In some cases the revisions might be needed for accessibility, while in other cases safety may be your primary concern. For example, the bathroom features needed for somebody who uses a wheelchair could be quite different from those of a person with a different kind of handicap or mobility issues. Many people are also re-designing their home bathroom for easier accessibility in preparation for when they get older, or to accommodate the needs of an aging parent. In fact, some people are adding ADA compliant bathrooms to their home as a way of increasing their property value and making their home more desirable to potential buyers. If you are designing an ADA compliant bathroom in your own home, here are some factors to take into consideration.

Guidelines for ADA Compliance

There are numerous guidelines for ADA compliance, but there are some that seem to be more prevalent than others. One important consideration is the width of the bathroom door, which needs to be at least 32 inches wide to provide access for a wheelchair or walker. The door should also swing outward to avoid restricting a person's movement. Doors should have latches which can be unlocked from the outside in order to provide adequate safety. The floor should be level, including the threshold area, so that a wheelchair can easily be used. It's also important that a bathroom be large enough for a wheelchair to make a 360 degree turn, which generally requires a five feet diameter area.

Bathroom Fixture Options

Toilets should be installed so that the seat is between 16-1/2 and 18 inches from the floor, so that it's easy to use by a person in a wheelchair. This is also a good height for those who may have limited mobility. When constructing a bathroom for a person who uses a wheelchair, make sure the shower area is designed so that a wheelchair can be rolled inside. For a person with limited mobility, a walk-in bathtub or a shower that provides a safe and secure seating area would be a good choice.

Make sure there are properly installed grip bars around the shower and bathtub area for safety. A hand-held shower head is also advisable, installed at a height which provides easy access. Sinks should be mounted so that a person in a wheelchair can roll up to it, with space underneath for their legs. It's also important to make sure there are no sharp edges in the bathroom, and glass surfaces should be avoided. Instead of glass shower doors, always use a vinyl or fabric shower curtain.

Get an Expert Opinion

When designing an ADA-compliant bathroom, it is often helpful to consult with an expert. Occupational consultants and others who specialize in the needs of handicapped persons can provide specific guidance when designing a bathroom to fit a person's individual physical needs.

About the Author

Veronica Smith, is a freelance artist and consultant with AmericanArtisanArt.com. She enjoys sharing her creative approach to decorating with metal artwork and tree wall decor.