Transform Your Home with Professional Doorway Widening for Complete Accessibility

What is Doorway Widening?

Doorway widening is a structural modification that increases the opening width of existing doorways to accommodate mobility devices, wheelchairs, walkers, and other accessibility equipment. This service is a cornerstone of aging in place design and universal accessibility planning, allowing homeowners to navigate their homes safely and independently regardless of mobility limitations.

Whether you’re planning ahead for aging in place or addressing current accessibility needs, doorway widening transforms your home’s functionality. Matthew Frain Builders specializes in seamless doorway modifications that maintain your home’s aesthetic while dramatically improving usability and independence.

Why Doorway Widening Matters

Standard residential doorways—typically 30 to 32 inches wide—create barriers for anyone using mobility aids. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) recommends doorway openings of at least 32 inches clear width for wheelchair accessibility, though some situations benefit from 36-inch openings.

• Wheelchair accessibility: Ensures smooth navigation without tilting, bumping, or struggling
• Walker and cane use: Provides comfortable clearance for users with mobility assistance devices
• Future-proofing: Anticipates potential mobility changes without major renovations later
• Independence: Maintains autonomy and reduces reliance on assistance for basic home movement
• Safety: Eliminates pinch points and obstruction hazards
• Home value: Universal design features appeal to a broader range of future buyers

Our Doorway Widening Process

Matthew Frain Builders approaches each doorway modification with precision and planning. We assess your home’s structural layout and create solutions that work specifically for your needs.

1. Assessment and consultation: We evaluate your doorways, discuss mobility needs, and identify priority areas
2. Structural evaluation: We determine if doorways are load-bearing and plan modifications accordingly
3. Detailed planning: We provide detailed specifications, timelines, and cost estimates
4. Interior preparation: We protect your home and prepare the work area
5. Frame modification: We carefully remove or reposition existing door frames
6. Structural reinforcement: We install support beams or headers if the doorway is load-bearing
7. Finishing: We install new frames, doors (if needed), and complete trim and paint work
8. Inspection and cleanup: We ensure everything meets standards and leave your space pristine

What to Expect from Matthew Frain Builders

We don’t just widen doorways—we create pathways to independence while maintaining the integrity and beauty of your home.

Our certified aging in place professionals understand the technical and personal dimensions of accessibility work. We handle structural considerations, building code compliance, and finishing details with equal attention.

• Professional assessment of all structural implications
• Proper permits and code compliance
• Skilled installation that protects surrounding walls and finishes
• Attention to aesthetic details—trim, paint, and finish matching
• Minimal disruption to your daily life
• Clear communication throughout the project

Doorway Widening and Aging in Place Design

Doorway widening rarely stands alone. Most homeowners combine this service with other aging in place modifications to create fully accessible homes. Consider pairing doorway widening with:

• Zero-step entries for seamless outdoor access
• Curbless showers and grab bars in bathrooms
• Kitchen counter modifications
• Motion-sensor lighting throughout the home
• Smart home system integration for easier control

Matthew Frain Builders brings two decades of construction expertise and specialized aging in place certification to every project. We’re committed to helping you maintain independence, safety, and dignity in the home you love.

Ready to create a more accessible home? Contact Matthew Frain Builders today for a consultation about doorway widening and other accessibility solutions.