Continued from page 10 In the Bathroom
„ Install countertops with contrasting edge-banding.
„ In the tub/shower, choose an adjustable height showerhead so it can easily be positioned at a comfortable height for anyone. Offset shower and tub controls to the room side of the enclosure so they can easily be reached from outside the tub/shower.
„ Install grab bars, or at least blocking between the studs so that grab bars can easily be added in the future.
„ Install vanities of different heights. „ To provide wheelchair access, make sure the doorway is 32 inches wide,
install a curb-free shower pan, choose a wall-hung sink with covered pipes, and try to provide a 60-inch clear floor space for turning the wheelchair.
Throughout the House
„ Choose lever handles instead of door knobs.
„ Design hallways and doorways that are 32 inches wide or more.
„ Avoid changes in floor height, including thresholds.
„ Lower switches and raise receptacles so that they can be reached from a seated position.
Most people want to continue living in their own homes as they get older. Often, it is possible to easily remodel a home that adapts to the changing needs of our clients and the growing demands of the market. With careful planning, remodeling or adapting, a home can build a greater sense of independence, freedom and privacy for our clients.
Now more than ever it is important to be educated about the changes in our industry. Consumer desires and needs will always dictate the direction of our businesses. If you don’t know how to do what they are looking for, then you will be passed over for someone who does. The CAPS designation gives you the information you need to execute universal design, demonstrates your dedication to excellence and establishes you as an expert. With a rapidly growing portion of the population seeking an alternative to assisted living as they age, it is clear that universal design and the CAPS designation is something that industry professionals really do need.
* GHBA will offer CAPS I and CAPS II courses in October. See page 36 for details.
About the Authors: Allen Griffin, CGR, GMB, CAPS, CGP is founder and president of Gryphon Builders and Gryphon Property Services. Allen was named 2009 Remodeler of Year and 2007 NAHB Certified
Graduate Remodeler of the Year. He currently serves as Membership Committee chair for the GHBA Custom Builders Council. He serves on the Education and Membership committees, and has been on the Remodelors Council board for years, serving as RMC president in 2009.
Larissa Michael has been working in the building and design industry for nearly 15 years. President of Volume Control, she handles the advertising, marketing and PR for several industry companies.
As a Remodelors Council member, Larissa earned her Certified Graduate Associate designation, served as the 2010 Membership Chair, and currently serves as the special committees marketing coordinator. Larissa received the 2010 TAB Star Award and the 2010 GHBA Houston’s Best Award for Best Print Ad – Remodeler.
12 OCTOBER 2011 | HOUSTON BUILDER | GREATER HOUSTON BUILDERS ASSOCIATION – BUILDING A BETTER FUTURE
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