Design for the Elderly and Disabled Environments: Interior Floors Part 9 of 10 Making Homes More Comfortable and Accessible

Interior Floor Surfaces Carpet Non-Skid and Slip-Resistant Surfaces Small Level Changes Ramp Surfaces Grill and Grates Summary

Carpet Replacement Type - Dense/Tight - Level or Textured Loop - 1/2” Maximum Thickness - Install without Pad Edges - Securely attached edges with a maximum slope of 1:2

Non-Skid and Slip-Resistant Surfaces General - Consider using slip- resistant materials that provide traction for crutches, shoe heels, and wheeled mobility devices Type - Some have abrasive textures designed to be slip resistant Vinyl - Many types are now available with non-skid surfaces

Small Level Changes General - Smooth Transition - Vertical changes no greater than 1/4 inch - Levels up to 1/2 inch. Can be crossed with a 1:2 slope - Changes greater than 1/2 inch require a slope with a maximum rise of 1:20

Small Level Changes Bevels - Can be installed to correct vertical changes Raising Floor Level - Another layer of material can also be added to level out a raised surface

Ramp Surface Replacement Ramp surfaces are often slippery - Choose a stable, firm, slip-resistant material - Avoid using carpet, which causes wheels to slip - If carpet must be used, select a dense, short pile and tightly woven material

Grill and Grate Replacement Openings - Use openings of 1/2 inch opening -Install according to direction of travel -Rectangular openings perpendicular to direction of travel may exceed 1/2 inch

Summary Install Carpet Edge Strips Coat Back of Throw Rugs Use Rubber Mats Apply Abrasive Strips Paint with anti-skid coatings Install Short Surface Ramps or Bevels