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November 2017
Dear <<First Name>>,
Although doing laundry may not be your favorite activity, it can be more enjoyable if your laundry room is an attractive, functional and welcoming space. We’re offering some tips on how to create a laundry room that makes your tasks more pleasant than you would expect.
Dave Baskam, P.E.
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Laundry Rooms Done RIGHT
Doing laundry is a fact of life. The average American family washes almost 400 loads of laundry each year. Considering the amount of time and effort people relegate to this activity, it follows that the laundry room should be a pleasant and efficient place to work.
The right location
1. Choosing the right location for the laundry room is a major factor for most people. There isn't one perfect location that suits everyone.
- Near the bedrooms. Close proximity to your bedrooms means a shorter distance for hauling soiled clothing, bedding and bath linens to the washing machine and back. The piles of sorted laundry will be kept out of the main living area. You will have to return repeatedly to the bedroom area, however, to transfer the laundry from washer to dryer. And, if your bedrooms are on the second story, you may need to reinforce the floor to support the weight of the machines.
- Near the kitchen. If you like to cook or work on other housekeeping projects while doing the laundry, you can more efficiently multi-task by locating the laundry room adjacent to the kitchen. Plumbing lines are readily available. Install a sliding barn door or a pocket door that hides the clutter when unexpected guests arrive. A disadvantage is all the trips necessary to carry the laundry back and forth from the bedrooms. With a two-story home, a laundry chute from the second floor is a wonderful addition.
The right equipment
2. Another big factor is having the right equipment to complete the laundry tasks quickly and efficiently.
- Whether you prefer top-loading or front-loading washing machines, high-efficiency (HE) models are available in both types. They use less water than conventional washers and have higher-speed spin cycles, which requires less energy from the dryer. Front-loading washers provide more design options: place a countertop above the machine for folding clothes; place the machine on a pedestal to improve ergonomics; stack the washer and dryer to save floor space.
- A 12" deep stainless-steel sink is practical for scrubbing stains and washing delicates. If you expect to be filling buckets at this sink, choose a pull-out spray or high-arc faucet. Today’s low-flow faucets provide the experience of a strong water flow, while cutting back on water usage. Pet owners might consider adding an elevated pet wash station to the laundry room.
- Include some locked cabinets for storing detergents and cleaning supplies out of the reach of children and pets. Baskets placed on shelves or inside cubbies work well for sorting laundry. Install a retractable clothesline for air drying wet clothes, and a rod for hanging clothes fresh from the dryer. A folding ironing board that stores in a wall cabinet or a drawer provides a convenient ironing surface when needed.
- Good lighting, both task and ambient, is vital for you to work efficiently. Include windows in your laundry room, if possible, to bring in natural light. Install a ventilation fan to remove excess moisture from your laundry room. The laundering process releases humidity into the room that must be properly ventilated, or mold and mildew problems could result.
The right finishes
3. Finally, selecting the right finishes will ensure easy maintenance, helping you keep your laundry room looking attractive for years to come.
- The constant wear and tear that dirt and water will have on your floors should be taken into careful consideration. Choose materials that are durable and water-resistant, such as slip-resistant ceramic tile, slate, linoleum, cork and high quality vinyl.
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Contact
Baskam Construction Services
200-17 East Second Street
Huntington Station
New York 11746
Phone: 631.549.9787
Email Us
baskambuilt.com
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About Us
Since 1991 Dave Baskam and his team have worked with a passion for building. The key to success has been providing clients with exceptional, personalized service—guiding them through the maze of home renovation. Delivering dependable, trustworthy and committed service is the mission of Baskam Construction Services.
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