wheelchair threshold ramp for sliding glass door Ramp Design and Construction

A wheelchair ramp is a vital tool for helping your loved ones live at home in a way that is comfortable for them. If not designed correctly they could be dangerous to use.

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

Design

The ramp's design should be in line with the Americans with Disabilities Act standards to allow wheelchairs ramps to navigate the structure easily. For instance, the ramp's slope should not exceed a ratio of 1:12 and must have landings that are level upon any angle or change 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 sides and top of the ramp should be free of obstructions like bushes, trees or other structures that may interfere with the safe passage of the ramp's user. The surface of the ramp should also be non-slip and hard. Some municipalities require that the entire ramp be coated with an anti-slip surface.

For the frame of the ramp, use treated lumber that is at minimum four inches wide. Build posts to secure the ramp, ensuring that they are at minimum eight feet apart and that they extend below the level of the ground. The posts must then be connected to the ramp's railings using spindles. This kind of connection is recommended because it decreases the chance of the ramp operator falling off the edge of the ramp.

Next, build the frame for the ramp using joists that are at least 16 inches long and 2 by 4 inch beams. The joists should be at minimum 18 inches above the ground and secured with hangings for joists, which are nails that sit inside the joists to prevent them from sliding. Attach the ramp decking with a framing nailer.

Install an upper landing on the doorway to ensure wheelchair users can easily navigate the doorswing. The landing should be 12 to 24 inches on the handle side of out-swinging doors. For doors with in-swing the landing should be at least 58 by 60 inches to accommodate the door's threshold and a person using wheelchair who has to move backwards through the doorway.

Install a level landing when you change the direction of the ramp, to avoid wheelchairs from having their brakes on corners. A level landing also makes it easier to move the ramp away from the way when needed to allow lawnmowers or other equipment can pass underneath it.

Materials

Aluminium, wood, or concrete can be used to construct a wheelchair ramp. A professional ramp installer will help you choose the best option for your office or home. It is important to consider your individual needs and budget when choosing the materials for the ramp. The ramp should be easy to maintain, and it must be safe to use. Some cities require that the ramp be paved with a 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. The wrong materials or construction techniques could create hazardous conditions for wheelchair users. You can find current construction regulations in your local government building department library, or on the internet.

Wood ramps can be the cheapest option for ADA ramp materials. However they require more care. Wood ramps must be treated regularly with an adhesive to avoid decay. Wood can splinter and be dangerous for people using wheelchairs. Wood ramps might require additional support to keep the structure upright and stable.

Concrete ramps are extremely durable and long-lasting however they can be expensive. They are heavy, which means that more labor is required to install them, and they can make it difficult to move the ramp after it is they are no longer needed. Concrete ramps can handle the weight of large power wheelchairs.

Aluminum ramps are lighter and less expensive than concrete or steel. They also have the same strength, durability and resistance to corrosion. They are also less expensive than steel or iron which makes them a great option for those on a tight budget. Aluminum is eco-friendly because it is found in the earth's crust naturally and is able to be recycled.

The upper ramp's landing should be level or within 3/8 inch of the door threshold to allow the smaller front wheels of wheelchairs to pass over it without getting stuck. Ramps with a gap that is larger than this will not comply with ADA standards. It is also important to ensure that the ramp flows smoothly from the upper landing to the surface. The ramp's last section should have a beveled edge to stop wheelchairs from abruptly stopping at the point of leaving or entering a home.

Installation

A wheelchair ramp is an inclined plane that is used as an addition or in place of steps. It allows wheelchair users as well as those who use carts or strollers to get into areas that would otherwise be difficult to access.

When selecting a wheelchair access ramp, there are many factors to consider, such as the location, height and price. The ramp should be placed close to the door in order to avoid unnecessary traveling. It should be placed at a level that the person using it is able to easily walk on it. It should also be anchored to the ground and free of obstructions, like trees or parked cars.

ADA regulations stipulate that ramps must have handrails either side. The rails should be at least 36" apart and have a smooth or rounded gripping surface. They should also be connected to the edge of the ramp and extend 12 inches beyond the ramp. Handrails should be continuous if the ramp is constructed with switchbacks or an L-shaped layout.

The length of the ramp is determined by its slope. However there are a few basic ramp types that can be used for most situations. For example the threshold ramp is placed flush along the lip of a curb or at the threshold of a doorway, while ramps that are portable ramp for wheelchair can be moved from one place to another and are available in many different sizes. There are also aluminum wheel chair Ramps ramps that are modular that can be assembled on site. These ramps are typically used in public or commercial areas and are usually longer.

If you're thinking of a permanent ramp, make sure you check with your city's building department to determine if you require a permit. It is recommended to consult with a mobility expert to determine what kind of ramp is best suited to your needs and the space you have. In certain situations the installation of permanent ramps can improve 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. It is essential to conduct regular inspections and deal with any structural issues as they occur. This will ensure that the ramp complies with all ADA requirements and is safe for all users.

Wooden ramps require regular maintenance to remove debris and dirt that may block access. Cleaning the ramp regularly will also stop moisture from accumulating under the surface and creating rot. Preservatives and stains for wood only work effectively if the ramp is completely cleaned prior to applying.

Wheelchair ramps can be more challenging to maintain than other types of ramps, as they are more prone to wear and wear and tear. The most important thing to do is ensure that you have the right tools for the job. A set of gauge spanners and screwdrivers are crucial to ensure that all fixings are tight and secure. It is also important to regularly check the handrails to make sure they are in good working order and do not show signs of damage or corrosion. It's possible that over time, and with repeated use, some of the fittings and bolts that secure the handrails may loosen and pose a serious safety risk for those using the ramp.

It is also essential to ensure that the surface the ramp is sufficiently grippy, especially in winter when the conditions are difficult. You will need to sweep up any dirt, leaves or other debris that could block the ramp 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 slipping and injury.

If you're planning on using your ramp all winter, consider investing in wheels for traction or "snow tires" for your wheelchair. They're specifically designed to offer better tracking on uneven surfaces and snow which is why they'll be more efficient than standard wheelchair tires in aiding you to stay on the ramp. Alternately, you can put heating pads or tape on the ramp's surface to help melt ice and snow before it gets accumulated.