Wheelchair Ramp Design and Construction

A wheelchair ramp is an important tool for helping a loved one to live independently in their home. If not designed correctly they can be dangerous to use.

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

Design

The ramp's design should be in line with the Americans with Disabilities Act standards to allow wheelchairs to navigate the structure easily. For example, the plastic ramp for wheelchair slope cannot exceed the ratio 1:12 and must have landings that are level at any change in direction or change in the ramp's surface. It should also be constructed using treated lumber, which is more durable than untreated and can weather precipitation better.

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

Use treated lumber of at minimum 4 inches in width for the ramp frame. Make posts to support the ramp, making sure they are at minimum eight feet apart and that they extend above 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 possibility of a ramp user falling off the side.

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

Include an upper landing in the doorway so that plastic wheelchair ramp users can easily navigate the doorswing. This landing should be large enough to give at least 12 to 24 inches of "elbow room" on the handle side for out-swing doors. The landing for doors with in-swinging should be 58 x 60 inches in order to accommodate the threshold of the door and handicap wheelchair ramp users who need to reverse through the doorway.

Install a level landing when changing the direction of the ramp to stop wheelchairs from having their brakes into corners. A level landing makes it easier to move a ramp out of the way when needed, so that lawnmowers and other equipment can be able to pass underneath it.

Materials

The materials used to construct a electric wheelchair ramp for car ramp can be wood, concrete or aluminum. A professional ramp installation company can help you decide the best option for your business or home. When choosing the material to use for the ramp, it is important to consider your budget and requirements. The ramp must also be easy to maintain and safe to use. Some cities require that the ramp be covered with a non-slip surface.

Before you purchase any material or begin building, be sure you have the appropriate permits from your local government and ensure that you adhere to all building codes within your area. Making use of the incorrect materials or methods of construction can result in dangerous conditions for telescoping wheelchair ramp users. You can find the most current information regarding construction requirements at your local government's building department office library or online.

Wood ramps are typically the most affordable of ADA ramp materials, but they require more maintenance than other options. The wood ramp's surface need to be regularly treated with a sealer to prevent rot and warping. Wood can split and be dangerous for people who use wheelchairs. Wood ramps may also require additional support to ensure the structure remains 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 install ramps and may make it difficult to move the ramp when it is no longer required. Concrete ramps are sturdy enough to support the weight of power wheelchairs.

Aluminum ramps are lighter than concrete or steel, but they have the same strength and resistance to corrosion. They are also more affordable than iron or steel, which makes them an excellent choice for those on a tight budget. Aluminum is a green choice because it is found in the earth's crust naturally, and is able to be recycled.

The ramp's upper landing must be level, or within 3/8 inches of the threshold of the door in order for wheelchairs with smaller wheels to go across the ramp without getting stuck. Ramps with a gap larger than this will not meet ADA standards. It is also important to make sure that the ramp transitions smoothly between the landing area and the ground surface. The ramp's last section should have a beveled edge that will prevent wheelchairs from stopping abruptly when they leave or enter the home.

Installation

A wheelchair ramp is an inclined plane that is used in addition to or instead of stairs. It allows wheelchair users, and those who use strollers or carts to access areas that would otherwise be difficult to access.

When choosing a wheelchair accessible ramp, there are many aspects to take into consideration, including the location, height and cost. The ideal is for a ramp to be placed as close to the door as it is possible to avoid unnecessary journeys. It should be set at a height that the person using it is able to easily walk on it. It should also be anchored to the ground and clear of obstructions, such as shrubbery or parked cars.

ADA regulations require that garden ramps for wheelchair users are equipped with handrails either side. The rails should be at minimum 36" apart and have smooth or rounded gripping surface. In addition, they must be attached to the ramp and extend at least 12 inches beyond the ramp's edge. If a ramp is equipped with switchesbacks or an L-shaped layout, handrails must be continuous between the ramp's runs.

The length of a ramp is contingent on the slope, however there are several common ramps that can be used in most situations. For instance, a threshold ramp sits directly on the lip of a curb or at the threshold of a doorway, while ramps that are portable can be moved from one spot to another and come in many different sizes. Modular aluminum ramps may also be assembled on-site. These ramps are usually used in commercial or public areas and are usually longer.

If you're thinking of a permanent ramp, be sure you contact the building department of your city to determine if you'll need an approval. It's also a good idea to consult with a mobility expert to find out what type of ramp is best suited to your requirements and the space that you have. In some cases, installing an ongoing ramp could increase the value of your home.

Maintenance

It is essential to keep your ramp for wheelchairs in good condition particularly if it is going to be used regularly. It is essential to conduct regular inspections and fix any structural issues when they occur. This will ensure that the ramp complies with all ADA requirements and is safe for all users.

Wooden ramps require regular cleaning to remove debris and dirt that may block access. Cleaning the ramp regularly will also prevent moisture from accumulating beneath the surface and leading to the onset of rot. Preservatives and stains for wood only work only if the ramp is thoroughly cleaned prior to application.

Wheelchair ramps are more difficult to maintain than other ramps because they are more likely wear and tear. It is crucial to have the proper tools. A good set of gauge spanners and screwdrivers will be essential for making sure all fixings are tight and secure. It's also important to check regularly the handrails to make sure they are in a good condition and have no signs of corrosion or damage. As time passes, and with repeated use, it's not uncommon for some of the bolts or fittings the handrails to become loose. This can pose an unsafe situation for anyone who uses 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 remove any leaves, dirt and other debris that could block the surface and cause slippage. Additionally, you'll need to apply an ice melt that is not corrosive to the ramp's surface prior to winter arrives to prevent slips and causing 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 track better on slippery and snowy surfaces. They will allow you to stay on your ramp more effectively than standard wheelchair tires. You can also utilize heating pads or tape to melt the ice and snow on the ramp before it builds up.