One Stop Shopping For Accessible Products Goal Of NAHB Research-Sponsored Directory by Dena Amoruso
With the explosion of the senior housing market across the country comes the responsibility for homebuilders and those in the construction trades to be in tune with seniors' specialized needs. We hear of active adult and retirement living just about everywhere these days, assuming most homes in these communities are single level and may be designed with only two or three bedrooms since the growing family aspect has been eliminated from many of these lifestyle communities. What many of us may not realize, however is that an entirely new genre of construction amenities has been slowly emerging in the form of accessible building products geared specifically to that segment of the population. A survey of the AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) reveals that most Americans dream of staying in their homes as they age, no matter what physical limitations and critical needs they may encounter during their golden years. The National Association of Home Builders anticipated the results of surveys like this more than ten years ago, answering the need for a comprehensive resource for accessible products. Consequently, the NAHB Research Center recently announced that the tenth printing of its Directory of Accessible Building Products is now available to both the public and the construction industry. This finely tuned, expanded 2000 edition of the directory is a one-stop resource for those seeking enhanced accessibility in any residence. It also helps builders offer important options for functional, livable products for a large segment of the population. The directory is packed full of useful information about the manufacturers of accessible products, and lists resources as well as federal accessibility requirements. It also gives homebuilders advice on dealing with consumers with physical limitations. Specific product information contained in the directory runs the gamut from kitchens, laundry, bathrooms, fixtures, windows and doors, and includes specific dimensions, model numbers, photos, product descriptions and important contact information. Literally nothing is left out in this handy resource, including provisions for accessible climate control devices, gas shut-off valves, ramps and even chair lifts. Manufacturers such as GE, Frigidaire, Sub-Zero and Whirpool are among the manufacturers of appliances designed especially for the access-challenged. Sinks and faucet products are available through prestigious names like Kohler, Moen, Delta and Sterling. Door hardware is designed for easier operation, and window mechanisms to facilitate access are made by companies like Andersen Windows and Pella Corporation. Guidebooks and references are also listed in the appendix, giving users an even wider range of resources. The NAHB Research Center is a non-profit research arm of the NAHB, located in Upper Marlboro, MD and has been in operation for over 35 years. It is instrumental in testing and certifying services and products for widespread use within the U.S. and endorses products that become distributed worldwide. To order a copy of the Directory of Accessible Building Products, consumers may call (800) 638-8556 or go to the NAHB Research Center's online bookstore by visiting www.nahbrc.org. |
