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Universal Design
Comfortable Living for Years to Come
Universal design is the concept of creating products and spaces that are accessible to people with various physical ability levels. It encompasses design modifications to accommodate the aging and/or disabled, and is meant to make everyday living easier and more comfortable for them. Universal design offers more freedom to the disabled and allows the elderly to live independently longer.

Kolbe offers several options that may assist with independent living. Wider doors and special sills make wheel chair access possible. Opting for longer handles, larger knobs, and motorized operators can reduce the effort needed to operate windows. Lever handles provide much easier operation of swinging doors.

Whether for new construction or renovation, Kolbe's high quality windows and doors can be adapted for universal design projects. And, creating freedom of movement does not mean that style must be sacrificed. Custom wood species, interior & exterior finish options, a large selection of colors, removable grilles and divided lites, many hardware finishes – these are just a few of the limitless choices that will help to manifest a very special style… a style that offers freedom, movement and an unmatched quality of life.

Here are just a few possibilities for adapting Ultra and Heritage Series products for universal design needs (click photos to enlarge):
Longer casement and awning handles with larger knobs
Larger levers for multi-point casement locks
Motorized operators for casements & awnings
Handicap sills for swinging doors, with or without a thermal break
Crank handle kits for double hung windows
Lever handle sets for swinging patio and entrance doors
Sill ramp kits for Garden-Aire sliding patio doors
Wider sizes for interior and exterior doors

Many of these options meet standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Other options such as taller bottom rails on doors are also available to meet these standards. Certain product limitations and modifications may apply.

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