Handicap Accessible Home

Designing a log home to allow the incorporation of ADA Compliance does not have to be difficult if planned beforehand.  It can be easily done with new construction.

Based on what Ward Cedar Log Homes has done to help previous homeowners, here is a list of items to think about when designing your log home to meet your ADA Compliant Home.

Entry - If you have room, build a wheelchair ramp for each entrance of your home.  The costs can vary depending on size and materials.  Make sure the pathway is wide enough, and consider adding handrails, a non-slip surface and a cover when thinking about design.

Larger Garage Doors - If you plan to add a garage to your home make sure you have large enough bays and overhead doors to accommodate larger vans.

Doorways - Clear paths of travel through doors and hallways are integral to providing livable space.  Doors should be 36 inches wide, same as your entry door and threshold should be rounded and no more than 1/2" higher than the floor.  Higher thresholds can be difficult for wheelchairs and those with canes and walkers.  In some cases interior doors can be 32 inches wide which is the minimum requirement for being ADA compliant. 

Flooring - A hard or smooth surface throughout will make your home easier for you to maneuver.  Tile or hardwood is ideal; however you can also use a low-pile carpet.  

Second Floor Living - If you plan to have a 2nd story for your log home, you will want to consider either an elevator or a stairway lift.  Stairway lifts should swivel so you are able to safely get in and out of the chair.

Larger Spaces - For wheelchair bound homeowners having larger spaces to turn around makes things safer and easier.

Other - It is also a good idea to add conveniences into your home to make your life easier such as:

• Safety bars
• Levers on doors vs regular doorknobs
• Lower countertops, make appliances easy to reach, and roll out storage units
• Adjust location of outlets and use rocker switches for lights
• Roll in showers

Planning in the beginning is well worth it.  You want to enjoy your golden years and following these steps will make your life easier so you can enjoy your new home. 

Start today and view the many log home floor plans we have.

If you have questions about maintaining your log home, call us at 800-341-1566 or drop us an email.

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