Stylish safety in the bath
Have you ever felt a little nervous stepping onto the wet shower floor? Sturdy and stylish assist bars are available to provide a greater level of safety for you and your guests. More companies are offering coordinated bath accessories from tissue holders that double as small grab bars and sturdy towel/safety bars to the more traditional (but stylish) grab bars in various lengths.
If you are considering adding safety features to your bath, but are definitely not ready for the “institutional” look, never fear. To see what is available, check out Delta’s line of safety bath accessories that include towel bars, tissue holders and corner shelves that feature integrated grab bars designed to blend in seamlessly, while serving to surround you in safety.
Here are some ideas on what to look for in bath safety features:
- Rounded, curved or c-shaped grab bars are easier for people of all abilities to grab than straight items.
- You might prefer a textured grip – remember, there is lots of moisture in the bathroom.
- Pick a manufacturer that can provide coordinated safety accessories that go with the style of the rest of the bath fixtures.
- If you feel you don’t need these features now, you can have the remodel contractor add wood backing during the rough framing, for future installation, saving yourself money down the road.
- Be aware that you can get grab bar type accessories in every finish from chrome to oil-rubbed bronze. You do not have to give up beauty and style.
You can get lots of information on the website Universal Design Living Laboratory website. If you are looking for a quotation for a design/build contractor that has experience, time and training in universal design, you might also go to the NAHB website, where you can find a local contractor trained in universal design. The NAHB designation for contractors trained in accessibility issues for homes is CAPS, Certified Aging in Place Specialist.
