Must-Haves In A Handicap Accessible Bathroom

HomeEnvy Has Four Features You Absolutely Need for Your ADA Compliant Washroom!

Are you in the process of designing a DIY handicap-accessible bathroom? If the answer is yes, chances are, you could be a little lost on what must-have features you should include. HomeEnvy helps homeowners of Evansville renovate their handicap-accessible bathrooms in style. Let’s take a look at the absolute can’t miss upgrades that you can bring to your home.

large bathroom with handicap rails

30” x 48” Space 

The American Disability Association requires that all the minimum floor space for an accessible bathroom be 30” x 48”. This amount of space is needed because it allows a single wheelchair to maneuver and utilize each bathroom feature with ease. This area also allows the bathroom door to swing away, allowing enough room for a wheelchair to pass through without issues. If your current contractor has a smaller floor space quoted for your remodel, it might be time to ask some questions.

Room To Turn-Around

One of the biggest missteps that are usually seen in DIY handicap-accessible bathroom construction is that people forget to factor wheelchairs and other mobility aids into the planning of the bathroom. As a result, bathroom features such as towel racks and vanities can become hazardous if they aren’t carefully designed. The rotating space needs to be clear of any obstructions and should be at least 60 inches in diameter to allow for complete movement. If the proper dimensions are followed, it will allow for mobility devices to complete a full 180-degree turn without any issues.

large bathroom
widened door with barn door that slides

Widened Doors

When remodeling a bathroom to make it handicap accessible, be prepared to make some changes to your doorways. The average width of a modern home’s doorway falls between 22 to 27 inches wide, and if you want that bathroom to be ADA compliant, the magic number is 32 inches.  The door also has to be the same width when fully opened. Remember that some mobility devices may need an even broader length to allow access. It’s always best to provide exact measurements of all mobility devices in the design stage.

Shower Space

Creating an ADA-compliant shower space requires expert knowledge as there are quite a few provisions to consider. The prerequisites for actual floor space change quite drastically from transfer showers to alternate roll-in showers. When it comes to ramps, shower seats, and grab bars, the slightest miscalculation can lead to water leaks, cracked foundation, or worse. There are many things to take into account when you’re designing your ADA bathroom remodel; HomeEnvy can help!

roll-in shower

Real talk. There is so much more to think about and plan when trying to DIY your handicap-accessible bathroom. Multiple measurements and exact angles play a more significant role, and getting them right can be the difference between a successful remodel or a brand new money pit. If you’re a homeowner in Evansville, call HomeEnvy now for any handicap bathroom remodels and get it right the first time!