People have all kinds of reasons for wanting to upgrade their homes, and especially their bathrooms. Most of us spend a large percentage of our time in our house, so it makes sense that we would want to feel like it’s our castle.
You may find that changes to your home are necessary for your comfort and safety. At Straight Line Construction, we have extensive experience with aging in place remodeling and ADA compliant remodeling. We’ll work with you to understand your needs and make sure your space is perfectly suited to your needs.
What’s the Difference Between an Aging-in-Place and an ADA Remodel?
This is a great question. While both remodels can be similar in scope (improving the home to upgrade safety, accessibility, and mobility), the personal reasons that require the remodel can be quite different.
Aging-in-place remodeling is a type of home renovation that improves accessibility and safety so that you can continue to live in your home as you age, rather than being forced to move into a senior living facility. This option allows you to continue enjoying your independence—as well as the comfort and privacy of your home—with less risk of accidental injury.
ADA compliant remodeling is focused on increasing accessibility and mobility. The standards set for housing by the Americans with Disabilities Act must be met in this type of remodel. Unlike commercial projects, meeting ADA compliance is not required for private residences. However, it is becoming a more popular remodel as more homeowners with disabilities or chronic illnesses seek to improve their everyday life.
Not everyone needs a home that’s ADA compliant; sometimes general accessibility is what matters to the homeowner. For example, people with young kids can remodel their bathroom to make their lives and regular routines easier. Lower toilet heights are helpful for children, and raised tubs make giving baths less painful for parents’ backs.
Safety Starts in the Bathroom
There are a lot of tips on how to create an accessible space, but statistics show that the majority of falls happen in the bathroom—so let’s start there.
For those 65+, 80% of falls occur within the bathroom, which is why this is such a key area to focus on. One of the most important steps to avoiding an accident is ensuring that the shower is safe. Adding a zero entry, curbless, or roll-in shower will help remove tripping hazards.
If you’re more of a bath person, walk-in tubs make it easy to enjoy a luxurious soak. Upgrade to a hydrotherapy tub to help alleviate soreness and achy joints, and install an in-line heater to keep your water hot.
Grab bars should be strategically added throughout the bathroom, and non-slip or high friction flooring should be used to further prevent injury. Slippery floors are a huge bathroom hazard. Options to prevent this include rubber flooring and anti-slip tiles. There are also choices if you’re not planning to replace your bathroom floors, including non-slip rugs or anti-slip treads or stickers.
Keep in mind, however, that the remodel isn’t entirely about function—it’s also about upgrading the style of your space.
Stay as Stylish as Ever!
Improved functionality doesn’t have to come at the cost of style. A blend of form and function means your remodel is just that—a remodel! And one that leaves your home looking fresher, newer, and beautiful.
According to “Stylish Home Updates That Make Aging Easier,” a recent article by AARP, you don’t have to sacrifice style to update your home.
In fact, “Lever- and touch-style faucets add flair and are easier to use than standard models. Pullout drawers and high shelves with pull-down organizers reduce strain on the back and cut down on balance issues.”
The main idea when making purchase decisions is to pick items that are both decorative and functional—and match the style of your home.
Are You Ready for a More Accessible Space?
For more information on the topic of Aging in Place, real-world examples and photos of various safety upgrades, and suggestions on what to do and how to start, Straight Line has you covered.
Looking for a Florida VA contractor to help with your home remodel? We thank you for your service, and are proud to assist you! As an experienced VA contractor, we work with VA grants and hold the required insurance to complete your project.
Straight Line Construction also has extensive experience with ADA remodeling. We’ll help you renovate your space into an ADA compliant home, improving safety, comfort, and everyday quality of life. Contact us today to set up a free consultation.