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DIY remodeling for a disability: what you should know

Get tips and ideas for DIY remodeling for a disability.

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Consider installing large drawers that are easy to pull and push as part of your DIY remodeling for a disability project. Photo by Bryan Design - virsago_mk2 on Flickr.If you are considering DIY remodeling for a disability, the type of disability will dictate which modifications need to be undertaken.

If the person is confined to a wheelchair, you will likely have one goal with any project that you start: making space for the wheelchair to move around in your home.

It should be noted from the get-go that most homeowners lack the necessary skills to widen walls and doorways. These complex projects are best left to a professional. You can find professional contractors in your area by requesting quotes from Reply! Nonetheless, there are some modifications you can make on your own that can be done with just a few DIY skills under your belt.

When it comes to residential remodeling for accommodating disabilities, you should begin at the driveway and work your way through the house, noting the modifications that will need to be made in order to allow the disabled person to live comfortably.

DIY remodeling for a disability will only get you so far. Connect with contractors for free quotes! Let a professional handle the more difficult tasks!

Usually, residential renovations will need to be made to get the person in the house with his or her wheelchair. A wheelchair ramp may be needed. These ramps are fairly simple to build. You can find free woodworking plans online that outlines the steps you need to take to construct a ramp.

Once inside, the bathroom is often the target for DIY remodeling for a disability. With accessibility in mind, the bathroom should be set up in a way that is convenient for the disabled person. Grab bars around the tub or shower and toilet area can be helpful.

If it is in your budget, a walk-in tub can be installed, allowing the person to enjoy a sit-down bath without actually needing to get down in the tub. Otherwise, you might want to invest in a shower chair that allows the person to sit in the tub.

Some sinks are made lower to the ground to allow disabled users to reach the faucet to wash their hands and take care of other personal needs.

When considering DIY remodeling for a disability, you might also want to think about purchasing and installing a toilet that is higher than a traditional toilet. It is specifically designed to accommodate the needs of those who are experiencing mobility issues.

Bathroom tiles should be nonslip.

The bedroom and other areas of the home should be kept free of clutter so that the disabled person can move about easily without encumbrances. Depending on the severity of the disability and the prognosis of the patient, you might want to invest in a hospital bed that allows caregivers to easily get the person in and out of bed.

A bedside light that can be reached easily by the person should also be provided.

In the kitchen, consider removing base cabinets so that the person can roll up to the counter to prepare food. Installing a lazy-Susan within a cupboard can be useful to people with disabilities.

When possible, the goal of DIY remodeling for a disability should be to promote the independence of the person.

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Photo credit: Bryan Design - virsago_mk2 via Compfight CC.