General

• Make the exterior paving leading to the entrance level with the interior floor, but slope the paving away from the basement door to keep rain water out of the home. Also, install a rubber-like membrane under the door frame. When installing the door, lay two heavy bead of sealant under the sill. Provide a roof canopy over the entrance to protect it from snow accumulation. Standard doors are 32 inches wide; to accommodate a 24-inch wide wheelchair, install doors with a minimum width of 36 inches. Install levers instead of door knobs.
  
  A hall or corridor must have a minimum of 32 inches wide path. A 60 inches radius is necessary for making 180-degree turns. Install tile or hardwood. Protect the corners and surfaces of interior walls by mounting metal guards and plastic covers. You can also set light switches lower and place outlets higher.
  
  

Bathroom

• The bathroom is one of the main areas of the new home where you can make a major impact to make the room wheelchair-friendly. Clear floor space in ADA terms is defined as minimum area of 30 inches by 48 inches that is needed for one wheelchair to move forward or parallel to equipment. Part of the space is permitted to be under lavatories or other accessories, but there must be enough space for knee and toe clearance.
  
  Make the basement shower wheelchair accessible. A roll-in shower, which is nearly level with the rest of the bathroom floor, can be installed in placed of a standard sized tub, which has dimensions of 60 inches by 30 inches. To have adequate space for maneuvering a wheel chair in the shower, make the measurement a minimum of 54 inches by 54 inches. If you have the space a 60 inch by 60 inch shower is really idea. The shower should have a handheld shower head equipped with a hose 60 inches long. Install grab bars to provide support and aid maneuvering.
  
  Install a durable raised toilet seat that has armrests and can withstand weight. It allows the person to move about without the need for assistance. In addition, grab bars installed at the toilet gives even more support and safety.
  
  Place accessories, such as mirror and towel bars at a levels that can can be reached from the wheelchair without straining.