Installing a Wheelchair Ramp For Your Front Door

A ramp for wheelchairs at your front door will reduce the risk of serious injury from falls. The ramps are usually constructed to lead to a porch. However they can also be used to reach vehicles and other locations.

These modifications can be incorporated into the home in a chic way to preserve the resale value. Modular ramps offer flexibility in style and can fit your specific home design.

Design Considerations

The slope of the ramp must be smooth and easy for wheelchair ramp for front door - recommended - occupants to maneuver. The ADA recommends that ramp slopes not be more than one in 12. (For every inch of vertical rise you have to traverse 12 inches horizontally).

The ramp's landings should be large enough for doors to open and swing freely. They should be at an appropriate distance from the edge of a ramp to stop chair tires from rolling over the edge. For example, a 58-inch wide landing will give plenty of room to accommodate a front door that is able to open into the ramp.

Consider adding a side flare if the ramp is long, and there is no level to land at the end. This can reduce the chance of slipping at the bottom of your ramp since it curves inward. Another important feature of the ramp design is the handrails. These are not just decorative flimsy additions, they're lifelines for ramp occupants. ADA rules call for handrails that are 34 to 38 inches high and have gripping surfaces that are able to support the weight of a person without becoming slippery in wet weather conditions.

It is a good idea to install handrails on both sides of the ramp, especially where there are changes in direction. These railings alert visually impaired users of wheelchairs and walker of the differences in the ramp's material and give them something to hold onto for safety.

Some ramps are built to fold out of the way when they are not in use, however these typically require lots of space around them. Portable ramps, such as the Aerolight-Folding ramp are the ideal solution to this issue. They come with hinges that fit within the threshold and allow the ramp to fold down and over it. This lets the ramp be kept right outside a front door, allowing it to bridge one or more steps into a house. It's also a great choice for people who have mobility challenges who want to have their scooter or wheelchair with them at all times.

Materials

The selection of materials is an important choice when building a ramp. Materials can differ greatly based on the design and type of the ramp. In general wood is the most commonly used ramp material for homes because it is able to be built in a wide range of styles and enhances the design aesthetic of a lot of homes. A wooden ramp requires regular maintenance to prevent the ramp from the rotting process and insect infestation. A wooden ramp is also more expensive than concrete or aluminum ramp.

It is essential to understand the needs of the disabled person as well as the environment in which the ramp will be placed before you can choose the best ramp. Making sure to answer questions such as, "will it be used indoors or outdoors?" and, "how often will it be used?" will help narrow down the options and make selecting the right ramp much easier.

Choosing the right ramp for a doorway depends on other factors including how high or low the ramp will need to be. In general, ADA guidelines recommend ramps to be 12" long for every inch of vertical rise. This helps to ensure that the ramp is safe for anyone who is using a scooter, foldable wheelchair ramp or walker.

Aluminum, concrete and wooden ramps are the most popular ramps available. Modular aluminum ramps are prefabricated and usually cost less than a wood or concrete ramp. However, they may not be as durable or as customizable as a wood or concrete ramp.

Threshold Ramps are short ramps which sit directly above a threshold that is raised or a curb on the sidewalk. They are usually made of aluminum or rubber, and provide traction as the user moves between different walking surfaces.

If you require an unreliable ramp, it's recommended to speak with a professional handyman. They can assist you with the installation process and provide advice on the right material for your ramp. They will be able to design and construct ramps that are secure and matches the style of your home. They can also help you determine whether a building permit required and if inspections are needed to ensure that the ramp is built correctly and safely.

Installation

In order to install a ramp for wheelchairs first, you need to decide where it will be placed. It doesn't need to be right up to the front door however it needs to be close enough for someone in a wheelchair to get in and out of the home without having to climb the stairs or steps. It's recommended to inquire with your municipality to see what specific requirements may be applicable to the construction of a ramp in your area.

The Americans with Disabilities Act sets standards for safe ramp slopes, and it's recommended to follow these guidelines to ensure your ramp is safe for people using wheelchairs. The ADA recommends ramps with 12 inches of space for each inch of slope. This will ensure that the wheelchair user can travel between the ramps with enough room to avoid having to slow down or stopping, which could lead to falling.

After determining the location where the ramp will be installed, you'll need decide on which ramp will best suit your requirements. There are a variety of ramps available, including wooden or concrete ramps, modular ramps and ramps that are portable.

Portable ramps are available in a variety of lengths and can be easily moved when not being used. They can be used for small thresholds, or as the construction of a short set of steps leading up to the front door. A self-supporting aluminum ramp that is attached to the floor or to the door plate at the entrance offers the greatest stability and ease of installation.

For a wider ramp that bridges over the threshold, an Aerolight-Up and Over ramp kit is a good choice. This ramp sits inside the UPVC threshold to ensure it won't harm it and folds down when not in use. It can be combined with an Entry Flap accessory to bridge over the threshold of the door and into the home.

Modular ramps can be constructed in a variety of designs to meet the particular requirements of your house and the wheelchair user. They are generally considered the most durable and durable option. They have railings and platforms and are constructed from a variety of materials, according to your budget and preferences for design.

Maintenance

Even the tiniest physical obstruction can hinder mobility for a person who uses a wheelchair ramps or scooter. A ramp that bridges a gap between a surface threshold ramp for wheelchair and the entrance door can eliminate the barrier and make your home more accessible. A professional handyman will assist you choose the best materials for your ramp to fulfill your functional needs and match your home's aesthetics.

After you've constructed a ramp, regular maintenance is vital to its durability and safety. Clean up and remove debris frequently to ensure that your ramp is free of hazards for tripping. Make use of mild soap and water to clean the ramp's surface. Pay particular attention to areas that are prone to grime and dirt. If the ramp is made of steel be sure to clean it regularly in order to prevent the rust from developing.

Certain ramps require to be cleaned more often than others. Steel ramps, for instance might require regular touch-ups with paintbrushes or steel wool. Wood ramps, on the contrary require more regular care. Check for cracks, dents, and spots of rust. They should be fixed immediately to prevent further damage.

If you are in a region that experiences harsh winter weather, be sure to salt your ramps the same way you would your sidewalk or walkway. This will prevent snow and ice buildup, which can cause an additional hazard for tripping. Do not over-salt ramps because this could damage the tires of wheelchairs and bearings.