Can a raised floor home be adapted for wheelchair access?
Yes, and there are many options for easy access. Universal Design should be factored into the home plans. Universal Design accommodates wheelchair access, such as ramps, widened doorways and halls, and also may include other adaptations such as bathroom fixtures and lowered counters and cabinets. Common types of access from ground level into the raised home include wood ramps, earthen landscaping, platform or stair lifts, and for multi-story homes, elevators. Most common is the wood ramp, usually constructed from pressure-treated wood. Wood ramps are economical and easily adaptable either for new construction or an existing home. Wood ramps can be designed to be hidden from the street, or if visible, can be detailed so that they blend attractively into the architectural style of the home. When incorporating Universal Design, contact your local building official before construction begins to insure compliance with local codes. Visit the Center for Universal Design for more information a
