10 Inexpensive Home Modifications by Marc Kaman


(Modified from original article that appeared in Disabled Dealer, March 2000.)


Here are 10 ten small projects a homeowner can make:


  1. Change existing doorknobs to lever-style handles to provide ease of entrance or exit.
  2. Install commercial grade grab bars in bath and shower areas.
  3. Replace a sink vanity with a wall-hung sink to increase maneuverability in bathroom. Install pipeguards/insulation to prevent burns from exposed piping.
  4. Change kitchen and bath faucets to lever style handles when able.
  5. Install shower faucets that provide scald guard protection, have lever-style handles and offer hand-held showering.
  6. Increase mobility in the bathroom by installing ADA approved, 17" high rise toilets.
  7. Replace existing light switches with rocker style switches.
  8. Change existing door hinges to clear swing hinges that provide an additional 1 3/8" to 1 3/4" to the clear opening.
  9. Add a 3/4" to the clear opening by moving doorstop to a height of 36" on interior doors.
  10. Replace high thresholds with flat aluminum commercial thresholds. Add a door boot to the bottom of the door to seal air from the exterior.

Important: Before beginning, please assess each project. These tips may not provide the best solution in all cases.