When it comes to house renovations, one important aspect that is often overlooked is accessibility. Creating an accessible home is not only beneficial for individuals with disabilities or mobility challenges, but it also adds value and convenience to the property. Whether you want home renovation your own home or planning to sell it in the future, incorporating accessibility features is a wise decision. In this article, we will discuss some key considerations for creating an accessible home during house renovations.
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1. Entrance and Exits
The first area to consider when creating an accessible home is the entrance and exit. This is crucial because it sets the tone for the rest of the house. The main entrance should have a ramp or a gradual slope to provide easy access for individuals using wheelchairs or mobility devices. The ramp should be wide enough and have handrails on both sides for added safety. It is also important to ensure that the doorway is wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers.
2. Doorways and Hallways
Another important consideration for creating an accessible home is the width of doorways and hallways. Standard doorways are usually around 32 inches wide, which may not be sufficient for individuals using wheelchairs or walkers. It is recommended to have doorways that are at least 36 inches wide to ensure easy passage.
3. Flooring and Surfaces
The choice of flooring and surfaces can greatly impact the accessibility of a home. Hard, smooth surfaces such as hardwood or laminate flooring are ideal for individuals using mobility devices as they provide easy maneuverability. Carpets, on the other hand, can create resistance and make it difficult to push a wheelchair or walker.
4. Kitchen and Bathroom
The kitchen and bathroom are two areas in the house that require special attention when creating an accessible home. In the kitchen, it is important to have countertops and sinks at a height that can be easily reached by individuals using wheelchairs. Lowering cabinets and installing pull-out shelves can also make the kitchen more accessible.