DENVER — William Ohs, the Denver-based manufacturer of luxury cabinetry and furniture, has acquired Draper DBS, a Bucks County, PA custom cabinet supplier, “merging two companies that are well-established and respected in the luxury cabinet industry,” the companies announced.

Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

“The combination of Draper DBS and William Ohs brings together the ideas and manufacturing concepts of two legendary visionaries in the luxury kitchen market,” said Rick Casey, v.p./manufacturing for William Ohs, founded in 1972 by industry pioneer Bill Ohs. “The combined synergies create both exciting and unparalleled opportunities moving forward,” Casey added.

William Ohs and Draper DBS “will be able to provide the same detail-oriented approach to a larger market while capitalizing on increased manufacturing efficiencies,” corporate officials said.

“I am excited and humbled to be drawn into the most creative act of wood joinery in the industry, the dovetailing of the crafts, hearts, and creative legacies of Draper DBS and William Ohs,” said William Draper, founder of Draper DBS. “This will be an intertwining of our combined strengths, histories, and visions to cultivate the future inspirations of all those who love great and evolving furnishing design.”

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Is your lawn looking a little shaggy? Are you thinking about mowing it, but the weather doesn’t seem to be cooperating? Then don’t do it. It’s better to wait until the grass has dried out than risk damaging it or your lawnmower by cutting when it’s too wet. 

If you’re considering mowing your lawn, then make sure that the ground is dry before doing so. Otherwise, you’ll end up having to deal with clumpy grass and damaged equipment. And if you want to keep your yard healthy and green, don’t cut grass while wet. This will help prevent soil compaction, which can lead to erosion and runoff into local waterways like lakes and rivers. 

This article takes a deeper dive into mowing wet grass and why you should avoid it. Read on.

Why You Should Not Mow a Wet Lawn

Cutting Wet Grass Can Hurt Your Lawnmower

The first reason you shouldn’t cut wet grass is that it can damage your lawnmower. It’s not worth breaking out the mower if the grass has just been watered or if there are puddles on the ground. If you cut wet grass, you’ll likely end up with clumps of grass stuck to the underside of the mower deck.

The clumps will end up blending into your lawn, but they’ll also eventually dry and look like dirt until you run over them again with the mower. Moisture is problematic for the gasoline in the mower’s fuel tank, its metal, and indirectly its engine. Intruding moisture can cause corrosion if you don’t mix a stabilizer into the fuel tank.

Moist grass clippings that cake on the metal underside can cause rust. Even in the short term, the caked substance can stress the engine, impeding the motion of the mower blade and making your engine work harder to make up for it.

Cutting Wet Grass Can Affect Your Lawn’s Health

Mowing wet grass doesn’t just affect your mower only; it can also have an impact on your lawn. Wet grass blades are more susceptible to disease and fungus infections, which can lead to problems with your lawn’s health down the road. For an ideal cut, your grass blades should be standing up off the ground.

Wet blades are heavier than dry ones, making such blades hug the ground. As your wet turf starts to dry after rain, some of your blades will resume their upright position and get chopped off when you mow. The resulting uneven look would be bad enough, but the result will be tears instead of a clean cut when you try to cut damp grass.

The wet clippings will mat down, preventing healthy airflow. If you allow wet grass clippings sticking to the underside of your mower deck to remain, you’re inviting mold that can spread to your turf. Also, making passes up and down a wet lawn with your machine can hurt your lawn.

The large wheels will sink into a moist surface in a way that they won’t in dry grass. The wheels will form ruts on the surface, directly damaging the grass. This will cause the soil to become compacted, causing damage over time. You can learn how to use core aeration to heal your grass and beautify your lawn.

You Cannot Cut Wet Grass with an Electric Mower

Water and electricity don’t mix, so using an electric lawn mower on wet grass is out of the question. If your mower has a mulching attachment on it, then the clippings will stick to the underside of the mower deck and create an incredible mess.

You’re also at a greater risk of injury when mowing wet grass than dry grass with electric mowers, especially when an extension cord runs the risk of being wet and becoming a safety hazard. When this extension cord gets wet, it can damage your mower and even electrocute you while mowing.

Alternatively, opt for a cordless electric mower which provides a safer option since there are no exposed wires. However, these cordless don’t have enough power to cut through serious wet grass. So, it’s best to stick with a gas mower for wet grass because it’s the safest, effective, and least frustrating option.

Uneven Cutting

When your mower’s blades hit hidden rocks or other debris while cutting through wet grass, it can cause the mower to jerk and unevenly cut the grass. This creates an unattractive look to your lawn and can also lead to scalping or slicing off too much of the grass blade, exposing the soil beneath.

Wet grass bends and lies closer to the ground compared to dry turf. This is because the dew on the grass blades makes them heavy, forcing them to bend down instead of standing upright. Your blades need to stand upright to cut the grass properly.

Otherwise, your mower will miss most of the grass, producing uneven cuts across your lawn. Once rainwater starts to drain away, and the grass blades dry up, sections of your lawn will appear as if you didn’t mow them. This uneven cut will make you go over the lawn and mow it afresh to get that even cut.

Clippings Clump on the Lawn and Sticks to the Mower

If your lawn is too long and wet, clippings will not just lie on the grass as usual after you mow it. Rather, they cling to blades of grass or form clumps resulting from heavy dew. The clippings won’t be as easy to collect and discharge from the mower’s bag if clumps and grass are stuck to it. This will require you to stop and clear your lawnmower blade before restarting the machine.

It’s a good idea to mow wet grass, especially regularly, because the mower will produce wet clippings that easily clump together and lay over your grass. When wet clippings stay on your grass for some time, they’ll keep a lot of moisture over an extended period, exposing your lawn to fungus diseases.

So, it’s best to cut dry grass because the clippings will easily fall off your blade and can be collected in the bag. If you still prefer to mow your lawn after it rains, then consider getting a drag unit to help you clear the soaked clippings off the grass. Furthermore, check the deck frequently when mowing turf grass after the rain to ensure the clippings are not clumping it, which can be a problem for air tapered decks.

Cutting Wet Grass Can Easily Spread Diseases

Mowing wet grass can easily spread diseases because the clippings will be wet and covered in mud. If you mow over a disease-infested area, you’ll just be spreading the disease all over your lawn. When the clumps of damp, matted clippings are left on the lawn without sufficient airflow to dry out, the grass becomes more susceptible to fungal diseases.

The wet grass clippings that stick to the underside of the mower deck can grow mold which can spread to your lawn next time you mow. So, before you start cutting, make sure to walk around your yard and identify any infections such as the brown patch disease.

Mowing a Wet Lawn Gives You Extra Work

Mowing a wet lawn is also more difficult because the grass is wet and heavy. This means you’ll have to spend more time mowing, and you’ll probably end up with a tired arm at the end of the day. In addition, wet grass stains your clothes, shoes, and every surface your shoe touches, making cleaning an uphill task.

If you must mow wet grass, make sure you take all the safety precautions. Start by testing your soil’s saturation. When you stand on your lawn, you shouldn’t sink into it or see water rising around the edges of your shoes. Therefore, mowing too much is a bad idea.

Without the presence of standing water, you could tame your yard to some degree using a stabilized gas powered mower with sharp blades. If possible, set your mower to side discharge mode. Though this leaves rows of cut grass on your lawn for manual bagging later, it will save you the mess of dealing with a mower bag with a wet interior.

FAQs about Mowing Wet Grass

How long should you wait to mow the grass after it rains?

When dealing with mild morning dew or after light rain showers, you may need to wait between two and five hours for the lawn to dry before mowing. With heavier rainstorms, you should wait for at least one day to mow safely.

Can you cut grass after it rains?

While mowing a wet lawn can damage your mower or grass, there’re still tricks that you can use to minimize the problems if you don’t have time to wait. Such tricks include using a sharp blade to keep your lawn healthier when the ground is still damp.

Does mowing wet grass result in a dull blade?

While wet grass alone cannot dull a mower blade, its slick surface doesn’t make the cutting process easier. And if you leave the lawn to sit on the blade, the saturated clippings can cause rust and an early demise to metal parts of your mower, such as the blade.

Final Thought on the Reasons Why Mowing Wet Grass is a Bad Idea

While it may be tempting to mow your grass after it rains, it’s important to wait until the ground is bone dry. If you can’t, make sure you sharpen your blade first to avoid a nasty accident, soil damage, and fungal infections, which are preventable with a little patience.

 

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Have you ever been asked, “Where did you get that idea?”

Have you ever wondered what creativity is, and where ideas come from? I have – all my adult life. While there are many answers, I think a great one is, “It’s a gift to be shared.”

What I’m talking about specifically here are unique solutions that solve problems, like storage needs and designing for function and safety. Combine these challenges with the homeowner’s desire for a unique appearance that fits their lifestyle, and the result? We have the makings of an award-winning kitchen or bathroom.

Design award applications usually require a summary of how we solved the project owner’s problems, and the recap makes before-and-after photos more relevant. If our entries offer original solutions, they deserve praise. The recognition boosts our confidence.

THE ORIGINS

Where does creativity originate? You’re taking a shower, and an idea flashes out of nowhere. You think to yourself, “What if I…?” You can’t wait to test the reality of your idea on your clients’ plans. From that idea comes another one, and another one. It’s like someone unlocked the vault of ingenious results for you. You’re motivated.

Albert Einstein said, “Creativity is intelligence having fun.” He had intimate knowledge of the universe, and he understood visionary imagination.

As kitchen-bath design specialists, we have a collection of skills and information acquired through our experience. Our intelligence allows us to apply the knowledge to solve problems. But, it’s more than that. Creativity frees our minds to absorb knowledge. It enables alternative ways of thinking.

How do you feel when you discover a spectacular new product at the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show, or in a Kitchen & Bath Design News article? There’s a tingle of excitement, and you can’t wait to solve homeowners’ problems with it. Creativity unblocks our old patterns of thinking. As a result, we’re more receptive to new ideas.

I’ve experienced good luck with product information that got tucked in the “future use file” of my mind. For example, I recommended a Duravit all-glass pedestal lavatory to a new client six months after I learned about it. She still loves it!

And I remember the drop-dead gorgeous Vetrazzo “Sky” countertop that wowed clients when I created a new laundry room for them – two years after discovering Vetrazzo for a blog. Then there was the joy I felt recently, saving a client over $3,000 by substituting bronze plumbing fittings I’d seen in an online newsletter last year.

These experiences are not uncommon for us.

Creativity is fun. We lose track of time when we’re engrossed in creating plans for a client or researching the right products that will make their hearts sing. Getting into a “zone” is like meditating. Experts agree that this helps us live longer. Somehow, we find a way to balance our desire to innovate and perform boring – but necessary – tasks.

Creative ideas are everywhere, always available to us when we need or want to improve our world. One way to explain it is finding a need and then creating a solution. Creativity helps draw out what is already there waiting to be used so that possibilities can emerge. Albert Einstein understood this concept and taught it passionately.

Early in my career, I had a client who wanted to store two sets of eating utensils in her small condominium kitchen with space for only five drawers. I designed a drawer within a drawer, instructing the cabinetmaker to lower the drawer back and then install full-extension glides backward on the top section so it slid back. About six months later, Rev-A-Shelf introduced the same solution for the mass market. So, I was solving an individual need at the same time that Rev-a-Shelf was solving a popular need.

BUILDING CONNECTIONS

Creativity builds intercultural and intergenerational connections.

This is shown by the worldwide acclaim of America’s architectural genius, Frank Lloyd Wright. He died in 1959, at 91. Yet his work still inspires architects and designers 62 years later. Wright was the first architect in history to use cantilevering in his famous Mill Run, Pennsylvania home. He designed “Fallingwater” for Edgar Kaufman in 1935. Evidence of his continuing popularity? Architects and designers are recreating Wright’s “Prairie-style” homes for today’s homeowners.

I love one of the stories about Wright – and there are thousands! He had very little income from his architecture practice for about 12 years (1922–1934). But he kept drawing plans and renderings for residences and public buildings. He also created graphic art for postcards. And he was a prolific writer. Hundreds of his articles appeared in House Beautiful and other popular magazines during that period. His self-promotion paid off. Clients began hiring him in 1934 after they recovered from the depression. He never looked back, proving that creativity is nurturing. Wright had more successful commissions in the last 30 years of his life than he had in the first 61 years!

Like Wright and other well-known innovators, today’s designers will impact future designers. They will inspire and motivate everyone to achieve their own success. We see this in our profession now. Many peers earn honors for their work because they are fearless in their creative expression. Their work will pass the test of time. They are not bound to what’s popular now because they are thinking ahead to the future. They have curiosity and open minds to play the “What if?” game. They often win.

But we see only the wins, not the losses. Creative people have a great habit of learning from every experience. They’re driven to improve themselves and everything around them.

I became aware of this when I taught Western design to Japanese interior design students in San Francisco and gave them a special assignment. They had to create a large master bathroom in a 17’x17′ area. Naturally, they were eager to learn and use the new skills they’d acquired. Not accustomed to large bathrooms, the students had fun uncorking their creativity.

There was one student, Izumi, who lit up the room with her enthusiastic ideas and questions. When it was time to review her plan one-on-one, she was trembling, afraid that I would criticize her work. Her plan wasn’t to scale. But her design was unique and it earned my praise for achieving something radically different. She designed a round bathroom with many windows surrounding a center closet! We joyfully worked together after class, figuring how to make her idea possible.

Like Izumi’s bathroom, I’ve come full circle – back to where I started, with the same question: What is creativity, and where does it come from? The conclusion: Creativity, like love, is an unlimited feeling, indefinable.

No, creativity is love.

Diane Plesset, CMKBD, CAPS, NCIDQ is the principal of D.P. Design in Oregon City, OR and has over 35 years of experience as a kitchen and bath designer. She is the author of the award-winning book, THE Survival Guide: Home Remodeling, and has been the recipient of numerous design awards. Named a 2019 KBDN Innovator, Plesset has taught Western design to students of the Machida Academy in Japan and has a podcast, “Today’s Home.”

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Creating highly functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces is contingent on much more than design alone. Designers know that finding just the right products for their clients is equally as critical and helps set the stage for ultimate success.

Often, they discover some of those products – like the perfect cabinetry, countertop, appliance or fixture that makes a kitchen or bathroom go from ho-hum to spectacular – within the pages of Kitchen & Bath Design News or on KitchenBathDesign.com.

At the end of each year, KBDN compiles a list of the Top 20 products that designers found most interesting, as identified through reader feedback.

This year’s list shines a spotlight on cabinetry and the significant role it plays in a kitchen or bathroom space. As evidence, the top four spots are either cabinets or related accessories. An additional seven spots within the Top 20 are represented by countertops, hardware and cabinetry configuration and organization.

While cabinetry dominates this year’s list, there are plenty of other products designers inquired about throughout the year. To find out what other products made the 2021 Most-Asked-About Product list, peruse the following pages and visit KitchenBathDesign.com.

1. Slim Shaker

Over the years, kitchen and bath design has seen a change from traditionally decorative door styles to a simple shaker look that has now become the standard in home fashion, relates Lisa Myers, head of the Showplace Cabinetry Product Development team.

The Showplace Cabinetry Shaker door styles have been popular for many years, and the showcased slimmer version gives a modern spin to the shaker family with its timeless look and feel.

“The Showplace Duet Slim Shaker option is very appealing, with its simple clean lines and ability to adapt to any design style within a home,” says Myers. “When paired with one of the many paint options we have available, the Duet Slim Shaker door looks stunning, displaying a distinct character within the simplicity of the door’s slim design.”

The simple Duet Slim Shaker style is available in the overlay, inset and frameless Showplace Cabinetry lines, delivering a modern feel to any living space.

2. Clutter-free Surfaces

The ever-growing number of personal tech and small appliances, countertop cords and device clutter are at an all-time high, indicates Paul Hostelley, director of business development for Docking Drawer. As a result, incorporating features such as the Style Drawer Appliance Garage and Docking Drawer outlets inside kitchen cabinet drawers have become mainstream features that are essential to creating organized, functional and clutter-free surfaces.

Small kitchen appliances can be safely powered and accessed via the Style Drawer Appliance Garage while remaining plugged in. The outlet cutout is already prepared on the back of the pullout for easy installation of the Style Drawer Blade or Blade Duo powering outlet.

“Striking the perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality, powered appliance garage pullouts offer the ability to keep blenders, toasters, coffee makers and other small appliances connected and ready while otherwise stowed neatly out of sight,” says Hostelley.

As well, Docking Drawer in-drawer outlets are simple to install into new or existing cabinets. While commonly found throughout the home in bathrooms, nightstands and countless other residential and commercial spaces, they can be “especially practical in the kitchen, which is often the primary gathering area and where countertop space is of the utmost value,” says Sarah Robertson, founder/principal of Studio Dearborn and Docking Drawer brand ambassador. 

3. Integrated Paper Towel Holder

Now, more than ever, cleanliness is of utmost importance, says Angela O’Neill, director of marketing for Wellborn Cabinet.

In response, the company offers its You Draw It paper towel holder. Integrated into the bottom of upper wall cabinetry, paper towels are kept off the countertop and protected against countertop spills. Plus, they are kept out of sight by placing them within the cabinetry.

“This design maximizes the utility of the cabinetry by maintaining the protection for your paper goods against countertop spills, and it doesn’t remove storage capacity,” she explains. “Typically, homeowners choose to position this particular feature near the sink or microwave to ensure convenience. Because the towels are enclosed inside the cabinet, they are kept away from bacteria and other contaminants for a safer and cleaner environment.”

Crafted from products made in America, both the paper towel holder and cabinet provide durability for long-term usage. This and other cabinet accessories from Wellborn Cabinet are available in a multitude of materials and finishes.

4. Purposeful Cabinets

As people spend more time inside, they are gravitating toward cabinets designed with purpose, style and overall function in mind, notes Stephanie Pierce, director of design and trends at MasterBrand Cabinets.

For example, Pierce says, “The company’s Omega Cabinetry contemporary collection not only looks beautiful, but it also accommodates the need for more storage, multi-purpose functionality and better organization for easy living. Embodying clean lines and subtle design, Omega contemporary cabinetry harmoniously elevates any space and can be modified for any lifestyle.”

With nearly 80 cabinet door styles to choose from and numerous wood type, finish, laminate and color options, the Omega collection of contemporary products truly provides a perfect fit for every taste, according to the company.

The company recently added three stunning door styles – Jax, Kali and Kadey – to the line, with streamlined profiles and a minimal aesthetic. Modern meets minimalistic in the Jax door style, where slab and shaker styling merge beautifully in a sleek slim-line shaker profile. The Kali and Kadey epitomize a classic but modern feel with shallow center panels.

5. Shaker-style Hood

The move toward simplistic, shaker-style painted cabinets has also led to increased interest in Castlewood’s Shiplap-style Range hoods, states Pete Larson, national sales manager for Castlewood.

“Homeowners are wanting a design element that will add some unique characteristic to make their kitchen stand out,” he explains. “The Shiplap style provides designers with the opportunity to add spice to the plain, shaker-style kitchen.”

Castlewood by AMS offers Shiplap range hoods in Chimney and Box configurations, which are designed to accommodate the Ascension line of kitchen ventilation products. They can be built from select molded hardwoods or rustic weathered planks, with each offering its own distinguishing quality.

Currently, the Chimney-style Shiplap range hood is the most popular, Larson adds, noting that this style needs extra space between wall cabinets to really stand out. In remodeling applications where there is not enough space between the wall cabinets, a Box-style Shiplap range hood is more suitable, he notes.

“The box-style Shiplap range hood can fit tightly between adjacent cabinets and still offer the individual client a distinctive and appealing design option,” he says. “We see this trend continuing and we intend on broadening our offering with other components that will complement this style.”

6. Shower Organizer

Staying organized is critical for all rooms of the home, including the bathroom. Keuco accommodates the need for storage in the shower/bath area by offerings its Shower Shelf. Made from sturdy, eco-friendly aluminum material with a black or white powder-coated finish, the Shower Shelf helps maintain a tidy, organized shower by holding shampoo, conditioner, body washes and other items.

Removable for easy cleaning, the shelf is available in a closed-front design to hide items or a semi-open front to see what is behind. It offers customizable widths in ½” increments. It can be hung in either glued or screwed wall brackets.

7. Retro Appliances

According to Hillary Frei, president of Big Chill, a popular trend in interior design currently is mixing styles and pulling in elements of different decades.

“It creates a unique, personalized look,” she states. “I think that’s what makes our Retro line and the Original Fridge so popular. People want a seamless blend of old and new, and that’s exactly what this product line is designed to do.”

The company added Turquoise its line of finishes for the iconic Retro Fridge. It pays tribute to the 1950s, when the hue was widely used in Mid-Century kitchens and in fashion.

“In terms of the color, the pandemic has pushed us to incorporate more vibrant colors into our personal styles, and the Turquoise color is the perfect soft blue/green to add that pop,” she continues. “It’s reminiscent of the 1950’s Robin Egg Blue we all recognize as iconic for the decade, and with retro styles coming back in all departments, it’s a great addition to the modern all-white kitchens.”

Turquoise joins the other colors in the line – White, Black, Cherry Red, Beach Blue, Orange, Jadite Green, Buttercup Yellow and Pink Lemonade. More than 200 custom colors are also available.

8. Look-alike Sintered Stone

The range of surface options from LOTTE Chemical Corporation includes its Locelain sintered stone collection.

Available in an extensive range of nine bold to subtle colors – including those that resemble natural stone and concrete as well as a solid selection – the ultra-compact durable surfaces come in multiple sizes, including large-format sheets in polished, satin and matte finishes.

Resistant to UV rays, extreme temperatures, scratches and stains, the line performs in interior and exterior applications, including as wall cladding, flooring and countertops in kitchen and bathroom projects or any high-traffic areas that require additional durability and functionality.

9. Interior Design Software

Interior design software is an essential part of today’s design process, relates Santiago
Morales, 2020 Design Live product manager.

“Clients are becoming more and more involved with their remodeling projects, and they expect 3D visualizations and digital floor plans to help them better understand what their future space will look like,” says Morales. “An interior design software is also beneficial to the user’s bottom line because it helps improve accuracy, minimize errors and convey realistic estimates, all contributing to a happy customer.”

2020 Design Live is a kitchen and bathroom design software with built-in manufacturer catalogs, 3D rendering capabilities, an extensive library of decorative items, infinite customization options, advanced lighting functionality and so much more.

The latest software has features such as real-time collaboration between designers and clients, artistic effect options for renderings, and a multi-point feature that showcases different perspectives in a 360° panorama. 2020 Design Live is meant to simplify and streamline the design process so that users can focus on the creative, innovative and functional aspects of a project.

10. Sliding Barn Shower Doors

Barn doors have become a popular trend in interior design and, building upon that popularity, Coastal Shower Doors offers its Eclipse Series sleek, modern and adaptable shower door.

The Eclipse marries the function and style of the barn door with smooth gliding rollers, tempered glass and a seamless header, creating a contemporary piece that makes a statement in the bathroom.

The doors are available in a black finish, customizable glass styles, textures and hardware, anodized aluminum frames and stainless steel handles, brackets and fasteners.

11. Distinctive Bath Fittings

In keeping with homeowners’ desire to mix and match modern elements with traditional design, Delta Faucet Co. offers the Kayra Bath Collection. Its transitional style adds distinctive design to any bathroom. To further elevate a space, it offers functional features like a pull-down spray wand for easy cleaning, multi-setting H2Okinetic Technology and In2ition Two-in-One Shower options.

The Kayra Bath Collection is offered in Chrome, Brilliance Stainless and Matte Black finishes.

12. Heated Freestanding Tub

Aquatica’s True Ofuro Tranquility Heated Japanese freestanding bathtub is fashioned from the firm’s AquateX solid surface material, which makes it durable, eco-friendly and easily cleanable, notes the company. Its Tranquility heating system is fitted with a recirculation system to eliminate the hassle of adding hot water while maintaining a constant 104° F temperature.

Now available in black, the soaking tub allows for full body immersion and includes an integrated seat and backrest to ensure comfort and relaxation, notes the firm.

13. Push-to-Open Cabinet System

Hettich’s Push-to-Open Silent makes cabinetry effortlessly handleless by opening drawers mechanically in response to a light press on the front panel. On shutting, they close in a gently cushioned movement.

The system recognizes drawers closed by hand and does not reopen them accidentally. And, if there’s a lack of momentum on closing, a drawer energy storage system prevents the drawer from opening again and reduces the force needed to close it next time.

14. Corner Drawers

Drawers are a great way to store and organize items. To maximize corner storage, WalzCraft offers its Inside Corner Drawer Boxes, which are designed to create easily accessible storage space in lieu of lazy susan cabinets. The addition of full-extension drawer glides allows access to stored items and eliminates kneeling to get to those hard-to-reach places.

The drawer boxes are made to order and are available with half-blind dovetail construction in solid wood and Baltic birch plywood.

15. Natural Minerals Porcelain Surfacing

Corian Design showcases its new Corian Endura line, a porcelain made from 100% natural minerals that is resistant to extreme heat, UV light, abrasions, scratches and stains, according to the firm.

Endura is non-porous and Greenguard Gold Certified. It is available in four product families, including tones in monochromatic, marble, metal and cement, that match up with a wide selection of kitchen styles. As a complement, it is also offered in two finishes – Satin and Mineral. 

16. Quartzite Surfacing

Antolini Luigi has added to its wide range of natural stones with Fusion Wow Quartzite, available in three styles: Fusion Wow Dark, Fusion Wow Light and Fusion Wow Multicolor. Fusion Wow | Original ‘Light’ quartzite is unique for its colors and striking veining, with shades of green that spread like gentle waves. The surfacing can be customized with any finish the company offers.

17. Custom Color Appliances

Elmira Stove Works offers custom color capabilities to its Antique line. The company’s antique appliances are now available in more than 1,200 custom colors, significantly expanding design options.

Inspired by 1850s-style appliances, Elmira’s Antique line includes a series of ranges, refrigerators, wall ovens, microwaves and dishwashers/dishwasher panels. Each appliance is custom crafted according to desired color, trim style and cooking features (for ranges) to suit personal preference and cooking style.

Elmira’s antique appliances can be ordered in approximately 200 colors from the RAL color code book and 1,040 hues from the Axalta SpectraMaster Solids Color Atlas. In addition, the company can color match to many colors.

18. Hands-free Cabinet Pull

For a more hygienic approach to operating lower cabinet doors and drawers, Doug Mockett & Co. offers the foot pull, which operates cabinet doors and drawers by using the front of a shoe.

Delivering hands-free touchless operation, users can safely access storage areas without the fear of spreading or contracting germs. The lip on the front edge is softened with a subtle bend to prevent scratching on dress shoes – just slip the front of the shoe underneath and pull forward.

The foot pulls are available in Matte Black, Matte White, Metallic Silver and Satin Stainless Steel. 

19. Shower Wall Panel System

Wilsonart has introduced Wilsonart Home, a curation of the company’s most sought-after collections with surfaces that are versatile enough to be used anywhere – on countertops, cabinets, walls and more. The Wetwall Water-Proof Wall Panel System includes 15 waterproof, lightweight panels that work well for wet area applications, such as showers. The patented waterproof solution eliminates the need for grout or demolitions, since it can be installed directly over gypsum board, green board, fiberboard and existing tile.

20. Smart Cube Storage

Häfele delivers modular display storage with its Smartcube Open Storage System. Smartcube can be as small as one shelf unit on a wall, or multiplied exponentially to fit any project, and can even be paired with casework, islands and other furniture. Projects can be customized by cutting horizontal runs to their preferred length and using shelving to match. Smartcube is offered in black and stainless steel look finishes.

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The process of making changes to the interior and exterior of a home is called home remodeling or renovation. It can be done by the homeowner or by a professional. This involves projects designed to make a home more attractive and comfortable. The result can be an improved property that adds value to the home. While some projects are purely cosmetic, others involve the addition of a kitchen or bathroom. In either case, a professional will help you complete the job.

The first step in home remodeling is to get your ideas on paper. Sketches or firm ideas are best. You should also make sure that you have the funds to undertake the project. After this, you can start searching for a contractor who can handle the project. If you do not have the time to go through all the details, you can hire a contractor to do this for you. When it comes to securing permits, they will be the ones who take care of the process.

You should also consider the cost of the project. A home remodeling project can cost thousands of dollars if you include new appliances, furniture, or fixtures. Keeping the house occupied during renovation is not a good idea. It could cause a delay or increase the cost. It can also result in structural issues such as thirsty tree roots and leaking pipes. All of these can affect the structure of the house, which increases the costs of the entire job.

Planning is essential if you want to get the most value from your investment. You should carefully think about what you want to change and what the budget allows. You should always make realistic changes based on the amount of money you have available. A detailed plan will prevent any surprises later on. If you are renovating with your partner, it is important to get some advice from him or her as this will help you make a better decision. You can also consult with a contractor who specializes in home remodeling.

During home remodeling, you should make sure to consider the costs. If you are planning to sell your house or keep it, you may want to improve the value of your property. If you plan to keep your property, the cost of the remodeling will be significant and you might need to get a loan for it. However, you should still be aware of the cost of the project. Once you have a clear plan, you can proceed with the work.

Whether you are planning to sell or keep your home, it is important to keep your budget in mind when planning the home remodeling. This will allow you to save money while still getting the desired results. A successful remodeling project will also ensure that you get the most value from your investment. The amount of money you spend on a renovation is proportionate to the amount of time and effort you invest in it. If you have a small budget, you should only renovate a few rooms of the house at a time.

While home remodeling can add value to your property, it will require a lot of work. You must separate and move fragile items and remove bulky items from the house. It is important to seal and move large items before undergoing a remodel. You can also hire a professional to do this for you. It is essential to understand the process before starting a home remodeling project. It is important to have the proper planning so that you can get the desired results.

The process of home remodeling requires more preparation than a normal home renovation. This is an important step to ensure a successful project. Once you’ve identified your goal, you should begin the process of home remodeling. To ensure that your home is properly prepared and a smooth renovation, it is necessary to take care of certain things. If you are a renter, you should make sure that you can stay in your house during the renovation.

Before you begin the process of home remodeling, set your budget and your goals. Determine which parts of the house you want to change. You will need to make realistic adjustments based on the amount of money you can afford to spend. If you’re planning to remodel the whole house, you should make sure that your plans are compatible with your budget. You should also discuss these matters with your partner before deciding on a particular contractor. This will help you avoid any misunderstandings and ensure a successful remodeling.

Before

The homeowners, a couple with a toddler, wanted to transform the master bath in their 1950s San Jose home into a soothing spa-like retreat, but the existing space presented quite the challenge – at only 36.5 square feet, the master bath was disproportionately small and cramped.

After

Designer Ratna Mehetre of Hans Spaces LLC incorporated an adjacent hallway linen closet and a small master bedroom closet in order to expand the bathroom’s footprint. The goal of the gut renovation was to create a space that would not only be luxurious, but toddler-proof as well. A new freestanding soaking tub was incorporated into the space, sealed to the wall on one side for safety, along with a custom-built walk-in glass shower with angled custom doors. A vanity was selected that would provide the look of a floating vanity with the added stability of a free-standing vanity. The space is accessible via a pocket door, and there are floor drains outside the shower for easy cleaning. Reflective and cool finishes were selected for the wall and floors in order to create an illusion of additional spaciousness, while a large round rattan mirror provides a feeling of depth. 

After Photos: Steven Matthew Solidarios

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Beautiful finishes, exquisite detailing and exceptional functionality are all integral to the design of luxury products. The high standards for these products are not only constantly met but exceeded by the companies that produce them.

Choosing the best products introduced into the luxury market is no easy task, but the Decorative Plumbing & Hardware Association assigned a team of industry experts to do just that for its 2021 Product of the Year Awards. The program recognizes uniqueness, design, functionality, innovation and technological superiority and taps the winners in a range of categories. This year’s independent panel of judges included: Mary Jo Peterson, principal, Mary Jo Peterson Design in Brookfield, CT; Eliot Sefrin, founding director and publisher emeritus of Kitchen & Bath Design News; Alissa Ponchione, executive editor at Hospitality Design magazine; Molly Switzer, creator, Molly N. Switzer Designs in Portland, OR, and Alena Capra, owner, Alena Capra Designs in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Award winners were presented in seven separate categories: Plumbing Fixture, Water Delivery, Furniture, Accessory, Door Hardware, Cabinet Hardware and Technology. The Products of the Year were announced at DPHA’s annual conference and product showcase held this past fall.

Water Delivery

Winner

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As a homeowner, you should constantly look for ways to improve your home functions. Home renovation helps you conserve water and energy, improve user experience and help you save money in the long run. One thing that often gets overlooked is faucet aerators. 

Faucet aerators reduce the pressure at which water comes out of a faucet by reducing the flow rate. This reduces the amount of water used per action and brings down your monthly water bill. The truth is that there are many reasons why installing an aerator can be beneficial to your home, regardless of whether you live alone or with family members. Keep reading.

What is a Faucet Aerator?

A faucet aerator is a round device installed on the ends of faucets that channel water into steady steam. But without a faucet aerator, your faucet will still deliver water, but the stream will splutter and splash. A faucet aerator helps to reduce splashing and spluttering because it uses a small channel to introduce water from the faucet into a larger channel, creating a steady stream.

The result is that your dishes and laundry will be cleaner, and you can also save water. In addition, an aerator is a small screen that breaks up the flow of water into multiple small streams, adding air in between. Today, a faucet aerator is very common in all kitchen and bathroom faucets.

By diluting the water stream with air, the aerator significantly reduces the volume of water flowing from your faucet. The aerator does this while maintaining the feeling of a high-pressure flow.  Aerators also reduce splashing in sinks.

Choosing Faucet Aerators

Daniel O’Brian, a technical specialist with SupplyHouse.com, says that different faucet aerators are designed to enforce different flow rates. Here are what you should consider before installing a faucet aerator.

Consider the Flow Rate When Installing an Aerator

You might be tempted to choose an aerator with the lowest flow rate to maximize savings. You should also remember that you’ll rely on certain gallons per minute GPM minimums on activities such as washing the dishes. However, O’Brian suggests choosing an aerator with a flow rate between 1 and 1.5 gallons per minute GPM is a good compromise between conservation and practicality. 

To wrap it up, there’s no rule here, so your personal preference and use cases will dictate what GPM you should choose. For the most part, it’s considered to install an aerator with a flow rate of 1.5 gallons per minute GPM if you want to conserve water while maintaining functionality.

Aerators Come in Different Sizes

Apart from knowing how many GPMs you require, you should also know the size of the aerator you’ll need. Faucets come in different shapes and sizes, and aerators come in three different varieties. These varieties include standard, junior and Tom thumb.

Other than the diameter, you also have to know if your faucet has a male or female spout. You’ll be able to identify this by locating the sprout’s threads, which are grooves found at the end of the spout. If the threads are outside, then it has a male spout and requires a female aerator. If the threads are inside, then it’s a female spout and requires a male aerator.

Aerators Provide Different Water Streams

You’ll also want to consider what kind of water stream you would like your aerator to provide. There are three different stream designs to choose from. These include the aerated stream, which is the most common in households.

In the aerated stream, the air is introduced to the water flow, causing the water to come out in even. There is also a laminar stream where the air isn’t mixed with water. The laminar stream also differs from the aerated stream by offering more gallons per minute GPM. The last one is spray stream, where faucets require very few GPMs.

Benefits of Faucet Aerators

Decreased Faucet Noise

Also, by installing a faucet aerator, you will end up having a decreased flow rate without actually needing to cut your water pressure. The water stream that comes out of the faucet is frizzy and mist-like. This makes it much quieter than the concentrated streams.

As mentioned above, water flow can be reduced by up to 35 percent. This is a great benefit as the faucet remains to deliver adequate water without causing any inconvenience or discomfort.

Lower Water Bills

As you save more water, your water bills will also get lowered. Though this might not be noticeable in the short term, it is great to note that the faucet aerator can help you lessen your water expenditure over time.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, installing a faucet aerator is the single most effective water-saving plumbing change you can make. This is true because you’ll use less water when you use an aerator to accomplish the same task.

More Consistent Water Pressure

A mesh screen allows the water pressure to be more consistent. It also slows the flow of water, making it possible for you to use less water and still achieve the same task. Instead of experiencing pressure changes right away as they happen, the steam will stay steady due to water caught behind the aerator. 

Reduced Overall Water Use

Reducing the flow rate of water may cause some people to feel like they need to use more water to get the job done. However, experts say that using an aerator will not cause you to increase your overall water usage. 

They claim that it is possible for you to reduce your total amount of daily and total monthly water usage. Apart from reducing water consumption at home, installing an aerator means less water usage, thus, reducing your home’s impact on the local and global environment.

Increased Filtration

With a faucet aerator, drinking water is filtered as it comes out of the tap. By using a filter, you can ensure that water used for drinking is free from toxic chemicals and metals. This reduces the overall amount of money spent on bottled water which would have been required if no aerator was installed.

The small screens increase the particle filtration for an individual faucet. A high-quality aerator works with a filtration system to keep your water clean and clearer. Ensure that if you have dirt and debris problems, you deal with them by regularly cleaning your aerator to prevent buildup.

FAQs on Faucet Aerators

How do faucet aerators work?

Faucet aerators work by getting air mixed into the flow, reducing the amount of water passing through the tap.

Final Thought on Faucet Aerators

That’s all about faucet aerators! Make sure you clean your faucet regularly to keep it as clean as possible. Do not forget to use a filter if you need it to keep your water pure and clear.

 

 

The post What are Faucet Aerators and Why You Should Install Them appeared first on Kitchen Infinity.

PALO ALTO, CA — More than three quarters of businesses in the construction and architectural/design services sectors report that product and material shortages and costs impacted their businesses in the second quarter of this year, while more than half of firms in both sectors report labor shortages and costs impacted their businesses, according to Houzz, Inc., the Palo Alto, CA-based online platform for home remodeling and design.

According to the Q3 2021 “Houzz Renovation Barometer” – which tracks residential renovation market expectations, project backlogs and recent activity – more than nine in 10 businesses across both sectors reported second-quarter increases in costs for lumber, copper, steel and aluminum, although about half of the surveyed businesses do not believe that costs will continue to increase in this year’s third quarter. Additional materials that construction pros anticipate increasing in cost include plastic, concrete, paint, foam, and drywall. Interior designers anticipate increased prices for appliances, furniture, and cabinetry in the third quarter, Houzz said.

More than nine in 10 construction businesses report moderate to severe skilled labor shortages, with carpenters, laborers, framers, cabinet specialists and plumbers in particularly short supply.

The Houzz Barometer also revealed that construction pros experienced their busiest quarter in six years, and that confidence among construction and design businesses for home renovation activity remains strong.

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WASHINGTON, DC — Soaring building material costs, high demand and low inventory have added tens of thousands of dollars to the price of a new home, causing housing affordability to fall to its lowest level in nearly a decade during the second quarter of 2021, the National Association of Home Builders reported.

According to the NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Opportunity Index, released in August, 56.6% of new and existing homes that sold between the beginning of April and the end of June were affordable to families earning the U.S. median income of $79,900. This is down sharply from the 63.1% of homes sold in the first quarter of 2021, and the lowest affordability level since the first quarter of 2012, the NAHB said.

NAHB analysis reveals that higher costs for lumber products have added nearly $30,000 to the price of an average new single-family home, observed Robert Dietz, chief economist for the Washington, DC-based trade association, who reported that the national median home price surged to a record $350,000 in the second quarter, up $30,000 from the first quarter, the largest quarterly price hike in the history of the series.

“With the U.S. housing market more than 1 million homes short of what is needed to meet the nation’s demand, policymakers need to focus on supply-side solutions that will enable builders to increase housing production and rein in rising home prices,” Dietz said.

 

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