Bathrooms That Make You Go 'Ahhh'
Part 3
by ARA Content
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The M-Pact system allows the faucet to be completely changed in terms of appearance -- a new spout, handles and trim -- without having to remove the faucet valve, grapple with under-sink plumbing or replace supply lines. Once an M-Pact faucet is installed, homeowners can choose from a wide array of styles and finishes when they later decide to update the look of the bath.
M-Pact is rapidly gaining popularity among consumers," said Pember. "Often, we're selling them to consumers who are remodeling their bathroom and realize that they'll probably remodel again in the future, or at least think that they might. They want the ability to change the look of their faucets without the time and expense of installing entirely new units.
Another fixture that may need updating is the toilet. Like it or not, the toilet is a major element in any bathroom. But trends in bathroom layout are downplaying its presence by surrounding it by walls or even putting it in a small ante-room attached to the master bath.
As for the toilets themselves, low-flow models are still the rule (despite consumer efforts to circumvent low-flow requirements by recycling older toilets or even traveling to Canada to purchase high-flow models). The good news is, the newer low-flow toilets flush much better than their predecessors. Good thing, for, as Lentz notes, "You're really not saving any water if you have to flush more than once."
In addition to improved operation, newer models also offer easier cleaning. Lentz advises consumers to look for newer models with skirted bottoms that are easy to clean. Some companies, such as Toto and Duravit, use special glazings inside of the bowl to prevent build up and decrease the need for cleaning, she says.
So what's left once you've got your Vertical Spa, soaking tub, dual console sink, designer faucets and high-tech low-flow toilet in place? Luckily, only lighting and paint, both of which can be taken care of relatively inexpensively.
For lighting, look for bright, non-fluorescent multi-bulb fixtures, or perhaps halogen lighting. This will keep you from casting yourself in a blue pall first thing in the morning from unnatural fluorescent lighting, while still ensuring that you have enough light to make sure you look your best.
As for paint, white goes with anything and it is economical and always in style for the bath. But Lentz says colors, especially those connoting water, are the latest trend. Since paint is easy to change, why not finish the room with some pale blue or green hues to complement the rest of the bathroom.
For more information about remodeling projects or Moen products, contact Moen Incorporated at 25300 Al Moen Drive, North Olmsted, Ohio 44070-8022, call toll free 1 (800) BUY MOEN (1-800-289-6636) or visit its Web site.
(c) 2002 ARA Content, All rights reserved

Courtesy ARA Content; e-mail: info@ARAcontent.com
EDITORS NOTE: Moen Incorporated is one of the world's largest producers of residential and commercial plumbing products. Moen is the #1 brand of faucets in North America. The company manufactures a complete line of single and two-handle faucets in a wide assortment of styles and finishes.
It is also a leading producer of residential and commercial sinks and a variety of shower accessories, and manufactures a complete line of plumbing parts and accessories (sold under the trade names Moen, Chicago Specialty, Dearborn Brass, Hoov-R-Line and Wrightway Manufacturing).
Moen Incorporated is an operating company of Fortune Brands, Inc. (NYSE: FO), the consumer products company, with headquarters in Lincolnshire, IL.
For more information, contact Ginny Long, director of Public Affairs, Moen Incorporated at (800) 321-8809, Ext. 2019, or Chris R. Lynch, Robert Falls & Co. Public Relations at (216) 696-0229.
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