1-855-566-6722 | 
Most homes are built with able-bodied individuals in mind. We often don't even realize how much of a privilege it is to step into a shower without assistance. However, for individuals with mobility challenges, the simple act of bathing can become a daunting task.
Roll-in showers are a gateway to independence for many. In this article, we'll explore what roll-in showers are, how they work, and what it takes to make them dually accessible and comfortable.
What Is an Accessible Roll-In Shower?
A roll-in shower is a bathing apparatus specially designed to accommodate individuals using wheelchairs or mobility devices. It's similar to a conventional shower but without the limitation of barriers or obstacles at the entrance.
Typical shower thresholds, which rise above floor level to prevent water from spilling onto the bathroom floor, can be a significant hurdle for wheelchair users. High-sided bathtubs similarly require a considerable amount of strength and balance to navigate. It's understandably difficult to maintain a proper self-care routine when the very facilities one uses pose a safety risk.
Roll-in showers solve this problem. Designed with a level or minimal entry, they provide a seamless transition from standard showers and bathtubs to accessible shower stalls. Users in wheelchairs have the ability to roll in without any physical barriers. Added features like grab bars, handheld showerheads, and built-in seating further enhance accessibility and safety.
How Roll-In Showers Work
Curbed showers aren't designed the way they are to be difficult to access. Thresholds serve an important functional purpose of keeping water inside the shower stall. Without some kind of barrier or various water containment accessories, the water could escape onto the bathroom floor.
Roll-in showers direct water towards the drain with a gradual slope in the floor. This clever design feature allows water to flow naturally towards the drain without the need for a raised threshold. The slope is typically between 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch per foot, which is enough to guide water effectively without creating an unstable surface for wheelchair users.
To further enhance water management, roll-in showers often include additional water containment solutions such as rubber collapsible WaterStoppers and heavy weighted shower curtains.
Who Can Benefit from a Roll-In Shower?
The great thing about roll-in shower projects is that once they're completed, there are no limitations on who can use them. Able-bodied individuals can step inside as well as wheelchair-bound individuals can glide. It makes you wonder why builders don't just design all homes like this in the first place – if they did, large investments in bathroom conversions wouldn't be necessary.
Installing a roll-in shower is worthwhile nonetheless. A flush floor not only accommodates wheelchair users but also benefits elderly individuals or anyone who may have difficulty with traditional shower setups.
Wider entrances make it much easier for caregivers to assist those with mobility issues. For individuals recovering from surgery or injury, a roll-in shower can significantly ease the transition back to independent living. A little work and investment now has the potential to keep someone living comfortably in their own home for longer than they otherwise might have been able to.
Roll-in showers also offer benefits beyond accessibility. They're easier to clean, with fewer nooks and crannies for mold and mildew to hide. The open design creates a sense of spaciousness, making even small bathrooms feel larger. And let's not forget the aesthetic appeal – a sleek, modern roll-in shower can significantly boost a home's value and appeal to potential buyers.
Beyond individual homes, roll-in showers are increasingly common in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and assisted living facilities. They're also becoming a standard feature in many hotels, as the hospitality industry recognizes the importance of accommodating all guests, regardless of mobility needs.
The Features That Make Roll-In Showers Unique
Roll-in showers have several unique features that set them apart from traditional shower setups. The differences listed below are included by design to serve users with accessibility needs.
Level Entry: The most distinctive feature of a roll-in shower is the minimal rise or flush threshold, which allows for easy access in a shower commode or other mobility device.
Sloped Floor: A gradual slope directs water towards the drain and eliminates the need for a raised threshold in doing so.
Wide Opening: Roll-in shower openings can be as wide as 36 to 72 inches wide, space permitted, to accommodate wheelchairs comfortably.
Reinforced Walls: Prefabricated shower walls come with built-in backing to securely mount grab bars and shower benches.
Adjustable Shower Heads: Hand-held or adjustable-height shower heads provide flexibility for users of different heights or abilities.
Built-in Seating: Many roll-in showers include a fold-down bench or permanent seat for added comfort and safety.
Non-Slip Flooring: Textured surfaces reduce the risk of slips and falls.Easy-to-Reach Controls: Shower controls are positioned within arm's reach of the seated position.
What Every Handicap Roll-In Shower Should Have
Beyond the above core features, every accessible shower can be made more valuable with the inclusion of additional, thoughtful elements such as anti-scald valves, additional anti-slip applications on floor and adequate lighting. By incorporating these additional features, a roll-in shower becomes not just accessible, but also safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable for users.
How Big Should a Roll-In Shower Be?
The ADA recommends a minimum interior dimension of 60 inches by 30 inches for roll-in showers. However, larger dimensions of 60 inches by 36 inches or even 60 inches by 42 inches can provide more comfort and maneuverability for wheelchair users. The extra space allows for easier turning and positioning, as well as room for a caregiver if needed.
Installing a Roll-In Shower with Threshold vs. Without
Roll-in showers can technically have a threshold – albeit a very low one under ADA guidelines. Any perimeter curb should be less than half an inch in height. A lip might make sense in some cases, like in older homes where extensive floor modifications are impractical or cost-prohibitive. However, a completely level entry is always the gold standard for accessibility.
When deciding between a threshold or no threshold, consider the user's specific needs and abilities. A person with some mobility might manage a small lip, while someone with severe limitations would benefit most from a zero-threshold design. It's also worth thinking about future needs – opting for a completely barrier-free shower now could save time and money on further modifications down the road.
Create the Perfect Accessible Roll-In Shower with Orca Healthcare
Just like any other bathroom improvement project, the quality of a roll-in shower installation comes down to the caliber of products you use. Orca HealthCare proudly supplies contractors and homeowners with North America's very best accessible bathroom products. Our catalog contains over 50 unique one-piece roll-in shower and multi-piece roll-in shower systems. Explore the possibilities by contacting us at 1-855-566-6722 or 604-733-2656 today.
