11 Most Badass RVs You Can Buy Today

Read article : 11 Most Badass RVs You Can Buy Today

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Driving cross-country in a multi-million dollar RV is an experience few Americans will ever get to enjoy. While many may fawn over massive machines like the unstoppable Zetros 6×6, few of us have the means to obtain a purpose-built doomsday machine. Sure, there’s the obvious financial obligation, as luxury RV setups can run north of $3 million, but concerns about parking, maintenance, winterizing, insurance, and who’s going to drive the damn thing are also factors to consider.

Earthroamer XV HD is about as ferocious as it gets outside of military spec | Earthroamer" />

Riding atop a Ford F-750 chassis, the Earthroamer XV HD is about as ferocious as it gets outside of military spec | Earthroamer

Fortunately, many of the world’s elite moneymakers have the means to hire a trained driver, and with some of these land yachts running well over 40 feet long, merging and parking can be a real pain for the untrained. But RV enthusiasts aren’t just into slate tile floors and crystal chandeliers, and hardcore 4×4 vehicles are still a hot commodity as they crush terrain by day and then raise their rooflines at night for spacious living.

King Aire line takes a unique, but very ornate approach to RV-making, and the amount of time, money, and energy that goes into making one is insane | Newmar" width="757" height="482" />

Newmar’s King Aire line takes a unique, but very ornate approach to RV-making, and the amount of time, money, and energy that goes into making one is insane | Newmar

We recently took the time to peruse the web in search of some of the most over-the-top RV options money can buy, and came up with a surplus of unique options. There really is something out there for everyone, and if your pocketbook is up to the challenge, you can have an entire penthouse suite on wheels built to your personal taste.

1. IKON by Renegade

The IKON by Renegade is one purpose-built RV, with trailer towing being one of its strongest suits | Renegade

The IKON by Renegade takes semi-truck styling and combines it with luxury amenities and industry leading self-sufficiency. From handcrafted solid hardwood cabinetry and plush Villa Ultraleather furniture to quartz countertops and heated porcelain tile floors, the good life comes standard in this RV. Tech-wise, it also features things like Samsung 4K LED TVs, Bose Home Theater Sound, and a set of high-tech stainless steel appliances that deliver the goods when it’s time to eat.

It also features VegaTouch control systems, which have dual 10-inch touchscreen controllers with iPad, smartphone, and tablet compatibility. This means you can integrate interior lighting, systems monitoring, HVAC controls, window coverings, awning and slide-out controls, and a whole lot more into an all-in-one touchpad that doubles as a monitor for the perimeter observation camera system.

The Renegade IKON can be outfitted with all manner of amazing interior amenity | Renegade

Buyers will love finding features like hand crafted hardwoods, and a Theater Mode that automatically lowers the shades, dims lights, and raises the 50-inch Samsung UHD 4K TV so it can automatically tie into the Bose home theater system. While a porcelain tile shower and adjustable LED vanity lighting systems are also nice, it’s the Renegade’s attention to towing capacities and ability to be lived out of for weeks on end thanks to its oversized water, septic, and fuel tanks that make it a preferred RV for motorsport enthusiasts.

2. Winnebago Brave

Winnebago Brave takes vintage styling and applies modern technology and mechanics to form a restomod RV | Winnebago" width="757" height="424" />

The Winnebago Brave takes vintage styling and applies modern technology and mechanics to form a resto-mod RV | Winnebago

Back in the late 1960s and 1970s, there was no mistaking a Winnebago motorhome for another RV thanks to its bold “Flying W” badging, iconic “eyebrow” designs, clever interior, and boxy body lines. But over time the iconic styling of yesteryear began to morph into a mish-mash of ho-hum engineering and bland RV styling.

But now it’s time to fall in love with classic RV styling all over again, because Winnebago has followed in Dodge’s Challenger footsteps and has rolled out a resto-mod version of the machine that got America hooked on RV life in the first place.

Vintage interior within the Winnebago Brave looks straight out of the 1970s | Winnebago

The all-new Winnebago Brave takes vintage styling cues and blends them with modern practicality, efficiency, safety, and useful amenities in order to give the next generation of motorhome enthusiast an RV that is both retro and reliable. While you won’t be able to pick one up for the $4,000 price tag associated with the original, these classic and quirky motorhomes are priced to fit a more modest budget, and can be customized in a wide array of colors and interior design layouts.

3. Global X Vehicles Pangea “Perky Mog”

Pangea roof lifter" width="757" height="504" />

Global X Vehicles takes safety orange and gives it a new purpose on this Pangea roof lifter | Global X Vehicles

Global Expedition Vehicles’ Pangea Lifting Roof version of the unstoppable Mercedes-Benz UniMog can be built on either a medium or heavy duty chassis, and can be tailored around various cab configurations. Referred to as the “Perky Mog,” this clever 4×4 RV has a unique lowered position that allows the windows to be covered with the hard side top section, while maintaining full walking height within. Once in the raised position, a huge loft area becomes exposed, which can be reconfigured to the buyer’s preferred sleeping layout, and can hold up to two queen size beds.

Pangea Lifting Roof monster are gorgeous living quarters that feature ornate wood floors, and a loft for sleeping | Global X Vehicles" width="757" height="504" />

Inside the Pangea Lifting Roof monster are gorgeous living quarters that feature ornate wood floors, and a loft for sleeping | Global X Vehicles

Since each vehicle is tailor-made to the buyer’s specifications, there is no cut-and-dry approach to purchasing one of these machines, so be prepared for a lengthy build list and turnaround time. A few of our favorite touches include the G-KAS mounting body isolating mount system, having cab-to-cabin access, exterior tool/utility boxes, how the seating area converts into an additional sleeping space, and how the stair treads are hinged and lift to reveal hidden storage. Add on a duo of high efficiency 200-watt PV solar panels, a 140 gallon fresh water tank, amazing off-road capabilities, and the ability to buy one in 16- to 18-foot lengths, and you’ve got one hell of a capable 4×4 RV on your hands.

4. Newmar King Aire

Engineered to embody “the pinnacle of luxury travel,” the Newmar King Aire takes style, comfort, and technology to a whole new level, with the 2017 model sporting a restyled exterior, and a Spartan K3 tag axle chassis that has been attached to a steel superstructure. Inside, contrast cross stitching highlights the dash, which features a wireless non-slip charging pad, full LCD driver display, and two 12.1-inch touchscreens for system controls and 360-degree outward visibility. Meanwhile, a one-off 11-speaker JBL cockpit audio system and exclusive fabrics from Ralph Lauren add additional flare to the front of the cabin.

King Aire line takes a unique, but very ornate approach to RV-making, and the amount of time, money, and energy that goes into making one is insane | Newmar" width="757" height="482" />

Newmar’s King Aire line takes a unique, but very ornate approach to RV-making, and the amount of time, money, and energy that goes into making one is insane | Newmar

For tailgating purposes, two Girard Nova side awnings extend over a specially designed sidewall housing a 43-inch Sony 4K UHD TV and a Bluetooth-compatible Bose soundbar, which rests atop one of the tallest basements in the Class A segment. Buyers can choose Maple, Cherry, or Rift Oak hardwood cabinetry, while polished porcelain plank tile, heated and cooled Pompeii leather front seats, and a 49-inch Sony 4K UHD TV come standard, with a Blu-ray/DVD player and Bose CineMate home theater system. The King Aire’s master bath is available with an industry-leading 50-by-34-inch shower, complete with full tile and a Fresca panel with massage sprayers and a foot washer, and even comes finished with a Whirlpool stacked washer and dryer.

5. Earthroamer XV HD

Earthroamer XV HD is about as ferocious as it gets outside of military spec | Earthroamer" width="757" height="409" />

Riding atop a Ford F-750 chassis, the Earthroamer XV HD is about as ferocious as it gets outside of military spec | Earthroamer

EarthRoamer has just expanded its product line in order to offer the highly anticipated F-750-based XV-HD. Designed to accommodate up to eight people comfortably and sleep six, this off-road RV features enough ingenuity to make living off-grid for a few days a breeze, as the HD offers anyone looking for wilderness adventures both driving prowess and fantastic amenities.

Extra windows and a raised roof allows living quarters to feel anything but confined in Earthroamer’s XV HD | Earthroamer

The XV-HD takes luxury off-grid ingenuity and infuses it with solar panels, a monolithic battery bank, 46-inch military tires, 200 gallons of fresh water, a compact washer/dryer, and a whole lot more. At just over 35-feet long this is no mini RV either, giving all the more reason for Earthroamer to utilize Ford’s 6.7-liter PowerStroke Diesel engine and all 725 pound-feet of torque.

6. Bespoke Coach Sprinter Van

typical Bespoke Coach Sprinter is not overtly adorned with external upgrades, but leans more toward a VIP look | Bespoke Coach" width="757" height="466" />

A typical Bespoke Coach Sprinter is not overtly adorned with external upgrades, but leans more toward a VIP look | Bespoke Coach

This next road trip specialist is a bit of a hybrid, because while it isn’t a massive RV, it isn’t really a van either. Bespoke Coachworks has been customizing vehicles in Southern California since 1985, and over the past 30 years has created countless custom audio, video, interior, and exterior solutions for celebrities and the elite. So when the Sprinter van finally began getting imported and badged by Dodge and Freightliner back in 2007, requests for customized versions flooded their ears.

After decades of working with companies like Bentley, Rolls Royce, and Mercedes-Benz, the thought of pimping out vans seemed a bit strange, but after one luxury van conversion spawned the next, Bespoke Coachworks knew it was on to something. From opulent mobile offices, to family coaches with built-in beds and entertainment suites, this unique chassis offers an endless array of options for anyone wanting a small and swanky RV, all without the headaches associated with piloting a land barge.

The interior of one of Bespoke Coach’s Sprinter vans may not be large, but it certainly is luxurious | Bespoke Coach

Bespoke Coach’s luxury mobile office incorporates the best technology, design, and materials into a first-class experience, tasking top engineers, designers, and fabricators to make coaches that are both user friendly and innovative. A few of our favorite options include the driver wall partition with motorized privacy window, custom upholstered walls and ceilings, the marine-grade circuit breaker panel, and those Maybach inspired captains chairs. There are also standard iPads, Samsung TV screens, power inverters, customizable lighting, Focal audio upgrades, and Dynamat sound deadening throughout, with a laundry list of unique upgrade options waiting on the wing for the right price.

7. Marathon Show Coach

Marathon Coach, Inc. is widely revered as the world’s largest luxury bus converter and dealer, and specializes in taking commercial buses supplied by Prevost and customizing them into the most opulent RVs imaginable. Built around a Prevost H3-45 chassis, these custom buses feature engineer-driven technologies and a unique “California design viewpoint” that leans toward shades of warm taupe and rich chocolate brown, with deep indigo blue accents inside and out.

Inside, buyers will find things like a marble, limestone, and travertine “basket weave” floor inlay that has been surrounded by Italian porcelain tile, as well as a custom fireplace enclosure designed for both ambiance and warmth. There are soft touches like velvet tufted sofas finished with chrome nail heads, and a stitched leather recliner at the large work desk for when duty calls on the open road.

Marathon Show Coach is a swanky, multi-million dollar cruiser designed for the world's elite | Marathon Coach Inc." width="757" height="504" />

The Marathon Show Coach is a swanky, multi-million dollar cruiser designed for the world’s elite | Marathon Coach Inc.

In the back you will find features like an oversized glass and limestone mosaic shower with a telescopic, glass pocket door that goes opaque at the touch of a button, an integrated, 8-inch rain shower head, as well as a hand-held shower wand. There also are Hans Grohe faucets and fixtures, custom-made hammered stainless steel sinks, a walk-in closet, a TechLink electrical system, and Crestron controls.

8. Sportsmobile Classic 4×4

With the camper lowered and doors closed, this house on wheels turns into a 4×4 Ford battering ram | Sportsmobile

The Sportsmobile Classic is one of the most recent creations in a long line of heavy duty 4×4 “Adventure Vans” coming out of Sportsmobile. After a successful prototype testing phase, the Classic 4×4 can now be had in a Ford Cutaway body that molds it with a steel reinforced fiberglass shell and an integrated penthouse top that drops flush into the shell for streamlining purposes.

The Sportsmobile 4WD Vehicle is designed to appeal to the most discerning off-road enthusiast, and in order to do so only the best heavy-duty components are installed for a balance between maximum off-road performance and on-road comfort. Over five decades of experience in the designing and manufacturing of van campers has led to this point, and while these machines can only be had on 2008–2014 Ford E-350 models equipped with the 6.8-liter V10 and barn doors, sourcing a gently used donor shouldn’t be an issue.

Sportsmobile has long been synonymous with hardcore off-road vehicles that can be lived out of | Sportsmobile

Full production of the Classic started in late 2016, and the 4WD Conversion model includes a lot of hardcore 4×4 upgrades. A few key features include an Advance Adapter Atlas II All Gear Driven transfer case, a Dynatrac Pro-Roc 60 front axle, Dana 60 rear axle, Fox 2.0 Performance Series Shocks, a high knuckle front end for extra tie rod clearance, and an extra heavy duty steering arm.

We could go on about the military wrap springs that were specifically designed for this van, or how the front sway bar comes with a quick disconnect system and custom shocks, but it would take forever to go over this list of performance upgrades. Finished with a practical and rugged, adventure-ready interior, this RV is a pop-top for the most discerning 4×4 enthusiast.

9. ShowHauler Motorhomes

melding semi tractor trailer strength with high dollar RV resplendency | ShowHauler" width="757" height="568" />

ShowHauler specializes in melding semi tractor trailer strength with high dollar RV resplendency | ShowHauler

ShowHauler Motorhomes are heralded as “the safest motor coach on the road,” and their coach frames utilize a unique tubular steel structure consisting of super strong floors, sidewalls, and ceilings. The underbelly is completely undercoated, block foam is placed between steel side-wall supports prior to bonding aluminum exterior walls to the frame, no rivets are used, interior walls are reinforced to create a structural cage, and adhesive bonding is used to apply a bubble type insulation.

Being built on a standard truck chassis with a higher Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) than a typical motorhome allows for greater carrying capacities, so weight is never a concern and neither are highway crosswinds nor oncoming traffic. Internally, buyers get to choose the hardwood they want for cabinets and fabric patterns and colors, all window framing is finished with hand-formed hardwood, counter-tops are genuine Corian, and buyers can choose either polished ceramic tile floors or carpet.

A ShowHauler interior can be outfitted with anything the buyer desires, it just depends upon how deep your pocketbook goes | ShowHauler

We personally dig the cab pass-thru, having 7-feet of interior headroom, the cab-over bunk and vent, the 12 gallon gas/electric water heater, 30,000 BTU ducted gas furnace, and the ability to tow damn near anything. ShowHauler Motorhomes are part luxury living quarters, part big-rig, and all cross-country cruiser.

10. Mercedes-Benz Zetros 2733 A 6×6

Mercedes-Benz Zetros 2733 A 6×6 is one hell of an intimidating RV | Daimler

We eluded to it in our intro, and here it is up close. The all-wheel drive behemoth commonly referred to as the Mercedes-Benz Zetros 2733 A 6×6 is based off a semi with a cab-behind-engine layout, and offers sensational traction and versatility, plus customizable living arrangements.

This triple-axled truck typically weighs in between 25 and 27 tons, and while its powertrain and chassis configuration either come out of the Actros and Axor series of full-size work trucks, it also utilizes a unique Unimog/G-Class 6×6 approach. Powered by a 7.2-liter inline six-cylinder engine, this lumbering beast only puts down around 326 horsepower, but generates around 1,000 foot-pounds of torque in the 1,200–1,600 RPM range.

With room for ATV loading in the rear, this 27-ton monster is all you need to dominate the wild | Daimler

Buyers can opt for either a hydraulically/pneumatic nine-speed manual transmission (eight forward gears plus crawler), which has a direct-ratio top gear, or they can get the six-speed Allison 3000 SP/PR automatic. The permanent all-wheel drive VG 1700 transfer case has an off-road ratio that is about 20% lower than its all-wheel drive cousins, so crawl control is a strong suit here. Towing capacity has also been increased by about 70% when compared to the on-road gears, and torque distribution between the front and rear axle(s) is 1:3.21 thanks to the splitter box, which becomes 1:1 if the differential lock is engaged.

All told, the Zetros has three mechanical differential locks, all of which can be easily selected via a rotary control that shows the logical sequence in which they need to be engaged. Drivers must start with the center-axle before engaging the rear, with the front remaining the final option, reserved for when terrain is at its most extreme.

11. Iveco Astra HD8 8×6 Expedition Truck

Expedition Truck Brokers" width="757" height="505" />

Expedition Trucks always has something insane on its for sale page, like this 8×6 behemoth for instance | Expedition Truck Brokers

Our final contender today comes from Expedition Truck Brokers, a company that has specialized in connecting buyers and sellers of expedition trucks for over 20 years thanks to a crew that tackles every aspect of the purchasing and customization process. Everything from buying and building, to long distance overland travel and selling transactions get attended to by this highly trained team of 4×4 specialists, and getting things right requires “first hand experience with vehicle based travel in rough conditions through remote regions.”

Simply put, Expedition Truck Brokers sources hardcore off-road “wheel estate” for private individuals and professionals in order to provide the ideal vehicle for overland journeys, expedition support, promotional events, and film. While most people would never need something as insane as an 8×6 diesel behemoth, there is a very particular kind of clientele out there that has the bankroll and need for something like what you see here.

Iveco Astra HD8 8x6 also features 8 wheels and more torque than an ocean liner | Expedition Truck Brokers" width="757" height="504" />

It may take eight hours to parallel park, but this Iveco Astra HD8 8×6 also features eight wheels and more torque than an ocean liner | Expedition Truck Brokers

While plenty of other heavy-duty RV options are available on the Expedition Truck Brokers’ website, it’s this Iveco Astra HD8 that has our vote for most badass of the bunch. Professionally manufactured in Germany, this chassis has been widely revered internationally as a construction and mining industry staple, but never a weekend getaway machine … until now.

A few of our favorite highlights and features outside of the Astra’s massive cabin and practical living quarters are the highly autonomous multi-climate design that handles both tropical and frigid environments, and the 600 horsepower EURO-5 Cursor 13 diesel engine. There’s also that dedicated motorcycle platform, all those external storage units, and a slew of locking differentials designed to tackle any terrain.

(cheatsheet.com, https://goo.gl/I0gYaI)

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Norcros | Norcros Plc - Tiles And Taps On Two Continents.

Read article : Norcros | Norcros Plc - Tiles And Taps On Two Continents.

Norcros (LON:NXR)

Price  Mid Price 173p

Bid/Offer  170p  - 176p                              NMS 1,000

Market Cap  circa  £105 million

Enterprise Value circa £132 million

About the Company

A Company located both in the UK and in South Africa. Their products include showers, taps, bathroom accessories, tiles and adhesives. Six plants in the UK where Triton Showers, Vado, Croydex, Abode, Johnson Tiles and Norcros Adhesive are manufactured and designed. In South Africa, their products include Johnson Tiles, TAL and Tile Africa. 

Revenue has been growing with a target to double revenue, some of which has already been achieved with organic growth and through acquisitions.  

Reorganisation

In March 2017 the company began restructuring its UK tiles business involving the loss of 90 jobs which will likely incur an exceptional charge of £2.3 million.  Greater productivity is forecast which will lead to an anticipated payback time within next 12 months.

Borrowings

The Company has managed to reduce net debt from £32.6 million in 2016 to circa £24 million in 2017.

The Investment Case

The Company sells continuously at a lower p/e multiple of 7 times for good reason.

 The Bear Case x 5

1.  The large pension deficit that has increased to nearly £100 million that supports over 7,000 workers in retirement.

2. The South African connection provides a geopolitical and a currency risk, combined with the complexity of managing two businesses in very different places and in dissimilar markets.

3. Most of the business in Tiles and Adhesive compete on price and not necessarily the brand names. 

4.  If imported inflation creeps up without wage growth, then consumers will have less discretionary purchasing power to buy their range of premium products.

5.  The relatively large number of staff at 2,000 employees suggests a large wage bill which operates in a low operating margin environment.

The Bull Case x 5

1.  The pension deficit is caused by perpetual low-interest rates.  Any normalisation of interest rates by 2% upwards in future years will likely eliminate the deficit by itself. The company has £400 million plus in a pension reserve which needs to grow to £500 million over time. In the meantime, the company prudently will pay £2.5 million a year index linked to CPI to help reduce the deficit.  

The Company is just one of a few listed companies to take an adjustment to ultra low bond yields for pension calculation purposes.  Most companies presume a higher bond rate and show a smaller pension deficit. The increase in the pension deficit was very much self-inflicted but does show an ultra cautious management which is fine.  The change to the even lower bond yields was probably not needed, given the mature nature of their pension scheme. The average age of two thirds of its pensioners is now 77 years of age. 

2.   South Africa is an area where the company is long established and may be less likely to suffer stiffer price competition in that market.  The South African business under new management has been in turnaround mode with success clearly coming through.  There is a growing middle class to promote its premium taps and showers through its existing 37 retail tile outlets.  Other opportunities lie much further ahead to move into the more wealthier countries in Africa with their products.  The South African business is a positive for the company. Changes in currency valuation is a minor issue in the long run if profits continue to grow faster.  This year Sterling weakened against the Rand.

3.  Those in the trade recognise the quality of their adhesives for commercial tiling where turnaround times for drying are important. Their brand names may not be on many lips but in the trade, they are known.  As regards tiles manufactured in the UK, they benefit from sterling devaluation against foreign competitors which will help maintain margins.

4.  The company has a range of existing products to suit most pockets. The company spends money on R & D and has developed a crystal grip for wall tiles which does not use adhesives.  The company has developed different types of shower units to suit different foreign markets. For example it has a low pressure shower for the large Latin America market.  Norcos plc is not dependent on new build only.  One room in houses that is often modernised are bathrooms.  Glossy brochures with new designs and looks do encourage consumers to change existing bathrooms more often.  In any case, the normal bathroom wear and tear will further drive future revenues.  

5. The company has been acquiring other brands to add to its portfolio.  Difficult markets mean lower acquisition costs which is far better than buying at the top of the market.  A lot of the companies manufactured components are outsourced from Europe and China with just assembly done in the UK. 

Profit Forecasts

Earnings for this year are forecast at 26p eps for 2017and 28p eps in 2018. The shares offer a decent forecast dividend yield of 4.3%. The dividend will have doubled over the last 6 years.

Positioned for growth. 

Well invested with broad distribution channels supplying blue chip customers, e.g. B&Q, Screwfix, Plumb Center. 

Strong presence in social housing markets. 

Replacement cycle is a key driver of electric shower demand and Triton benefits from the largest installed base in the UK and Ireland.

Continuous new product programme and emphasis on design and product innovation UK growth opportunities in the trade sector, mixer showers and associated products 

Growth opportunities in overseas markets. Resilient business model and operating performance

Bear or Bull?

I'm often looking for shares that are dull, predictable, profitable, paying a dividend, and particularly cheap for reasons I think I understand.  On that basis, I have bought Norcos after the 10% rise. I consider the downside is limited and the share may provide a safe hideout versus many other overvalued stocks. Norcos will not suit investors who are seeking an immediate catalyst for change.  The share price will most likely gyrate up and down 25p from present levels for the foreseeable future.  Investors holding time will need to be measure in years rather than months.

My General View of the Stock Market

Markets look to be climbing a mudslide where the grip on reality is deteriorating and a slide back is always imminent.  The market is looking for disappointment and can easily find reasons at so many levels when it finally chooses to react.  The additional pumped in liquidity is simply keeping all types of asset classes highly valued.  Can stock markets go higher?  Yes, of course, particularly if central banks permit money to continue to be printed at even faster rates. 

Regards

Dearg Doom

Disclosure (I'm long the stock. No investment advice intended.)

The latest dining chairs

Read article : The latest dining chairs

Save money on your bathroom renovation with these tips and advice from industry experts. Includes advice on design, planning and choosing your materials.

Scroll down to read more or jump to a topic from the list below…

‘Keep your existing layout and consider functionality’

Nick Rowland, product manager at Heritage Bathrooms says: ‘The key to a successful renovation project is planning. As soon as you start repositioning plumbing the job can become very expensive, so stick to the existing layout if possible.

‘Although installers can find great deals, do your own research as well to see what other bargains are out there. Ask yourself whether you need the installer to fit the whole bathroom. What could you do yourself? Picking up the smaller, less technical tasks, such as hanging mirrors, putting up towel rails and painting walls, can lead to considerable savings. Check whether a “good price” really is value for money – does it offer quality? Will the product stand the test of time? Is it guaranteed by the manufacturer?

‘The only area where you may want to consider cutting corners by spending less is on fittings without a working function. For example, static pieces, such as a basin and pedestal, are only required to hold water and allow it to drain away. In contrast, the WC has more moving parts and the pan and cistern need to operate properly for years to come. With this in mind, I recommend only buying a WC from a recognised manufacturer that will understand its functional needs and will carefully manage the manufacturing process to ensure that the cistern and pan do not leak.

‘A bath needs to be robust enough to hold your weight as well as the water. If you are satisfied that this basic requirement has been met then you won’t need to spend money on baths with additional reinforcement, which have little benefit for domestic use.’
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‘Consider what you can do for yourself’

Jamey Seaman, bathroom expert at Ikea says: ‘There are many ways to make your budget go that bit further when it comes to improving your bathroom. It’s surprising just how much work you can do by yourself. Save money by purchasing ready-to-assemble basin and bathroom cabinets, and avoid paying someone else to fix units to the wall.

‘You can also make savings by buying a complete set of bathroom furniture, including a basin, cabinet and mirror, rather than individual pieces, which could cost more. You don’t have to blow your budget on bathroom storage all at once. Start by fitting storage beneath and above the sink and add more at a later date when you have the time and budget.’
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ABOVE (left-right): Venice shower-bath, (H)47x(W)85x(L)170cm, £525; basin and pedestal, (H)85x(W)60x (D)45cm, £273; close-coupled WC, (H)83x (W)36.5x(D)63cm, with cistern and soft-close seat, £432, all from the Zaar collection at Heritage Bathrooms; Godmorgon/Vitviken washstand with two drawers and porcelain basin, (H)66x(W)63x(D)49cm, £170; Dalskar chrome-plated basin mixer tap, (H)18cm, £65; Godmorgon mirror cabinet, (H)96x(W)60x(D)14cm, £180; high cabinets, (H)192x(W)40x(D)30cm, £150 each, all Ikea.

‘Mix inexpensive ceramic tiles with luxury mosaics’

Beth Boulton, head of marketing at Topps Tiles says: ‘Instead of tiling an entire room in expensive mosaics, keep down costs by using them sparingly as a feature wall or to zone a shower area.

‘With the latest advancements in the ceramic printing process, there are now ceramic tiles available featuring highly realistic interpretations of natural stone, marble and wood. By cutting sheets of tiles in half or into strips to create a vertical feature behind a basin, or a horizontal statement around a bath and corner of a shower, you can make a real impact without overspending.’
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‘Spend wisely and look out for bargains’

Rob Whitaker, brand director at Fired Earth says: ‘In general, you will get what you pay for. While cheaper products may look very similar to more expensive equivalents, they’re unlikely to have the same quality of finish or to last as long. For example, the chrome on very inexpensive taps may start to peel, or the surface of a bath may be more likely to crack or stain, so it is worth spending as much as you can afford to save money in the long term.

‘Think about installing a shower over the bath rather than building a separate shower area. As well as saving on product and installation costs, this is a good space-saving solution, too. If you would love a classic, freestanding cast-iron bath but it is beyond your budget, a bath made from a resin and stone composite is a great, cost-effective alternative. Factory shops often have fantastic bargains, so it’s well worth paying them a visit. If you can, it’s a good idea to wait for the winter and summer sales as the discounts on large items such as baths, washstands and boxes of tiles can be considerable.’
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ABOVE (left-right): Glossy flat ceramic wall tiles in white, (W)20x(L)25cm, £7.60 per m²; Slate square glass mosaic tiles in silver, £13.99 for a (W)30x(L)30cm sheet; large-format Crystal porcelain floor tiles in white, (W)44x (L)44cm, £49.54 per m², all Topps Tiles; Flow roll-top bath, made from resin and ground stone with chrome feet, painted in Mercury Eggshell, (H)66x (W)80x(L)175cm, £1,650; Avebury bath and shower mixer tap, (H)42x (W)18x(D)20cm, £1,125; Abbey Fountains porcelain floor tiles, (W)19.9x (L)19.9cm, £74.70 per m², all Fired Earth; Athena Black 1700 freestanding bath with chrome feet, (H)56x(W)75x(L)170cm, £349.95; Modena 60 Semi Pedestal bathroom suite with ceramic basin (H)48x(W)58.5x(D)39.5cm, and ceramic WC, (H)83.5x (W)37x(D)65cm, £179.95, all Better Bathrooms.

‘Think about selling your old suite’

Joe Cummings, product advisor at Better Bathrooms says: ‘The rising popularity of auction sites has provided a fantastic platform for selling secondhand items. Any unwanted fixtures in good condition are worth selling, from taps and basins to tiles. This is the perfect way to recoup some of the expense you have lavished on your new bathroom.

‘Labour costs are the greatest outlay in any renovation project, so try doing some of the work yourself. Demolition and debris removal, along with tiling and brassware installation are simple jobs even for the most novice of DIYers. There are installation videos on the Better Bathrooms website (betterbathrooms.com) offering step-by-step guidance on how to install a range of sanitaryware in your home yourself, including shower enclosures, basins and baths. This will help to eliminate high-cost construction bills. However, it’s not always a good idea to undertake all of the work a bathroom renovation entails yourself – this can end up costing you more rather than saving money. Large, technical jobs, including any changes in plumbing, will require experienced tradespeople, so shop around in order to find the right person for the task. You will need someone you trust who will do the job at the right price. Acquiring multiple quotes from different contractors will not only give you an estimate of the cost of the work, but will ensure the price is fair and help with your planning.’
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‘Research affordable options for flooring’

David Snazel, buyer at Carpetright says: ‘Updating your bathroom flooring doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll have to lay out a huge amount of money. If you like the look of stone or hardwood floors, but want a more practical and affordable option, it’s certainly worth considering vinyl. Functional yet stylish, vinyl is waterproof, remarkably durable and comes in a variety of styles – from natural wood and classic tiles to modern patterned designs – making it the ideal bathroom flooring solution.’
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‘Never cut corners when it comes to brassware’

Leanne Robey, senior designer at Ripples says: ‘There are lots of ways to save on a bathroom project, but you should always invest in quality brassware as this includes the items that are in use every day, in particular concealed valves that regulate the temperature of the water in your home.

‘Always buy a good quality showerhead, especially if you prefer to take a shower than a bath, and look for “rub clean” showerheads with easy-clean nozzles that will prevent the build-up of limescale – great if you live in a hard-water area.

‘For further savings choose an eco-friendly showerhead with a sophisticated flow restrictor, various jet options and air infusion, which all work together to cut your water consumption by up to 60 per cent. This will help keep down water costs and will also cut energy bills, as less water will need to be heated.’
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ABOVE (left-right): Urban Planks vinyl flooring in Eden Walnut 857, £44.99 per m², from the Tegola range at Carpetright; Crema Marfil marble wall tiles, (W)30x (L)60cm, £68 per m²; Fairfield easy-clean showerhead, (dia.)20cm, and arm, (L)41cm, £433; ¾-inch concealed flow control stop valve, £292; thermostat, £675, all Ripples.

All prices and stockists correct at time of publishing

Eero WiFi System Review | Digital Trends

Read article : Eero WiFi System Review | Digital Trends

One of the biggest recent movements in the networking industry is the introduction of mesh technology. This tech made its debut in 2016, promising a blanket of wireless connectivity that fills every inch of a home or office. These systems are typically sold in kits of two or more identical devices that can be spread out vertically and horizontally to create a connected web of coverage.

We’ve taken a close look at several solutions over the last several months, and now we have the Eero system in-house. This system hit the market in February of 2016, selling as a three-pack for $400, a two-pack for $300, and as a single unit for $200. That may seem rather expensive, but feature-packed, high-performance routers can cost up to $300 and broadcast from only a single point in the home or office.

Eero’s initial setup focuses on simplicity

The Eero kit we received was the three-pack shipped in a rectangular box. After opening the lid, the unit on the left sported a pull-off tab printed with the word “Start.” We lifted the unit out of the box to see a cardboard insert with instructions to download the Eero app from Google Play or Apple’s App Store. The unit’s power adapter was found sitting under this cardboard insert.

Once the app was installed on an Android device, we created a free account, positioned the first Eero unit next to the ISP’s modem, plugged the provided Ethernet cable into one of the two ports on the Eero, connected it to the modem, and fired it up. The app then proceeded to connect to the Eero unit through Bluetooth, which honestly caused us a few headaches later. However, with the initial unit, we didn’t have any problems creating the network name, password, and device location description.

Eero WiFi System review" />

Eero WiFi System review" />

The second unit is what caused the headaches. This was planted in the same location we used for other mesh network setups, but for some reason the Eero app said we were getting a poor connection to the first unit. To make matters worse, the app wouldn’t let us proceed with installing the second unit despite the connectivity issue, forcing us to relocate the unit. However, no matter where we planted the second unit, we received a poor connection message, even when it was seated next to the first Eero unit and modem.

Awesome customer support saved the day

After yanking out buckets of hair, we broke down and called technical support. A technician had us connect the second unit to the first unit via an Ethernet connection so that the two could communicate and verify they were connected. After that, we disconnected the second unit, placed it back into its original location in the next room, and balance returned to the Force. The third Eero unit gave us no problems whatsoever.

Eero is a good system for mainstream customers, but enthusiasts may want to look elsewhere.

So, what happened? The technician said it was a bad Bluetooth session. Based on his comments, this wasn’t the first case of bad Bluetooth connectivity, and drives home the point of relying solely on a Bluetooth connection to establish a network is not without problems. Customers should have access to a web-based interface via a wired connection just in case the setup process hits a roadblock. However, several of the mesh-based networking setups sold on the market seemingly ignore this type of user control.

When all was said and done, we had the first unit connected to the modem in the Dining Room, which is in the center of the house. We moved the second unit into Bedroom #3, and the third unit was placed in Bedroom #4. Thus, we created a straight line throughout the house instead of a C-shaped layout as we used for the Luma system.

While there is a lot of wireless activity in the Living Room, we wanted to make sure the blanket covered every aspect of the house, including Bedroom #4 that’s — one of two rooms converted from a garage. Since we don’t have a second floor, we wanted to create a large horizontal blanket.

Eero’s mobile app offers easy management

With everything set up, we headed back into the mobile app. The home screen shows the current internet speed, the active Eero units, and all the connected devices. Tap on an Eero icon and users will see details like broadcast strength (in bars), IP address, firmware version, model number, serial number, and more. Tap on a connected device icon to see its current activity, connection strength, which Eero it’s connected to, its IP address, MAC address, and so on. There’s a menu button on the home screen for accessing network settings.

As previously indicated, the Eero system isn’t exactly feature-rich when it comes to network customization. There’s no web-based interface here to dig into the gritty details, but rather a simple app for switching on/off a guest network, adding additional Eero units, getting help, and adjusting basic network settings. The app can be used to establish profiles, which can be used as makeshift parental controls.

For instance, parents can create a profile assigning a child to a specific connected device. The profile is locked to the device’s MAC address so that Eero can associate the child with the device no matter what IP address it uses. Thus, the parent can pause the child’s internet access or set a scheduled pause, blocking access at night, or during homework time.

As for the actual customizable network settings, these are rather slim. Users can use a custom DNS rather than the ones provided by the router, customize the DHCP server, assign a static IP address to a device, create port forwarding rules, and switch on/off Universal Plug and Play. Users have no control over switching channels, establishing channel widths, and so on.

And that’s a shame, as users should have complete control over their network. But this isn’t the first mesh-based network we’ve seen with semi-closed settings. The whole point of systems like Eero and Luma is that customers plug-and-go without having to think about the ideal channel for 2.4GHz or which security protocol to use. For the novice user, the “advanced” settings may be more than they can chew, but experienced network tweakers will find very little meat to nibble.

Eero WiFi System Compared To

Eero’s simplicity extends out to its appearance

Each Eero device is identical, sporting two gigabit Ethernet ports, a USB 2.0 port, and a power connector. They measure just 4.75 (W) x 4.75 (D) x 1.34 (H) inches, making them capable of fitting in just about anywhere in the home or office. The upper casing is a shiny white with rounded edges, while the bottom half and built-in curved “feet” feel somewhat rubbery. The USB 2.0 port, according to tech support, can’t be used at the time of this publication, but will eventually serve a purpose in the future.

The whole point of systems like Eero is that customers plug-and-go without having to think about channels or security.

Inside the Eero you’ll find a dual-core processor clocked at 1.0GHz, 512MB of system memory, and 4GB of internal storage used solely by the operating system. They also each have a Bluetooth Smart Ready component, and two internal incoming and outgoing antennas providing 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. Each unit is capable of up to 300 megabits per second on the 2.4GHz band and up to 867Mbps on the 5GHz band.

Based on the company’s FAQ, Eero seems to believe that coverage is more important than offering the fastest wireless speeds, and that makes sense. Until the mass population has a gigabit connection to the internet, crazy fast wireless speeds are unnecessary. As Eero points out, streaming Ultra HD content to a single device requires a connection at 25Mbps.

Note that the connection issues we had with setting up the second unit had nothing to do with its ability to broadcast a network signal. Instead, the problem was with the unit trying to register itself to the account through the smartphone’s Bluetooth connection.

There’s a few other things we need to point out before we get into performance numbers. Eero supports a very basic Quality of Service capability, which may be expanded in the future to provide configurations that match specific needs for gaming, video streaming, and so on. The system does not support Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet (PPPoE), which is used for DSL connections. The system currently isn’t supported outside the United States either, as Eero is certified to only work on 120V power outlets.

So how does the Eero network perform?

We used four devices to check their connection speeds: one smartphone, two tablets, and a notebook. Here is what we found:

	Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge	Samsung Galaxy Tab E	Microsoft Surface 3	Lenovo Ideapad Laptop Internal	Lenovo Ideapad Laptop External
Eero Max 5GHz Speed:	867Mbps	867Mbps	867Mbps	867Mbps	867Mbps
Device Max 5GHz Speed:	867Mbps	450Mbps	867Mbps	Not Measured	433Mbps
5GHz Tested Speeds:	650Mbps	150Mbps	790Mbps	Not Measured	433Mbps
Eero Max 2.4GHz speed:	300Mbps	300Mbps	300Mbps	300Mbps	300Mbps
Device Max 2.4GHz Speed:	400Mbps	300Mbps	400Mbps	150Mbps	150Mbps
2.4 GHz Speeds:	Not Measured	150Mbps	Not Measured	72.2Mbps	Not Measured

The tested speeds are based on numbers provided by Android and Windows 10. As shown above, the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge smartphone doesn’t hit the theoretical 867Mbps Wireless AC speed, but it didn’t reach that ceiling on similar mesh-based network setups either. Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy Tab E tablet is bottlenecked by having only two internal antennas (1x output, 1x input). If anything, the device with the best performance was Microsoft’s Surface 3 tablet.

As for the Lenovo laptop, the 72.2Mbps speed on the 2.4Ghz band isn’t anything new. That’s because the internal Wireless N component has one antenna for output and one for input, so the width of the wireless connection is important. Eero is likely broadcasting a footpath-sized narrow connection, and we know the laptop doubles to 150Mbps when it’s connected to a wide, freeway-like connection (we saw this with Netgear’s Orbi system). The external, dual-band Wireless N adapter we connected to the Lenovo in our test was Trendnet’s AC600 Mini Wireless USB Adapter that’s capable of up to 433Mbps on 5GHz, and up to 150Mbps on 2.4GHz.

Of course, the Lenovo laptop originally hit the market in 2013. It’s not that old, but in terms of how fast technology advances, it’s way out of date. But not every customer will have a sparkly new laptop connecting to a sparkly new mesh-based wireless network. The bottleneck suffered by the Lenovo laptop is a good example of why customers need access to the roots of the network to squeeze every drop of speed out of their wireless connection.

Mesh-based networks tend to limit customization

Unfortunately, the trend to lock down most of the settings in mesh-based networking setups appears to be a common factor save for Netgear’s Orbi system. Thus, systems like Eero and Luma may not be ideal for gamers who need full control over where data packets travel across their network. And without a real QoS service to dictate what device has priority over others, even mainstream customers may experience issues streaming content on multiple devices.

Now here are the speeds and signal strengths picked up by the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge smartphone at various locations throughout the house:

Location	Speed	Strength	Signal
Dining Room	650Mbps	100 percent	-34 dBm
Living Room	351Mbps	62 percent	-73 dBm
Front Porch	585Mbps	91 percent	-57 dBm
Bathroom Shower	468Mbps	100 percent	-46 dBm
Laundry Room	585Mbps	82 percent	-63 dBm

The dining room is ground zero, as that’s where the first unit is connected to the modem. However, the living room took the biggest performance hit because of two walls that blocked the connection. The front door is made of glass, thus the connection to the front porch stemmed from the living room unit and the unit in bedroom #3. The laundry room had a good connection due to a somewhat direct line of sight to the unit in bedroom #4.

Eero isn’t feature-rich when it comes to customizing.

As a reference, we saw different numbers with Netgear’s two-unit Orbi setup. Using the same Android device to test the connection speeds and strengths, we saw 780Mbps in the dining room, 650Mbps in the living room, 97Mbps on the front porch, and 260Mbps standing in the bathroom shower. That said, the numbers may have everything to do with the positioning of the satellite systems, as the Orbi satellite was previously placed in the living room whereas we chose to move the second Eero unit out of the living room and into bedroom #3.

For better coverage, we presume that an additional Eero unit placed in the far corner of the living room might provide connectivity in that area, and perhaps even an additional unit located in the far corner of bedroom #1 as well. The drawback to purchasing additional units is that they cost a hefty $200 each, which isn’t cheap.

Our Take

Eero appears to be a great system for customers who want a plug-and-go solution. There’s no back-end web-based interface or detailed settings to deal with, just a mobile app to manage some of the generalized details. However, PC gamers and enthusiasts who want to control every aspect of their network may want to look elsewhere, such as Netgear’s Orbi system, which provides better detailed manageability.

Is there a better alternative?

The DT Accessory Pack

Honestly, we’ve tested quite a few of the new mesh-based setups and they appear to be similar in nature save for the Netgear Orbi system. We liked the Orbi specifically due to its robust customization capabilities. However, our current top pick in this arena is the Securifi Almond 3 router, which can be used as a mesh networking device even though it doesn’t ship as a kit. The Almond 3 also as a nifty built-in touchscreen and solid smart home support.

How long will it last?

Mesh-based networking appears to be here to stay. It may eventually replace the router due to the coverage capabilities of multiple units creating a web of connectivity as a single access point. It’s also better than adding a wireless extender to a network for filling dead spots because the signal has already degraded to a point when it’s picked up by the extender. Mesh networking promises full coverage no matter where users move throughout the home or office.

Should you buy it?

Only if budget is not a factor. The Eero three-pack kit is rather costly, and extending its coverage means shelling out $200 per additional unit. That’s a huge investment given that the mass availability of faster Wireless AD devices and networks will be in full swing by the end of 2017. Still, for now, the Eero is a good system for mainstream customers.