subject: Estimating The Costs Of Shower Accessories For Handicapped Persons [print this page] More and more home owners are now thinking of adding handicap-friendly accessories in the bathroom specifically in the shower area. This is a good move even when there are no handicapped persons in the household at present since these may be appreciated in the future. Handicapped guests will appreciate the thoughtfulness behind the accessories while family members who have met an accident and, thus, require the installation will be glad for it.
No worries on the costs of the accessories as well as their installation as these are both easy on the pocket. Of course, the exact amount paid will vary depending on the type of accessories bought and the extent of adjustments necessary to install said handicap-friendly accessories for the shower area. Here are the ways that you can estimate the costs as well as plan for the type of accessories needed in a handicap-friendly bathroom.
Estimate the Costs:
The best way to estimate the costs of making handicap-friendly modifications to an existing bathroom or making a handicap-friendly bathroom from square one is to consult with a building contractor. If you have a relative or a friend who can do the job for free or for a substantial discount, then so much the better for lessening your total costs.
Aside from providing for a cost estimate, the building contractor will also point out certain errors in your initial judgement about the types, placement and other matters related to the job at hand. For example, you may have skipped on the need for a ramp going into the bathroom, which will add to the costs. It may also be that you underestimated the space necessary for a stall to be wheelchair-friendly as well.
When you have discussed your desired improvements to the shower area in particular and the bathroom in general, the building contractor can make a cost estimate. Keep in mind that said estimate already includes the cost of materials and labour as well as the possible profit made by the contractor. Most building contractors tack on a profit margin of 10 to 15 percent.
With the cost estimate on hand, you can then decide whether you will hire professionals to do the job or you will undertake it as a DIY project. If you have the skills, time and resources to make it a DIY project, then go right ahead but if you are doubtful, we suggest getting professional help. Keep in mind that it is not just the installation of the shower accessories per se that you must think about but plumbing and electrical concerns as well.
Decide on the Accessories:
Obviously, before calling in the building contractor to estimate the costs of the handicap-friendly bathroom accessories, you should have an initial list of your desired modifications. If you have a handicapped person in your household or you have a frequent handicapped visitor, you should ask for their input. After all, they will be the ones using the facilities so it is logical to assume that they should benefit the most from it.
What exactly are the most common shower accessories available for handicapped persons? We can mention shower rails and grab bars, handicap shower chairs, benches and seats; handicap shower and bathroom ramps, bath hoists, and even bathroom alarm systems.
Your thoughtfulness in installing handicap-friendly shower accessories will pay off in so many ways. Your handicapped guests will enjoy their time in the bathroom because of its safe environment, thus, giving you better peace of mind.
