Jordan Swisher

Wheelchair Ramp Design and Construction

A ramp for wheelchairs can be an effective aid to aid the person you love independently at home. If not designed correctly, they are unsafe to use.

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

Design

The ramp design must meet the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards to ensure that wheelchairs effortlessly navigate the structure. For example, the ramp slope should not exceed the ratio 1:12 and must have landings that are level upon any change in direction or shift in the ramp's surface. It must also be constructed of treated lumber which is more durable and weathers precipitation far better than untreated lumber.

The ramp's top and bottom should be free of obstacles such as trees or bushes, as well as other structures that 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 a non-slip surface.

For the ramp frame Choose treated lumber that is at least 4 inches wide. Make posts to support the ramp, ensuring they are at least eight feet apart, and that they extend beyond ground level. Spindles should be used to join the posts with the ramp's railings. This type of connection is preferred because it minimizes the risk of the ramp operator falling off the side of the ramp.

Then, you can build the frame of the ramp with beams of 2 by 4 inches in length and Joists that are at least 16 inches long. Make sure that the joists stand a minimum of 18 inches above the ground and are secured using Joist hangers which are nails that hold the inside of the joists to prevent them from sliding out of place. Attach the ramp decking with a framing nailer.

Install an upper landing on the doorway so that wheelchair ramp portable occupants can easily manage the doorswing. The landing should be enough to allow at least 12-24 inches of "elbow room" on the handle side of out-swing doors. The landing for doors that are in-swinging should be 58 x 60 in order to accommodate the threshold of the door and wheelchair users who need to go backwards through the doorway.

Install an elevated landing at every change in the direction of the ramp to avoid the necessity for wheelchairs to hit on their brakes while turning corners. A level landing also makes it easier to move the ramp out of the way when needed, so that lawnmowers or other equipment can slide under it.

Materials

Aluminium, concrete, or wood can be used to build a wheelchair ramp. A professional ramp installer can help you choose the best option for your office or home. When choosing the material to use for the ramp, it's important to consider your budget and specific needs. The ramp should be simple to maintain and should be safe to use. Some cities require that the ramp be laid out with a non-slip, non-slip surface.

Make sure to inquire with your local government for permits prior to building or purchasing materials. Also, make sure to follow all local building codes. Using the incorrect materials or methods of construction can result in dangerous conditions for wheelchair users. You can get the most up-to-date information on construction requirements at the building department of your local government office library or online.

Wood ramps are usually the most affordable of ADA ramp materials, but they require more care than other alternatives. Wood ramps should be regularly treated with an adhesive to stop the onset of rot. Wood can split and be dangerous for people using wheelchairs. Wood ramps may also require additional support to ensure that the structure is standing and steady.

Concrete ramps can be costly, but are durable and last for a long time. They are also heavy, which requires more labor to install and can make moving the ramp after it is no longer needed difficult. Concrete ramps can withstand the weight of powerful wheelchairs.

Aluminum ramps are lighter than steel or concrete however they offer the same strength and corrosion resistance. They are also more affordable than steel or iron and are a great option for those on a limited budget. Aluminum is eco-friendly because it is a part of the Earth's crust naturally and is able to be recycled.

The upper landing of the ramp should be level or within 3/8 inch of the door threshold to allow for the smaller front wheels of wheelchairs to pass over it without becoming stuck. Ramps with gaps that is larger than this will not meet ADA standards. Also, ensure that the ramp flows smoothly from the upper landing to the surface. The final section of the temporary wheel chair ramp (hop over to this site) should have a beveled edge that will ensure that wheelchairs don't stop abruptly when entering or leaving the home.

Installation

A foldable wheelchair ramps ramp is an inclined plane that is used on top of or in lieu of steps. It allows wheelchair users and those who use carts or strollers to reach areas that would otherwise be difficult to access.

When choosing a wheelchair accessible ramp, there are many factors to consider, including the location, height and cost. The ramp should be located close to the door to prevent unnecessary traveling. It should be set at an angle that is easy to use by the person using it. It should also be secured to the ground and clear of obstructions like shrubbery or parked cars.

ADA regulations stipulate that ramps must are equipped with handrails either side. The rails should 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 the ramp is determined by its incline. However, there are some basic ramp types that can be used for most situations. For example the threshold ramp is right on the edge of a curb or at 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 that are modular that can be constructed on-site. These are usually used for public or commercial spaces and are usually longer than the threshold and portable ramps.

If you are considering an all-weather ramp, be sure you check with your city's building department to see if you need an approval. It is recommended to consult with a mobility specialist to determine what kind of ramp is best suited to your needs and the space you have. In certain cases, installing a permanent ramp can even increase the resale value of your home.

Maintenance

It is essential to maintain your wheelchair ramp particularly if it is going to be used often. You'll need to perform regular inspections and repair any structural problems as they arise. This will ensure that the ramp complies all ADA requirements, and is safe for users.

Regularly cleaning wooden ramps is essential to get rid of dirt and other debris that can block access. Cleaning the ramp regularly will also stop moisture from trapping under the surface and causing rot. Wood preservatives and stains only work only if the ramp is clean before application.

Wheelchair ramps are more difficult to maintain than other ramps as they are more susceptible to wear and tear. The most important thing to do is ensure you have the right tools for the job. To ensure that all fixings are secure and secure you'll need an appropriate set of screwdrivers and gauge spanners. Also, you should regularly check the handrails for signs damage or corrosion. It's possible that, over time, and with repeated use, some of the bolts and fittings that secure the handrails could loosen and cause a major safety concern for those using the ramp.

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

Consider buying "snow tires" or traction wheels for your wheelchair if you are planning to use it for the duration of the winter. These wheels are made to better track on snowy surfaces and uneven surfaces. They can help you remain on your ramp more effectively than standard wheelchair tires. Alternately, you can put heating pads or tape along the ramp surface to help melt snow and ice before it builds up.