Wheelchair Ramp Design and Construction

A wheelchair ramp is a crucial tool in helping a loved one live independently in their home. If they are not designed properly they can be unsafe to use.

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

Design

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

The ramp's bottom and top should be free of obstructions, such as trees, bushes, or other structures which could hinder the user's safe passage. The surface of the ramp 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 four inches wide for the ramp frame. To make sure the ramp is secure, build posts that are at least 8 feet apart and extend beyond ground level. The posts must then be connected to the ramp's railings using spindles. This type of connection is preferred because it reduces the risk of the ramp operator falling off the side of the ramp.

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

Install an upper landing on the doorway to ensure the wheelchair-bound occupants are able to easily maneuver the doorswing. The landing should be wide enough to allow at least 12-24 inches of "elbow room" on the handle side of out-swing doors. The landing for doors with in-swinging must be 58 by 60 inches to accommodate the threshold of the door as well as a adjustable wheelchair ramp user who needs to walk backwards in the doorway.

Install a level landing at any change in the direction of the ramp to avoid the necessity for wheelchairs to hit on their brakes when turning corners. A level landing makes it simpler to remove a ramp of the path if needed, so that equipment such as lawnmowers can pass beneath it.

Materials

Concrete, wood or aluminium can be used to construct a wheelchair ramp. A professional ramp installer will help you select the most suitable option for your home or office. When choosing the material for the ramp, it's important to take into account your budget and specific needs. The ramp should be simple to maintain, andsmaller front wheels of wheelchairs to move over it without getting stuck. Ramps with a gap larger than this won't 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 should have a beveled edge to stop wheelchairs from abruptly stopping when entering or leaving a house.

Installation

A wheelchair to car ramp (articlescad.Com) ramp is a plane inclined ramp that can be used as an alternative or in the place of steps. It lets wheelchair users and those who use carts or strollers to get around areas that are otherwise difficult to reach like a front door or a set up of steep steps.

When choosing a wheelchair accessible ramp, there are many factors to consider, including the location, height, and cost. A ramp should be situated near the door as is possible to avoid unnecessary journeys. It should also be positioned at an angle that is easily accessed by the person using it. It should be securely fixed to the floor and clear of any obstructions such as shrubbery, parked cars or other obstacles.

ADA regulations stipulate that ramps must have handrails either side. The rails must be at least 36 inches apart and have a gripping surface that is rounded or smooth. They must also be attached to the edge of the ramp and extend 12 inches beyond it. If a ramp is equipped with switchbacks or an L-shaped layout, handrails must be continuous between the ramp's runs.

The length of the ramp is determined by the slope. However there are a few basic ramp types that are suitable for all situations. For example the threshold ramp is placed directly on the lip of a curb or at the threshold of a doorway while portable ramps can be moved from one spot to another and come in many different sizes. There are also aluminum ramps with modular design that can be constructed on the spot. These ramps are commonly used in commercial or public areas and are usually longer.

Consult with your city's building department to determine if a permit is required for an ongoing ramp. 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 permanent ramps could increase the value of your home.

Maintenance

It is crucial to keep your ramp for wheelchairs in good condition particularly if it is going to be used often. You'll need to conduct regular inspections, and fix any structural issues that develop. This will ensure that the ramp is in compliance with all ADA requirements, and is safe for the users.

Wooden van ramps for wheelchairs require regular maintenance to remove debris and dirt that can obstruct access. Cleanliness of the ramp will also stop moisture from accumulating under the surface and leading to rot. Wood preservatives and stains only work properly when the ramp is clean prior to application.

Wheelchair ramps are more difficult to maintain than other ramps as they are more susceptible to wear and tear. The most important thing is to ensure that you have the right tools for the job. To make sure that all fixings are secure and tight you'll need an excellent set of screwdrivers and gauge spanners. It is also important to regularly check the handrails to make sure they are in a good condition and have no signs of damage or corrosion. It is possible that over time, as they are used repeatedly, some of the fittings and bolts which hold the handrails in place could loosen, which can be a major safety concern for people who use the ramp.

It is also crucial to ensure that the surface of the ramp is sufficiently grippy particularly in winter, when conditions can be challenging. You'll need to sweep off any leaves, dirt or other debris that could obstruct and cause slippage. In addition, you'll want to apply an ice melt that is not corrosive to the ramp's surface before winter arrives to prevent slips and injury.

Consider buying "snow tires" or traction wheels for your wheelchair if plan to use it throughout the winter. These wheels are designed to be more efficient on snowy and uneven surfaces. They will allow you to stay on your ramp longer than standard wheelchair tires. You can also use heating tape or pads to melt the snow and ice on the ramp prior to it gets too much.