How to Create a Beautiful, Accessible Bathroom

A bathroom update can make a drastic difference in the overall aesthetic of your home, but there are situations where remodeled bathrooms are an absolute necessity. If you, a member of your household, or frequent guests have limited mobility or are injured or elderly, it is time to remodel your bathroom for improved safety and accessibility. Remodelers in Livonia offer professional bathroom upgrades that can make accessibility easier. Who Can Benefit from a Handicap Accessible Bathroom Remodel? When it comes to improving accessibility in your home, one of the best things you can do is renovate your bathroom. There are a couple of groups of people that will primarily benefit from this specific type of bathroom remodel, but truly everyone could benefit from a safer bathroom space. The bathroom is one of the most potentially hazardous spaces in a home according to the CDC, with approximately 235,000 people visiting emergency rooms every year due to getting injured in the bathroom. Remodeled Bathrooms for the Elderly and Aging-in-Place  In the United States, slip and fall accidents will increase at age 60+. These types of accidents often happen in the bathroom. Whether you are already well into your golden years or planning to age-in-place, there are certain things that can be done to all the bathrooms in your home to keep you or a loved one safely in the home longer. If you only plan to host senior guests on occasion, adding an In-Law Suite bathroom is recommended. Remodeled Bathrooms for Limited Mobility Accessible bathrooms also solve complications presented by limited mobility. Wheelchair and walker users will face different challenges in the bathroom. Older homes (and even many newer homes) are unlikely to accommodate these unique challenges, so it becomes essential to hire a bathroom remodeler with experience creating ADA compatible bathrooms. There are plenty of ways to make your bathroom a safer place for everyone AND more accessible for those with limited mobility. Let's take a closer look at the top accessible solutions for your bathroom, especially your bathtub or shower. Top Accessible Bathroom Solutions Walk-In Bathtubs While bathtubs are often people’s favorite space to relax and unwind, taking a bath includes the risk of a fall upon entering or exiting the tub. Experts recommend replacing an outdated, dangerous tub with an accessible walk-in bath. These feature a convenient door with a low-barrier entrance to allow users to easily and safely step into the tub. They typically include a built-in seat for improved comfort. Walk-In Showers There are also more accessible options for showers that could reduce stress and worry. Walk-in showers feature a low-barrier threshold and a sliding door to make it easier to step in and out of the shower. Roll-In/No Barrier Showers For people using wheelchairs, a roll-in shower is an even better option. These barrier-free showers allow users to pass directly into the showering area without any extra hassle. If doors are harder to use, they can be replaced with shower curtain rods. Grab Bars & Shower Seats ADA-compliant grab bars and shower seats are simple add-ons to showers and bathtubs that will make the space more user-friendly. These provide an extra layer of security for those with limited mobility and can be a helpful tool for everyone. Discuss customizing grab bars and shower seats to match the rest of the hardware in your bathroom for a cohesive, stylish look. Under-Sink Clearance In order for sinks and bathroom vanities to be accessible, homeowners should plan on adding some clearance beneath the sink. It is typically recommended to include 27 inches of clearance under the sink for a wheelchair. Insulating or protecting the plumbing under the sink or countertop ensures the occupant’s movement is not interrupted. Usable Vanities & Sinks The top of the sink should be 32 to 34 inches off the floor. Additional vanity considerations include an easy-to-reach faucet installed on the side of the sink that can be usable with one hand. Lever-operated, pushable, or electronically controlled devices can make things easier. You may also want to include a lower-hanging mirror. Smart Toilet Placement The toilet should ideally be positioned between two support bars 36 inches apart in an accessible bathroom. A toilet seat 17 inches off the floor is likely to be the most comfortable height for most people, but you can adjust this depending on who will be primarily using the bathroom. Ample Floor Space For a bathroom to be truly ADA-compliant, there should be an open rectangular space of 30 by 48 inches around the sink where the door can’t swing into. One should have 9 inches of vertical clearance for their feet and 27 inches for the knees.Wider Doors Many bathroom doors will not be wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair, a walker, or crutches. It is typically not difficult to expand an entrance and can be easily done with the help of professional bathroom remodelers. Taking these things into consideration for your next bathroom remodel ensures you and your guests will be able to access the bathrooms, no matter what type of aid is needed. Don’t Sacrifice Style You may be considering making these accessible bathroom updates, but can only picture an old, outdated bathroom with unattractive showers, tubs, and vanities. The truth is that experienced remodelers can make an accessible bathroom look just as good (if not better) than a traditional bathroom update. Discuss finding safe, accessible options that tie into your dream bathroom aesthetic with your remodeler. Many suppliers will carry a selection of colors and patterns that can be further customized with your choice of accessories. Choosing high-quality finishes such as polished chrome, brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, or matte black will also help add style to the space. Hire Professionals for Accessible Bathroom & Kitchen Remodeling in Livonia If you’re ready to start planning your accessible bathroom remodel, get in touch with professionals in your area. The right remodelers will have everything you need to create a beautiful, ADA-compliant bathroom to support aging-in-place, limited mobility, and improved safety for the entire family.