ADA Roll-in and Transfer Shower Pans

Frequently Asked Questions:

• What size is an ADA shower base?

  There are 3 acceptable styles of shower bases that are ADA compliant for commercial or public use buildings.

  • Transfer Type ADA Shower bases (36" x 36" inside dimension) Specially designed so that users can transfer onto a shower bench from a wheelchair parked outside the shower unit. To comply with ADA requirements, ADA Transfer Showers must be properly accessorized.
  • Standard Roll-in Type ADA Shower bases (minimum 60" x 30" inside dimension) Makes maneuvering in a wheelchair easy, with 60" x 30" of accessible shower space. Some jurisdictions require a 60" x 36" inside dimension so that caregivers can assist easily.
  • Alternate Roll-In Type Shower Compartments have a minimum inside dimension of 60" x 36", with a minimum 36" wide entry provided at one end of the long side of the compartment.
• What makes a shower base ADA compliant?

  Freedom ADA Shower bases are designed to meet Federal requirements for ADA code compliance in commercial & public buildings. An ADA compliant shower base will meet certain design criteria, set out in the Americans with Disabilities Act, that makes the shower accessible for anyone, including those who use a wheelchair. These criteria include:

  • A threshold height that is no more than ½" high above the finished bathroom floor. Otherwise, the curb must be flush with the bathroom floor
  • An inside dimension of either 36" x 36" for Transfer Shower bases or minimum 60" x 30" for Roll in shower bases
  • Grab bars in specified locations
  • A shower seat in most cases, that is fixed to the wall and spans the width of the shower
  • A proper placement of controls, between 38" min & maximum 48" from floor, so they can be used as a handheld or as a fixed shower head
  • Enough clearance space outside that shower to allow for an easy approach by a person in a wheelchair

  Freedom ADA shower bases are quality products that you can depend on for commercial projects in the USA that must follow the requirements of the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design. We offer the full complement of accessories you would need as well.

• What is the difference between ADA and Accessible Shower pans?

  ADA compliant shower pans are required in commercial & public buildings in the USA. They need to meet the specific requirements mentioned in Chapter 6: Plumbing Elements and Facilities, of the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design to accommodate users in wheelchairs. ADA requirements include size dimensions, clear floor space, and features like a low threshold, and grab bars.

  Accessible shower pans are designed to be low threshold to allow someone in a wheelchair to roll into the shower, however, for private residential homes, the size dimensions and layout don’t need to meet the same stringent ADA rules. Accessible showers can be multi-piece units to fit into remodel projects more easily, and you can choose where to install the individual accessories for your individual preferences and needs. Accessible shower pans are often larger and give users the custom features they want.

• Can I purchase the walls for ADA shower bases?

  Yes, our Freedom ADA Shower bases are available in a corresponding shower stall kit (pan and wall). We have both multi-piece kits for remodeling and 1-piece shower stalls for new construction projects.

• What makes a shower ADA compliant?

  The ADA is a federal legislation, but state and municipal building requirements may add to ADA requirements (but never require less than the federal ADA). It’s important to check with local authorities as well.

• What accessories are required for an ADA-compliant shower pan?

  While the shower pan itself provides the foundation for accessibility, ADA compliance also depends on the correct accessories being installed. For public or commercial projects, this typically includes:

  • Grab bars on specified walls for safety and stability
  • A folding or fixed shower seat within reach of the controls
  • Proper controls placement between 38" and 48" from the floor, operable with one hand and without tight grasping or twisting
  • Slip-resistant surface on the pan for added safety

  Without these elements, even a correctly sized ADA shower pan will not meet ADA bathroom requirements and pass inspection.

• Can ADA shower pans have custom drain locations or finishes?

  Yes. Many ADA shower pans are available with custom drain placements, such as center, end, or offset, which work with existing plumbing layouts in both new builds and tub-to-shower conversions, as long as slope and clearance requirements are met. Standard shower pan sizes typically have preset drain positions, but customization is possible. Finishes can also be tailored, provided they remain slip-resistant and do not affect the threshold height or interior dimensions. Always verify that any customization still meets ADA bathroom requirements for your jurisdiction.