Bathroom Renovation on the Cheap – How to Save Big

When the time comes to renovate your bathroom, it can be a pricey exercise. Whether you’re working with a professional or opting to go it alone, it’s easy to rack up the expenses and end up shelling out more than you’d budgeted for.

To avoid breaking the bank with your bathroom renovations, here are some top tips for keeping a cap on your spending,

Remember to Recycle

If you’re looking to give your bathroom a fresh feel on the cheap, remember that not every fixture has to be fresh out of the showroom. Everything from tubs and toilets to mirrors and sinks can be found secondhand, giving you an updated bathroom for a fraction of the price.

For the more DIY-inclined amongst you, consider upcycling old piping and jars to create towel rails and storage spaces for toothbrushes and Q-tips.

Be Environmentally Friendly

If your renovations require you to replace your current fixtures, opt for the most environmentally friendly option available. They often cost the same as the regular fixtures and can save you a lot of money in the long-run by conserving water. Plus, you’re helping out the planet!

If you’re on the hunt for water-saving shower heads, see our range here.

For Serious Plumbing, Defer to the Professionals

No offence, but if you try to replumb your entire bathroom with no professional experience, you may end up with a soggy bathroom. When it comes to tasks such as plumbing and waterproofing, always call in a professional or risk paying even more money at a later date to get everything fixed up properly!

Freshen Up

When renovating, it can be tempting to run to the store and throw everything you fancy into your basket, but when you’re trying to save your pennies, remember that not everything needs to be brand spanking new to make an impact. Cleaning up your lacklustre grout, adding clean, crisp lines of caulk to your tub or sink, having your bath or shower relined, and throwing up some fresh paint are all great ways to spruce up your bathroom on a budget.

Be Thrifty

Be on the lookout for stock that is slightly damaged or chipped in order to get a reduced price. For example, countertops that are chipped where the sink will be placed can be picked up for a discounted price, even though the blemish won’t be seen once everything is in place! For smaller fixtures and accessories, spend some time on websites such as eBay and Etsy to pick up vintage finds for discount prices.

How to Keep Your Taps Cleaner, For Longer

Everyone would love to have a spick and span bathroom with a toilet bowl that gleams and tap fixtures that sparkle day in, day out, right? But who actually wants to dedicate their spare time to scrubbing up their bathroom? In fact, past bleaching the toilet and washing away errant pieces of toothpaste stuck to the sink, cleaning the bathroom is pretty far down on our list of chores.

Tapware is Special

As much as we all wish there was a way to spruce up the bathroom and have it stay nice and clean for days, even weeks, afterwards, we know it’s not really possible, and this is especially true when it comes to your tap fixtures. Think about how many times a day your taps get used. Every time someone brushes their teeth and washes their hands, your taps are being subjected to fingerprints, soap, and splashes of water, and it doesn’t take long for them to stop looking glamorous and start looking grubby. So, what can you do about it?

Our experts have a few tips up their sleeve when it comes to keeping things clean, and here’s their advice for you:

Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals

You might be tempted to throw whatever chemicals you have tucked under your bathroom sink at your taps, but be careful. Harsh chemicals such as bleach will cause much more harm to your tapware in the long run, and can lead to the pitting of your chrome.

Look For Non-Toxic Alternatives

There are plenty of chemicals available that will help keep your tapware shining without exposing them to damage. To find out what’s best for your taps, ask for the manufacturer’s recommendation, or ask for advice in your local hardware store.

Keep It Up

Taps that are cleaned a little bit every week will look a lot better than taps that are left for months without a good scrub. Give your taps a deep clean, and then keep up the good work every week! It only takes a few minutes, and you’ll be left with taps that are so shiny, you’ll be able to see you face in them!

If the time for tap replacement is already upon you, fear not! It’s what we do (and we deliver Australia Wide).
To take a look at our range of tapware, visit our product store!

At EzyFix, we make tapware and showers that you can install yourself. We offer a no-excuses 5 year warranty on all of our products – even though they are customer-installed.

You’re probably thinking ‘well that sounds pretty normal’ right? Well, surprisingly, it’s not.

All other tapware manufacturers in Australia void your warranty if their products are not installed by a licensed plumber. That, and a few other things, have burned many, many customers who buy DIY tapware only to find out later that the manufacturer has ‘copped out’ of covering them.

Because of those experiences, and because our warranty is one of a kind, we get a lot of questions about exactly what it means. Well, we’re here to answer them.

Here we go!

No Excuses, 5 Year Warranty – What Does it Mean?

It means that anyone can install EZYFIX tapware as per our instructions and still be covered by our full 5 year warranty.

It ensures that you the customer are covered should anything go wrong with EZYFIX tapware – or any EZYFIX product for that matter – regardless of who installed it.

It means our tapware is easy to install and comes with complete instructions – this will not be an IKEA scenario! Also, to make sure you get the help you need, we operate a DIY helpline. You can give us a call any time to get personal, walk-through instructions on install and care for any product.

It means claiming the warranty (on the rare occasions necessary) is easy. Just contact us via the helpline or our website and we will look after you.

It means we’ll share the fine print with you right here. The finer details of the warranty, including all the wording required to comply with the minimum government regulations (which our warranty totally exceeds) can be found right here.

Why is No One Else Doing This?

As far as we can guess, other companies aren’t doing it because they just can’t depend on their products being installed correctly. The cost of failed installs and warranty cover is just too much for them to take on. Hence their rule: if it isn’t installed by a licensed plumber, your warranty is void.

At EZYFIX we saw this as unfair and to be honest a bit of a lame excuse. Effectively, it allows manufacturers to avoid their obligation to back their products and customers. That’s why we designed products guaranteed to last, and guaranteed to be easy to install and use.

And THAT’S why we introduced the only No Excuses 5 year warranty on tapware in Australia.

So What do we Stock? How can you Get it?

We deliver Australia-wide. Any Aussie can order online and have their product delivered to their door. Oh, we’re also found in Bunnings Warehouse!

Some of our popular products:

Revolution Shower Heads

Modern Tapware

Designer Bath Spouts

… the rest you can find out at EzyFix.com.au!

Have you ever had the frustration of turning on your shower to only receive a trickle of water? Or, perhaps it’s jetting out, but not where you want it to… flooding walls, ceilings and expensive flooring. This is likely caused by calcium and mineral deposits in your water building up inside your shower head over time. Left unchecked, it can cause expensive damage to your surrounding surfaces, and can lead to corrosion in the plumbing itself.

To make sure this problem is corrected, you’ll need to make sure your shower is cleaned regularly, with a vinegar solution, which helps to remove and prevent mineral and calcium deposit build ups. Start this when your shower head is new for best results. If you are already having issues, your shower head likely needs a calcium reducing vinegar bath to soften the deposits, allowing them to break up and wash out of the head.

As far as how to clean your shower, there are two main options. One, find a way to get the head soaking in vinegar, as it is, head high in your shower. This presents obvious challenges! Or, disassemble the shower head and potentially spend hours scouring and reassembling, and hoping you got it right, before you turn the water back on. This will need to be repeated periodically throughout the life of your shower. While it may seem like a hassle, you’ll be glad you did it the next time you want a warm, refreshing shower.

However – there is now another way! Replace your old shower head with a new Self-Cleaning Hand Shower from EZYFIX. Our Revolution showers are known as the most adjustable shower heads in Australia. They’re also easy to install and carry a warranty (even on your DIY install), so you can do the replacement yourself.

The self-cleaning head features 5 functions, and adjusting between the functions activates the self-cleaning mechanism to dislodge calcium and lime scale before they become a problem, meaning no more shower cleaning. Installation involves no drilling, no messy adhesives, and no suction cups, just a perfect fit, backed up by the EZYFIX no excuses parts warranty, even if you install it yourself. So, do yourself a favour and order a permanent solution to your slow, messy shower today.

Self-cleaning Revolution shower heads are available for pre-order now, and will be coming in February 2016. Or go in the draw to WIN a new Self cleaning shower valued at $149 RRP by completing our online survey here: http://ezyfix.com.au/marketing-test/

Plumbing can be a major expense, and nowhere is that more apparent than in simple repairs such as replacing a showerhead and taps.

You might be tempted to think, “Well, why not just purchase a tap at Bunnings for under $100, install it myself and be done with it. After all, the tap is under warranty and I may not even be here in 5 years.”

Warranty Woes

This seems simple enough – and it would be – except most warranties are void unless a plumber installs your shower or tap. And in the case of replacing an existing basin or shower tap, the cost will be double, since the licensed workman must do both the removal, and the installation, if you want your warranty in full effect.

So, how much could this possibly cost, you ask? The typical cost of having a tap either removed or installed, is around $180, so double that, plus the cost of your tap for a neat $440 initial installation for a start. Now consider that this warranty only covers the least expensive part of the repair, the tap itself, and the fact that inferior parts have a habit of wearing out within a year or two, and now you’re looking at $440, plus $360 to have it replaced in two years, and additional $360 two years after that.

Since your warranty is only five years, on the third replacement, you are on your own and will have to undergo the total cost again, and start the cycle over. Not to mention price increases! So, what’s a homeowner to do when it comes to getting a good deal on quality plumbing? After all, you’re handy, you could do the job yourself if it weren’t for the pesky warranty.

Score a Warranty Win!

With a tap from EZYFIX, you get the best of both worlds. With our “no excuses” 5-year warranty, you’re covered. Even if you install it yourself. Simply follow the instructions, and you’re covered for 5 years! just remove it, contact EZYFIX or take your part back to your retailer, and EZYFIX will cover the replacement costs. It’s that simple.

Not only is EZYFIX a simple, guaranteed solution for the HOME RENOVATOR, we also happen to carry one of the best lines of showers and taps in Australia, designed by an Australian designer and manufactured to our exact specification. The best part? High quality, Australian designed EZYFIX taps are available at Bunnings, right next to the plumber install version that will cost you an arm and a leg over time!

EXYFIX can also be delivered straight to your door, Australia wide. Not sure if you can carry out the repair? No problem, just call the DIY hotline for tips and advice. Not sure it will fit? It’s guaranteed to fit any existing plumbing, quick to replace, and we sell tapware styles to fit all of your other plumbing too!

NOTE: Not an EZYFIX shower pictured above (ours will make you even happier!)

*please check your relevant state laws before undertaking DIY plumbing repairs.

Come say “Hi” at Better Homes and Gardens Live

Better Homes and Gardens Live is hitting Melbourne this weekend! EZYFix is going to be there, and we’d love to see all your smiling faces there too!
…But what is Better Homes and Gardens Live all about?

The Event

If you haven’t heard, Better Homes and Gardens Live is the exhibition bringing one of Australia’s most beloved magazine/TV shows to life.

The 3 day event starting October 14 aims to provide inspiration, entertainment and fun for all home makers, gardeners, culinary whizzes and of course, DIY enthusiasts. Over 250 exhibitors, live demonstrations, hands-on educational workshops, and kids entertainment… it’s going to be epic.

(Get tickets here – and enter our secret code SHOWS30 to get 30% off Entry!)

EZYFix is proud to announce we’ll have our own exhibition at the event, which will be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. We want to get out and engage with all of you DIY enthusiasts and help you with some of our own DIY solutions.

So what will you find when you come over to see us at the exhibition?

What’s on at the EZYFix Exhibit

We’ll be performing demonstrations to attendees to help them on their way to being DIY experts. Nothing’s more satisfying than a job you did yourself, which is why we’ll be showing you how to replace your own taps!

We’ve also got some nifty gear on display and available for you to take home yourself. Come have a look at our amazingly adjustable Revolution Shower – guaranteed to suit the heights of all attendees. If you love what you see, you can pick up your own Single Spray Revolution AIR shower on sale with a special offer that is only available on stand at the show.

FREE Showers!

Yep, we’re holding giveaways every day! All you’ve got to do is snap a selfie whilst trying out the Revolution Shower – and you’re in it to win it!

So drop by, say hi and pick up some great DIY tips and tricks while you’re at it. We hope to see you there!

More Event Details:

Better Homes and Gardens Live provides home makers, DIY enthusiasts, keen gardeners and cooks with inspiring new ideas and advice for a better home and garden.

This fabulous live event is packed with over 250 exhibitors, inspirational live demonstrations and educational hands-on workshops from your favourite Better Homes and Gardens experts. Plus, with plenty of entertainment for the kids, this is an unbeatable day out for the whole family!Better Homes and Gardens Live provides home makers, DIY enthusiasts, keen gardeners and cooks with inspiring new ideas and advice for a better home and garden.

At Ezy Fix, we spend a lot of our time helping customers choose the right, easy to install, taps for their home. These decisions can be difficult. Even more important, however, is knowing when it’s time to replace your taps, before catastrophic failure leaves you with extensive water damage, in addition to a simple plumbing project. There are some signs that trouble is on the horizon and paying attention to these symptoms can prevent a plumbing disaster.

Discoloration on the Taps

If you’ve cleaned your tap, but dark colored spots, corrosion, or green film persist, these are signs that the inner workings are not what they should be. As the interior of your tap wears thinner, the finish will reflect damage on the outside.

•       Dark spots that show through the finish on the tap indicate the metal may be getting thin or corroding on the inside.
•       Discoloration around the tap handles or fasteners, is an indication that seals may be seeping and water is beginning to erode the mechanism.
•       Rusty, or green stains at the base of your tap, or tap handles is a clear indication that water has been seeping inside the tap, even if standing water is not present.

Poorly Functioning Taps

When you go to wash up, you want the tap to easily turn on, provide a steady stream of the right temperature of water, and turn off completely when you are finished. Any deviation from this is a sure sign that things are not right inside.

•       If your tap is hard to open, this could indicate worn parts or corrosion internally.
•       If the water stream is inconsistent, or does not come out in an even, round stream, the valve may be damaged, or corrosion may have changed the interior of the tap.
•       Dripping faucets typically indicate bad seals. This can go from a tiny drip to a catastrophic failure over night if not dealt with.

Signs of Water Damage

If your taps are failing, you may see signs in other places on and around your basins. Take the time to regularly inspect areas around your taps for problems.

•       Wet spots under the tap inside your vanity cabinet, or on the floor indicate leaking.
•       Water pooling at the base of the tap indicates bad seals inside.
•       Water from leaking taps can also effect surrounding walls and trim. If you see signs of water damage, investigate until you find the source.

By paying attention to your taps, you can prevent serious water damage in your home, and preserve convenient, quality service. Replacing your taps before they fail can save you money and time. Check our full line of easy to install taps for some great solutions.

Imagine your frustration when you finally get home after spending hours at your local home improvement warehouse trying to find the perfect tap, only to find out it doesn’t fit your existing plumbing! Not only was all the time choosing and selecting all for nothing, you then need to run around town trying to find the extra parts you need to make your new taps fit or find entirely new taps altogether.

The EZYFIX Difference

If you want to avoid the headaches of ill-fitting taps, you need tapware guaranteed to fit any existing plumbing in your home. That’s where EZYFIX comes in: EZYFIX tapware is the only tapware range in the Australian market guaranteed to fit your plumbing. EZYFIX taps will adapt to taps old and new, including those manufactured by Dorf, Caroma, Irwell and Donson to name a few.

The difference is in our special adaptors and extenders, which are only supplied with EZYFIX. Our Modern Lever Range really shines with its universal fit design. Not only does it have a stylish, contemporary look, but there is no pipework required- as is the case with most other tapware brands. Plus we have our 1300EZYFIX Helpline should you experience any challenges.

EZYFIX has been sold nationwide for over a decade through Bunnings warehouse where you will still find them today, however beware of cheap imitation home brands!

Convenience Delivered Straight to your Door

The best part about an EZYFIX tapware solution is how quick and, well, easy it is! You can explore our complete tapware range and order your dream taps from our website and you’ll have them delivered straight to your doorstep. Installation is simple: just unscrew your old taps and screw in your new EZYFIX taps – how’s that for easy?

Don’t waste time with an inferior brand that may or may not fit. Order your tapware today from our website. When choosing new tapware, it’s easy to get distracted by appearances, and forget to focus on functionality. EzyFix ticks all the boxes. Sleek, modern designs, a great price, and a guaranteed fit all backed by our No Excuses 5 Year Warranty.

Are you thinking of doing some serious bathroom renovations? If your bathroom is looking a little worn and old, it may be time to bring it into the 21st century with a modern makeover. If this is your first time renovating you may not know where to start when it comes to modern styles for bathrooms. That’s why EZYFIX is here to help. Here are some easy ways to add modern style to your bathroom.

Modern Tapware

Been wrestling with hard-to-turn-off taps you have to keep on spinning for a tap to stop dripping? Why not try a tap with a 3/4 turn lever which are so smooth and easy to turn off that you could even do it with your little finger! The other great thing about a ¾ turn lever is it allowed for a finer temperature control so you get the right water temperature for any activity. Plus, with no pipework required and quick and easy installation, EZYFIX modern tapware is one of the simplest ways to give your bathroom a modern makeover.

Designer Spouts

Now that you’ve taken care of the sink, it’s time to move on to the bath. Your bathroom will look instantly more elegant after adding a beautiful designer spout to your bathtub. Add a touch of the Caribbean to your tub with this chrome wall mounted bath filler. Spouting out a 125 mm sheet of water, it’s perfect for adding bubbles and adding a little luxury to bath time.

Smart Showerheads

A place where we all spend maybe a little too much time is the shower. A place to get clean and feel relaxed, nothing throws off a shower more than being pelted with water from a hard spraying showerhead. Well after a short 5 minute install time you could be enjoying the Revolution AIR shower MultiSpray Chrome. This highly adjustable shower infuses every water droplet with air making its spray soft on the skin. Bring your shower into the future with this stylish and revolutionary technology.

Selecting modern products for your bathroom renovations is a breeze with EZYFIX. Check out our full range on our website.

Can you feel the chill in the air? Now that winter has ticked around again, the temperature is dropping fast. With the weather cooling down, people are dusting off their portable heaters, throwing extra blankets on the bed and rocking their winter coats and scarves once again.

Winter makes a warm shower even more wonderful than usual, but the cold air makes the end of the experience just the opposite. It’s fine while you’re luxuriating under the warm water, but once the taps go off, the cold quickly sets in and it’s a race to dry off and get rugged up again.

Imagine how nice it would be to step out of the shower dripping and cold and have a toasty warmed up towel, fresh from the dryer, just waiting for you. With an EzyFix heated towel ladder, you can have one better. A heated towel ladder will warm your towel while you shower, so you have a steamy warm towel to look forward to as soon as you finish.

Our Heated Towel Racks

There are quite a few EzyFix heated towel racks to choose from. We offer both wall mounted and free standing racks. The free standing racks are perfect for renters due to their portability, but also offer a great alternative if you have no wall space in your bathroom. Depending on your taste, we have racks with flat rails or curved rails, and racks with different numbers of rails from 8 rails to 12.

Why Choose an EzyFix Heated Towel Rack?

An EzyFix heated towel rack will not only keep your bathroom warm and make your towels toasty, it’s simple to install as well.  The racks have a flexible power supply from either left, right or rear concealed wire entry, to make installation as convenient as possible.

See the video below on how quick and easy they are to install.

They’re also cheap to run, with our largest ladder costing approximately 3 cents per hour to run.

Check out our website for all our heated towel ladders and grab yours for winter.

Not interested in a heated ladder? We also offer the same range in a more affordable non-heated variant which you can view here.