7 Things About Wheelchair Ramp You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing Wheelchair Ramp Design and Construction

A ramp for wheelchairs can be a valuable aid to aid the person you love independently at home. If they are not designed correctly they could be dangerous to use.

ADA regulations require landings to be level at any shift in direction to avoid compound slopes. They also require a surface that is gripping 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 a ratio of 1:12 and must have landings that are level at any angle or shift in the ramp's surface. It must also be constructed of treated lumber that is more robust and weathers precipitation far better than untreated lumber.

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

For the frame of the ramp Choose treated lumber that is at least 4 inches wide. Make posts to support the ramp, making sure they are at least eight feet apart and that they extend above the ground level. The posts must then be connected with the ramp's railings by using spindles. This type of connection is preferred since it decreases the chance of the ramp operator falling off the edge of the ramp.

Then, construct the ramp's frame using joists that are at least 16 inches long and beams that measure 2 by 4 inches. The joists must be at least 18 inches above the ground and secured with joist hangings, which are nails that fit inside the joists to prevent them from sliding. Attach the ramp decking with a framing nailer.

Install an upper landing close to the doorway to allow wheelchair users to control the doorswing with ease. wheelchair ramps for doorways should be large enough to allow at least 12 to 24 inches of "elbow room" on the handle side of out-swing doors. The landing for doors that are in-swinging should be 58 x 60 in order to accommodate the threshold of the door as well as wheelchair users who need to go backwards through the doorway.

Install a level landing at any change in ramp direction to prevent the necessity for wheelchairs to hit on their brakes while turning corners. A level landing is easier to move a ramp out of the path if needed, so that lawnmowers and other equipment can be able to pass underneath it.

Materials

The material used to construct the ramp for wheelchairs can be either concrete, wood or aluminum. A professional ramp installer can assist you in choosing the right option for your home or office. When choosing the material for the ramp, it is crucial to consider your budget and requirements. The ramp should be easy to maintain, and it should be safe to use. Some cities require that the ramp be laid with an anti-slip surface.

Be sure to inquire with your local government for permits before you begin building or buying any materials. Also, be sure to follow all local building codes. Using the incorrect materials or methods of construction could result in hazardous conditions for wheelchair users. You can find the most up-to-date information on construction requirements at your local government's building department office or library, or on the internet.

Wood ramps can be the cheapest alternative for ADA ramp materials. However they need more maintenance. The wood ramp's surface need to be regularly treated with a sealer in order to stop warping and rot. Wood can split and be dangerous for people who use wheelchairs. Wood ramps can also need additional support to ensure the structure is maintained.

Concrete ramps are extremely durable and long-lasting However, they can be costly. They are heavy, which means more work is required to construct them, and they can make it difficult to move the ramp after it is they are no longer needed. Concrete ramps are sturdy enough to support the weight of power wheelchairs.

Aluminum ramps are lighter and less expensive than steel or concrete. They also have the same strength, durability and resistance to corrosion. They are also more affordable than steel or iron, which makes them a great option for those on a tight budget. Aluminum is also eco-friendly as it is naturally found in the Earth's crust, and can be recycled.

The ramp's upper landing should be level or within 3/8 inches of the threshold of the door, allowing wheelchairs with smaller wheels to move over the ramp without becoming stuck. Ramps that have gaps greater than this will not meet ADA standards. Also, ensure that the ramp transitions smoothly between the landing area and the ground. The final section of the ramp should be a a beveled transition to avoid an abrupt stop for wheelchairs as they enter or leave an apartment.

Installation

A wheelchair ramp is an inclined plane that is used in addition to or in place of steps. It lets wheelchair users and those who use carts or strollers to access areas that would otherwise be difficult to reach, such as an entranceway or a set of sloping steps.


There are a variety of factors to consider when choosing a ramp for a wheelchair, including location, height and cost. The ramp should be placed close to the door to prevent unnecessary traveling. It should be placed at a height that the person using it is able to easily walk on it. It should be firmly anchored to the floor and free of obstructions, such as car parks, shrubs or other obstacles.

ADA regulations require ramps to have handrails on either side. The rails should be at least 36" apart and have an even or smooth gripping surface. They should also be connected to the edge of the ramp, and extend 12 inches beyond it. Handrails should be continuous if the ramp is constructed with switchbacks or in an L-shaped layout.

The length of a ramp depends on the slope, however there are a few basic ramps that can be used in most situations. For instance, a threshold ramp sits directly on the lip of a curb, or the threshold of a doorway while ramps that are portable can be moved from one place to another and come in a variety of sizes. Modular aluminum ramps may also be built on-site. These are usually used for commercial or public spaces and are usually longer than the threshold and portable ramps.

If you are considering an all-weather ramp, be sure you contact your city's building department to determine if you'll need an approval. Also, you should consult a mobility specialist about the kind of ramp that is best for your space and needs. In some instances the installation of permanent ramps can improve the value of your home.

Maintenance

It is essential to maintain your wheelchair ramp particularly if it is going to be used often. You'll need to perform regular inspections and fix any structural issues when they arise. This will help ensure the ramp complies with all ADA requirements and is safe for all users.

Regularly cleaning wooden ramps is required to remove dirt and debris that can block access. Keep the ramp clean to avoid moisture from accumulating under the surface. This can cause rot. Preservatives and stains for wood will only work only if the ramp is thoroughly cleaned prior to applying.

Wheelchair ramps can be more difficult to maintain than other kinds of ramps, as they are more likely to experience wear and tear. It is important to have the right tools. A good set of gauge spanners and screwdrivers will be crucial to ensure that all fixings are tight and secure. It's also important to check regularly the handrails to ensure that they are in good working order and do not show signs of damage or corrosion. As time passes, and with repeated use, it's not uncommon for some of the bolts or fittings the handrails to become loose. This could pose a safety concern for anyone who is using the ramp.

Another crucial aspect is to ensure that the surface of the ramp is grippy, especially during winter when conditions may be a challenge. You'll need to clean away any leaves, dirt and other debris that can block the surface and cause slippage. In addition, you'll want to apply a non-corrosive ice melt on the ramp's surface prior to winter arrives to prevent slips and injury.

Consider buying "snow tires" or traction wheels for your wheelchair if you plan to use it throughout the winter. They're specially designed to provide better tracking on snow and uneven surfaces and are therefore more effective than standard wheelchair tires at helping you stay on the ramp. Alternatively, you can place heating pads or tape along the ramp's surface to melt snow and ice before it builds up.