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Wheelchair Ramp Design and Construction

A wheelchair ramp can be a valuable tool to assist the person you love independently at home. If they are not designed properly, they are unsafe to use.

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

Design

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

The sides and top of the ramp need to be clear of obstacles such as bushes, trees or other structures that may hinder the safe passage of the ramp's user. In addition the surface 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 frame of the ramp choose treated lumber that is at minimum four inches wide. Build posts to secure the ramp, ensuring that they are at least eight feet apart and that they extend below ground level. Spindles should be used to connect the posts with the ramp's railings. This type of connection is preferred since it reduces the risk of a ramp operator falling off the side of the ramp.

Then, build the wheel chair ramp design's frame using joists that are at least 16 inches long and 2 by 4 inch beams. Make sure that the joists stand a minimum of 18 inches above the ground and that they are secured with hangers for joists, which are nails that grip the inside of the joists and prevent them from sliding out of alignment. Attach the ramp decking with a framing nailer.

Add an upper landing to the doorway so that the wheelchair-bound occupants are able to easily maneuver the doorswing. The landing should be enough to allow at least 12 to 24 inches of "elbow space" 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 as well as a wheelchair user who has to go backwards through the doorway.

Install a level landing when you change the direction of the ramp, to avoid wheelchairs from having their brakes at corners. A level landing is easier to move a ramp out of the way when needed, so that equipment such as lawnmowers can move under it.

Materials

Aluminium, concrete, or wood can be used to build ramps for wheelchairs. A professional ramp installation company can help you decide which one is suitable for your business or home. When selecting the material for the ramp, it's important to consider your budget and the specific requirements. The ramp should be easy to maintain, and it should be safe to use. Some cities require that the ramp be paved with an anti-slip surface.

Be sure to check with your local government for permits prior to building or purchasing materials. Also, be certain to follow the local building codes. Incorrect construction materials or techniques could create hazardous conditions for wheelchair users. You can find the most current construction guidelines in your local building department of the government or library, or on the internet.

Wood ramps are typically the least expensive of ADA ramp materials, but they require more care than other alternatives. Wood ramps must be maintained regularly using a sealer in order to prevent the onset of rot. Wood splinters can be a problem, and is particularly hazardous for those who are in wheelchairs. Wood ramps may also require extra support to ensure the structure is maintained.

Concrete ramps can be expensive however they are durable and long-lasting. They are also heavy, which demands more effort to install and can make moving the ramp when it is no longer needed difficult. Concrete ramps are strong enough to support the weight of power wheelchairs.

Aluminum ramps are lighter than concrete or steel however they possess the same strength and resistance to corrosion. They are also less expensive than steel and iron which makes them a great option for people on budgets. Aluminum is also green as it is naturally present in the Earth's crust and can be recycled.

The ramp's upper landing needs to be at a level level, or within 3/8 inches of the threshold of the door to allow wheelchairs with smaller wheels to go across the ramp without getting stuck. Ramps that have gaps greater than this won't meet ADA standards. You should also ensure that the ramp transitions smoothly between the landing area and the ground. The ramp's last section should have a beveled edge to stop wheelchairs from abruptly stopping when entering or leaving a house.

Installation

A ramp for wheelchairs is an inclined plane that is installed in addition to or in place of steps. It allows wheelchair users, as well as 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 aspects to take into consideration, including the location, height and price. The ramp should be placed as close as possible to the door threshold ramps for wheelchairs to avoid unnecessary travel. It should be set at a level that the person using it is able to easily walk on it. It should be firmly anchored to the floor and free of any obstructions such as shrubbery, parked cars or other obstacles.

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

The length of the ramp is determined by the incline. However there are a few common ramp types that can be used for most situations. For instance the threshold ramp is placed right on the edge of a curb, or the threshold of a doorway, while ramps that are portable can be moved from one place to another and are available in a variety of sizes. Modular aluminum ramps can also be assembled on-site. These ramps are usually used in public or commercial areas and are typically longer.

Consult with your city's building department to determine whether a permit is required for an ongoing plastic ramp for wheelchair. It's also a good idea to consult with a mobility specialist to determine what kind of ramp will best fit your requirements and the space that you have. In some instances the installation of a permanent ramp can even increase the value of your home.

Maintenance

It is important to maintain your wheelchair ramp, especially if it will be used often. You'll need to conduct regular inspections and address any structural issues as they arise. This will ensure that the ramp meets all ADA requirements and is safe for the users.

Regularly cleaning wooden ramps is necessary to remove dirt and debris that could hinder access. Cleaning the ramp regularly will also stop moisture from trapping under the surface and creating rot. The wood preservatives or stains only work if the ramp has been thoroughly cleaned before application.

Wheelchair ramps can be more difficult to maintain than other kinds of ramps because they are more prone to wear and wear and tear. It is important to have the proper tools. To make sure that all fixings are secure and secure, you will need an excellent set of screwdrivers as well as gauge spanners. It's also important to check regularly the handrails to make sure they are in good working order and have no signs of damage or corrosion. With time and repeated usage, it's possible for some of the bolts or fittings that are anchored the handrails to become loose. This could pose an unsafe situation for anyone who is using the ramp.

It is also essential to ensure that the surface of the ramp is grippy enough especially in winter, when the conditions can be difficult. You'll need to sweep away any leaves, dirt and other debris that may obstruct the surface and cause slippage. In addition, you'll want to apply an ice melt that is not corrosive to the ramp's surface prior to winter arrives to prevent slips and injury.

If you're planning on using your ramp throughout the winter, consider investing in wheels for traction, or "snow tires" for your wheelchair. These are specifically designed to aid in tracking on uneven and snowy surfaces, so they'll be more efficient than standard wheelchair tires at keeping you on the ramp. You can also place heating pads or tape along the ramp surface to help melt ice and snow before it gets accumulated.