Make Your Bathroom ADA-Compliant — Or Just Easier for Everyone to Use
Upgrading a bathroom for accessibility doesn’t have to mean making it look like a hospital. Done right, it can be safe, smart, and still look great. If you're upgrading for future comfort or just helping a loved one stay independent, this guide will walk you through an ADA-friendly remodel.
What You'll Need (or What Your Contractor Will Use):
Tape measure (ADA is all about clearances)
Grab bars
ADA-compliant toilet (higher seat height)
Lever-handle faucet or motion-sensor faucet
Curb-less or low-threshold shower base
Non-slip flooring
Wider door (ideally 36”)
Pocket door or swing-clear hinges (optional, but helpful)
Shower bench or flip-down seat
Handheld shower head on a slide bar
Widen Doorways & Clear the Path
1. Measure your doorway
ADA guidelines call for at least 32” of clear width when the door is open 90°. If you’ve got a narrow 28” door, that’s tight for a wheelchair or walker.
2. Consider upgrades
Install a 36” door
Add swing-clear hinges to gain extra space without reframing
Replace knobs with lever handles (much easier for arthritis or limited grip)
Upgrade the Toilet Area
1. Toilet height matters
ADA-compliant toilets are 17–19” from floor to seat — higher than standard ones. They’re often called “comfort height” or “chair height.”
2. Make room for side transfers
You’ll want at least 60” clear space side-to-side for wheelchair transfers, especially in commercial settings.
3. Install grab bars
On the side wall: 42" long minimum, 33–36" high from the floor
Behind the toilet: 36" long minimum
Tip: Install blocking behind the walls for solid support — no drywall anchors here.
Rethink the Sink & Vanity
1. Open up below
A wall-mounted or floating vanity allows knee clearance (at least 27” high, 30” wide, and 17” deep underneath).
2. Faucets
Go with lever handles, touchless, or push-button controls — no twisting or tight grip needed.
3. Mirror height
Lower the mirror or tilt it forward so it’s usable whether standing or seated.
Upgrade the Shower for Roll-In or Step-Free Access
1. Go curb-less
A zero-threshold shower (flush with the floor) is ideal — easy for wheelchairs, walkers, or just aging knees.
2. Install a seat
A fold-down seat or built-in bench helps with safety and comfort.
3. More grab bars
Horizontal bar along the back wall
Vertical or angled grab bar near the entrance
4. Use a handheld shower head on a slide bar
It should reach from 38–48” high. Add a thermostatic mixing valve to prevent scalds.
Flooring & Lighting
1. Non-slip flooring
Choose tile or vinyl with a high slip resistance rating (look for DCOF ≥ 0.42 if using tile).
2. Good lighting
Bright, shadow-free lighting helps everyone — install dimmable LEDs and add lighting in the shower if it’s dark.
3. Night lights
Motion-activated or low-level night lights can prevent midnight mishaps.
A Few Bonus Touches
Pocket doors save space and make access easier.
Lower wall switches & outlets about 15–48” off the floor.
Smart controls (voice-activated or app-controlled lights, fans, etc.) are great for hands-free use.
Want It Done Right the First Time?
These upgrades take careful planning and some solid carpentry — especially when you’re cutting into walls for grab bars or reshaping the floor for a curb-less shower. If you want it done safely, beautifully, and built to last, LBI is here to help.
We specialize in ADA-compliant remodels, accessibility upgrades, and aging-in-place renovations — right here in Shakopee, MN. Whether it’s a full bathroom overhaul or just a few key updates, we’d be happy to take it off your plate.
Reach out to schedule a free walkthrough or estimate — no pressure, just honest help.
Wet Wall Shower Renovation
Cologne, Minnesota
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