BATHROOM SPECIAL INSIDE DESIGN
PHOTOGRAPHY: ALEX SCHULDTZ (HOLMES); THINKSTOCK (PAPERS, TAPE)
HOLMES ON BATHROOMS By the time contractor Mike Holmes grabs his first double-double of the day, he’s already fielded a dozen questions about everything from tiles to tub surrounds. In this excerpt from The Holmes Manual, he shares the answers to the questions he gets asked most often—consider it a blueprint for making your bathroom right. MARCH 2015 | CANADIANLIVING.COM
Q A
How long should you run a bathroom fan?
Most people don’t have a clue how long it takes a fan to remove all that moist air you’re creating every time you have a shower. They towel off, brush their teeth or shave, and flip off the fan when they leave the bathroom. I’ve heard experts say the exhaust fan needs to run for at least 20 minutes after you’ve finished your shower, but I recommend 30 minutes just to be safe. And make sure you crack open the door or a window while the fan runs. If the bathroom is sealed, it restricts airflow and your fan can’t push warm air outside. Installing a timer makes it easier. This preventive measure helps control moisture and can add years to the life of your bathroom.
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