Wheelchair Ramp Design and Construction

A ramp for wheelchairs is a valuable tool to help a loved one live more independently at home. If they are not designed correctly they could be dangerous to use.

ADA regulations require that landings must be level with any change in direction, so as to avoid compound slopes. They must also provide a grippy surface for wheelchair users.

Design

The ramp's design has to meet the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards to ensure that wheelchairs effortlessly navigate the structure. For instance, the ramp's slope should not exceed the ratio 1:12 and must have landings that are level upon any angle or shift in the ramp's surface. It must also be constructed from treated lumber that is more robust and weathers precipitation far better than untreated lumber.

The ramp's top and bottom should be free of obstacles such as trees or bushes, or any other structures that could hinder the user's safe passage. The surface of the ramp should also be non-slip and hard. Some municipalities require that the entire ramp be covered with an anti-slip surface.

For the ramp frame Choose treated lumber that is at minimum four inches wide. Create posts to anchor the ramp, making sure they are at least eight feet apart, and that they extend below the level of the ground. Spindles should be used to connect the posts to the railings of the ramp. This type of connection reduces the chance of a ramp user falling off the side.

Then, build the ramp's frame using beams 2 by 4 inches in size, and joists at least 16 inch long. The joists must be at minimum 18 inches above the ground and secured using joist hangings which are nails that grip inside the joists to prevent them from sliding. Attach the ramp decking with framing nails.

Create an upper landing in the doorway, allowing 7ft wheelchair ramp occupants to manage the doorswing easily. This landing should have 12 to 24 inches on the handle side of the doors that swing out. The landing for doors that are in-swinging must be 58 by 60 inches in order to accommodate the threshold of the door and wheelchair users who need to walk backwards in the doorway.

Install a level landing whenever you change in the direction of the ramp to prevent the requirement for wheelchairs to step on their brakes as they turn corners. A level landing also allows you to move the ramp out of the way, if needed so that lawnmowers and other equipment can go under it.

Materials

Aluminium, concrete, or wood can be used to build a wheelchair van ramps prices ramp. A professional ramp installation service can help you decide which one is suitable for your business or home. It is important to consider your budget and needs when choosing the materials for the ramp. The ramp should also be simple to maintain and safe to use. Certain cities require that the ramp be paved with a non-slip surface.

Before you purchase any material or begin building, be sure you have the required permits from your local authority and that you follow all building codes within your area. The wrong materials or construction techniques can create dangerous conditions for wheelchair-users. You can find the most current information regarding construction requirements at your local building department office library or online.

Wood ramps are the least expensive option for ADA ramp materials. However, they require more maintenance. The surface of wood ramps must be regularly treated with a sealer in order to stop rot and warping. Wood splinters can be a problem, and could be particularly dangerous for retractable wheelchair ramp users. Wood ramps might also require additional support to keep the structure standing and steady.

Concrete ramps are extremely durable and long-lasting However, they can be expensive. They are heavy, which means more labor is required to put in them, and they can make it difficult to move the ramp when it is no longer required. Concrete ramps can handle the weight of powerful wheelchairs.

Aluminum ramps are lighter and less expensive than steel or concrete. They also have the same durability, strength, and corrosion resistance. They are also cheaper than steel and iron, making them an excellent option for people on budgets. Aluminum is eco-friendly because it is found in the Earth's crust naturally and is recyclable.

The upper landing of the ramp should be at least 3/8 inch of the threshold to allow the smaller front wheels of wheelchairs to pass over it without becoming stuck. ramps for electric wheelchairs with a gap higher than this comply wheel chair carrier with ramp ADA standards. It is also important to ensure that the ramp transitions smoothly from the upper landing to the ground. The final section of the ramp should have beveled transitions to avoid an abrupt stop for wheelchairs when they enter or leave an apartment.

Installation

A wheelchair ramp is an inclined plane that is erected on top of or in lieu of stairs. It allows wheelchair users and people who use strollers or carts to get around areas that would otherwise be difficult to access like a front door or a set of steep steps.

When choosing a wheelchair access ramp, there are a variety of aspects to take into consideration, including the location, height and cost. The ideal is for a ramp to be situated near the door as possible to help prevent unnecessary transportation. It should also be positioned at an angle that is easily accessed by the person who is using it. It should be securely anchored to the floor and free of any obstructions such as shrubbery, parked cars or other obstacles.

ADA regulations require that ramps must have handrails either side. The rails must be at least 36" apart and have a smooth or rounded gripping surface. In addition, they must be connected to the ramp and extend at least 12 inches beyond the edge of the ramp. Handrails must be continuous when the ramp is constructed with switchbacks or in an L-shaped layout.

The length of the ramp is determined by its slope. However there are basic ramp types that can be used for most situations. For instance the threshold ramp is directly on the lip of a curb, or the threshold of a doorway while portable ramps can be moved from one location to another and come in many different sizes. There are also modular aluminum ramps that can be assembled on the spot. These ramps are usually used in public or commercial areas, and tend to be longer.

If you're thinking of a permanent ramp, make sure to check with your city's building department to determine if you require permits. It is also advisable to speak with an expert in mobility about the kind of ramp that will work best for your needs and the space. In some cases, installing permanent ramps can increase the value of your home.

Maintenance

It is crucial to keep your ramp for wheelchairs in good condition especially if it will be used frequently. You'll need to conduct regular inspections, and fix any structural issues as they develop. This will ensure that the ramp complies with all ADA requirements and is safe for all users.

Regular cleaning of wooden ramps is necessary to remove debris and dirt that may hinder access. Cleaning the ramp regularly will also stop moisture from accumulating beneath the surface and creating decay. Preservatives and stains for wood can only be effective only if the ramp is thoroughly cleaned before application.

Wheelchair ramps are more difficult to maintain than other ramps due to the fact that they are more susceptible to wear and tear. It is essential to have the proper tools. A set of gauge spanners as well as screwdrivers is essential for making sure all fixings are tight and secure. It's also important to check regularly the handrails to ensure they are in good shape and have no signs of damage or corrosion. It's possible that over time, with repeated usage some of the fittings and bolts that hold the handrails on could loosen, which can be a serious safety risk for people who use the ramp.

Another important aspect is to ensure the ramp's surface is grippy, especially in winter, when conditions can be difficult. You'll need to sweep away any dirt, leaves or other debris that could obstruct and cause slippage. In addition, you'll want to apply a non-corrosive ice melt to the ramp's surface prior to winter arrives to prevent slipping and causing injury.

If you're planning on using your ramp during winter months, you should consider purchasing traction wheels or "snow tires" for your wheelchair. These wheels are made to better track on slippery and snowy surfaces. They will help you stay on your ramp longer than standard wheelchair tires. Alternately, you can put heating pads or tape along the ramp surface to help melt snow and ice before it builds up.