What's Involved With An ADA-Accessible Bathroom Remodel
If you need to remodel your bathroom so it's more convenient and safe to use as you get older, you'll want to work with an ADA-accessible bathroom remodeling contractor. There are specific guidelines to follow when it comes to spacing things in your bathroom to allow for wheelchair access, including the height of the sink and the position of the toilet, which will make your life much easier when you have mobility problems. Here's a look at some changes you may need to make.
Lower The Sink And Make Room For Your Legs
A traditional bathroom sink will probably be too high to use from a wheelchair. Plus, a vanity sink doesn't allow the legroom you need to get close to the sink. One idea is to get a new sink that attaches to the wall so the underside of the sink is completely open. This allows you to use the sink from your wheelchair or from a traditional chair when you're too weak to stand for long periods.
Elevate The Toilet
Talk to the plumber or contractor about whether putting in a new toilet will fit your budget considering all the other work you need to do. You might need a taller toilet so you can return to a standing position easier when you're finished. However, you don't want the toilet to be so tall you have a hard time transferring from a wheelchair.
You can buy kits to put on a standard toilet that raises the toilet seat, and you might want to use one of those if you have a tight budget. The kit isn't as attractive as a new toilet, but it will make it much easier to get on and off the raised seat.
Install A Walk-In Tub And Roll-In Shower
A standard bathtub is hazardous when you have difficulty stepping over or getting up out of the tub. You might want to stop using a tub and take only showers, but if you're a bath person, consider getting a walk-in tub that is easy to get in and out of.
If you also want a shower, a good option is a roll-in shower that doesn't have a curb that holds in water. Instead, the floor slants toward a drain. This shower allows you to walk into it or roll your wheelchair in without worrying about stepping over anything.
These changes could mean you'll need to make extensive changes to our bathroom plumbing. Your contractor can walk you through what's necessary to make your bathroom ADA-accessible so you'll stay safe as you age. While renovating your bathroom to make it ADA-accessible might be an expensive undertaking, it's well worth the investment since you need to use the bathroom often during the day.
You'll need space to clean up, dress, brush your teeth, and bathe in a way that's safe. Your contractor may even add safety bars so you'll always have something to grab to help you stand or regain your balance.
Contact a local remodeling service, such as TDR Contracting, to learn more.
Share