrical wires. Use a stud detector or get help from a professional contractor to determine if any of these obstacles are located behind your wall.

When these items are present, it doesn’t mean that a recessed cabinet installation is impossible. However, it does mean that the installation will require a lot more labor. You may need to hire a contractor to help reroute electrical wires. You will also likely need to cut away part of a non-load-bearing stud to make room for most standard cabinets. If a load-bearing stud or a large vent pipe are present, you should choose a different location for your cabinet.

Though such issues can complicate the installation of a recessed medicine cabinet, they have little to no impact when installing a wall-mounted or surface cabinet. Though wall-mounted cabinets are easier to install, they do take up more space, which can be an issue in smaller bathrooms.

By doing a little preliminary work, you will go a long way in determining the dimensions and style of medicine cabinet that will be best suited for your needs.

Why Choose Robern?

Once you’ve determined which types of medicine cabinets will work best for your space, it’s time to pick the brand and model that work best for you. So what is it that makes Robern medicine cabinets such a great pick?

Perhaps the most distinctive element of Robern medicine cabinets is their integration of extra features that go well beyond simply adding a mirror and some additional shelf space. Some features of these medicine cabinets include electrical and USB outlets, magnifying mirrors, mirror defoggers, and even Bluetooth integration.

Many models also utilize modular design elements that make it easier to customize or adapt your installation to better integrate with other bathroom features. Many models can be installed as either a recessed mount or a surface mount with the corresponding mounting kit. With styles ranging from traditional medicine cabinets and two-door models to arch tops and full-length cabinets, you’ll also have no trouble finding a style that matches your tastes.

Regardless of the type of medicine cabinet you choose, you can have confidence that your selected model will be built to last. Robern cabinets utilize materials like glass and anodized aluminum to prevent moisture damage, ensuring that you will continue to enjoy high-quality style and performance for many years to come.

Whether you just want something simple or you wish to help your bathroom become part of a “smart home” suite, Robern has you covered — and with great style, no matter which medicine cabinet you choose.

Robern Medicine Cabinet Options

Here’s a closer look at the different medicine cabinet styles available through Kitchen & Bath Authority:

AiO Series: Minimalist design gets a modern twist in the AiO series. The mirror itself uses a touch-control dimming switch to control the built-in exterior and interior LED task lighting, making it easy to adjust lighting for any task. The long lifespan and effectiveness of LED lighting will also help you reduce energy expenses. This is far from the only modern upgrade you’ll find in the AiO series — these medicine cabinets also come equipped with invisible OM audio speakers that deliver uniform sound in 2-channel stereo. With Bluetooth connectivity, you can connect your smartphone to the mirror so you can listen to your favorite songs as you go through your daily routines. You can even charge your phone with the cabinet’s USB outlet!

M Series: It’s the little features that make a big difference in the Robern M Series. For example, these medicine cabinets come with a door-mounted electronic defogger. Activate the device, and it will run for 45 minutes to keep the mirror from getting too steamy. The mirror’s external LED lighting can also be programmed to function as a nightlight for up to 12 hours at a time. Plugs are mounted inside the cabinet to provide power to electrically-powered bathroom devices. A concealed finger pull makes it easy to open the cabinet, while the cabinet’s self-closing hinges achieve opening angles ranging from 110 to 170 degrees. Constructed from high-quality glass and anodized aluminum, these cabinets are built to stand the test of time by resisting damage from moisture and dust. The modular design of the M Series allows it to be easily combined with another mirror or cabinet.

Main Line Framed Cabinets: Main Line Framed Cabinets are sure to provide an attractive look to your bathroom thanks to their diverse mix of frame styles and metal finishes. Frame options include the wide bevel gallery-style Byrn Mawr frame, the sleek 1930s-inspired Merion frame, and the thin, multilayered bevel Rosemont frame. Metal finishes are available in Satin Nickel, brushed bronze, brushed black, white, and more. Other optional features for these simple, yet sleek cabinets include a 3x magnifying mirror, an in-cabinet electrical outlet, and sturdy glass bins for extra storage capacity.

PL Series: The PL Series allows you to give your bathroom medicine cabinet a few extra features without getting too “techy.” An in-cabinet electrical outlet allows you to charge or power accessories such as hairdryers or electric razors, while a safety lock box provides extra protection for medicines or valuable personal items. An interior magnifying mirror, as well as the three-mirror design (which features two interior mirrors), makes it even easier to get ready in the morning. As with other Robern medicine cabinets, the PL series utilizes a “safeseal” gasket, which keeps moisture and dust out of the cabinet interior. The PL Series is also available in a distinctive three-door style that gives you even more storage options.

Profiles: The medicine cabinets in the Profiles collection use metal accents to create a distinctly modern look, available in your choice of chrome, polished nickel, matte gold, and matte black. Electric models feature electrical and USB outlets which are ETL/UL certified for safe use in damp areas. Adjustable LED task lighting is available to set the right mood for any time of day, while a magnetic storage strip makes it easy to keep track of small metal items. Other optional features include a pull-out magnifying mirror and a safety lock box to keep medicines safe from children.

R3: Not everyone needs the latest tech upgrades for their bathroom medicine cabinets — and that’s perfectly okay. Robern has those looking for a simple replacement or installation covered with the R3 series. Most importantly, however, the R3 series delivers the same high level of quality that you get in other Robern cabinets. Anodized aluminum frames prevent moisture damage, while the interior features adjustable shelving that makes it easy to adapt your cabinet according to your needs. R3 cabinets also utilize a three-mirror design, with interior mirrors that allow you to check your appearance even when getting items from the cabinet. A slow-close door also prevents accidental slams for a more pleasant bathroom experience. The simple, low-profile look of the R3 series makes it a great fit for any type of bathroom decor.

Uplift: Innovative technology reigns supreme in Uplift cabinets. You’ll never have issues with lighting thanks to the soft night light mounted at the bottom of the cabinet, interior cabinet lights that automatically turn on and off, and a defogger that allows you to use your mirror at any time, even after a steamy shower. Uplift cabinets take your use of electronically-powered items into account with a six-outlet electric column, as well as a discreet wiring enclosure for managing wires and plugs. Cabinets in the Uplift series can even be equipped with an optional TV mount so you can watch the news or your favorite shows while getting ready in the morning! Of course, tech enhancements are far from the only thing Uplift cabinets have to offer. An organizer shelf with trays and bins make it easy to store smaller items, while adjustable glass shelves allow you to customize your interior configuration. Cabinet doors even come with a position hold feature that keeps the door from swinging shut.

You really can’t go wrong with any of these medicine cabinets from Robern! Ultimately, the right pick will come down to which features you want/need for your bathroom, as well as which cabinets will be a good fit for your available wall space.

Installing Your Cabinets

Once you’ve determined which type of cabinet will work best for your bathroom and purchased the model that best appeals to you, it’s time to do the installation. If you’re an avid DIYer, this is a project you can handle on your own (even for more complex recessed installations), as long as there isn’t any wiring or plumbing in the cabinet space that needs to be re-routed.

When such obstacles are present, you should enlist the help of a professional electrician or plumber before you attempt to install the cabinet. This will also be necessary if you choose a Robern cabinet that features an electrical or USB outlet, as additional wiring will need to be run to the new cabinet installation to ensure that these features function properly.

Start by once again measuring the space where the cabinet will be installed, this time using the exact measurements of the recessed portion of the cabinet. Use a measuring tape and level to make a pencil outline of this area. Alternatively, if you have someone else to help you, you can hold the cabinet against the wall and trace its outline.

After you’ve finished the outline, carefully cut along your pencilled line using an oscillating tool, keyhole saw, or drywall knife. If you know that wires or pipes are present or are uncertain about their presence, cut small “observation holes” in the corners of the outlined area and use a flashlight to inspect the interior wall space before finishing the removal of the drywall to avoid accidental damage.

You can then clean up your outline with a drywall knife. You may also need to remove insulation or loose debris from the area.

With the drywall removed, you will likely have an exposed stud. Your next step will be to remove the portion of the stud that would otherwise block your cabinet installation. Remember, you should only remove the stud if it is non-load-bearing. Only remove the portion of the stud that would interfere with your cabinet installation, exercising caution so as not to cut through the drywall behind the stud. This can be done with an oscillating tool or handsaw.

After you’ve cleared the space where your medicine cabinet will go, you will need to install the framing or blocking. Use a set of 2x4s (cut to length to fit the cabinet space), installed both horizontally and vertically inside the wall frame. Construction adhesive will help the individual pieces of wood stick together. Use the mounting screws to attach the frame securely to the studs or drywall.

At this point, you’re finally ready to mount the cabinet. Carefully fit the cabinet frame into the blocking and press along its edges so that it is mounted evenly against the wall. Most cabinet models have small holes on the side, which you will use to screw the cabinet securely in place against the blocking. If you performed an even cut with the proper dimensions, the cabinet should fit perfectly. Minor irregularities can be hidden with caulking.

Once the cabinet is securely in place, all that’s left to do is attach the door and shelves! Your new cabinet will then be ready for you to fill up and use. For a surface mount, you will simply need a specialized surface mount kit designed for your cabinet model — no drilling or cutting required. The process is also typically easier if you are replacing a pre-existing cabinet. Simply unscrew the old cabinet from the wall, insert the new cabinet into the blocking, and screw it into place. Be mindful of whether the old cabinet was connected to your home’s electrical wiring. If the old or new cabinet utilizes an electrical connection, you will likely need help from a professional electrician.

Of course, many homeowners will opt for new cabinets as part of a full-scale bathroom remodel. After all, when the bathroom is already going to undergo significant construction work, adding a recessed medicine cabinet won’t add too much to the overall timeline for completing the project.

If this is the case, simply choose your preferred Robern medicine cabinet and have your contractor perform the installation as part of your bathroom upgrade. Robern also produces vanities and other bathroom products, making it easy to find a great-looking match to create a cohesive design for your bathroom. It saves a lot of time and stress when you have someone else doing the work!

Parting Thoughts

A medicine cabinet may seem like a relatively small upgrade, but it can completely transform the way you use your bathroom. Whether you wish to give your master bathroom a versatile and stylish upgrade or you need to increase storage space in the guest bathroom, you can’t go wrong with a Robern medicine cabinet. Check out our great selection of Robern medicine cabinets (and our great prices) to find the right match for your bathroom!

Bathroom Vanity Installation Tips

Black bathroom vanity and mirror in a contemporary bathroom

Installing Your New Vanity

Whether you’re doing a total bathroom makeover, or just adding flair with a brand new vanity, home installation can be tricky. Fear not! You are more than capable of handling this, and to help, here are some useful tips to keep in mind as you begin the installation process. Best of luck!

Tools you will likely need:

Drill with screwdriver bits
Electronic stud finder
24” to 48” level (or torpedo level)
Wood shims
Pencil
Tape measure
Wallboard screws=
Silicone caulk/ sealant
Caulk gun

Before you start anything, remember to turn off the water valves under the sink. There will be water trapped in the piping, so get a big pot to place underneath to catch any that falls as you detach the pipes.

Hand soap and other bathroom products that go down your drain corrode your trap. This is the perfect time to replace your plumbing lines, and new pipes means a cleaner and easier installation.

Before you’ll be able to remove your old vanity, you’ll need to cut through any silicone caulk using a drywall knife or a putty knife. Unscrew any screws holding the vanity to the wall. Then gently pull out the vanity with ease, instead of any forceful tugging.

Remove the doors and drawers from the new vanity when installing. This prevents running the risk of damaging them when you are installing the unit.

To save time and energy, try installing the faucet first before the vanity. That way, you spend less time underneath the sink once it’s attached to the wall.

Your pipes will expand and shift over time. If it’s necessary to cut holes in your vanity for your pipes, it’s best to cut holes in your vanity about ¼ of an inch larger than the pipe to account for this and prevent any scraping or noises. Plus you’ll need room for shimming at the end to get that oh so perfect fit.

Use a stud finder to find the studs in your wall before you start screwing. This will prevent any drilling accidents and keep everything nice and fixed in place. If you’re replacing an old vanity, mark where the old screws were as they probably coincide with the placement of your studs (studs are typically 16 inches center-to-center).

Mark the height of the top of the vanity base cabinet on the back wall (as well as the side wall if you have a corner installation). With the vanity in position, use a level to ensure the vanity is level and plumb both side-to-side and front-to-back before fastening it to the wall. If it’s not level, use wooden shims to level it out.

Drill a pilot hole through the vanity back into a stud. For a tile wall, first use a tile bit. Once you’re through the tile, use a wood bit to drill into the stud. For holes that are not in line with studs, use wall anchors made for your wall type — drywall, plaster, or tile. Secure the cabinet with screws.

Place a small amount of silicone sealant/caulk on the bottom surface of the countertop at each corner, where it will rest on the cabinet. It is not usually necessary to anchor the countertop to the cabinet in any other way since the silicone caulk will bond it to the cabinet. Some vanity kits, though, come with brackets that screw to the bottom of the countertop from beneath the sink. With the help of another person, carefully set the sink top on the vanity, making sure the plumbing is lined up. Let the adhesive cure.

If your vanity came with a separate backsplash, now is the time to install it. Apply a bead of silicone sealant/ caulk in a serpentine pattern on the back of the backsplash. Press the backsplash firmly into place against the wall. Install a bead of silicone caulk along the cracks between the backsplash and the wall, and also along the crack between the bottom of the backsplash and the countertop.

After finishing the installation, open your water valves back up one at a time, slowly, to assess for any leaks as you begin to run water through your new piping. If you do find a leak, use tape right on the threads or tighten the valves a bit, but not too much! It’s a good seal that stops leaks, not over tightening.

Step back and enjoy your new vanity! Shop Kitchen & Bath Authority for all your sink, shower, and other kitchen and bathroom fixture needs.

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