Avoid making unnecessary expenses and keep control of your remodeling budget. Use our simple calculator to estimate the cost of Georgia Pacific Vinyl Siding for your zip code and make your life easier.
No matter if you are a homeowner or a home improvement contractor, our Georgia Pacific Vinyl cost estimator will provide you with updated information for your area.
Georgia Pacific Product Range
Georgia-Pacific was founded in 1927 as a small lumberyard. The company today manufactures a wide range of vinyl siding products available in many colors, finishes, and thickness, suitable for any taste and budget. Vinyl might not be as elegant as wood but it has the huge advantage of needing minimum maintenance. It also holds up in tp both very hot and very cold weather and resists to pests and moisture.
Georgia Pacific Siding Cost
Georgia Pacific siding prices vary anywhere from $2.75 to $7.50 per square foot. In the price are included the siding, material, and installation costs. The average installation cost comes to $13,800. The cost of a 2000 square foot project ranges from $5,500 to $15,000.
Installation Cost
Georgia Pacific Vinyl Siding installation cost varies from $1 & $3 per square foot. The cost to tear off existing cladding is not always included in the price. The installation always included fitting the panels or shingles and any finishing work required. In the case that cladding removal is not included in the price, expect to pay $0.50 to $1 per square foot. For more complicated projects that demand more specialized work, the cost will be higher.
Removal Fees
If the siding contractor has to remove the old siding and dispose of it, expect to pay from $1,000 to $3,000 to have the work done.
Georgia Pacific Installation Cost Checklist
Try to get at least 3-5 estimates from professional contractors before deciding who to hire to do the installation. Estimates are usually provided for free unless there is a service call for a repair.
Different companies offer different Georgia Pacific Vinyl Siding prices based on their location and size as they have different operational expenses.
Avoid approaching pros during the sprint and summer as the prices rise because of high demand. Instead, try to get estimates during late Fall or early winter that there is less workload for contractors and they tend to give good discounts to acquire new customers.
Try to budget 7%-15% more on the final budget as difficult configurations, patterns, or unexpected factors during the installation might increase the Georgia Pacific Vinyl Siding costs.
Choose the right thickness carefully as the thicker the siding the higher the price.
Shop for contractors and go for smooth textures to save money.
Try to do a little work yourself if you are up to the task.
Keep your remodeling budget on track with our handly Hanover paver calculator and find out what the exact installation cost for Hanover Pavers is in your zip code. If you are interested in a 2020 breakdown cost of Hanover paver materials, then look no further.
The calculator we created will help any homeowner or home improvement contractor to get a good understanding of the cost of installation Hanover pavers for different levels (Basic, Better, Best). The Hanover Pavers estimator will provide you the latest prices for your area. All you have to do is to enter your zip code and then the square footage and click on the “update” button and you will be presented with the expected installation cost (how much it should cost to have Hanovers Pavers installed at your home).
What Is The Average Cost To Install Hanover Pavers?
According to our research, the average cost to install Hanover Pavers in 2020 ranges between $7,000 and $9,000.
Hanover pavers cost per sq ft.
The installation of Hanover pavers cost on average from $15 to $30 per square foot. In the price are included the materials, labor cost to install flagstone pavers, and cleanup fees.
Estimated Cost
Basic Quality
Better Quality
Best Quality
Hanover Pavers Material Prices
$630-$666
$688 – $711
$742 – $787
Hanover Pavers Installation Cost
$292 – $301
$315- $328
$342.00 – $360.00
Total Cost
$922.50 – $967.50
$1003.50 – $1039.50
$1084.50 – $1147.50
Hanover Pavers – Average Cost per square foot
$9.45
$10.21
$11.16
Example cost for 10×10 square feet for 99501 zip code
Hanover manufactures a wide range of high-quality pavers for various uses. The brand constantly strives to create innovative products of the highest standards, earning Hanover a reputation for leadership in the industry. As a producer, Hanover guarantees the design integrity by providing product consistency, great performance, and top of the line service.
Hanover pavers are suitable for corporate & mixed-use, education & government, healthcare & wellness hotels & hospitality, recreation & public spaces, residential & housing, and porcelain pavers for outdoors. Hanover pavers have earned an excellent reputation in the market for their quality, unique shapes, color blends, and surface textures.
Pricing and Installation Cost Checklist
Hanover paver prices might be priced slightly differently between various companies. Paver prices might increase or decrease based on the operating expenses,
overhead, and location in the country.
To save on costs try to order the pavers in the late Fall or early winter, as contractors tend to offer discounts to attract new customers.
Budget an additional 7-15% on the total cost that you will get from our calculator for Hanover Paver costs.
If you want to save more on Hanover Paver prices (around 20%), try to visit as many supply houses as possible and to negotiate better prices.
Avoid installing the pavers yourself as it is not an easy task.
Consider hiring a landscaping or a mason company to do the work for you as it might even cost you less.
Ask friends, colleagues, and neighbors if they can recommend someone.
Save More By choosing reclaimed Pavers?
Thousands of tonnes of construction materials are discarded as waste every year in the USA. So if you’re planning to install some new paving or perhaps lay a new patio or driveway, don’t just buy brand new, consider using second hand paving slabs – here’s why.
Why Use Reclaimed Pavers?
Choosing reclaimed pavers is a great idea for many reasons. Second-hand paving slabs are:
Attractive – people often prefer the slightly worn look of reclaimed paving to brand new slabs; reclaimed stone paving can add character and look more natural once weathered, the coloring may also have changed over time.
Eco-friendly – the process of mining, cutting, and transporting paving slabs has a big carbon footprint so reusing old paving slabs, especially if you can find them in your local area, cuts down the environmental cost of your paving project.
Could save you money – buying reclaimed paving often costs less than brand new paving, particularly if you buy in bulk.
However, when buying used paving slabs you should watch out for the following:
Check the thickness, sometimes very thin roof tiles are sold as paving slabs and these are likely to be less durable and long-lasting.
Buy by the meter squared, not by weight.
Always take a look at the slabs in person to assess their quality. The nature of second-hand paving means it won’t be flawless, but watch out for excessive flakiness, stains, and chips.
Don’t buy from a dodgy dealer whose goods may be of suspect origin and questionable quality, get your reclaimed paving from one of the sources listed below
Where Can You Get Reclaimed Paving Slabs from?
You can find reclaimed paving from a variety of sources, such as:
Demolition sites – ask at demolition sites whether any materials are going spare. Your local council may be able to give you the heads up on sites to check out, the council might even be replacing their pavements or streets and be able to offer you some reclaimed block paving.
Salvage yards – scrap and salvage yards almost always have a good supply of reclaimed paving, some scrap yards even specialize in this field.
Refurbishment projects – keep an eye out for refurbishment projects happening in your local area, people may be looking to offload paving quickly and cheaply.
Online – there’s a growing trend for buying and selling used goods online and paving is no exception. There are many sites that are likely to have stocks of reclaimed pavers you can buy, the only problem is you may have to travel to fetch the pavers.
Window replacement costs on average between $200 to $1,800 for an average range, while most homeowners end up spending around $650 for each window. The cost to replace all windows in a standard 3-bedroom house comes from $4,500 to $10,000, depending on the sizes, frame materials, type, and the number of windows. Larger houses where custom work might be required, the window replacement cost can reach $20,000. Labor cost for professional installation ranges from $150 to $300 per window or $40 per hour on average.
Window Replacement Costs
Average Cost
$650
High Cost
$1,800
Low Cost
$200
Replacement Window Prices
Window prices on average range between $100 to $650. To the cost of windows, you will also need to add another $100 to $300 for the labor work required. When it comes to selecting a window for your home, the prices range from $50 to $2,000, depending on the size, type, material, and how energy efficient it is.
Replacement Window Prices By Material
The average cost for replacing a standard size double-hung,double-pane energy efficiency vinyl window varies from $400 and $650 for each window installation. Wood replacement windows are more expensive and the prices range from $700 and $1,000 including installation.
Below you can see the average replacement window prices by frame material:
Type
Materials
Vinyl
$100-$850
Wood
$200-$1,300
Fiberglass
$500-$1,400
Aluminum
$80-$1400
Composite
$300-$1,200
Vinyl Window Replacement Cost
VInyl window replacement costs range from $100 to $850 on average with most homeowners spending between $400 and $600 for a double-pane energy-efficient vinyl window. Vinyl windows are the most affordable option for homeowners and therefore are very popular. They also require very little maintenance. The only disadvantage is that their color fades over time.
Replacement Wooden Windows Cost
Wood replacement windows cost from $200 to $1000, with the majority of homeowners spending on average $700 per window installation. Wooden windows are very pleasing aesthetically as the natural look of wood is more attractive than vinyl windows. The biggest disadvantage of wooden windows is that they require maintenance as otherwise their frame might contract or swell.
Composite Replacement Windows Cost
Composite windows comprise wood windows such as particleboard and laminated lumber and many contain plastics, polymers, and resins. They are cheaper than wood frames and more expensive than vinyl. Expect to pay between $300-$1,200. Thanks to the latest technology they are stronger, more durable, and cost less than other window options.
Aluminum Windows Cost
Replacement aluminum windows cost ranges from $80 to $1,400 for each window depending on the size, and the number of panes required. Aluminum windows have many benefits when compared to other materials. Aluminum is lightweight, durable, strong, and also requires very little maintenance. Aluminum windows also cost less than wood windows. The biggest knock on aluminum windows is that they conduct more heat and cold than wood and that they are also prone to condensation.
Fiberglass windows Cost
Fiberglass windows cost from $500 to $1,400 each and can handle both high and low temperatures very well. Fiberglass windows are also energy-efficient and they have the benefit of being available in many different colors and styles, including painted wood. They are also energy efficient and can be repainted to look like new.
Window Replacement By Type
For a typical single-hung window you should expect to pay from about $200. Large double- or triple-pane windows cost over $8,000 to install. Below you can see the average window cost of materials and installation:
Window Type
Window-Only Cost
Window + Installation Cost
Basement Hopper
$60 – $370
$180 – $500
Single Hung
$100 – $400
$200 – $500
Double Hung
$100 – $500
$200 – $700
Fixed & Picture
$80 – $500
$180 – $1,000
Sliding
$150 – $600
$450 – $1,300
Basement
$50 – $500
$200 – $1,000
Storm
$150 – $750
$250 – $1,100
Glass Block
$80 – $800
$200 – $1,200
Casement
$200 – $1,400
$350 – $1,900
Tilt Out
$350 – $1,500
$500 – $2,100
Double Pane
$60 – $2,800
$120 – $3,800
Custom
$1000 – $3,000
$1200 – $5,000
Egress
$500 – $2,500
$2,000 – $5,000
Folding
$1,500 – $4,800
$2,500 – $5,600
Bay & Bow
$1000 – $4,000
$1,500 – $10,000
Single-Hung Replacement Windows
Single-hung replacement windows cost on average between $100 to $500 and they are a very popular choice due to their low cost. In a single-hung window, only the bottom part moves horizontally, while the top part remains fixed in place. The classic, old-fashioned, vertically-opening style is what usually homeowners choose.
Double-Hung Window Prices
Double-hung windows cost on average between $150-$600. Double-hung windows have two operating sashes, which allow both top and bottom parts to move up or down. You can also have the top and bottom halves swing inward if you are willing to spend more.
Picture Window Replacement Cost
Fixed or picture windows usually cost between $80 to $500, on average. If you go for the fixed version, the window has only one pane of glass and therefore it does not open at all.
One factor that increases the cost of fixed windows is usually custom sizing. If you also need to allow for ventilation consider buying picture windows with opening side panels.
Casement or Awning Window Replacement
Casement windows are best for spaces with higher height than width. Awning windows are very similar to casement windows with the big difference that they open outward as they are hinged on the top. A casement window replacement will cost in the range of $200 to $1,400 depending on the size and material.
They are an excellent option for ceilings and basements.
They open inward or outward or via a crank that folds as a lock.
For added security, you can choose models with more locks.
They are wind blowing resistant due to the crank mechanism.
They allow maximum ventilation because they can swing completely away from the mechanism.
They are great space savers as they open outward.
Replacement Sliding Windows Cost
Sliding windows cost on average between $150 to $600 (materials only). The same windows cost around $450 – $1,300 when the installation fees are included. Six windows will cost on average around $3300 to $7800(material + installation). The sliding windows operate in a very similar way with the single- or double-hung windows but move horizontally instead of vertically. The final cost is always a result of the size and type of frame that you will choose. There is also a wide variety of types and styles to choose from to accommodate every need.
Folding Windows Cost
Folding or bi-fold windows are not as common as traditional windows. The average cost of a bi-fold window ranges from $1,500 to $4,800 (material only). However, the overall cost will rise to $2,500 to $5,600, as there is a lot of labor required to install the windows. Folding windows are great for those looking to have an unobstructed view, as they allow for the widest opening.
Storm Windows Replacement Cost
The average national range to install storm windows comes to $2,048 and $10,807. Each window alone costs between $150 – $750 and takes approximately two hours for a pro to install it, adding another $60 to $130 to the overall cost. You will also have to account for the cost of additional supplies, adding up to about $15 to $25 per window.
Bay and Bow Windows Cost
The costs to replace a bay window comes around from $1,150 to $4,000. Labor & installation usually range from $300 to $500. The overall price depends mostly on the size and the type of bay window that you will choose.
Custom Replacements
When custom work is required the cost always increases. Expect to pay from $1,000 for each window installation. Custom sizes are usually required for older houses because windows did not come in standard sizes when these properties were built.
Average Cost to Replace Windows
Replacing an old window with a new one costs on average between $200 to $700 for each window, provided that the old frame is in good condition and can support the new window. The cost to replace windows and frames in a three-bedroom,single-story house usually costs between $3,000 to $7,000 (ten openings).
Double-Pane Window Replacement Cost
The average cost to replace a double-hung, double-pane windows cost between $450 and $1,000. Replacing a double-pane vinyl window will cost you from $450 to $600 to install. Double-pane wood windows are more expensive and therefore replacing them costs between $800 and $1,000.
Single-Pane Window Replacement Cost
The average cost to replace a single-pane window ranges from $280 to $460. These windows offer very basic insulation and can be found mostly in old houses. Standard single-pane glass costs as little as $2,50 per square foot.
Window Cost if Frames Are Rotting
It costs a lot less to replace only the glass in a window. If the frame is rotting or wrapping and you need to replace both the glass and the frame, the overall cost will increase significantly. The prices double when you need to replace the frame too.
Window Replacement Cost Per Window
Hiring a contractor costs around $40 per hour. To install a single-window expect to pay around $100 per unit, as it usually takes around 2-3 hours for all the work to complete. However, in several cases expect to pay $300 per window installation, depending on the size of the company you hire, your location, the overall time needed, and whether or not scaffolding is required.
*For high-end and custom work, add 25% to 50%.
Window Replacement Cost by Room
The cost of window installation is also dependent on the location, as the more difficult the process the more time it will take.
Cost of Replacing Windows by Size
When the size of the new windows can fit into the same opening and there is no need for new frames, then the cost is the lowest possible. When the old frame needs to be removed to place the new window then the cost increases as more labor is required. WIth some many materials and styles available, the only way to get the most accurate estimate about the cost is to contact a window installer.
The most common window sizes are:
Wood – 18 to 60” wide and 18” to 48: tall
Vinyl – 18” to 48” wide and 18” to 36” tall
Single-Pane Window Replacement C
There is a huge variety of sizes and styles directly from the manufacturers, your professional, and through big home improvement stores. The bigger the size of the window the higher the cost as it will require more time and crew members.
Labor Cost To Install Replacement Windows
Labor costs depend on your location, the window type, and the size of the company that you will hire. On average expect to pay $38 per hour with most regular sized window types, as usually takes around an hour to complete.
Always estimate from $100-$300 per window unit with complex jobs reaching $600. The labor cost to install a standard-size vinyl replacement window comes between $160 and $270. Expect to pay from $35 to $80 to remove a single pane window glass and $100 – $180 for a double-pane window set in putty or vinyl stops. To install weather stripping add another $170.
Cost to Replace Windows in an Old House
Replacing the windows of an old property poses many challenges(custom pieces, insulation, removing counterweights, etc.) and therefore the cost might double or triple. The average cost to replace windows in an old house comes to about $800 to $3,000. If the frame is in good condition you might be able simply to swap the old glass for $350 per window.
Window Change Cost by Location
While there is no significant difference in the price of window installation, there are certain areas to note.
Basement window replacements prices range from $350 to $1,000 depending on how much they need to be modified.
Basement egress windows can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $5,000.
Bathroom or Bedroom windows estimate between $300 and $700 for each.
Sunroom: The price depends mostly on the size.
Foyer or dining room: The cost of installation averages between $300 and $700. For large picture, bay or bow
For large picture, bay, and bow window types the cost can double or triple.
Replacing on upper floor windows will increase the cost by about $50, as it takes more time to access them. Usually, there is also the need to erect scaffolding.
Basement Window Replacement Cost
The cost to replace basement windows depends mostly on the material and the size of the job. If you are simply replacing the old window with a new one the cost will start at $300. However, if you are installing a window well and an egress window, expect at least to pay around $1,000, provided that there are not any structural damage and frame alterations. Better quality windows and windows with special features will increase the cost further.
Bathroom Window Replacement Cost
The cost to replace a bathroom window starts from $300 and can reach $1000 or more.
The cost increases if there is structural damage and the frame needs to be replaced.
High-quality windows with special features can cost a lot more.
Best Window Brands
How do you buy a quality window? Which brand is the best window brand? If you do research for window manufacturers you will find so many brands that you will be overwhelmed and confused. So where do you begin and how can you know which brands to trust? Below we present the window manufacturers based on our experience and customer feedback.
Andersen Windows & Doors has been manufacturing doors, windows, skylights, and more for over a century. This Minnesota-based company has risen to the top and is one of the most trusted brands.
Jeld-Wen has its headquarters in Charlotte, North Carolina. Their range of doors and treated wood windows are a very good option. The vinyl windows are not the best in the business but they are very solid and offer good value for potential buyers. Prices range from $50 to $1,200.
New South Windows- Based in Florida this manufacturer makes windows that meet the hurricane code requirements.
Pella – $100-$1,800. They are all around the country and come with a 20 years warranty.
Harvey – $125-$500. Products can be found throughout most of the USA.
Wallside – $300-$500. The company produces high-quality vinyl replacement windows with the option to have them installed. Products come with a 35-year warranty.
Feldco – $300-$700. Available in Wisconsin, Iowa, Indiana, and Illinois. You can either buy the windows or also have them installed. Windows come with a 20-year warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much is Window Glass Replacement?
Homeowners can expect to spend on average from $200 and $250 to replace a broken glass window. An installer fee usually comes to $45 to $65 per hour with the replacement glass costing from $50 to $100. Additional costs would have to be incurred if argon gas is to be injected between the glass panels and if new seals need to be placed.
Are Replacement Windows Worth the Cost?
Replacement windows are the most cost-effective option if you expect to reside within the same house for two decades or if you want to reduce your energy bills. Another aspect is when your home is equipped with state-of-the-art energy-efficient windows it would be easier to sell your home for any potential buyers. In the majority of the cases, homeowners are typically able to reimburse 70% of the initial project cost of the replacement windows upon selling the house.
How Often Should You Replace Windows?
Manufacturers recommend replacing windows every twenty years, this is mostly applicable for older windows. At present, manufacturers provide warranty for 5 to 20 years and in certain instances warranty is extended till your ownership of the house ends. Below are several other aspects to consider:
-Subpar window insulation would result in greater energy bills. -Inadequate sound insulation -Faulty opening mechanisms – Warping or rotting window frames – Outdated window designs would make your house difficult to sell, a house with modern widows would bring you approximately 70% of the initial cost – Foggy double-pane windows
What Is the Cost of Replacing Windows and Frames?
Be prepared to incur an extra 50-100% in expenses if the frames are to be replaced along with the windows. In old houses with worn down windows, this would have to be done for all windows. But in the case of newer houses, the damage is usually confined to a particular area hence the expense would not be applicable to all windows.
How Much Is It to Swap Out Windows and Doors Together?
The greater your expense with the contractor, the greater the chance of you receiving a discount. The major pitfall of selecting a low-cost package is that you are limited by the product types offered by vendors. You might have to settle for a window which you adore and a door you may hate.
How Much Does Window Disposal Cost?
In the estimate provided by the contractor, there may be an expense marked as old window disposal costing you approximately $50-$80 per cubic yard. This price would be compounded by the addition of $30-$40 per hour for loading the old windows to the trailer to be driven to the disposal site.
DIY Vs. Hiring a Pro
Why Hire a Professional?
Replacing a window is not an easy job. To be fooled and try to remove the old one yourself and install a new one if you have not at least done it at least once successfully in the past. Many homeowners believe that they can easily do it by following the instructions on a Youtube video.
You can easily invest in vain many days of hard work and end up calling a professional installer to redo the job. Why waste all this precious time when you can hire a contractor to do the work for you fast and flawlessly. The advantages of hiring a pro include:
Top-quality work – Window installers have perfected their craft for years so each window will be installed without any gaps to keep your home cool in the summer and hot in the winter.
Equipment and tools– Professional window installers have the right tools, which make their job easier.
Better prices – All professionals installers have access to cheaper and better quality materials.
Faster – Professional window installers know the right steps to fixing and replacing a window, so they need 8 to 10 times less time to complete the job.
Cleanup – After completing the window installation job, all contractors clean any mess and dispose of all waste.
Issues – Professional window installers know how to take the right measurements and also how to deal with situations like rotting wood and mold. They also know how to comply with any city ordinances, HOA rules, or building codes specific to your area.
Getting Professional Window Replacement Quotes
Before you choose a professional window installer to do the job for you make sure you do proper research and ask for quotes. Request at least 3 to 5 cost estimates through various home improvement networks to save time. Also, do not forget to have any friends or colleagues if they have hired anyone in the past that they would recommend. Quotes from top professionals should include several common elements such as:
Any design and set up costs.
Costs and expenses that might occur during the installation like dealing with mold, rotten, or any damaged structural elements.
Costs related to insulation or weatherproofing.
Costs associated with the removal and disposal of any construction debris.
When you request quotes from contractors do not forget to ask for a paper or electronic copy of of the guarantee the windows and the installation come with
According to the 2017 Disability Statistics annual report, the percentage of disabled people in the United States was 12.8% and has been steadily rising over the last five years. Advances in the understanding of disabilities, as well as adaptive technology, means that more and more disabled people are able to redesign their homes to mitigate the impact of their disability.
However, there remain legitimate ways in which homes can still be unsafe for those with disabilities.
By going through this guide, you can create a ‘checklist’ of items to be aware of, allowing you to address any potential safety issues in your home.
When it comes to making your home safe for those with disabilities, one of the most important steps is making sure that they can move freely and easily around the home. One of the most dangerous aspects of living in a non-adapted home is the need to access things out of reach or having to maneuver in an uncomfortable or unnatural way.
When it comes to making your home safe for those with disabilities, one of the most important steps is making sure that they can move freely and easily around the home. One of the most dangerous aspects of living in a non-adapted home is the need to access things out of reach or having to maneuver in an uncomfortable or unnatural way.
The most dangerous areas for disabled people in this respect are the kitchen and the bathroom, where the presence of cooking and bathing equipment, combined with reduced mobility, means that there is always the chance of additional danger.
Furthermore, for those who have impaired vision or hearing, there are added requirements when it comes to safety. Finally, the biggest danger for disabled people is the same as that for non-disabled people: fire. Being prepared for fire is essential to maximizing the changes of disabled people remaining safe.
The most dangerous areas for disabled people in this respect are the kitchen and the bathroom, where the presence of cooking and bathing equipment, combined with reduced mobility, means that there is always the chance of additional danger.
Furthermore, for those who have impaired vision or hearing, there are added requirements when it comes to safety. Finally, the biggest danger for disabled people is the same as that for non-disabled people: fire. Being prepared for fire is essential to maximizing the chances of disabled people remaining safe.
Lowering a stovetop to 28 inches above the ground will allow you to see what is inside the pots. You could also look to install a ‘pot-filler’ to avoid the need to carry water from sink to stove.
Ovens should have controls on the front rather than on the top so that they can safely and quickly be shut off without having to reach across burners.
Mirrors installed on the ceiling (for the example above the oven, or above the stove top) will allow you to see what is inside as it cooks.
For those with mobility issues in the upper limbs, ceramic cooktops allow pots and pans to be slid, rather than carried.
Before undertaking any modifications to the layout of your kitchen and your surfaces, you should measure your range of motion.
If you use a wheelchair, for example, you should measure all the dimensions of the chair, including foot and armrests.
This will allow you to determine how high your counters should be. Moreover, think about how high your oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher should be. Using these conveniently is the first step to using them safely.
Regardless of your level of disability, you should have at least one fire extinguisher in your kitchen. You should make sure you know-how and are able to use it, as well as where it is kept.
If you have mobility issues, then having more than one fire extinguisher is a must (for more information on fire extinguishers, see the section on Fire Safety, below).
Bathrooms
Bathrooms are potentially one of the trickiest rooms for people with disabilities due to the difficulty of maneuvering onto and off the toilet, in and out of the bath/shower, and the added complexity of doing so when floors are potentially wet.
The addition of water makes everything more difficult and, as a result, more dangerous.
For those who use a wheelchair, all doors need to be more than 32 inches wide to allow the wheelchair to pass through. This is true of doors throughout the home but may also apply to shower doors in the case of a roll-in shower.
Grab bars
Seats that are specially designed for transferring onto/off of
Mats for inside the bathtub (or shower, if applicable) that are non-slip
A bench that extends outside of the bathtub
A shower seat that can swivel around
A shower that you can roll a wheelchair into
A key tip from the ACA is that many bathroom modifications may leave pipes exposed (for example, in the case of lowering a sink). Exposed pipes may present an additional risk of burns, and therefore need to be covered and insulated.
For those who are cohabiting with someone with a disability, the following modifications are recommended. Again, these are all designed to make using the bathroom easier, and thereby make it safer.
CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING:
Adjustable sinks, toilets, and shelves, each of which can be altered in terms of its height. This allows for disabled and non-disabled users to share a bathroom without additional inconvenience.
Temperature controls for water. Increasingly this is being mandated in many cities and states for new bathrooms; however, installing these will help prevent burns, particularly in those who have little feeling in their extremities, and therefore may not initially realize that the water is dangerously hot.
1Toilet flush extensions and clamps for toilet paper – this is designed for those who have mobility issues in their upper limbs, and therefore struggle with grip.
STAIRWAYS AND RAMPS
Getting in and out of the home safely is something that many non-disabled individuals take for granted. However, the dangers of steps and stairs are extreme for those with disabilities.
Difficulties with mobility, balance, and upper or lower body strength all conspire to make stairs a potential hazard.
THERE ARE A NUMBER OF THINGS YOU CAN DO TO MAKE STAIRWAYS, STEPS, AND RAMPS FAR SAFER FOR THOSE WITH DISABILITIES:
Install handrails. In some jurisdictions these are mandatory. However, you should also confirm that your handrails are up to scratch, making sure they meet the following criteria:
They should support at least 250lbs in weight.
They should be attached to studs or blocking (i.e. not sheetrock).
They should be placed 1.5 inches from the walls (on both sides of the staircase).
They should go beyond the staircase at both the top and bottom to allow people support when exiting and entering the stairway.
Staircases should be free of all items at all times, as this may present a tripping hazard. This is especially true on basement stairs, as they tend to be steep and narrow. You may want to consider remodeling the basement to remedy this.
Staircases should be well maintained to avoid disintegration and unevenness. For example, there should not be loose stones, bricks, or planks, and outdoor steps should be kept free of ice.
The riser height should follow local building codes and be no less than 7 inches. The treads should also be large enough that individuals’ feet extend beyond the edge, which is a major tripping hazard.
Any ramps should have a gradient less than 1:12 to make it easier for those using wheelchairs and walkers to use them. Ramps should follow all of the upkeep and tidiness rules of stairs. Ramps should also be made of a non-slip surface (which can be achieved with non-slip paint or adhesive strips).
As a general rule, if you are unsure about any of the above, have the work completed by a professional. This will allow you to ensure that it is completed correctly, and therefore is as safe as possible. If you are no longer able to go up and down stairs, you should consider adding a stair chair lift to your home.
FIRE SAFETY
According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NPFA), the majority of fire deaths occur in the home.
The danger of fire is compounded for those with disabilities, as they may be less likely to stop a fire from spreading, less likely to hear a traditional smoke alarm, and maybe less able to safely exit the building. In all of the above cases, advanced preparation is critical to minimizing risk.
THE NPFA RECOMMENDS THE FOLLOWING:
Installing home fire sprinklers. These sprinklers may not always be able to extinguish a fire, although they work to keep fires small, thus increasing the time available to safely leave the building.
The rule for smoke alarms is that they should be:
In every sleeping room
Outside every sleeping area
On every level of the home
You should also test your smoke alarm every month to check that it still works.
Ideally, you smoke alarms should be interconnected so as to give more warning (this is particularly true for those who have trouble hearing).
For those who are deaf, you can buy and install one (or more) of the following alarms:
Strobe light alarms, which flash when the alarm sounds
Pillow or bed alarms, which vibrate when the alarm goes off
For those who are hard of hearing, a low-pitched sound alert device may be a good option, in conjunction with one of the other items.
In addition to the hardware available, you can also make your home safer through planning and preparing. Making a plan for escape, particularly if you live with other people, will help you to think about what to do. Running a fire drill will make sure you know your role in the event of a fire.
If you do have a plan, you can speak to your local fire department and ask them to review your plan. They may have a directory of people who require additional help that you can be added too. This will alert them in case of a fire, and they will be aware of your specific needs.
You should also install a phone by the side of the bed in case you need to call for help in case of a fire or an emergency.
The numbers of disabled people in the United States is constantly increasing. Indeed, in West Virginia, an estimated 20% of the population has some form of physical disability, the highest in the U.S. (by comparison, Utah has only 9.9% of its population estimated to be disabled).
The relative growth of disabled citizens, as well as improvements in technology, have made modifications easier, cheaper, and better than at any time in history. Individuals with disabilities are now able to customize their home to fit their specific needs.
Generally, technology can provide a great deal of assistance for a disabled person.
However, there remains a need for additional planning and preparedness to mitigate risk and to make a home as safe as possible for a disabled person.
