This is among the findings of the recently released 2007 Residential Bath Study conducted by Clear Seas Research, a division of BNP Media. The study examines changes in residential new construction vs. remodel projects, how much customers spend on bath projects, which brands are preferred and what product attributes are sought.

Clear Seas asked contractors and installers about how environmental concerns related to their product choices:

Water conservation was sometimes a concern according to 46% of respondents, a concern most of the time for 27% and always a concern for 17%. It was never a concern to 10%.

Energy savings was cited as always a concern by 14%, most of the time a concern by 36% and sometimes a concern by 38%. It was never a concern to 12%.

Sustainable product selection was sometimes a concern according to 39% of respondents, a concern most of the time by 32% and always a concern by 11%. It was never a concern to 19%.

Indoor air quality was never a concern to 35% of respondents and sometimes a concern to 40% of those surveyed; 18% said they considered it most of the time and 7% said it was always a concern.

The study also asked contractors and wholesalers to rank factors important in determining which bathroom fixture to recommend or sell. Quality, flushing capacity and brand reputation were the three top-ranked factors for toilets; durability, quality and brand reputation were the top three for faucets; and brand reputation, quality and ease of installation were the top three factors for showerheads.

The study can be purchased in whole or in part from Clear Seas Research. Contact Beth McGuffin, executive director, at 248-786-1619 or e-mail mcguffinb@clearseasresearch.com.

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