Welcome to Amarillo, Texas – a city where Southern hospitality meets the great outdoors in a unique blend that offers a fulfilling lifestyle. Situated in the heart of the Texas Panhandle, Amarillo serves as a dynamic hub for those who appreciate both modern living and rich heritage. Here, the spirit of the Old West thrives alongside contemporary culture, creating a delightful fusion that's hard to resist.
Amarillo boasts an energetic arts scene, with the Amarillo Museum of Art and the Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts providing cultural enrichment all year round.
Additionally, it’s a gateway to the stunning Palo Duro Canyon, offering residents and visitors an adventurous escape into breathtaking landscapes, perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Community and connection are at the heart of this city, with welcoming neighborhoods and an array of local dining experiences that spotlight Texas' famed culinary prowess. The annual Tri-State Fair &
Discover the Vibrant Charm of Amarillo,
4 | HelloAmarillo, Texas • Fall Issue
Hello Amarillo, Texas • Fall Issue |5
Discover the Vibrant Charm of Amarillo,
Rodeo and Route 66 celebrations build community spirit, drawing together both locals and tourists for festivities that highlight Amarillo's unique character.
In Amarillo, you don't just live among friendly faces; you become part of a historic
and evolving story that celebrates diversity and progress. Whether you're drawn by opportunity or the allure of the Southwest, Amarillo extends an open invitation to be embraced by...
Discover the Vibrant Charm of Amarillo, Texas
Welcome to Amarillo, Texas – a city where Southern hospitality meets the great outdoors in a unique blend that offers a fulfilling lifestyle. Situated in the heart of the Texas Panhandle, Amarillo serves as a dynamic hub for those who appreciate both modern living and rich heritage. Here, the spirit of the Old West thrives alongside contemporary culture, creating a delightful fusion that's hard to resist.
Amarillo boasts an energetic arts scene, with the Amarillo Museum of Art and the Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts providing cultural enrichment all year round. Additionally, it’s a gateway to the stunning Palo Duro Canyon, offering residents and visitors an adventurous escape into breathtaking landscapes, perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Community and connection are at the heart of this city, with welcoming neighborhoods and an array of local dining experiences that spotlight Texas' famed culinary prowess. The annual Tri-State Fair & Rodeo and Route 66 celebrations build community spirit, drawing together both locals and tourists for festivities that highlight Amarillo's unique character.
In Amarillo, you don't just live among friendly faces; you become part of a historic and evolving story that celebrates diversity and progress. Whether you're drawn by opportunity or the allure of the Southwest, Amarillo extends an open invitation to be embraced by its vibrant charm.
FEATURED STORY
Putting Bathrooms in the Basement
by Mike Werbowsk
Putting Bathrooms in the BasementAdding a bathroom to a finished basement is one of the smartest ways to increase your home’s function, comfort, and value. Whether you’re creating a guest suite, a recreation area, or a future rental space, including a bathroom makes the space more independent and convenient. And while it might seem like a complex undertaking, installing a bathroom in your basement isn’t as complicated as it seems, especially when it's planned with long-term use in mind.One of the most important decisions involves drainage. Basement-level plumbing sits
6 | HelloAmarillo, Texas • Fall Issue
Mike Werbowsk
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mike Werbowski has been in the basement waterproofing and remodeling industry since 1990. He is the owner of Total Basement Finishing of Western NY, bringing his extensive experience in basement waterproofing and interior design to offer homeowners a waterproof basement finishing solution.
below the main sewer line, so careful consideration is needed to avoid future issues. Some homeowners attempt to tie into the existing sewer system without understanding the elevation challenges. This can lead to unwanted backups, especially during heavy use or storms. Avoid sewer tie-ins that risk backups by working with professionals who can install the proper pump systems, backflow preventers, or even opt for above-floor plumbing solutions designed for basement environments.When deciding on layout, many homeowners are tempted to install a half bath for simplicity. But if you’re already running plumbing to
Hello Amarillo, Texas • Fall Issue |7
Putting Bathrooms in the Basement
Putting Bathrooms in the Basement
Adding a bathroom to a finished basement is one of the smartest ways to increase your home’s function, comfort, and value. Whether you’re creating a guest suite, a recreation area, or a future rental space, including a bathroom makes the space more independent and convenient. And while it might seem like a complex undertaking, installing a bathroom in your basement isn’t as complicated as it seems, especially when it's planned with long-term use in mind.
One of the most important decisions involves drainage. Basement-level plumbing sits below the main sewer line, so careful consideration is needed to avoid future issues. Some homeowners attempt to tie into the existing sewer system without understanding the elevation challenges. This can lead to unwanted backups, especially during heavy use or storms. Avoid sewer tie-ins that risk backups by working with professionals who can install the proper pump systems, backflow preventers, or even opt for above-floor plumbing solutions designed for basement environments.
When deciding on layout, many homeowners are tempted to install a half bath for simplicity. But if you’re already running plumbing to the basement, it makes more sense to go full bath, not half, so all the plumbing is in place from the start. A shower or tub adds minimal additional cost compared to tearing walls open later for an upgrade. Planning for a full bath increases future usability and resale appeal.
Ventilation is another key factor. Since basements typically have limited natural airflow, it's important to install exhaust fans and moisture control systems that prevent mold and keep the space comfortable. Proper lighting, waterproof finishes, and mold-resistant materials will also help ensure long-term performance and low maintenance.
From permits and layout to drainage and ventilation, basement bathrooms require specialized knowledge but they’re entirely doable with the right plan and expertise. When designed correctly, they add comfort, function, and real value to your lower level.
it makesmore senseto go full bath,not half, soall the plumbingis in place fromthe start
the basement, it makes more sense to go full bath, not half, so all the plumbing is in place from the start. A shower or tub adds minimal additional cost compared to tearing walls open later for an upgrade. Planning for a full bath increases future usability and resale appeal.Ventilation is another key factor. Since basements typically have limited natural airflow, it's important to install exhaust fans and moisture control systems that prevent mold and keep the space...
How Preventive Maintenance Can Extend the Life of a Bathroom Remodel
A thoughtfully executed bathroom remodel represents a significant expenditure, both in labor and materials. The result may enhance a home's market position, improve utility, and provide day-to-day comfort. However, the value of this investment can be steadily eroded if routine maintenance is
disregarded. Preventative upkeep plays a pivotal role in preserving both aesthetic and structural integrity.The primary threat in any bathroom environment is moisture. Persistent dampness, particularly when ventilation is inadequate, encourages fungal growth and accelerates material degradation.
8 | HelloAmarillo, Texas • Fall Issue
How Preventive Maintenance Can Extend the Life of a Bathroom Remodel
A thoughtfully executed bathroom remodel represents a significant expenditure, both in labor and materials. The result may enhance a home's market position, improve utility, and provide day-to-day comfort. However, the value of this investment can be steadily eroded if routine maintenance is disregarded. Preventative upkeep plays a pivotal role in preserving both aesthetic and structural integrity.
The primary threat in any bathroom environment is moisture. Persistent dampness, particularly when ventilation is inadequate, encourages fungal growth and accelerates material degradation. An exhaust fan that operates inefficiently or intermittently cannot be relied upon to remove the volume of steam generated by showers or baths. It is prudent to assess its performance periodically and, if necessary, install a unit with sufficient cubic feet per minute (CFM) capacity for the space.
Unchecked moisture can silently compromise surfaces, adhesives, and substrates.
Grout and caulking are common points of failure in bathroom assemblies. These materials are neither permanent nor infallible. Over time, they deteriorate under exposure to humidity and thermal fluctuation. Routine inspection should identify cracking, discoloration, or detachment. Replacement of aged or brittle caulk and resealing of grout lines every 12 to 24 months, depending on usage, can prevent water intrusion that often results in more costly structural repairs. Regular inspection reveals wear before damage becomes expensive or irreversible.
Hard water compounds the issue, particularly in regions with high mineral content. Mineral deposits can obscure finishes, impair fixture function, and cause gradual corrosion. Softening systems, where feasible, offer long-term mitigation. Otherwise, the regular application of non-abrasive cleaners formulated to dissolve calcium and magnesium deposits can assist in protecting plumbing hardware.
In sum, a modest investment in routine checks and minor repairs will extend the usable life of a bathroom remodel. This approach also preserves the visual standards that homeowners associate with a recently updated interior.
Victor DeWald
can silently compromise surfaces, adhesives, and substrates.Grout and caulking are common points of failure in bathroom assemblies. These materials are neither permanent nor infallible. Over time, they deteriorate under exposure to humidity and thermal fluctuation. Routine inspection should identify cracking, discoloration, or detachment. Replacement of aged or brittle caulk and resealing of grout lines every 12 to 24 months, depending on usage, can prevent water intrusion that often results in more costly structural repairs. Regular inspection reveals wear before damage becomes expensive or irreversible.Hard water compounds the...
An exhaust fan that operates inefficiently or intermittently cannot be relied upon to remove the volume of steam generated by showers or baths. It is prudent to assess its performance periodically and, if necessary, install a unit with sufficient cubic feet per minute (CFM) capacity for the space.
Unchecked moisture can silently compromise surfaces, adhesives, and substrates.
About the Author
Victor DeWald is the owner of DeWald Remodeling & Plumbing. Based in Amarillo, TX, Victor and his team have a great reputation for exceptional work. They ensure that they bring their expertise, passion, and attention to detail to each and every project.
