Handicap Shower Enclosures

Probably the most exciting thing in the whole process of bathroom remodeling would be choosing the fixtures to use in it. Fixtures which would be able to transform the bathroom into a place of beauty and elegance and a good example would be shower enclosures. However, for some, choosing such fixtures not only requires good taste but also a good eye for functionality. This is particularly true in households that have a family member that has a disability or has special needs.

Now, whether you would be installing a square, oblong or a quadrant shower space, your bathroom would surely be transformed into somewhat of an artistic area if you use these fixtures, not to mention its feature of being able to conserve space. A shower enclosure is usually just a fixture that would be surrounding a small area dedicated for a quick shower and not a space that would be rarely used like a luxurious bath tub or a vat for two people.

When we talk about showers for those with disabilities though, we need to consider more than just the design or the space that it takes up. The handicap shower enclosure is typically made using toughened clear safety glass panels or clear plastic panels. Plastic panels would not be very advisable as they have the tendency to look unsightly as time passes. This is because as the cleaning agents react or scratch with the plastic, causing it to go cloudy. If the plastic panel is scratched, it becomes less hygienic as it could easily harbor bacteria and other dirt. If you choose to use glass panels, they need to be toughened to become what we call toughened safety glass as well as certified to BS6206 A.

Today, there are two basic designs of available handicap shower enclosures. The first one would be the bifold enclosure. This consists of two panels that are joined together with the use of a single hinge point. The other would be the trifold shower enclosure that is made up of three smaller panels that are joined together with the use of two hinge points. It would just depend on the personal taste of the user as to which design would be better. However, the trifold handicap shower enclosure can fold into a smaller area, which makes it probably more suitable for bathrooms that are relatively smaller in size. Now, if manual dexterity or upper body strength is a problem then the design of the bifold shower enclosure having the simpler single hinge arrangement could be a better option.

Obviously safety and convenience are of the utmost importance so if you have any doubts consult with a professional. You could even contact your local hospital to see if they have any recommendations.