Home adjustments that accommodate a wheelchair can be tricky. Manufactured homes have set layouts and blueprints, so you’ll need to do some renovations to make things work. Fortunately, we have five tips for making a manufactured home wheelchair accessible to give you a good idea of where to start.

Outdoor Ramp

Nearly all mobile or manufactured homes have a few stairs leading up to the front door. If you build a ramp the same size and angle as the stairs, it will be far too steep for wheelchair users. Many homeowners build long, gently sloping ramps that make it easy and comfortable for wheelchair users to enter and exit the home.

Bathroom Adjustments

Making necessary renovations to the bathroom is a vital part of ensuring your home is wheelchair accessible. Provide enough room and adequate handrails to ensure the person can make it from their wheelchair to the toilet. Many wheelchair-accessible homes also have walk-in showers with handrails and a shower seat to make bathing easy.

Doors and Windows

One tip for making a manufactured home wheelchair accessible is to install wide doors. Most mobile home doors have a width of 34 inches, but doors with a width of 36–38 inches are far more accessible for wheelchair users.

You may want to lower the window frames to make it easier for wheelchair users to open and close. We recommend installing motorized window treatments so that anyone can control the amount of natural light entering the home without getting out of their chair.

Kitchen Space

Adjusting the kitchen space usually involves lowering the countertop so that a wheelchair user can comfortably access the counter without over-exerting themselves. The standard height for wheelchair-accessible countertops is about 23 inches.

Switches and Outlets

Another aspect of making a mobile home more wheelchair accessible is to raise or lower the heights of light switches. Many outlets are at a good height, but you may need to move them to locations where they’re visible and accessible. Lower light switches to make them more accessible, or invest in alternative power methods like clapper switches or remote control lights.

If you’re looking for mobile home parts to conduct your wheelchair-accessible renovations, Mobile Home Outfitters is here for you. We have a wide range of features for every room in the house and helpful guides and trained staff to aid you every step of the way. If you have any particular questions, feel free to reach out to us anytime, and a member of our team will be happy to assist you.