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handicap remodeling
Handicap Remodeling
Preparing a home for handicap accessibility
is a very complex task. The remodeling must eliminate the
effects of disability within the home. Certain areas require
more attention, especially the dangerous areas such as the
kitchen and bathroom. Certain disabilities will require
an area to become wheelchair accessible, and be equipped
with safety measures which include hand rails and height
adjustments on countertops.
The kitchen is a critical area for disability
remodeling. The most obvious adjustment must be made to
the walk ways, door jams and other moving areas. The width
of such areas must be able to accommodate for wheelchairs
and walkers to pass by comfortably. Kitchen counters and
faucets should also be remodeled. The height of countertops
can be adjusted, the edges can be made rounded, and faucets
can be equipped with extended handles for easy use. Also,
the depth of a sink should be taken into consideration for
those that are using a wheelchair.
The bathroom is another room that should
be carefully modified to ensure handicap accessibility.
It is absolutely necessary to install hand held shower heads,
floor traction for the tub, and grab bars. Also, faucets
and sinks should be reconfigured to accommodate to someone
in a sitting position. Some conditions may require you to
replace your toilet as well. In addition, both the kitchen
and bathroom can be equipped with sliding cabinets for easy
access.
Other adjustments include making at least
one door accessible for a wheelchair, building a wheelchair
ramp, and expanding the driveway and porch. For interior
concerns, it is recommended to installing lower light switches
and higher electrical outlets. For people who have limited
vision, it is suggested to use bright exuberant colors to
help one distinguish between doorways, walls, countertops,
and furniture. Painting different rooms with contrasting
colors will also help with depth perception.
New technologies have made it possible
for people restrained to a wheelchair to make it to the
second floor of their home with an electronic chair rise.
Other new technologies include machines that lift and guide
wheelchairs to higher surfaces, such as porches and elevated
door ways. It is often a difficult task having these helpful
enhancements installed, but they will definitely eliminate
the effects of disability within the home.
As you can see, there are many remodeling
techniques and precautions that need to be taken seriously
when modifying a home for disability. Some adjustments are
minor and others will require the help of a professional.
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