Curbless/Wheelchair Accessible

[daveward]

This is not because I am a pro, it's here because you guys will have good input I believe. Considering the aging of the population (not us of course) if you were building a spec home would you make the shower not only curbless but accessible for a wheelchaired shower taker? And of course dramatic looking too so a non-handicapped person would also be drawn to it?

Thanks.

[Houston Remodeler]

The considerations for WC capable showers differ from "barrier free"

WC access are generally much larger to accommodate the second person and drain placement is an issue so the chair does't get stuck on the grate as the low spot.

[tilemanct]

Almost every job I look at lately is a curb-less shower design. No thought for accessibility though. Just "the look". The bigger thing to consider is one level or two level living. One level is costlier than two level. Most homes are two level in my area. The biggest design consideration is stair design. Having gone through this with my aging parents I learned that a stair lift for a straight set of stairs is around $3K and a 90 degree stair (one set up 90degree turn and up one more set) is around $14K.
I'm working with a builder right now who is specializing in renovations for aging in place folks who want to stay in their homes. A huge opportunity that is being overlooked by most builders. In those renovations, the showers are designed tastefully with the room for accessibility.
Answering your question, it would depend on the location and desirability for retirement for that spec house.

[Houston Remodeler]

Another consideration would be the design of the bathroom outside the shower.

Is there room for a helper and a WC ?

If you are transferring the patient to another chair is there room for all that stuff ?

HC bars outside the shower ?

Lighting ?

[e3]

Good reason for a 2015 TCNA Handbook!

[jadnashua]

Barrier free and ADA compliant start with some of the same features, but ADA adds a bunch of size and placement constraints. Depends on what level you care to strive for. Lots of people appreciate the look of barrier free, but may not like an ADA compliant version of one.