Converting to a Handicap-Accessible Bedroom

If you’re modifying your home with accessibility in mind, one of the first things you may do is complete a bedroom remodel. It makes sense that the place you lay your head at night is designed with comfort and convenience in mind. To learn more about the steps you’ll need to take to enjoy an accessible bedroom, read on courtesy of Real Abilities.

Guidelines for Creating an Accessible Bedroom

When remodeling your bedroom, you may need to modify the structure and design of the room, as well as its accessories. Modifying the room’s design and accessories are the easiest and most affordable tasks, but some changes may require professional assistance. To convert your standard bedroom into one that’s handicap accessible, for instance, you may need to:

●       Widen the bedroom door to measure 36 inches wide.

●       Widen the door to the ensuite bathroom, if applicable.

●       Remove unnecessary walls or barriers that may make moving around difficult or impossible. As Family Handyman notes, if this is on your radar, ensure you aren’t removing a load-bearing wall in the process!

●       Replace standard interior doors with barn or pocket doors.

●       Remove door knobs and replace them with lever handles.

●       Widen or replace closet doors to make the space easier for entering and exiting.

●       Replace windows to make them easier to open and close.

●       Lower shelving units and closet rods.

●       Remove carpeting or area rugs and replace them with smoother surface flooring, such as tile, laminate, or wood.

●       Remove or rearrange furniture.

In addition to performing these modifications, make sure the furniture is ADA accessible—including the bed, dresser, shelving units, and TV stand. However, the room must have ample turning space for wheelchair users and be as uncluttered as possible. TOUSDA says to aim for a minimum of 60×78 inches for your turning radius.

How to Finance Your Bedroom Remodel

EarlyExperts.net states that the average cost of completing an ADA bedroom remodel ranges between $500 and $2,000, but you can expect to spend more if you need to modify an ensuite bathroom as well. The cost of remodeling a bathroom can easily range from $3,000 to $35,000, but actual costs vary widely depending on the types of modifications that need to be made.

There are also ways to acquire cash for remodeling expenses. For instance, refinancing options are available to cover your costs. Refinancing allows you to give up some equity in your home to free up cash which can be used to make accessibility modifications or other types of improvements to your home. If you're looking for a home loan that is competitive with PenFed mortgage rates, you can search online with trustworthy lenders like PennyMac.

Depending on your situation, grants may also be available to assist you—especially if you’re a disabled veteran or deemed low-income under the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Hire an ADA Contractor to Assist You

While you can complete some of these bedroom modifications without professional assistance, it’s important to hire an ADA contractor when it’s time to widen doorways, replace windows, install handrails in bathrooms, replace the bedroom flooring, or complete other larger remodeling projects. ADA-compliant contractors possess the knowledge, skills, and experience you need to convert a standard bedroom into a safe, comfortable, and accessible living space. Be ready to ask about previous jobs and check references for best results.

Examine your bedroom with a critical eye. Decide which changes you need to make first and then plan accordingly. Remodeling a bedroom takes some time, money, and work, but these modifications can be a key to better independence and comfort.

This article was brought to you by Real Abilities, intended to enhance the behavioral intentions, cognitive attitudes, and social interest of typical child viewers towards their peers with disabilities. For more information, contact us today!