When planning a remodel, one of the most overlooked details is the doorway threshold. Yet, it is one of the most important elements for accessibility and long-term comfort. A properly designed threshold allows easy movement between rooms and outdoor areas, whether for a wheelchair, stroller, walker, or simply tired feet.
Making doorways ADA-friendly is not just about compliance – it’s about designing a home that is safe, functional, and welcoming for everyone. Remodeling offers the perfect opportunity to correct old barriers and create a more accessible living environment for the future.
Understanding Accessible Door Design
An ADA-friendly doorway follows the principles of universal design, ensuring that everyone can pass through comfortably and safely. These standards are based on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and equivalent Canadian accessibility codes.
Key elements include:
- Door width: The clear opening should be at least 32 inches wide to allow a wheelchair to pass. As noted by ADA.gov, this minimum standard ensures accessibility for both mobility aids and emergency medical equipment.
- Maneuvering space: Sufficient floor area is needed on both sides of the door so it can be approached and opened easily.
- Hardware: Lever handles are preferred over round knobs because they are easier to grasp and operate.
- Threshold height: This is the most critical factor. A low-profile or zero-step threshold eliminates tripping hazards and allows smooth passage across rooms and entrances.
According to Accessible Canada’s Built Environment Guidelines, national standards emphasize door width, maneuvering space, and low thresholds as essential elements of inclusive design.
Why Accessible Thresholds Matter in a Remodel
Incorporating accessibility into a remodel means preparing your home for all stages of life. This is often called “aging in place” – adapting a space so that mobility challenges never limit its use.
Even if you do not currently require accessibility features, they make daily living more comfortable. A lower threshold makes moving furniture easier, prevents tripping accidents, and provides smoother transitions for strollers or rolling luggage. Addressing accessibility during renovation ensures these improvements are built in, not added later. The Canada Revenue Agency recognizes such upgrades through the Home Accessibility Tax Credit, allowing homeowners to claim expenses for permanent modifications like low thresholds and wider doorways.
Comparing Accessible Threshold Options
During a remodel, several types of thresholds can improve accessibility. The right choice depends on your needs, budget, and the construction of your home.
| Parameter | Low-Profile Threshold | Ramped Threshold | Zero-Step / Level-In Threshold |
| Accessibility Level | Meets basic code | Easier for small rises | Fully seamless entry |
| Remodel Cost | Low | Medium | High |
| Installation Complexity | Simple replacement | Moderate adjustment | Complex structural work |
Each option improves accessibility, but the level of investment and structural change increases with performance. A full zero-step entry provides the best access but may require extensive remodeling.
How to Select the Right Threshold for Your Home
The ideal threshold depends on your mobility needs, the door’s location, and the construction of your floors and foundations.
- Assess current and future needs: If you or a family member uses a wheelchair or walker, a zero-step threshold offers the safest, most convenient solution. For general use, a low-profile threshold may be sufficient.
- Analyze the door location: Interior doors are easier to modify than exterior ones. For outside entrances, waterproofing and drainage are key considerations to prevent leaks.
- Check subfloor conditions: In existing homes, lowering the threshold may involve altering the subfloor or foundation. This can add cost and complexity but ensures true accessibility.
- Consult professionals: Accessibility specialists and experienced installers can help evaluate your structure and recommend cost-effective solutions that meet local building standards.
Common Planning Mistakes to Avoid
Accessibility improvements are often undermined by small but significant errors during design or installation. Avoid these common issues:
- Overlooking threshold height: Even small rises can be barriers. The U.S. Access Board’s ADA guide specifies that thresholds must not exceed 13 mm (½ inch) in height and must be beveled if greater than 6 mm (¼ inch), ensuring smooth transitions for wheelchairs and mobility devices.
- Ignoring maneuvering space: A clear threshold means little if there’s not enough room to approach or turn near the doorway. Pay attention to tight hallways and corners.
- Selecting unsuitable products: Some modern patio or sliding doors include high tracks that prevent easy rolling access. Look for models specifically designed for accessibility.
- Neglecting water control: For exterior doors, proper drainage and seals are essential. A zero-step design must include slope adjustments or concealed drains to prevent moisture issues.
By addressing these factors early, you ensure accessibility without compromising safety or durability.
Balancing Accessibility and Construction Limits
Achieving a perfectly flush, zero-step entry in an existing home is often a challenge. In new construction, floor levels can be planned from the start. In a remodel, however, removing subfloor height differences or lowering thresholds may require cutting into concrete slabs or adjusting structural framing.
For many homeowners, a compromise solution provides the best balance. A low-profile or ramped threshold, when combined with a beveled edge, can deliver near-seamless accessibility at a fraction of the cost. This approach meets most accessibility goals while avoiding extensive reconstruction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What should I consider with thresholds and accessibility?
Focus on three things: the threshold’s height (the lower the better), the bevel or slope (it should be gradual), and the maneuvering space in front of and beside the door.
2. How do I choose the best accessible door?
The “best” door is the one that meets your specific needs. For a new basement egress window or door, planning for accessibility from the start is key. For an existing space, a low-profile threshold is a good, affordable upgrade, while a full zero-step entry is the best, albeit most expensive, solution for full-time wheelchair users.
3. What are the advantages and disadvantages of accessible thresholds?
The primary advantage is safety and universal usability, which increases your home’s long-term value. The main disadvantage is cost and complexity, especially in a remodel where structural changes and waterproofing are significant concerns.
Conclusion
Accessible thresholds are more than a design feature – they are a commitment to inclusivity and long-term comfort. Remodeling is the best time to correct uneven floors, replace outdated doors, and create spaces that everyone can enjoy safely.
Whether your project involves new windows and doors or a full renovation, incorporating ADA-friendly design will pay off for years to come. By focusing on low, smooth thresholds, proper maneuvering space, and thoughtful material choices, your home becomes not just modern but truly accessible for all.
