Homes aren’t usually built with wheelchair accessibility in mind, but this doesn’t mean that it’s impossible to improve accessibility. There are simple upgrades that you can do to make your home more accessible, though some adjustments need to be made by professional home remodeling contractors since they require specific tools and knowledge. In this post, DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Central Texas, a top home remodeling company, shares tips on how to remodel your home with wheelchair accessibility in mind.
Simple Changes for Wheelchair Accessibility
If you have a limited budget but need accessibility features, here are a few changes you can make that cost little to no money and don’t require a contractor’s license.
- Door knobs. Doors can be a hassle for wheelchair users. To make it easier for them, replace knobs with lever handles to make opening and closing doors less of a chore.
- Door hinges. Using a swing-away hinge and reversing the opening direction grants greater space for a doorway, such as in a bathroom.
- Portable ramps. If you have a raised porch, you can install portable wheelchair access ramps so that loved ones with limited mobility will have an easier time getting in and out.
- Furniture. Adjusting the way your furniture is positioned and reducing the amount of furniture helps create room for more maneuverability without the need for a significant home remodeling project.
Remodeling for Wheelchair Accessibility
If you have a bigger budget and can afford to make structural changes to your home to make it fully wheelchair-accessible, here are some things we recommend adding:
- Wheelchair access ramps. You can have your stairs removed and replace them with wheelchair access ramps. This makes it possible to get in and out of multiple floors of the home with relative ease. We recommend using aluminum or concrete when building these ramps.
- Toilets. Installing a taller toilet can make it easier to transfer from a high wheelchair seat to the toilet seat. It’s also a great idea to add grab bars near the toilet as an extra safety measure.
- Countertops. Lowering your countertop and removing cabinets will make it easier for loved ones in wheelchairs to reach items sitting on the countertop.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
Searching for a home remodeling specialist for your future projects? DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Central Texas is ready to help. To get started with a no-obligation consultation, call us at (254) 262-0087 or contact us online. We serve homeowners in Groesbeck, Robinson, Waco and other nearby communities.
