The bathroom is probably one, if not the most, highly trafficked areas of your home. Stop to think about it --- has ever a day gone by when you do not use your bathroom? You may eat your meals out and forego the use of your kitchen for a day or you may come home and fall into bed without ever having stepped foot in your family room. But, the bath ... that's a necessity.

It's also a room that is highly visible to guests of your home. You may be able to close your bedroom door to indicate that it is "off-limits," but certainly you can't deny visitors access to the bathroom.

Follow these remodeling tips to turn your current bath into one that incorporates the latest styles and today's modern conveniences.

1. Replace Outdated Faucets

   One of the easiest and least expensive ways to update your bath's look is to replace old faucets with new styles and designs. Moen's® Monticello® collection of bathroom faucets blends perfectly with either traditional or contemporary bath settings. And, chrome is not the only finish available anymore. Monticello faucets also feature finishes of polished brass, glacier (white), and the popular combination of chrome and polished brass. The collection's lack of exposed screws and narrow ridges make it a breeze to clean up, while its washerless cartridge system means easy maintenance.

   If you quickly tire of the "same old thing", Moen's Concentrix® faucet line features a system of interchangeable handles which allow you to periodically create a new look for your bathroom. Choose from circular, diamond, square and rope-styled handles. And although the handle inserts look expensive, they are affordably priced and may be changed easily without the use of tools. Both Monticello and Concentrix faucets are available for your tub and shower combinations to create an integrated look for your entire bathroom.

2. Update Your Bath With New Wallpaper

   Create a dramatic change in your bathroom simply by hanging a new wall- covering. A visit to your local decorating store will show you that prices and styles vary greatly. While the selection process is based on personal preference, be sure to pick a wallpaper made to withstand steam, high temperatures and wear and tear. The last thing you want is something that starts to come down after your first shower. Remember a border can work with your wallcovering to create contrast or add a dramatic flair to your ceiling area.

3. Install New Flooring In Your Bath

   Tile has long been a standard in bathrooms because of its water resistance, durability and ease of maintenance. But, you may want to check out the other options available to you. Vinyl flooring is a good choice for the bath since it is durable and resists water penetration. Manufacturers are constantly creating new colors, patterns and textures in vinyl flooring so you can easily find a style that meets your decorating needs. Carpeting was once considered the flooring of choice for a master bath, but it retains moisture and is prone to mildew. If you do decide on carpet, use it only in the dry areas of your bath such as the dressing and grooming areas. Wood makes an attractive floor covering, but moisture is again a problem. Wood surfaces must be well sealed with poly-urethane or marine varnish.

4. Realize Savings in Your Water Bill With a New Toilet

   Did you know that today's newer toilets feature a low-flow flush system? It's the law, actually. These toilets use only 1.6 gallons of water per flush while older toilets use approximately 3 - 1/2 gallons. Not only will you realize a cost savings in your water bill, but the many toilet styles and colors now available will make your bath more attractive. Some newer toilets also feature a tank and bowl combined into one low-to-the-floor piece providing for a quieter sound.

5. Add a Pressure-Balancing System to Your Shower

   Have your ever been a victim of "Shower Shock?" This is the unpleasant experience that occurs when someone in your household flushes a toilet or starts a washing machine, thus sending a sudden blast of hot or cold water during your shower. Not only is it unpleasant, in some cases, it can lead to scald burns. To combat these sudden changes in water pressure, Moen has created Posi-Temp® and Moentrol® shower faucets. Both have a unique pressure-balancing systems that regulate water delivery and keep the temperature to a constant ± 2š F. In addition, Moentrol has a temperature memory so that the next time you jump in the shower, it regulates itself and returns to the same temperature at which it was shut off.

6. Install a New Vanity

   Replacing an old, worn-out vanity may add new life to your bathroom. Quality cabinets, like those manufactured by Aristokraft, are available in a number of different styles and colors. While white continues to be one of the most popular vanity colors, light and whitewashed woods are running a close second. Also, dark, rich woods are still finding a place in many homes. When choosing materials, look to laminates that resist cracking and chipping. Surprisingly, solid wood is not the best material for large flat surfaces such as cabinet sides, bottoms and shelves -- plywood and particleboard have proven stronger in these applications.

7. Create More Space with a Pedestal Sink

   To create the illusion of more space in your bath, why not install a new, modern pedestal sink. Pedestal sinks add a touch of charm and elegance that usually cannot be duplicated with other types of in-cabinet sinks. Newer models also feature etched designs and decals that can accent your design scheme.