Having an accessible bathroom in your home makes life easier. Whether you’re facing new mobility challenges or hosting aging family members, it’s important to create spaces in your home that everyone can use. The best approach to making a bathroom accessible is to use universal design strategies. Keep reading as the team from Forever Builders, the full home, bathroom, and kitchen remodelers Carlsbad homeowners turn to for budget-friendly, high-quality craftsmanship, offer tips that can help you work with your remodeling contractor to create a safe and comfortable space.
Expand the Doorways & Floor Space
Many older homes have small bathroom doorways that don’t have enough space for wheelchairs to enter. Ideally, you should have a doorway that’s at least 32 inches wide. As you plan the doorway opening, remember this should be a clear space. You’ll also want to consider the need to turn in the bathroom. Planning for at least 60 inches of floor space in the bathroom allows someone using a mobility device to have more freedom of movement when using the area.
Install Nonslip Flooring
Although shiny tile may look pretty, modern flooring materials allow you to add texture while still maintaining a sense of style. Textured tile and other types of nonslip flooring add an extra layer of safety for preventing slip-and-fall accidents. Tile with light texturing is also wheelchair friendly, and you might prefer this option over rugs that get pushed out of place by mobility devices.
Include a Walk-In Shower or Tub
Curbless showers are a universal design trend that creates a spa-like atmosphere that’s also ideal for people with mobility challenges. Being able to roll into a shower gives you or your loved one the ability to bathe independently. Walk-in bathtubs are another option for people who prefer to immerse themselves in the water. Jetted and heated tubs can also provide therapeutic benefits for people with chronic pain that impacts their comfort and mobility.
Plan for Additional Lighting
People often overlook this essential component of accessible bathrooms. Many fall-related injuries occur due to someone not being able to see objects in their path. While you may try to keep the floor clear, all it takes is a bottle or towel on the floor to cause a person to trip. Let your remodeling contractor know if lighting is an issue, and they’ll help you plan for different styles to illuminate the space.
Create Accessible Sinks & Countertops
Remodeling professionals often recommend lowering sinks and countertops to provide access to people in wheelchairs. Wall-mounted countertops are also great for creating space beneath them that someone can use to move closer while using a mobility aid. Depending on your needs for accessibility, you could also add foot controls that allow someone to easily turn the water on and off using his or her feet.
Add Extra Safety Touches
Once you’ve fleshed out the main layout of the bathroom, you’ll want to finish by adding the little touches that make the space safer. Adding an elevated toilet seat can make transfers easier. Putting grab bars in the shower and by the toilet also provides more support for people as they use the updated bathroom.
The experienced professionals from Forever Builders will guide you through every step of your bathroom remodel. When they’re looking for exceptional craftsmanship and unmatched expertise in bathroom, full home, and kitchen remodels, Carlsbad homeowners trust us to provide superior remodeling services. We’ll help you create the bathroom that meets all your needs and expectations while keeping your costs within budget. To find out more about our outstanding bathroom remodeling services, give one of our friendly team members a call today.