ADA Compliant Renovations

Creating a beautiful home shouldn’t mean sacrificing functionality—especially when accessibility is a top priority. At Jake Bennage Flooring, we believe in designing spaces that everyone can enjoy, no matter their age or ability. That’s where ADA-compliant renovations come in. The good news? You can make your home safer and easier to navigate without giving up style.

Whether you’re planning a remodel for aging in place, accommodating a loved one with mobility needs, or just thinking ahead, this guide will walk you through smart ways to blend accessibility with great design.

What Does ADA-Compliant Mean, Anyway?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) sets guidelines for public and commercial buildings—but many of those principles are super helpful in residential homes, too. These design features make it easier for people with limited mobility to move around safely and comfortably.

Some key features include:

• Wider doorways
  
• Grab bars in bathrooms
  
• Low- or no-threshold showers
  
• Non-slip flooring
  
• Easy-to-reach light switches and outlets
  

Even if your home doesn’t need to be fully ADA compliant, using these ideas can boost safety, comfort, and even your home’s value.

1. Wider Doorways & Hallways for Easy Movement

One of the first things we suggest in an ADA-friendly renovation is widening doorways and hallways. A 36-inch-wide doorway is the ADA standard, which allows wheelchairs or walkers to pass through easily. This not only helps with accessibility, but also makes your space feel more open and welcoming.

💡 Pro Tip: When remodeling, consider pocket doors or barn doors—these save space and are easier for people with mobility aids to use.

2. Flooring That’s Safe and Stylish

Flooring is a big deal when it comes to safety and mobility. At Jake Bennage Flooring, we only install first-quality flooring that works well for your lifestyle and needs.

Some top picks for ADA-friendly floors:

• Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) or Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT): These are super durable, slip-resistant, and come in a huge range of colors and wood-look styles.
  
• Porcelain Tile: Great for bathrooms and kitchens, tile is easy to clean and can be installed with anti-slip finishes.
  
• Low-Pile Carpet: In bedrooms and living rooms, this offers a soft touch while being easier to navigate than thick, plush carpets.
  
  

Avoid uneven surfaces, transitions, or high thresholds. Smooth, consistent floors keep everyone moving safely from room to room.

3. Beautiful, Barrier-Free Showers

One of the most requested upgrades in accessible bathroom remodels is a curbless (walk-in) shower. These are sleek, modern, and safe—no step to trip over!

Add stylish touches like:

• Large-format tiles for fewer grout lines and a cleaner look
  
• Handheld showerheads on sliding bars
  
• Built-in shower benches
  
• Linear drains for a seamless floor slope
  
  

Don’t forget to include grab bars—but don’t worry, they don’t have to look institutional. Today’s models come in brushed nickel, matte black, or even gold finishes to match your bathroom aesthetic.

4. Thoughtful Layouts & Design Details

Small design choices can make a big difference. Here are a few more ideas to keep your remodel stylish and functional:

• Install vanities with open knee space underneath for wheelchair access
  
• Choose lever-style handles instead of knobs (they’re easier to open)
  
• Use contrasting tile borders or color changes to help visually define steps or corners
  
• Place light switches and outlets between 15 and 48 inches from the floor to make them easier to reach
  
  

5. Not Just Bathrooms: Accessible Design for Every Room

ADA-inspired design can benefit every area of your home:

• Kitchen: Lower countertop areas, wide walkways between cabinets, and pull-out shelving make the space more usable for everyone.
  
• Living Rooms & Bedrooms: Think open layouts, smooth transitions between flooring types, and minimal rugs or cords that could be tripping hazards.
  
• Entryways: Consider zero-step entrances with gentle ramps or slopes, and slip-resistant surfaces like textured tile or LVP.
  
  

Accessible Can Still Be Beautiful

Gone are the days of clinical-looking accessibility features. With today’s custom tile, modern hardware, and flooring options in every shade and texture, it’s easy to create a home that works and wows.

At Jake Bennage Flooring, we specialize in renovations that meet your needs while reflecting your personal style. Whether you’re planning for now or the future, we can help you design a space that feels good and functions beautifully.

Ready to Make Your Home More Accessible?

We’d love to help bring your vision to life. Stop by our showroom for inspiration, check out samples, and chat with our team about making your home work better for you—without sacrificing design.