The Bowles Group, LLC - ADA Contractor - (414) 915-7428
We Specialize In ADA Compliant Projects
An estimated 48.9 million people, or 19.4 percent of the population in the United States have a disability. So it’s not surprising that several years ago Congress passed the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Much of this Act pertains directly to certain regulations that must be followed to ultimately make life accessible for individuals with special needs.
How Can The Bowles Group Help?
If you or a family member has a disability or is aging, The Bowles Group is experienced at solving home & commercial design challenges for people with disabilities in the Milwaukee area. It is important that your contractor be well versed with all of the ADA complaint regulations. If these standards are not followed correctly, it could make it unnecessary challenging for people with special needs or may even lead to personal injury.
The Bowles Group's Past ADA Projects
Not only have we built numerous handicapped wheelchair ramps, we have remodeled single level homes specifically designed for independent living for people with special needs. All areas of newly designed or newly constructed buildings and facilities are required to be handicapped accessible and altered portions of existing buildings and facilities are also required to be handicapped accessible.
Do ADA Regulations Apply To Me?
ADA features do not necessary only have to apply to people with special needs. If you are planning a remodel makeover soon, why not include some ADA Universal Design features? Many ADA compliant regulations can often be implemented into your remodel design without a major change in the layout or without a dramatic increase in price. For example you may choose to install grab bars in your bathroom because it makes it easier for people of all ages and physical abilities.
Some ADA Universal Design Recommendations Include:
- Place electrical receptacles at 15 or 18 inches above the floor
- Allow a door opening width of 34 – 36 inches
- Leave a minimum of 18 inches of clear floor space beside all doors on the “pull side” to allow space to get out of the way when opening doors
- Leave a turning space in the bathroom of 5 feet in diameter (for wheelchair)
- Use contrasting colors between floor surfaces and trim to make them easier to see
- Choose easy-to-use hardware: lever door handles, push electrical plates, loop handle pulls on drawers and cabinet doors, lever faucet handles, touch latches, keyless locks
- Position light switches at 35-44 inches above the floor
- Pressure balanced anti-scald valves at tubs and showers
- Hand-held showerheads at all tubs and showers in addition to fixed heads.
- Bathing fixture requirement: minimum 5 feet long by 3 feet deep (4 feet preferred) curbless shower or tub with integral seat, waterproof floor and a floor drain
- 30” by 48” clear floor spaces at each fixture (spaces may overlap)
- Clear space of 3 feet in front and to one side of toilet
- Toilet centered 18 inches from any side wall, cabinet or tub
- Broad blocking between studs in walls around toilet, tub and shower for placement and location of grab bars
- Minimum lavatory counter height of 32”
- Clear knee space 29” high under sink (may be accomplished with fold-back self-storing doors)
- No pedestal sinks
- Mount sink as close to front of countertop as possible.
