How to Create a Wheelchair-Accessible Home

Many homes are not designed with wheelchair accessibility in mind, but that does not mean you can’t change your home to fit your needs. There are simple upgrades you can make to create more space and allow convenience for wheelchair users. However, more complex changes require a professional home remodeling contractor to ensure a safe home.

Here are some helpful tips to make your home more functional for wheelchair users.

Minor Changes for More Wheelchair Accessibility

Fortunately, you do not need a contractor’s license to alter a few simple things around the house and improve accessibility.

Door knobs: Install levers instead of knobs to make opening and closing doors easier for shorter wheelchair users. This change can also be beneficial for people with limited dexterity.
Furniture: It is important to modify the arrangement of furniture to allow for more floor space. Minimize unessential furnishings and other items that can hinder maneuverability.
Portable ramps: There are high-quality portable wheelchair ramps that can be placed over raised curbs and uneven surfaces. They can also be used in front of doorways to make entry and exit easier, especially if your home has a raised porch.

How to Remodel for Improved Wheelchair Accessibility

If you have the budget to make permanent home renovation changes to make your home fully wheelchair-accessible, make sure to start with the upgrades below.

Doorways: It is critical to consider widening doorways to comfortably accommodate wheelchair passage. Ideally, a wheelchair-friendly home will have 36-inch wide doorways throughout. In addition to widening doorways, installing a sliding glass system in an existing wall is also a practical way to produce more space in the room.
Countertops: Lower the countertops and kitchen island and remove lower storage cabinets to allow wheelchair users to easily reach items resting on the counter.
Floors: You want a flooring material that is slip-resistant, requires minimal maintenance and makes it easy to maneuver in a wheelchair. Some popular choices are laminate flooring, ceramic tile and carpeting.
Toilet seats: A raised toilet seat or taller toilet unit will make it easier to transfer from a wheelchair seat. An interior remodeler may also suggest installing grab bars on both sides of the toilet area for better stability.

Let’s Start a Conversation!

DreamMaker Bath and Kitchen of Orland Park is a premier local provider of interior remodeling solutions, including safety and mobility improvements. We work to provide homeowners with exceptional service from start to finish. Call us today at (708) 320-3417 or fill out this contact form to schedule a consultation. Our service areas include Palos Heights, Frankfort, Homer Glen and surrounding communities.

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