Don't Let Bathroom Renovations Turn into a Sticky Situation

Sprucing up your Bathroom can be as easy as 1-2-3

Not so happy with the appearance of your bathroom? Sometimes it's the simple touches that can take your bathroom from ordinary to extraordinary.

Here are three quick and easy projects to spruce up the looks of any bath:

Tub and Tile

Caulking around tubs, shower surrounds and ceramic tile adds the finishing touch to any bathroom. Unfortunately, many builders or contractors use the least expensive brands, which may crack, mildew or discolor quickly.

Luckily, re-caulking is simple. First, remove all old caulk, and wash and dry the surface thoroughly. Choose a water-based, job-specific adhesive caulk, such as Polyseamseal Tub & Tile Adhesive Caulk, which is specially formulated with extra mildewcide to help resist mildew in high-humidity locations such as the bathroom.

Apply the caulk in cracks and crevices using steady pressure to create a nice looking bead. Finally, dip your index finger in mineral spirits and run it over the caulk bead to create a smooth finish. Allow about 24 hours before getting the surface of the caulk wet to ensure proper curing.

Countertops

Laminated plastic is commonly used for bathroom countertops since it is available in many colors, patterns and designs. However, it is common for the laminate to become loose from the rest of the countertop, and eventually bending and cracking.

Fixing loose laminate on your countertop is simple with a contact cement, such as PL Water-base Contact Cement. Begin by lifting the loose flap carefully so it doesn't crack. Using a paintbrush, apply contact cement to both the laminate and the other countertop surface. Use sections of toothpicks to prop the laminate up so it does not come in contact with the rest of the countertop until it is almost dry.

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After 20 to 30 minutes, the contact cement should in the right state to adhere the two surfaces. Press down on the countertop to ensure proper seal. Then use a rolling pin, working from the middle to the edges, to squeeze out any air bubbles and secure the laminate.

Mirrors

Mirrors are a necessity for every bathroom, not only for their practical use, but also for adding aesthetic qualities. Adding or replacing a mirror is easy using specialty adhesives such as Nail Power Mirror Mastic.

To start, be sure all surfaces are clean, dry and free of dust and dirt, which will adversely affect adhesion. If applying to old paint, check it for adhesion and soundness. Apply Mirror Mastic in a three-inch diameter spot for every square foot of mirror. Firmly position the mirror within 10 minutes of applying the adhesive and do not reposition. Maximum strength is obtained when the original bond is preserved. Normally, Mirror Mastic will cure to 60 percent strength in 48 hours at normal room temperature, although the time for curing will depend on temperature and the amount of air circulation.