Michimich.com - Wolverine Glass Shares Considerations When Designing Aging in Place Showers

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ANN ARBOR, Mich. - Michimich -- Looking to design a bathroom that is safe, stylish, and functional?

As we age, there's certain tasks that can become increasingly difficult like showering. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to design a shower that will keep you safe and decrease the likelihood of slipping and falling.

Here are aging in place recommended ways to remodel your shower:

Grab Bars

When installing grab bars, they shouldn't be attached to shower doors or glass. These safety features need to be anchored into the wall and must be designed specifically for support.

It's important to note that towel bars, or other handles, are not suitable replacements for grab bars!

When planning to add in grab bars, you need to communicate this addition to your contractor so they can ensure proper blocking and framing to support them.

Curbless Showers

Curbless showers are becoming increasingly popular for aging-in-pace bathroom remodels, because they eliminate tripping hazards and barriers for walkers and wheelchairs. A curbless shower has a barrier-free entrance with no curb or bump. This type of shower is more accessible, and has a seamless look that gives it a spa-like feel.

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However, designing a shower door without a curb can pose several challenges. Curbless showers have an increased risk of water leaking onto the bathroom floor. You can combat this by adding in a proper slope towards the drain to contain water within your shower area.

Door Width

When choosing a shower door, the width is important to keep in mind for wheelchair accessibility. For wheelchair access, the door should be 33" wide, leaving a clear opening of 32".

Keeping in mind that adding such a wide door into existing bathrooms may be challenging due to space constraints, particularly around toilets or vanities. ADA requirements deem sufficient space outside the shower necessary for wheelchair mobility, which may result in significant remodeling needed for typical residential bathrooms.

Stay Safe with Aging in Place Showers in Ann Arbor

Keeping these considerations in mind during your bathroom remodel will help set you up for a great aging in place design that will keep you safe, help you function more efficiently, and make life easier.

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Have questions about aging in place showers in Ann Arbor? Contact Wolverine Glass at http://www.wolverine.glass.com to learn more!

About Wolverine Glass: Whether you have a standard project, want a one-of-a-kind design for your shower door, mirror, or tabletop, or if you're looking for a stand-out custom or commercial design, we can help. With over 30 years of experience, Wolverine Glass is a reliable source for glass shower doors in Ann Arbor. Stop by their showroom in Dexter or call them at 734-426-5600 to discuss your glass needs or to arrange for a free consultation.