Wheelchair Ramp Design and Construction

A ramp for wheelchairs is an effective device to assist your loved ones live more independently at home. If they are not designed properly they could be dangerous to use.

ADA regulations require level landings at all changes in direction to prevent compound slopes. They must also provide a surface that is gripping for wheelchair users.

Design

The ramp's design has to meet the Americans wheel chair carrier with ramp Disabilities Act (ADA) standards to ensure that wheelchairs effortlessly navigate the structure. For example, the ramp slope cannot exceed the ratio 1:12 and must have landings that are level at any change in direction or shift in the ramp's surface. It also must be constructed from treated lumber which is more durable and can withstand precipitation much better than untreated lumber.

The ramp's top and bottom must be free of obstructions, such as trees or bushes, as well as other structures which could hinder the user's safe passage. Additionally, the surface of the ramp must be non-slip and hard. Some municipalities require that the entire ramp be coated with an anti-slip surface.

Make use of treated lumber that is at minimum 4 inches in width for the frame of the ramp. Build posts to secure the ramp, making sure they are at minimum eight feet apart and that they extend beyond ground level. The posts should then connect to the ramp's railings using spindles. This kind of connection minimizes the chance of a ramp operator slipping off the side.

Then, build the frame for the ramp using joists that are at least 16 inches long and beams that measure 2 by 4 inches. Make sure that the joists are at a minimum of 18 inches above ground level and are secured using joist hangers, which are nails that hold the inside of the joists to stop them from sliding off the ground. Attach the ramp decking with framing nails.

Install an upper landing close to the doorway to allow wheelchair occupants to manage the doorswing with ease. The landing should be wide enough to provide at least 12-24 inches of "elbow room" on the handle side of out-swing doors. For doors with in-swing the landing should be at minimum 58 by 60 inches to accommodate the door's threshold and the person in a wheelchair who needs to roll backward through the doorway.

Install a level landing when you change the direction of the ramp to stop wheelchairs from having their brakes into corners. A level landing allows you to move the ramp away from the way, if needed so that lawnmowers and other equipment can slide under it.

Materials

The material used to construct ramps for wheelchairs could be made of wood, concrete or aluminum. A professional ramp installation service can assist you in deciding which one is suitable for your home or business. When choosing the material to use for the ramp, it's important to take into account your budget and specific needs. The ramp should be easy to maintain and should be safe for use. Certain cities require that the ramp be laid with a non-slip surface.

Be sure to check with your local government for permits prior to building or purchasing materials. Also, be certain to follow the local building codes. Incorrect construction materials or techniques can create dangerous conditions for wheelchair ramp non slip surface-users. You can find the most current information on construction requirements at your local government's building department office library or online.

Wood ramps are often the least expensive of ADA ramp materials, however they require more maintenance than other options. Wood ramps must be maintained regularly using sealers to prevent decay. Wood can split, which can be especially hazardous for people in wheelchairs. Wood ramps might require additional support to keep the structure upright and stable.

Concrete ramps are expensive but they are also durable and long-lasting. They are heavy, which means that more work is required to construct them and can make it difficult to move the ramp after it is it is no longer required. Concrete ramps are strong enough to support the weight of power wheelchair ramp wheelchairs.

Aluminum ramps weigh less than concrete or steel, but they have the same strength and corrosion resistance. They are also cheaper than steel and iron, making them an excellent alternative for those on an extremely tight budget. Aluminum is eco-friendly since it is found in the Earth's crust naturally and is recyclable.

The upper landing of the ramp should be at a level, or within 3/8 inch of the door threshold in order to allow the front wheels of smaller wheelchairs to move over it without becoming stuck. Ramps that have a gap higher than this comply with ADA standards. You should also make sure that the ramp is smooth transitioning from the upper landing to the ground surface. The final section of the ramp should have a beveled transition to avoid the abrupt stop of wheelchairs when they exit or enter an apartment.

Installation

A wheelchair ramp is an inclined plane that is used in addition to or in lieu of stairs. It allows wheelchair car ramps users and people who use carts or strollers to get around areas that would otherwise be difficult to reach, such as a front door or a set of steep steps.

There are many factors to consider when choosing a wheelchair ramp, including height, location and cost. The ramp should be placed as close as possible to the door to avoid unnecessary traveling. It should be placed at a height that the person using it is able to be able to easily access it. It should be securely fixed to the floor and clear of obstructions, such as trees, cars parked or other obstacles.

ADA regulations state that ramps should have handrails on either side. The rails must be at least 36 inches apart, and have a gripping surface that is smooth or rounded. They must also be attached to the edge of the ramp, and extend 12 inches beyond it. If a ramp has switchesbacks or an L-shaped layout handrails should be a continuous length between the ramp's runs.

The length of a ramp is contingent on the slope, however there are several common ramp types that are suitable for most situations. For example, a threshold ramp sits directly on the lip of a curb, or the threshold of a doorway, while portable ramps can be moved from one place to another and are available in many different sizes. There are also aluminum ramps that are modular that can be constructed on-site. These are usually used in public or commercial spaces and are usually longer than the threshold and ramps that are portable.

If you are considering an all-weather ramp, be sure to check with your city's building department to see if you need permits. It's recommended to consult an expert in mobility to determine which kind ramp will be the most suitable for your requirements and the space you have. In certain cases the installation of an ongoing ramp could increase the value of your home.

Maintenance

It is essential to ensure that your wheelchair ramp is well maintained, especially if will be using it often. You'll need to perform regular inspections, and fix any structural issues that arise. This will help ensure that the ramp is in compliance with all ADA requirements and is safe for all users.

Regularly cleaning wooden ramps is essential to get rid of dirt and other debris that can block access. Keep the ramp spotless to stop moisture from accumulating under the surface. This can lead to decay. Preservatives and stains for wood will only work only if the ramp is thoroughly cleaned before application.

Wheelchair ramps are more challenging to maintain than other types of ramps, since they are more likely to experience wear and wear and tear. It is essential to have the right tools. To ensure that all fixings are secure and secure you'll need a good set of screwdrivers as well as gauge spanners. It is also important to regularly inspect the handrails for signs of corrosion or damage. It's possible that over time, and with repeated use, some of the fittings and bolts which hold the handrails in place may loosen, which can be a serious safety risk for those who use the ramp.

Another important aspect is to ensure the ramp's surface is grippy, especially in winter, when conditions can be a challenge. You will need to sweep off any leaves, dirt 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 injury.

If you're planning to use 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 snowy surfaces and uneven surfaces. They can help you stay on your ramp more effectively than normal wheelchair tires. Alternately, you can put heating pads or tape along the ramp surface to help melt snow and ice before it gets accumulated.