Wheelchair Ramp Design and Construction

A ramp for wheelchairs is an important tool for helping a loved one live at home independently. If they are not designed properly they can be unsafe to use.

ADA regulations require level landings at all changes in direction, to avoid compound slopes. They must also provide an accessible surface for wheelchair users.

Design

The ramp's design has to meet the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards to ensure that wheelchairs can comfortably navigate the structure. The ramp's slope must not exceed a 1:12 ratio, and the landings should be level in any change of direction or change in the ramp's surface. It must also be constructed using treated lumber that is more durable than lumber that is not treated and is able to withstand rain better.

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

Make use of treated lumber that is at minimum four inches wide for the frame of the ramp. Make posts to support the ramp, ensuring they are at least eight feet apart, and that they extend beyond the ground level. The posts should then connect with the ramp's railings by using spindles. This type of connection reduces the possibility of a ramp operator slipping off the side.

Next, build the ramp's frame 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 ground and secured using joist hangings, which are nails that fit within the joists, preventing them from sliding. Attach the ramp decking using a framing nailer.

Install an upper landing on the doorway so that wheelchair occupants can easily manage the doorswing. This landing should be large enough to give at least 12 to 24 inches of "elbow room" on the handle side of out-swing doors. For doors with in-swing, the landing must be at least 58 by 60 inches to allow for the threshold of the door and the person in wheelchair who has to roll backward through the doorway.

Install a level landing when you change the direction of the ramp, to avoid wheelchairs from having to hit their brakes into corners. A level landing makes it easier to move a ramp out of the path if needed, so that lawnmowers and other equipment can move under it.

Materials

The material used to construct the ramp for wheelchairs can be made of wood, concrete or aluminum. A professional ramp installer will help you select the most suitable option for your office or home. When selecting the material for the ramp, it's crucial to consider your budget and requirements. The ramp must also be simple to maintain and safe to use. Certain cities require that the ramp be laid with a non-slip surface.

Before you purchase any material or begin building, be sure you have the appropriate permits from your local authority and that you comply with all building codes within your area. Incorrect construction materials or techniques can create dangerous conditions for wheelchair users. You can find current construction requirements in your local building department library, or on the internet.

Wood Ramps For wheelchairs For vans (letts.org) are often the least expensive choice of ADA ramp materials, but they require more care than other options. The surface of wood ramps should be treated regularly with a sealer to prevent warping and rot. Wood can splinter and can be dangerous for people using wheelchairs. Wood ramps may require additional support to keep the structure upright and stable.

Concrete ramps are extremely durable and last for a long time, but they can be expensive. They are also heavy, which demands more labor to install and can make moving the ramp once it is no longer needed difficult. Concrete ramps can withstand the weight of heavy power wheelchairs.

Aluminum ramps are lighter and more affordable than steel ramp for wheelchair or concrete. They also have the same strength, durability and resistance to corrosion. They are also cheaper than iron and steel which makes them a great option for people on an extremely tight budget. Aluminum is a green choice because it is found in the earth's crust naturally and is recyclable.

The ramp's upper landing needs to be at a level level or within 3/8 inches of the threshold of the door to allow wheelchairs with smaller wheels to go across the ramp without getting stuck. Ramps that have a gap greater than this won't meet ADA standards. Also, ensure that the ramp transitions smoothly from the upper landing to the ground. The final section of the ramp should have a beveled transition to avoid the abrupt stop of wheelchairs when they enter or exit an apartment.

Installation

A ramp for wheelchairs is an inclined plane that is installed on top of or in place of steps. It allows wheelchair users, as well as those who use carts or strollers to get into areas that would otherwise be difficult to access.

When choosing a wheelchair accessible ramp, there are numerous factors to consider, such as the location, height, and price. The ramp should be located closest to the door to prevent unnecessary traveling. It should be set at a height that the person using it can easily navigate. It should also be properly anchored to the ground and free of obstructions, such as the trees or cars parked.

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

The length of a ramp depends on the incline, however there are a few standard ramp types that can be used in all situations. For example the threshold ramp is placed 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 come in a variety of sizes. There are also aluminum ramps with modular design that can be assembled on-site. These ramps are commonly used in public or commercial 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 a permit. It is also advisable to speak with an expert in mobility about the type of ramp that will work best for your needs and the space. In some cases the installation of permanent ramps can boost the value of your home.

Maintenance

It's crucial to ensure your ramp for wheelchairs is maintained, particularly if you will be using it often. You'll need to perform regular inspections and deal with any structural issues as they occur. This will help ensure that the ramp complies with all ADA requirements and is safe for all users.

Wooden ramps require regular cleaning to get rid of dirt and debris that could block access. Cleanliness of the ramp will also prevent moisture from accumulating beneath the surface and causing rot. Preservatives and stains for wood can only be effective when the ramp has been thoroughly cleaned prior to application.

automatic wheelchair ramp for van ramps can be more challenging to maintain than other kinds of ramps because they are more likely to experience wear and wear and tear. The most important thing to do is make sure you have the appropriate tools for the job. To ensure that all fixings are secure and tight you'll require an appropriate set of screwdrivers and gauge spanners. It's also worth regularly inspecting the handrails to ensure that they are in good shape and do not show signs of damage or corrosion. It is possible that over time, and with repeated use, some of the bolts and fittings that secure the handrails could loosen and pose a serious safety risk for people who use the ramp.

It is also crucial to make sure that the surface of the ramp is grippy enough particularly in winter, when the conditions can be difficult. You'll need to sweep away any leaves, dirt and other debris that can obstruct the surface and cause slippage. It is also recommended to apply an ice melt that is non-corrosive on the ramp surface to avoid slips and injuries.

If you're planning to use your ramp during winter, consider investing in wheels for traction or "snow tires" for your telescoping wheelchair ramp. They're specially designed to provide better tracking on snow and uneven surfaces which is why they'll be more efficient than standard wheelchair tires in helping you stay on the ramp. Alternately, you can put heating pads or tape along the ramp's surface to help melt snow and ice before it gets accumulated.