Build Independence Without Sacrificing Style
Accessibility is about dignity, confidence, and ease. The right upgrades make daily life safer and more comfortable while keeping your home beautiful. At Fort Rock Construction, we specialize in ADA remodels in Eugene, Oregon, blending universal design with quality craftsmanship to fit your needs now and for years to come.

1) Zero-Threshold Entries & Wider Doorways
Eliminate trip hazards with level thresholds at entries and between rooms. Widen high-traffic doorways to improve mobility for walkers and wheelchairs. Lever-style handles make opening doors simpler for all ages.

2) Roll-In or Curbless Showers + Strategic Grab Bars
Curbless showers improve access and dramatically reduce fall risk. Add blocking in walls and place grab bars where they actually help at entries, in shower walls, and near the toilet. Use slip-resistant tile for secure footing.

3) Accessible Vanities, Fixtures & Toilets
Choose knee-clearance vanities with offset plumbing, single-lever faucets, and comfort-height toilets. Drawer storage with soft-close glides keeps essentials easy to reach. Mirror height and task lighting matter for visibility.

4) Kitchen Upgrades That Work for Everyone
Lower select counter segments, include pull-out shelves, and choose D-shaped cabinet pulls for easier grip. Plan clear 5-foot turning circles where possible. Bright, layered lighting supports safe food prep and cleanup.

5) Flooring, Lighting & Circulation
Continuous, low-pile flooring reduces transitions. Good contrast between surfaces helps depth perception. Layer ambient, task, and night lighting for safe movement 24/7.

Planning, Permits & Coordination
Local conditions matter. We review layout, electrical, plumbing, and ventilation, then coordinate permits and inspections to keep the project compliant and on schedule, so you get reliable results without surprises.

Our ADA Remodel Process

1. Consult & assess: Goals, mobility needs, budget, and timeline
2. Design: Universal design solutions tailored to your home
3. Select: Durable, low-maintenance materials and fixtures
4. Build: Clean, respectful job sites with clear communication
5. Finish: Walkthrough, adjustments, and care guidance
   
   
   

Why Homeowners Choose Fort Rock
We’re known for honesty, attention to detail, and dependable delivery across Eugene, Springfield, Cottage Grove, Veneta, and Lane County. As a licensed Oregon contractor (CCB #140699), we stand behind our work and your safety.

Start Your Accessible Remodel Today
Your home should empower you. Let’s create spaces that feel safe, stylish, and easy to use.
📞 Call 541-767-1611 to schedule your free consultation.

Build for comfort today and confidence tomorrow, beautifully.

The Heart of Your Home Deserves a Thoughtful Design
Your kitchen is more than a place to cook,  it’s where meals are shared, conversations unfold, and memories are made. Whether you’re dreaming of a complete transformation or a few key upgrades, a well-planned remodel can make your kitchen more functional, inviting, and valuable.

At Fort Rock Construction, we specialize in kitchen remodels in Eugene, Oregon, tailored to fit your unique lifestyle and budget. Here’s how we help homeowners design a kitchen that’s beautiful, efficient, and built to last.


1. Start with How You Use Your Space
Before selecting materials or finishes, consider how you actually live in your kitchen. Do you cook often? Entertain guests? Need more prep area or storage?

Understanding your habits helps determine layout, workflow, and features that matter most. Fort Rock’s team often begins by evaluating how you move through your space to recommend the most efficient design, whether that’s an open-concept layout, a functional galley, or a large island centerpiece.
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2. Prioritize Layout and Flow
The layout is the foundation of every great kitchen. Classic configurations like the “work triangle,” connecting the sink, stove, and refrigerator. This keeps cooking efficient and intuitive!

💡 Pro Tip: Even small kitchens can feel spacious with smart zoning, extra lighting, and well-placed storage solutions. Fort Rock’s designers help you reimagine your space so it feels open, balanced, and tailored to your daily routines.

3. Choose Durable, Low-Maintenance Materials
From counters to cabinetry, the right materials make a huge difference in both appearance and performance. Oregon homeowners love the timeless durability of:

• Quartz countertops for easy maintenance
• Soft-close cabinetry for quiet functionality
• LVP flooring for moisture resistance and warmth
• Tile backsplashes for a clean, modern finish
  
  

These finishes deliver long-term value while maintaining a cohesive, high-end look.

4. Plan for Lighting Layers
Lighting shapes both mood and functionality. A well-designed kitchen includes a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting.
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Use pendant lights to highlight islands or dining areas, under-cabinet LEDs for visibility, and recessed lighting for overall brightness. Energy-efficient fixtures not only improve visibility but also reduce long-term energy costs, an easy win for Oregon homeowners.

5. Set a Realistic Budget (and Stick to It)
Transparency and planning are key to avoiding remodel stress. Fort Rock Construction works with clients to establish clear budgets upfront and offers value-engineered options to maximize impact without cutting corners.

💡 Example: A kitchen remodel in Eugene often ranges from $25,000–$75,000, depending on materials, layout changes, and scope. Even modest updates can dramatically improve aesthetics and resale appeal when done with quality craftsmanship.


Our Kitchen Remodel Process
At Fort Rock Construction, we handle every step of your kitchen remodel, from concept to completion. Our process includes:

1. Consultation: We discuss goals, inspiration, and budget.
2. Design: We refine your layout, materials, and finishes.
3. Build: Our licensed team manages the project from demolition to final detail.
4. Final Walkthrough: Ensuring your satisfaction before we call it complete.

We keep you informed throughout the process so your remodel feels seamless, not stressful.


Why Homeowners Choose Fort Rock Construction
With decades of combined experience across Eugene, Springfield, and Lane County, Fort Rock Construction is known for integrity, communication, and craftsmanship. As a licensed Oregon contractor (CCB #140699), we take pride in building kitchens that enhance both your lifestyle and your home’s value.

We’re not just contractors,  we’re your remodeling partners who are dedicated to creating spaces that inspire connection, comfort, and joy.

Your perfect kitchen starts with one conversation. Whether you’re updating a cozy bungalow or a modern family home, Fort Rock Construction brings your vision to life with quality, precision, and care.

Call 541-767-1611 to schedule your free kitchen remodel consultation today. We proudly serve homeowners in Eugene, Springfield, Cottage Grove, Veneta, and surrounding Lane County communities.

Let’s design a kitchen that truly feels like home.

Your Bathroom Should Feel Like Home

Your bathroom should be more than functional,  it should feel fresh, comfortable, and built to last. Whether you’re planning a small update or a full renovation, the right upgrades can dramatically improve both your home’s comfort and resale value.
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At Fort Rock Construction, we specialize in bathroom remodels in Eugene, Oregon, that combine craftsmanship, durable materials, and timeless design. Here are the top five upgrades our clients love and why they deliver the best return on investment.​

1. Walk-In Tile Showers
Replacing an outdated tub with a custom tile shower instantly modernizes your space. Large-format tiles, built-in benches, and frameless glass doors make bathrooms look more open while improving accessibility and ease of cleaning.

💡 Pro Tip: Choose slip-resistant flooring for safety and longevity — especially in family or multi-use bathrooms.

2. Custom Vanities and Smart Storage 
A well-designed vanity adds both style and function. Consider drawers instead of doors, soft-close hardware, and built-in organizers for a clean, clutter-free look.

Modern finishes like quartz or butcher block countertops bring warmth and sophistication to even small bathrooms, while maximizing every inch of usable space.

3. Updated Lighting and Mirrors 
Lighting is one of the most overlooked features in bathrooms yet it makes all the difference. Combine overhead lighting with sconces or back-lit mirrors for a spa-like atmosphere and balanced illumination.

💡 Bonus: Energy-efficient LED fixtures reduce utility costs while providing crisp, natural light perfect for your daily routine.

4. High-Efficiency Fixtures 
New toilets, faucets, and showerheads don’t just update the look of your bathroom, they also help conserve water and reduce monthly bills.

Today’s high-efficiency fixtures combine sleek design with eco-friendly performance, making them a smart and stylish investment for modern homeowners in Eugene and beyond.

5. Heated Floors for Comfort
Nothing feels better than stepping onto a warm floor on a chilly Oregon morning. Radiant in-floor heating adds luxury and comfort, especially in primary bathrooms, and can increase your home’s resale appeal.
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Fort Rock Construction frequently installs heated floors as part of complete bathroom renovations to deliver the perfect blend of functionality and indulgence.

Bonus: Bathroom Remodel ROI and Popular Materials
According to national remodeling data, a mid-range bathroom remodel delivers an average return on investment between 60–70%.

Homeowners in Eugene, Springfield, and Lane County often choose timeless, low-maintenance materials like:

• Porcelain or natural stone tile
• Quartz countertops
• Brushed brass or matte black fixtures
• Water-efficient plumbing

These upgrades are durable, beautiful, and designed to perform for years to come.


Our Bathroom Remodel Process
At Fort Rock Construction, we make remodeling simple and stress-free. It begins with a free consultation where we discuss your goals, style, and budget. From there, we:

1. Develop a custom design plan tailored to your needs.
2. Source quality materials that balance cost and longevity.
3. Manage every phase of the remodel from permits to final polish.
   
   

With decades of experience serving Eugene, Springfield, Cottage Grove, and the greater Willamette Valley, our licensed team ensures each project is completed on time and built to the highest standards.


Why Homeowners Trust Fort Rock Construction
We’re more than builders, we’re partners in creating your dream home. Our reputation is built on honesty, attention to detail, and dependable communication from start to finish.

Every project is backed by our Oregon contractor license (CCB #140699) and a commitment to craftsmanship that stands the test of time.


Transform Your Bathroom with Fort Rock Construction
If you’re ready to turn your bathroom into a beautiful, functional space that reflects your style, our team is here to help. Call 541-767-1611 or visit fortrockconstruction.com to schedule your free consultation today.

We proudly serve homeowners across Eugene, Springfield, Cottage Grove, Veneta, and surrounding Lane County communities.

✨ Let’s build something beautiful together.

No matter the size of your home, house additions are excellent investments. Beyond making your home more livable, additions increase the value of your home by providing desirable space and features to potential home buyers. Many people consider additions because of their growing family, because they have parents move in with them as they age, or because the homeowners work from home and need more space. But before you start the process of adding to your home's footprint, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Make sure to consult with a builder before starting your project. He or she can identify any obstacles you might encounter, as well as advise on the best approach to reach your goals.
• Check on your local zoning ordinances, building codes, and if in a homeowners association, any HOA regulations about home modifications. It's better to know what you can and can't do before you start incurring expenses.
• Take your plans and/or blueprints to the county assessor, and once construction is complete, take them back again so your home can be valued properly.

Once you know the framework in which you can proceed, it's time to get started. There are several different types of home additions you can consider, depending on your particular needs. Here are some of the more popular home addition projects that add both living and investment benefits:

Adding a Second Story
While this major addition can be fairly expensive, it adds significant square footage and resale value to your home. Before taking this project on, make sure your home's structure and foundation can handle the additional weight as not all homes are suitable for this option.

Adding a Room Over the Garage
If you have a soon to be college student who still wants to live at home, or if you want a home office separate from the main house, adding a room over your garage can make a lot of sense. The space can act as a small apartment or as a bonus room, and the construction process won't make a mess of your home. Be aware that you may have different drywall and vapor barrier requirements since the addition is over a garage.

Build a Dormer
Dormers are a favorite with attic remodels because they add much-needed light and significant curb appeal from the outside. If you are working with attic space that is converting to living space, dormers are a great way to increase appeal and return on investment.

Finishing Your Basement
If your home has a basement, you can convert that unused space into an incredible living space. So while you're not technically adding onto your home, you are adding square footage that is useful and appealing. Whether you are looking to build a downstairs apartment, an Airbnb getaway, or your family's new movie room, the options are limitless. Essential to keep in mind is including emergency windows or a backyard walkout so people can safely exit.

Add On to Your Kitchen
Even the smallest remodel to your kitchen can provide a high return on investment. Not only do you create a space you can enjoy, but you also create a more appealing kitchen to future homebuyers. You can expand your kitchen's square footage by turning a flex space or bump-out addition into a cozy breakfast nook or even a walk-in pantry. As one of the best return on investment projects, a kitchen addition is well worth considering.

Expand Your Bathroom
Let's face it, we could all appreciate a larger bathroom. Besides the benefits of extra elbow room, larger bathrooms work really well for aging individuals or people who are wheelchair-bound. The extra space allows for comfortable movement and any safety modifications. Much like kitchen remodels and additions, bathrooms also have a high return on investment. Bathroom additions might include a bump-out to include space for a soaking tub or expanded shower. You can also consider converting adjoining space to a half-bathroom to make it a full bath. Maybe you have space from adjoining closets or stairs that can be used. Bring in a professional to explore what is possible, especially because moving or adding plumbing can significantly increase the cost of your project.

Add a Mudroom
Especially in rainy parts of the country, like Oregon, a mudroom can be an addition appreciated by all. Mudrooms help keep shoes, coats, backpacks, etc. organized and out of the way from the main living space. They are also a nice space to keep your wet items to dry so you don't get the insides of your home wet and muddy. Depending on the size of mudroom desired, this can be a fairly affordable project.

Convert Your Front Porch to a Sunroom
Again, living in Oregon, the rain can be somewhat oppressive, especially in the winter months. If you decide to convert your porch into a sunroom, you add both square footage and an 'outdoor' space you can enjoy year-round. Being able to be 'outside' and yet still inside can help not feeling so cooped up all winter long. In the other months of the year, the sunroom can make for a wonderful place to gather with friends or family for meals, games, etc.

Convert Your Attached Garage into an Extra Room
If you are looking to increase countable square footage to your home, note that your garage can no longer be used as a garage. But, if you do this type of conversion, you can gain a great workout space, an extra bedroom, home office, or craft room. This type of home addition has a good return on investment but be aware that when it comes time to sell your home, you may have fewer interested buyers if you no longer have a garage.

Home additions are best completed by an experienced and licensed contractor. Fort Rock Construction has been helping homeowners in the Eugene, Springfield, and Cottage Grove areas since 2001. Please give us a call to discuss your home addition project. 541-767-1611

If you decide to renovate your bathroom before selling your home, potential buyers will be more interested if the bathroom is spacious and has updated fixtures and appliances.

What size bathroom makes the most sense?
A key consideration is whether to build a full, three-quarter or half-bath. A full bath will have a sink, toilet, shower, and tub. A half bath is just a sink and toilet. And then there’s the three-quarter bath, which is a sink, toilet, and shower (no tub). Generally speaking, it is less expensive to put in a half bath, and it is easier to convert another space in the home such as a utility closet for the purpose.

If you don't have the budget for a full bath but want to be able to provide a space for the basics of hygiene and cleanliness, a three-quarter bathroom is a great solution. Most people prefer a quick shower to a long, hot bath, and so as long as you have at least one bathtub in your house, you may not need a second full bath.

The appeal of another full versus a three-quarter bath depends on the buyer. Families with little kids often want another bathtub, while those with older children prefer a shower. If your house has only one bathroom and your budget is really tight, install the half-bath. People usually don’t mind waiting to take a bath or shower but waiting to use the toilet is another matter.

Remodeling the Bathroom
What if you don’t need an extra bathroom, but want to remodel a tired old bathroom to make it more appealing to buyers? If that’s the case, you don’t want to spend a great deal of money, but do spend your budget wisely. Working with a contractor who specializes in bathroom remodels can help you make the most of your budget. You don't have to spend a lot and it could make your house sell more quickly down the line.

Resale Value
New bathrooms are added to homes either as replacements or as additions. Either way, a new bathroom can freshen a home's interior and raise its overall value. New bathrooms, though, can be expensive. A mid-range bathroom addition, for example, can run around anywhere from $25,000 or more to add a new space, depending on the design and material choices. Converting an existing space is considerably less costly. Typical ROI on a new bathroom is generally good, garnering between 40-60 percent for the homeowner.

Prospective home buyers often value bathrooms greatly, but a house that does not have a good mix of bathrooms might sell poorly. Full and three-quarter baths in a home are often more attractive than half-baths at home sale time. And home buyers with children often want home bathrooms with tubs for the kids and showers for the adults. However, as the size and amenities in a bathroom grow, so does the cost.

Before committing to a bathroom addition, call in a real estate agent or a professional appraiser to evaluate whether an additional bathroom makes sense in your situation. Buyers tend to prefer houses where the number of bathrooms equals the number of bedrooms, according to National Association of Home Builders.

The team at Fort Rock Construction has been working with homeowners since 2001 and we are bathroom remodeling experts. Put our years of experience to use with your home. Give us a call for an estimate today at 541-767-1611.

Planning for an accessible kitchen remodel, while in theory has similarity to other remodeling projects, actually involves special considerations you won't want to forget or overlook. If you want a workable, safe kitchen for disabled access or aging in place, be sure to avoid the following accessible kitchen remodel mistakes.  

Not enough turn-around space
Skimping on the space that’s necessary to turn around a mobility device can make your space simply unusable for those who need the extra turn-around space. When you make up your kitchen remodel floor plan, aim for a minimum five-foot turning radius of free space. This space is the amount needed to allow a person using an electric wheelchair or scooter room to turn their device around while minimizing the risk of bumping into kitchen cabinets, countertops, or appliances.

Installing inaccessible faucets
When shopping for faucets, look for options that are either hands-free or that can be operated by means of a lever rather than difficult-to-turn knobs. In addition, you must also make sure your faucets are reachable. It does no good to have accessible faucets if no one can reach them from a wheelchair. Make sure your kitchen design includes clearance under the sink, allowing sufficient room to roll a wheelchair under it, within easy reach of the faucet. Keep in mind you will also want to move plumbing pipes to the rear so you can maximize your space and you should also shield the pipes with insulation or some other barrier to avoid potential burns to a person's legs.

Countertops that are too tall
A tricky consideration for your kitchen remodel is how to accommodate everyone's needs with countertops that are of different heights. If you opt for countertops that are lower in height so a person in a wheelchair can use them, they will likely be too short for others in the household. Your best bet is to either alternate accessible countertops with some at the conventional height of 36 inches or have adjustable counters installed.

Slippery floors
Food prep and clean up tend to be messy tasks in a busy kitchen, so your choice in flooring material is an important consideration. For example, ceramic tile flooring and linoleum, while popular for use in kitchens, can also become very slippery when wet, causing a hazardous situation for those who are mobility-impaired. A better solution is choosing slip-resistant flooring. If you have your heart set on tile, look at using ceramic tiles that are smaller (6- or 8-inch squares are ideal) as they will offer reduced slipperiness; the additional number of grout lines per square foot will add some extra traction.

Choosing standard appliances
When purchasing new appliances, give careful thought to their accessibility. For example, a side-by-side refrigerator is a better option than a top-bottom freezer-refrigerator combo as it provides easier access to both compartments. Other important appliance details include choosing cooktops with front controls so a person does not have to reach over hot burners, as well as a side-opening wall oven which is easier and safer to open. Above and beyond the type of appliance chosen is the need to make sure installation height is appropriate. A countertop microwave, for example, is more accessible than an over-the-stove unit.

Choosing traditional cabinetry
Today’s kitchen cabinetry has come a long way and several manufacturers offer variations to make life easier for those who need accommodations. Research recent innovations such as soft-close cupboards, touch-release drawers, pullout shelving, or pull and swing lazy Susan corner units -- each of these simplify working in the kitchen for those with limited strength and/or mobility.

Neglecting the small details
They say the Devil is in the details and this couldn't be truer when working on an accessible kitchen remodel. For instance, consider installing an ample supply of electrical outlets and light switches that are operable from a seated position. In addition, add sufficient lighting for different task areas and make sure they are up to twice the standard strength to help those with diminished eyesight. Furthermore, plan pantry and cooking pot storage at a lower height of 20 to 44 inches above the floor so that all items can be reached from a seated position.

If your home is in the Eugene-Springfield area, give our team at Fort Rock Construction a call at 541-767-1611. We are aging in place and accessibility experts. We can walk through your kitchen with you and plan out what it's going to take to create the kitchen of your dreams.

With spring around the corner, wouldn't it be nice to have a deck for your home? Decks are a versatile addition providing livable outdoor space as well as adding to the value of your home. Decks can be built in a variety of sizes and styles and choosing which is going to be best for your home can be difficult. This is where we can help. Here are tips for designing a great deck for your home.

Plan for the Way You Live
Start with general ideas of what the deck can do to make life more enjoyable. How will you use the deck? Will it be for social gatherings or intimate dinners? If you love to grill, would you like it to include an outdoor kitchen? Make sure to ask family members what ideas they have for a deck to see if you have the same or different goals so most, if not all, of everyone's wants and needs can be considered.

Shape and Size
Some say that a deck should be no larger than 20 percent of your home's square footage, so as not to be out of proportion. But, this is not a hard fast rule. If you plan on spending a lot of time using your deck, and if it is sectioned out, even a larger deck can still feel just right. In terms of shape, you can never go wrong with the standard rectangle, but adding other angles or curves to the shape of your deck can make a nice deck really pop. If you want to take this approach, consider repeating those angles and curves at various places or in different sizes to the deck feels like it has a theme.

Connect the House and the Yard
When building a deck, you might opt to go with a style that blends with your house, or you might choose to make the deck stand out on its own, creating its own space. Either way, be sure to consider the transition from the deck to your yard. Will there be steps? Will you surround it with plants or maybe rocks? If the deck is low enough you might not be required to have a railing, and if that is an option, do you want a railing? Will the deck connect to a patio or other hardscape?

Plan for Traffic
Once you’ve figured out the priorities for your deck, plan for enough space to accommodate your activities and traffic of those coming and going. If you plan to add furniture to your deck, make sure what you purchase is in the proper scale for your deck's size. Keep in mind that pathways for traffic might not always become apparent until after you have furniture in place. For instance, if your deck is on the smaller size, you might not opt for the large covered patio set; perhaps a couple of open chairs and a side table would be a better fit.

What Do You See?
Wherever you plan to construct your deck, spend some time looking at what your view will be. Do you like what you see? If your deck is going to be overlooking a neighbor's yard, do you want some added privacy with a solid wall or railing? If you are going to have a gorgeous view of the sunset, maybe an open railing or glass panels would be great options. You could even step down the deck so railings will be below your sightline.

Vertical Elements
Typically when most people think about a deck, they envision a single, flat surface. But really, a deck is much more than that. Once you consider vertical elements like the railings, any coverings, and even how the deck is wrapped (the skirting), your deck can take on a whole new dimension. Take your time choosing each of these elements because your deck can gain a lot of personality through these choices.

Overheads and Planters
Being in Oregon, an important consideration for your deck is if you want the ability to enjoy your deck, rain or shine. If you only plan to use it in the dry months, a pergola can provide shade and a great place to showcase climbing plants. If you want protection from the rain, a solid covering is the way to go and there are a variety of materials that can be used including semi-transparent coverings, reclaimed materials, and traditional shingles.
In addition, planters make for great accents on decks, whether they are along railings or benches or surrounding the edge of your deck.

The Right Cooking and Noshing Spaces
If you love to cook outdoors and like interacting with people as you grill, why not add an outdoor kitchen with a counter and space for cooking appliances. You might even want to include an eating counter with stools just opposite the cooking area, so people can snack and socialize while you cook. If you’d rather keep food prep simple, you may want to make a small alcove off to the side, with just enough room for a grill.

Materials You Will Maintain and Enjoy
For the finish materials – the decking, railing, fascia and perhaps skirt – many people choose composites, PVC and other materials that are low maintenance. Others prefer to build with inexpensive treated or (somewhat less inexpensive) cedar. Wood surfaces often need to be pressure-washed and sealed once a year. But, if you prefer the natural look and don’t mind regular maintenance, it may be the right choice for you.

At Fort Rock Construction, we have helped homeowners add decks to their homes throughout Eugene, Springfield, Cottage Grove, and the surrounding areas. If you are thinking a deck would be right for your home, please give us a call at 541-767-1611. We would love to help you see the possibilities and create an outdoor space perfect for your home.

More seniors are choosing to age in place than ever before. This trend is driven in part by the rising costs of long-term care, coupled with the rapidly growing senior population as the Baby Boomer generation ages – a generation that’s enjoying a more active, vibrant lifestyle than previous generations.  Technology and wider availability of services, such as home meal delivery services, are making it easier for older adults to remain in their own homes independently, as well.

While it may not be possible for an older adult to live independently forever, there are many changes that can be made to a home to make it safer and more functional for them to remain in their own homes longer. By implementing home modifications that support aging in place, today’s seniors are able to maintain their independence, and in the long run, may save a substantial amount of money on senior living.  

Below, you’ll find 10 top tips on home modifications that support aging in place that ensure the safety of the home for older adults. Some are simple adjustments, while others are larger scale projects – but all will make a home more accommodating as a person ages.

1. Pay attention to aging needs and difficulties, particularly if an aging parent lives alone. In this situation other family members may not be aware of the struggles their loved one is having. When visiting, make it a point to observe how they are getting around the house. If you have concerns, it is probably time to consider an assessment. Look for a contractor who specializes in home modification and who will coordinate with their health care team.
   
2. While seemingly small, clearing the excess in your home can make a big difference. Any unnecessary furniture or rugs should be removed. The more space you allow in each of your rooms, the better. Make sure there are clear pathways and plenty of space to walk in without bumping into anything, especially in the rooms you spend a lot of time in.
3. Create at least one 'no-step' entry into your home. Outside, you’ll probably want a covered entry to protect you from the elements. And you need good drainage since the doorway will be level with the walking surface just outside the door. Once inside, you’ll need space for maneuvering.
4. Combine your essential rooms onto the first floor. You may not want to move out of your two-story home, but you may want to consider rearranging the room configuration. Moving downstairs helps to make a home as easy as possible to navigate. Consider moving the master bedroom downstairs. When possible, opt for open spaces over small rooms and narrow hallways.
5. Consider a universal design. Universal design has been defined as building environments that are accessible by anyone regardless of their physical limitations or disabilities. Much of the universal design concept has been codified in the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.  In practice, most universal designs involve retrofitting an existing space with all of its limitations rather than constructing a new space. Universal design is also a good investment for future resale of your home.
6. By age 75, most people require twice as much light as the normal recommended standard, and nearly four times as much as a 20-year-old, to see satisfactorily (Dementia Services Development Center – The Importance of Lighting). This is especially true for people with dementia. Dark spots or areas in a room can appear ominous and confusing to the brain. Providing nice, bright spaces will help ease the mind and provide a clearer understanding of surroundings.
7. Go low maintenance. When it comes time to replace exterior materials, choose products that require little or no maintenance, such as vinyl siding, metal roofing, and composite decking. These products will offer dual benefits of good looks and lasting performance. You can reduce landscape maintenance, too, by choosing native plants and installing a time-activated sprinkler system.
8. Prep a bathroom to be wheelchair ready. Install roll-in showers with multiple shower heads which are fixed, height adjustable and hand held. Make sure that the curtain is not held up by a tension rod, since grabbing it for support may result in a fall and install grab bars. Also, place rubber mats inside and outside the shower to avoid slipping and falling.
   
9. Replace kitchen cabinets with drawers and pullout shelves. Drawers and pullouts in kitchens are popular with homeowners of all ages because they make it easier to see and retrieve items without bending down and peering into a dark cabinet. These changes bring the contents of the cabinet out into the light rather than you getting into the cabinet. Glass doors on upper cabinets help you remember what is in them, too. When choosing knobs and pulls, move away from the small round knobs and choose something that's easier to grab.
10. Consider refinancing. If you have substantial equity in your home, you have multiple ways to pay for improvements, such as a cash-out refinance of your mortgage, a home-equity loan or line of credit, or a reverse mortgage. There are also several grants and rebates available that may help make your remodel affordable.

Fort Rock Construction, Inc. serves homeowners throughout the Eugene and Springfield areas and we can help remodel your home to safely accommodate aging in place. Give us a call today at 541-767-1611.

Guest Blog by Kent Elliot

​A 2016 report published by Home Advisor revealed that a majority of aging Americans — 61 percent, in fact — want to age in place rather than seek a place in an assisted living or some other senior facility. The 2016 report indicated that seniors want to remain at home to be near their families or to maintain their independence. However, in many cases, aging in place is only possible with home modifications that allow older adults to care for themselves, or which make it easier for another to provide assistance. Modifications are often necessary to aid mobility, accessibility, and safety so a senior can remain at home with minimal risk of injury.

Getting Around
Accessibility modifications include widening doorways to at least 36 inches to accommodate a wheelchair, which can be an expensive modification. However, for those on a budget, the addition of expandable door hinges can do the job at a fraction of the cost. Hallways may also require widening. For seniors in a wheelchair or who need a walker, an accessibility ramp may be necessary if there are stairs leading to the front entryway.  Also, thick rugs and carpeting present a mobility challenge for wheelchairs, as can uneven transitions between rooms, which may require the use of durable transition ramps.

Bathroom Safety
The bathroom is definitely the most dangerous room for seniors, regardless of age or condition. More seniors fall in the bathroom than in any other part of the home, and as such, it requires extensive safety modifications to protect seniors from being seriously injured in a room where moisture and slick, hard surfaces present a constant threat. This is why grab rails, roll-in tubs, or zero-entry showers (with a place to sit) are also important for mobility-challenged seniors.

Other important bathroom modifications should include an elevated toilet seat and safety rails alongside to avoid falls. Also, don’t forget to lay a skid-resistant mat in front of the toilet, especially if the bathroom floor is covered in tile or laminate. Replace door knobs with levers, which are easier for an older adult to use, particularly in dim lighting where vision and one’s grip are less confident. Install a roll-under sink that’s low enough for a wheelchair, and make sure there’s enough space in the bathroom for a wheelchair to maneuver without difficulty.

According to the Americans with Disabilities Act, a bathroom space should be 30 inches by 48 inches to accommodate a wheelchair. (In Lane County, Oregon, contact our team at Fort Rock Construction about making bathroom modifications in your home.)

Lighting
It’s a fact of life that one’s eyesight diminishes with age. That can be a dangerous situation for an older adult who wants to age in place because dimly light hallways and rooms with light switches that are difficult to find or reach present a significant safety threat. In general, white bulbs that don’t create glare are good options in poorly lit locations, while motion sensors may be the best idea for seniors who get confused at night and have trouble finding light switches. LED night lights in the bathroom, hallway, and bedroom are also smart preventative measures.

Seniors who are able to age at home are more optimistic and tend to be more physically and socially active than those who need help with day-to-day living. That’s an important factor when you consider the potential impact of an aging Baby Boomer population on the country demographically, politically, and economically. The number of Americans age 65 and over will double by 2050, a group with the potential to have a positive and lasting effect on society.