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How to Build a Roll-in Shower

Sarabeth Asaff

A roll-in shower by definition is a waterproof area large enough for an individual in a wheelchair to shower independently while remaining in the wheelchair. Designing a shower as a roll-in does not have to affect the rest of the bathroom design or style.

Building a roll-in shower is simple and easily incorporated into the bathroom design with just a few additional steps and requirements.

  1. Provide a space for the shower of a minimum of 36 inches by 60 inches, with a recommended size of 60 inches wide by 60 inches deep with a doorway or entryway size at least 42 inches wide.

  2. Tile the floor of the bathroom and the shower with mosaic tiles of 2 inches or smaller to accommodate the pitch of the drain, while allowing for barrier-free entry. Alternatively, use an acrylic base for the shower floor that will sit flush with the floor of the bathroom.

  3. Install a shower valve and hand shower on a positionable bar with the valve positioned approximately 38 inches off the finished floor. Include a lever handle on the shower valve for universal access and ease of use.

  4. Tile the walls of the shower to a minimum of 72 inches off the finished floor, with a recommended height of 3 inches above the highest point of a shower head above this height. Alternatively, install acrylic walls to a minimum of 72 inches off the finished floor.

  5. Tip

    If desired, install a splash guard of glass directly in front of the shower head, where the user will be seated. Leave the rest of the shower open to facilitate ease of use.