Accessible Bathrooms
Other considerations - Page 4

by Leon A. Frechette

Safety is Vital

Safety is vital, so plan to install grab bars, non-slip surfaces, benches, and pressure balance and temperature regulating water controls. A neutral monochromatic color scheme emphasizes the functional aspects of the space while grab bars in matching colors blend in with the surface.

New Products

Products that conform to your customers' needs play an important role in your design. Stay on top of barrier-free products—be sure that your personal library is up to date, and visit supply houses to learn about the newest and latest products. Regularly search the internet for new products that will help your customers.

As a construction professional, you will want to focus on the individual capabilities of your customer, both now and in the future (as your customer ages). Familiarizing yourself with the materials and products now on the market that can be used to create barrier-free living is vital, but even more important is the ability to guide a customer unfamiliar with all the design and component selection possibilities so the end product works.

What About the Commercial Market?

The information contained in this article can be used in residential construction. However, as you well know, the laws that govern barrier-free issues generally apply to the commercial market, i.e., public facilities, where a real emphasis has been placed on accessibility. Be aware that statewide regulations may exist and be enforced in your area for multi-family housing developments.

With that in mind, the United Spinal Association, formerly the Eastern Paralyzed Veterans Association, offers training and consulting services as well as a variety of accessibility information. Explore their website, www.unitedspinal.org, to learn about all they have to offer.

Copyright © 1995, 1998, 2006, & 2011 LAF/C.R.S., Inc. All rights reserved. The previous article,
in whole or in part, appeared in the August 1995 issue of Building & Remodeling News.

Looking for home improvement Q&As? Click here!

[ Back to Top ]