Home Access Answers
Bathroom Modifications
on a Limited Budget
by Jane Hampton
Dear Jane,
We have spent the last
few months working with a contractor designing our “dream” bathroom. We had big plans, but due to an
unexpected financial situation, the amount of money we originally
budgeted has been significantly reduced. Ultimately, we need to ensure
the bathroom is safe for my husband, who uses a wheelchair. He needs
a roll-in shower, handicap toilet and a roll-under sink. Can you
take a look at our existing bathroom layout and make suggestions
on how we could achieve an accessible bathroom on our very “limited
budget”?
Tammy, Lake City, MN
Dear Tammy,
I am sure you are disappointed,
both by the change in your financial circumstances and by being
unable to achieve your “dream” bathroom
at this time, but you still have options for improving accessibility
with more cost-effective changes. We took a look at your existing
bathroom layout and have a few simple suggestions.
First of all, remove the existing sink and vanity. Relocate the
sink to the adjacent bedroom closet. This will free up floor space
leading to the toilet and provide greater maneuvering space within
the bathroom.
Unfortunately this will eliminate a closet in that spare bedroom.
Until such time a new closet can be created, look at alternate storage
options such as a dresser, armoire, surface mounted shelf/rod, or
wall mounted hooks.
Mount the new sink and
countertop at a height that provides sufficient knee clearance
for your husband, (typically 29” above the finished
floor). Install a medicine cabinet in the side wall and/or corner
shelving so items you use every day are within reach. We often use
the Kohler Invitation sink because the 3” counter overhang
brings the bowl closer to your body for grooming and hygiene. This
sink also has the plumbing installed to the side and back walls,
allowing for safe and easy access around plumbing, as well as maximizing
the knee clearance depth below the sink. Ensure hot water supply
and waste pipes are protected to avoid hot water burns.
Next, remove the bathtub and replace with a pre-fabricated, retrofit,
accessible shower kit which is designed to replace an existing bathtub.
These showers are designed to minimize plumbing changes, as the shower
drain is positioned to coincide with the existing bathtub drain.
Select a shower that
has full plywood backing allowing you to customize grab bar placement.
If you do not select a unit with plywood backing, you will not
be able to install grab bars securely. Some manufacturers offer
models that already incorporate grab bars, which may or may not
suit your husband’s needs.
Install a hand-held
shower head at the existing shower connection. Choose a model that
offers a minimum 60” hose. Provide two
shower-head mounting locations, one at standard height for those
standing while showering, the other mounted at a lower height to
accommodate your hus-band’s limited reach.
Replace the toilet with
a model that offers a seat height 17” to
19” above the floor. Review options to determine if your husband
needs an elongated bowl and/or open-front seat.
Add grab bars at locations needed adjacent to the toilet. Wall reinforcement
is necessary for a safe installation. If you cannot afford to open
the wall to install proper reinforcement, consider installing bars
that mount directly to the toilet (toilet safety frame).
Widen the entrance door
to the bathroom. If possible, consider hinging the door to swing “out” of
the bathroom or installing a pocket door that slides into the wall.
If not, there is enough room for the door to swing into the bathroom,
but it may be a little awkward at times.
Finally, select a floor material that is water resistant, such as
ceramic tile or marmoleum. Marmoleum is a linoleum product that is
heat weld-able to create waterproof, hygienic seams. Marmoleum is
stain resistant, indentation resistant and has natural anti-static
properties which repel dust and dirt, making it easy to maintain.
Good luck on your project …and
remember, with a new coat of paint, new floor and fixtures, your
bathroom will feel rejuvenated, even if it isn’t your dream. ![]()
Questions for Jane? We’ll
cover them in future issues of Home Access Answers. Please contact
us at 952-925-0301, www.accessibilitydesign.com or
info@accessibilitydesign.com. Jane Hampton, CID, Access Specialist
and president of Accessibility Design, founded the company in 1992
to enhance lives through design and project management. They provide
design, consultation, project management, and product recommendation
services specializing in home access for individuals with disabilities
at all stages of life.
