Mike Holmes - How Can I Make My Home Wheelchair Accessible?

 Mike Holmes - How Can I Make My Home Wheelchair Accessible?

Making your home wheelchair accessible involves thoughtful planning and renovations that enhance mobility, safety, and comfort for everyone. If you are planning to update your forever home, or have recently experienced life changing medical diagnosis or accident, you will need to update your home so you can stay in it for as long as you can. But it's important that you do it right! 

Listen to Season 5, Episode 2 of the Holmes on Homes Podcast with Mike Holmes, “How Do You Make a Home Wheelchair Accessible? Must-Have Modifications & How to Find the Right Contractor” on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, or watch the full episode on YouTube.

On this Holmes on Homes podcast episode, Mike Holmes leads the discussion on how proper planning and quality construction can make a home not only safer but more comfortable for people with limited mobility, including ramps, chair lifts, widened doorways, and barrier-free bathrooms, always ensuring the work is up to code and built to last. His experience and dedication to “doing it right” make his approach a reliable model for homeowners seeking to create a truly accessible space.

A good place to start is with the entryway. Consider replacing steps with a wheelchair ramp that meets ADA guidelines for slope and width as well as local building codes. At minimum 36” doorways should be installed throughout the home.

Watch this clip on what you need to know to build a ramp to code in Canada.

If space is limited or the elevation is steep, a vertical platform lift can be an alternative solution. For multi-story homes, installing a residential elevator can greatly increase accessibility and independence.

Ronny Wiskin, Accessibility Specialist at MED+ Health, installs a vertical platform life on Holmes on Homes Building a Legacy.

Once inside, focus on creating open and navigable spaces. Doorways should be widened to at least 36 inches to accommodate a wheelchair comfortably. This often requires modifying the door frames or using offset hinges that allow doors to swing fully open without narrowing the passage. 

Remember, widening an existing doorway will likely require a building permit because altering the structural integrity of a building, including enlarging openings in walls if not done correctly can be very unsafe. Hallways and pathways should also be free of obstructions and wide enough to allow for smooth turning and movement.

Flooring throughout the home should be both durable and non-slip. Hardwood, luxury vinyl, and low-pile carpet are excellent options. Avoid thick rugs or mats that could become trip hazards or impede wheelchair movement.

Watch this clip on what is the best flooring option for wheelchair accessibility.

In an accessible bathroom, a barrier-free shower is essential. These showers have no step or lip - they are curbless - making it easy to roll in and out of the space. Adding a handheld showerhead, grab bars, and a shower bench further enhances safety and usability. Sink and vanity heights should be adjusted for wheelchair access, and wall-mounted fixtures can offer more clearance.

Making your home wheelchair accessible is not just about meeting standards—it's about creating a space where safety, comfort, and independence are prioritized. By following expert guidance and ensuring all modifications are done right, you can build a home that supports your needs for years to come.

Listen to the full Episode: “How Do You Make a Home Wheelchair Accessible? Must-Have Modifications & How to Find the Right Contractor.” on all podcast streaming platforms including Mike Holmes’ YouTube Channel as well as Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Looking for a new podcast? Check Out Season 5 Of The Holmes on Homes Podcast with Mike Holmes

The Holmes on Homes podcast goes deep into the world of construction, skilled trades, and smart building. But it’s also about the bigger picture—how to live better, build safer, and make confident choices about your home. Mike Holmes and his guests bring honest insights, expert know-how, and real-life stories to every episode, making it a must-listen whether you’re on the tools or just want to understand how things are built right.

Holmes on Homes Podcast with Mike Holmes is available on all podcast streaming platforms, including Mike Holmes’ YouTube Channel as well as Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

About Mike Holmes

Mike Holmes is the renowned host of Holmes on Homes, a popular podcast where he shares his expert insights on home renovation, construction, and problem-solving. With years of experience in the building industry, Mike offers listeners practical advice and solutions, helping them navigate home improvement challenges effectively.

About Sherry Holmes

Sherry Holmes, daughter of renowned contractor Mike Holmes, is a skilled contractor and television personality. Following in her father’s footsteps, she brings her expertise in home renovation to various projects. Passionate about quality craftsmanship and helping others, Sherry contributes to making homes safer and more sustainable. She actively supports and promotes youth and young women in the trades through organizations like Skills Canada, World Skills, and Conestoga College's Jill of All Trades.