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Wheelchair Ramp Design and Construction

A wheelchair ramp can be an effective aid to aid the person you love independently at home. If not designed correctly they could be unsafe to use.

ADA regulations require landings to be level at any change in direction, so as to avoid compound slopes. They must also have an area that is grippy for wheelchair users.

Design

The ramp's design should be in line with the Americans with Disabilities Act standards so that wheelchairs are able to move around the structure easily. For example, the ramp slope must not exceed the ratio 1:12 and must have landings that are level upon any direction change or shift in the ramp's surface. It must also be constructed using treated lumber which is more durable than untreated and is able to withstand rain better.

The top and bottom of the ramp must be clear of obstacles such as bushes, trees or other structures that may hinder the safe movement of the ramp's user. wheelchairs ramps of the ramp must be non-slip and hard. Some municipalities require that the entire ramp be covered with a non-slip surface.

For the ramp frame, use treated lumber that is at minimum four inches wide. To make sure the ramp is secure, build posts that are at least 8 feet apart and extend to below the ground level. Spindles should be used to connect the posts to the ramp's railings. This type of connection is preferred since it reduces the risk of an operator of the ramp falling off the side of the ramp.

Then, construct the frame for the ramp using Joists that are at minimum 16 inches long and beams of 2 by 4 inches. Make sure that the joists stand a minimum of 18 inches above ground level and are secured using hangers for joists, which are nails that hold the inside of the joists to prevent them from sliding out of alignment. Attach the ramp decking with a framing nailer.

Install an upper landing on the doorway so that the wheelchair-bound occupants are able to easily maneuver the doorswing. This landing should have 12 to 24 inches on the handle side of doors that out-swing. For in-swing doors the landing should be at least 58 inches by 60 inches to allow for the threshold of the door and a person in wheelchair who must walk backwards through the doorway.

Install a level landing whenever you alteration in the direction of the ramp to prevent the necessity for wheelchairs to hit on their brakes as they turn corners. A level landing makes it easier to remove a ramp of the way when needed, so that equipment like lawnmowers can move under it.

Materials

Aluminium, concrete, or wood can be used to construct a wheelchair ramp. A professional ramp installation company can help you decide which one is suitable for your home or business. When selecting the material for the ramp, it is important to take into account your budget and specific needs. The ramp should be simple to maintain, and it should be safe for use. Certain cities require that the ramp be laid with a non-slip surface.

Before you purchase any material or begin building, be sure that you have the necessary permits from your local government and that you follow all building codes within your area. The wrong materials or construction techniques can create dangerous conditions for wheelchair 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 the cheapest alternative for ADA ramp materials. However, they require more maintenance. The wood ramp's surface need to be regularly treated with a sealer in order to stop rot and warping. Wood can split and be hazardous for those using wheelchairs. Wood ramps may require additional support to ensure that the structure is standing and steady.

Concrete ramps are extremely durable and last for a long time however they can be expensive. They are also heavy, which demands more labor to install and makes moving the ramp when it's no longer needed difficult. Concrete ramps are able to withstand the weight of powerful wheelchairs.

Aluminum ramps are lighter and more affordable than concrete or steel. They also have the same strength, durability and resistance to corrosion. They are also less expensive than iron or steel, which makes them an excellent choice for those on a limited budget. Aluminum is also environmentally friendly, since it is naturally present in the Earth's crust and can be recycled.

The ramp's upper landing should be at a level level or within 3/8 inches of the threshold of the door in order for wheelchairs with smaller wheels to pass over the ramp without becoming stuck. Ramps with a gap larger than this will not meet ADA standards. You should also make sure that the ramp flows smoothly from the upper landing to the ground surface. The final section of the ramp must have a beveled transitions to avoid an abrupt stop for wheelchairs as they enter or leave a dwelling.

Installation

A wheelchair ramp is a sloped plane ramp that can be erected as an alternative or in the place of stairs. It allows wheelchair users and people who use strollers or carts to get around areas that would otherwise be difficult to reach, such as an entranceway or a set up of steep steps.

When choosing a wheelchair access ramp, there are numerous aspects to take into consideration, including the location, height and cost. Ideally, a ramp should be placed as close to the door as is possible to avoid unnecessary journeys. It should be set at a level where the person using it is able to easily navigate. It should be securely fixed to the floor and free of any obstructions such as shrubbery, parked cars or other obstacles.

ADA regulations stipulate that ramps must are equipped with handrails either side. These rails should be at 36 inches apart and have a gripping surface that is smooth or rounded. They must also be anchored to the edge of the ramp and extend 12 inches beyond it. Handrails must be continuous if the ramp is designed with switchbacks or in an L-shaped layout.

The length of the ramp is determined by its incline. However, there are some basic ramp types that can be used for most situations. A threshold ramp, for instance is a ramp that is flush with the lip of the curb or the threshold of the doorway. Portable ramps are, however they can be moved to a different location and are available in various sizes. There are also aluminum ramps that are modular that can be constructed on site. These are often used in public or commercial areas and are typically longer than the threshold and ramps that are portable.

If you're thinking of a permanent ramp, make sure to check with the building department of your city to see if you need permits. Also, you should consult an expert in mobility about the kind of ramp that is best for your space and needs. In certain situations installing permanent ramps could boost the value of your home.

Maintenance

It's important to make sure your wheelchair ramp is well maintained, particularly if you will be using it frequently. You'll have to conduct regular inspections and repair any structural problems as they arise. This will ensure that the ramp is in compliance with all ADA requirements and is safe for all users.

Regularly cleaning wooden ramps is necessary to remove dirt and debris that may block access. Keep the ramp spotless to stop moisture from accumulating beneath the surface. This can lead to rot. Preservatives and stains for wood only work if the ramp has been thoroughly cleaned prior to applying.





Wheelchair ramps are more difficult to maintain than other types of ramps, since they are more susceptible to wear and tear. The most important thing to do is ensure you have the right tools for the job. A set of gauge spanners and screwdrivers is crucial to ensure that all fixings are secure and secure. Also, you should regularly check the handrails for signs damage or corrosion. It's possible that, over time, with repeated usage, some of the fittings and bolts that secure the handrails could loosen and pose a serious safety risk for people who use the ramp.

It is also essential to ensure that the surface the ramp is grippy enough, especially in winter when conditions can be difficult. You'll need to clean up any dirt, leaves or other debris that could obstruct and cause slippage. In addition, you'll want to apply a non-corrosive ice melt on the ramp's surface before winter arrives to prevent slipping and injury.

If you're planning to use your ramp all winter months, you should consider purchasing wheels for traction or "snow tires" for your wheelchair. They're specially designed to provide better tracking on uneven surfaces and snow and are therefore more effective than standard wheelchair tires at keeping you on the ramp. You can also utilize heating pads or tape to melt snow and ice on the ramp before it accumulates.