Accessible Design

With the emerging variety of accessible products, your bathroom can be stylish, functional, and safe for those with physical limitations. An accessible space can be created with a combination of ADA compliant items and items not listed as ADA compliant when used carefully and properly. Use the following tips to make your bathroom more accessible and reduce the risk of accidents or injuries:

Grab Bars

	Grab bars play a very important role in accessible bathroom design. They should be installed within reaching distance from the bathtub or shower, toilet, and any place where standing for long periods may cause fatigue. It is very important that grab bars be secured to wall studs or solid wood blocking behind the finished wall so that they are able to support adequate weight without damaging the wall and causing serious harm to the user. Accessible grab bars should be able to withstand over 250 pounds of force.



	When creating an accessible bathroom, look for ADA-compliant grab bars, or grab bars with a diameter of 1-1/4" to 1-1/2". Grab bars should be installed 33"-36" from the floor with a 1-1/2" clearance from the wall. Our ADA-compliant grab bars are available in a variety of styles and finishes to compliment any bathroom decor.

Toilets

	Replacing a standard height toilet with an ADA compliant toilet is a great, and easy, way to make the bathroom easier to use for people of all ages, with or without disabilities. Toilet seats are typically 14-15" from the floor. ADA compliant toilets sit a little bit higher, at 16-19" from the floor. When shopping for an accessible toilet, look for models with lever handles, which provide ease of use for those with limited mobility. When installing an accessible toilet, be sure to allow plenty of room for grab bars and space to access from a wheelchair or a walker.

Thermostatic and Pressure Balanced Valves

	Thermostatic and pressure balanced mixing valves control hot water temperatures to a safe level, preventing accidents through scalding. Thermostatic valves mix hot and cold water to ensure a constant, safe temperature. Pressure balanced valves regulate water pressure and prevent fluctuations in temperature.



	Either of these would be smart additions to an accessible design because they make it difficult to increase the temperature above or below preset levels. For more information visit our information page.

Wall-Mount Vanities

	Wall-mount vanities are a great addition to any accessible bathroom design as the open space underneath provides knee room for seated users. To provide ample access, install a shallow wall mount vanity 34" from the floor. Keep in mind that the sink should be easily accessible as well. Take into account the height of the bottom of the sink basin and the overall height of the sink if installing a vessel style.

Mirrors

	When designing an accessible space, install vanity mirrors no higher than 40" from the floor. This will give seated users the ability to use the mirror efficiently. If for some reason this is not feasible in your space, installing a full length mirror in another location in your bathroom is another great option.