ADA-Compliant Closets

In most states, hardware, paint and lumber outlets have been deemed an essential service during the COVID-19 quarantine which just affirms what the industry has always understood—the expertise and experience, as well as, the products and services offered by American hardware retailers is irreplaceable, especially during a crisis. That same expertise is essential in many circumstances, from weather emergencies to new construction compliance. The areas of import are as diverse as the customer base. For example, some retailers are experts on Americans with Disabilities Act compliance and have, at times, advised contractors. If you’d like to know more about ADA compliance, check out these tips for closets:

Shared Space. According to Stepping Through Accessibility (STA), a California organization that works with property owners, architects, designers and building officials to navigate accessibility issues related to the ADA, a closet with a hang rod does not have to be accessible for the full length of the hanging rod, only a portion. This also applies to shelves where a portion of a shelf or one shelf minimum has to be within reach range for users with a mobility device. For racks or coat hooks, one minimum of each has to be within reach range too. Therefore, if the space is shared between an able-bodied person and someone who uses a mobility device, then storage options should be available at the appropriate height for each user. 

Deep Drawers. Since height is limited for mobility device users, drawers can replace hanging options. To make the most of drawer space, Innovate Home Org, a division of Innovative Building Solutions, advises homeowners to swap out 12” to 14” deep drawer boxes for 18” to 22” depths to give users twice the storage space. Twelve-inch deep wire shelving can also be replaced with 19” to 24” deep slide out shelves.