Bathroom remodeling costs are usually well worth the benefits. Investing in bathroom remodeling yields a 62% return on average, giving it the best return on investment of any home renovation. Since bathrooms are some of the most trafficked areas in any home and are exposed to plenty of moisture, most need to be made over about every 20 years.
If you’re looking at ideas for bathroom remodeling and you plan on living in your home as you age, it might not be a bad idea to look at handicap bathroom remodeling designs. Installing handicap bathrooms before you need them is a great way to ensure you’ll be able to age comfortably in place for many years to come.
Handicap bathrooms are designed with mobility in mind, so whether you find yourself using a walker or your daughter breaks her leg, everyone will be able to benefit from the added features.
Handicap bathrooms need to be designed to fit specific requirements in order to be accessible. Sinks usually have to be a little higher than usual (34 inches instead of the standard 31) to allow a person in a walker to stand against it without bending or slumping. Sinks should also be open underneath to allow a wheelchair to roll under.
Toilet seats can be the standard 15 inches from the floor, but it’s usually better if they’re 17 to 19 inches up to allow an easy transfer from a wheelchair or walker. Grab bars should also be installed on either side of the toilet to assist with transferring or with standing and lowering. There should also be a space for a user to park a wheelchair next to the toilet.
Bathing can be made more accessible by installing a roll-in shower or a shower seat. Walk-in bathtubs are also available that allow users to step inside and seal the door behind them before filling the tub up with water.
Talk to a bathroom remodeling company in your area to find out how your bathroom could be more accessible!