April 15, 2024
Maryland Aging in Place Bathroom Conversions
October 3, 2016
Bathroom conversions are a specialty service in the bathroom remodeling world. Converting a bathroom isn’t a project that just any contractor takes on, it involves extra planning, purchasing specialty products, and a level of expertise and knowledge about the individual needs of the homeowner. Bath Doctor specializes in conversions and it is by far one of our most popular remodeling projects. Many of them are for seniors who are seeking a more comfortable home as they age. We even have a video covering the basics that you’ll need to know about converting a bathroom space for aging in place.
Let’s take a closer look at all of the projects covered in our video:
Converting a Tub to a Shower
The process involves removing the existing tub and fitting the existing area with a new shower set up. With advances in products, plumbing is easily adapted and the area after its makeover becomes a safe, fully functioning shower.
Your new shower can have all the bells and whistles you desire. Below is a list of available options:
- Barrier Free/Roll In showers
- Low barrier shower pans
- Shower pans with built in seats
- Specialty shower doors
- Grab bars
- Hand held shower heads
- Adjustable height shower heads
- Wall mounted seats
- Low maintenance top quality acrylic shower walls
- Ease of cleaning
- Ease of sanitation
- ADA compliant (optional)
Walk in tubs
For individuals who still desire to soak in a bathtub a walk in tub is a nice feature. A walk in tub is installed in a similar manner as a shower conversion. The entire area where the existing tub was is adapted to house the new walk in tub. Plumbing and layout are updated to suit the new unit. Walk in tubs are therapeutic and can help with many medical ailments. They can come with many bonus features such as air and water massage, inline heaters to keep water warm, and quick drain capability. With the quick drain capability, most tubs drain in less than 2 minutes.
High Comfort toilets
High comfort toilets are nick named adult height toilets, they are typically the same height as your dining room chair, typically around 17” high. Traditional toilets or family height toilets are much lower and are usually around 14” high. It is very common for the toilet to be updated during bathroom renovations. The higher height of the new toilet is beneficial. It has the ability to lessen the degree of stress on the knees, hips and back.
Vanities, Wall Mount Sinks and Pedestal Sinks
Most vanities on the market are now 34” high. This is a huge back saver and very important for aging in place. Older vanities typically were only 30” in height, causing stress at the pivot point of the back due to leaning over the sink. With the new heights, you are able to stand in a more natural position. Vanities can be ordered In all shapes, sizes and styles, with almost an endless degree of style choices.
Wall mount sinks have also gained in popularity for many reasons. They are easy to clean, and allow for the use of a vanity chair or wheel chair access.
Pedestal sinks are a great option for those who need to free up floor space for the use of a walker, cane or wheelchair access.
Grab bars and Accessories
There are hundreds of options when it comes to grab bars. For many seniors aging in place, style is equally as important as safety. There are many different styles and types of grab bars, many of which look like a fancy towel bar. They can be installed throughout your bathroom to assist in safety and peace of mind.
Bath Doctor takes pride in being able to help make their customers lives easier and provide them with more freedom for their future. You can contact Bath Doctor for more information about converting a bathroom or to discuss your specialized needs and learn more about your options.
