Wheelchair Ramp Design and Construction

A wheelchair ramp is an important tool for helping your loved ones live at home independently. If they are not designed correctly, they are unsafe to use.

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

Design

The ramp design should meet the Americans with Disabilities Act standards so that wheelchairs are able to maneuver the structure with ease. The ramp slope can't exceed a 1:12 ratio, and the landings have to be level at any change in direction or shift on the ramp's surface. It must be constructed of treated lumber that is more durable than lumber that is not treated and can weather precipitation better.

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

For the frame of the ramp choose treated lumber that is at least four inches wide. Create posts to anchor the ramp, making sure they are at least eight feet apart and that they extend beyond the ground level. Spindles should be used to connect the posts with the railings of the ramp. This type of connection is preferred since it decreases the chance of the ramp operator falling off the edge of the ramp.

Next, construct the ramp's frame using beams that measure 2 by 4 inches in size, and joists at least 16 inch long. The joists should be at least 18 inches above ground and secured by Joist hangings which are nails that fit inside the joists to prevent them from sliding. Attach the ramp decking with framing nails.

Install an upper landing on the doorway so that wheelchair users can easily navigate the doorswing. The landing should be enough to give at least 12-24 inches of "elbow room" on the handle side for out-swing doors. The landing for doors with in-swinging must be 58 by 60 in order to accommodate the threshold of the door threshold ramp for wheelchairs as well as a wheelchair user who has to reverse through the doorway.

Install a level landing when changing the direction of the ramp, to avoid wheelchairs from having their brakes into corners. A level landing makes it simpler to remove a ramp of the way when needed, so that lawnmowers and other equipment can move under it.

Materials

Aluminium, concrete, or wood can be used to construct a wheelchair ramp. A professional ramp installation service can assist you in deciding which is best for your business or home. It is important to consider your budget and needs when selecting the materials for the ramp. The ramp should be simple to maintain and must be safe to use. Certain cities require that the ramp be laid out with a non-slip, non-slip surface.

Be sure to check with your local government for permits prior to building or purchasing materials. Also, make certain to follow the local building codes. The wrong materials or construction methods can result in dangerous conditions for wheelchair users. You can find up-to-date construction regulations in your local building department library, or on the internet.

Wood ramps are typically the least expensive of ADA ramp materials, but they require more care than other options. Wood ramps should be maintained regularly using an adhesive to avoid decay. Wood can split, which can be especially hazardous for people in wheelchairs. Wood ramps might also require additional support to ensure that the structure is standing and steady.

Concrete ramps can be costly however they are durable and last for a long time. They are also heavy, which requires more effort to install and can make moving the ramp once it's no longer needed difficult. Concrete ramps are able to withstand the weight of heavy power wheelchairs.

Aluminum ramps are lighter and more affordable than steel or concrete. They also have the same durability, strength and corrosion resistance. They are also more affordable than iron or steel, which makes them an ideal choice for those on a limited budget. Aluminum is environmentally friendly because it is a part of the Earth's crust naturally and is able to be recycled.

The ramp's upper landing must be in a level area or within 3/8 inches of the threshold of the door to allow wheelchairs with smaller wheels to move over the ramp without getting stuck. Ramps that have a gap higher than this conform to ADA standards. It is also important to ensure that the ramp is smooth transitioning from the upper landing to the surface. The ramp's final section should have a beveled edge to prevent wheelchairs from stopping abruptly when they leave or enter a house.

Installation

A wheelchair ramp is a plane inclined that can be installed as an alternative or in addition to stairs. It allows wheelchair users and people who use strollers or carts to access areas that would otherwise be difficult to access like the front door or a set of sloping steps.

There are many factors to consider when selecting a ramp for wheelchairs that should be considered, including the location, height and cost. A ramp should be situated as close to the door as possible to help prevent unnecessary transportation. It should be set at a level that the person using it is able to easily navigate. It should be securely fixed to the floor and free of obstructions, such as car parks, shrubs or other obstacles.

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

The length of a ramp varies on the incline, however there are several common ramp types that can be used in most situations. For example the threshold ramp is directly on the lip of a curb, or the threshold of a doorway, while portable ramps can be moved from one location to another and are available in a variety of sizes. There are also aluminum ramps with modular design that can be assembled on site. These temporary ramps for wheelchair access are commonly used in public or commercial areas, and tend to be longer.

Consult with your city's building department to determine the need for a permit for a permanent ramp. It's recommended to consult a mobility specialist to determine which kind of ramp is best suited to your needs and the space you have. In some instances installing permanent ramps could increase the value of your home.

Maintenance

It is important to maintain your drive wheelchair ramp ramp especially if it will be used regularly. You'll need to conduct regular inspections and repair any structural problems as they occur. This will ensure that the ramp is in compliance with all ADA requirements and is safe for the users.

Regular cleaning of wooden ramps is required to get rid of dirt and other debris that can hinder access. Keep the ramp spotless to stop moisture from building up under the surface. This can cause rot. Preservatives and stains for wood can only be effective only if the ramp is thoroughly cleaned prior to application.

wheelchair ramp folding telescopic ramps for wheelchairs can be more difficult to maintain than other kinds of ramps, as they are more prone to wear and tear. It is crucial to have the right tools. To ensure that all fixings are secure and tight you'll need an excellent set of screwdrivers and gauge spanners. Also, you should regularly check the handrails for signs of corrosion or damage. It's possible that over time, with repeated usage and use, the fittings and bolts that secure the handrails could loosen, which can be a serious safety risk for those who use the ramp.

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

If you're planning on using your ramp during winter months, you should consider purchasing wheels for traction, or "snow tires" for your wheelchair. These are specifically designed to aid in tracking on snow and uneven surfaces and are therefore more efficient than standard plastic wheelchair ramps - look at here now, tires in aiding you to stay on the ramp. You can also place heating pads or tape along the ramp's surface to help melt ice and snow before it builds up.