Wheelchair Ramp Design and Construction
A wheelchair ramp can be a valuable aid to aid your loved ones live more independently at home. If they are not designed properly they can be dangerous to use.
ADA regulations require that landings be level at any change in direction, so as to avoid compound slopes. They must also provide a grippy surface for wheelchair users.
Design
The ramp's design must meet the Americans with Disabilities Act standards so that wheelchairs are able to maneuver the structure with ease. The ramp's slope shouldn't exceed a 1:12 ratio, and the landings must be level at any change of direction or shift on the ramp surface. It also must be constructed of treated lumber which is more durable and can withstand precipitation much better than untreated lumber.
The sides and top of the ramp must be free of obstacles like bushes, trees or other structures that could interfere with the safe passage of the ramp's user. In addition, the surface of the ramp must be hard and non-slip. Some municipalities require that the entire ramp be covered with an anti-slip surface.
For the ramp frame choose treated lumber that is at least four inches wide. Create posts to anchor the ramp, making sure they are at least eight feet apart and that they extend beyond ground level. The posts should be connected with the ramp's railings by using spindles. This type of connection is preferred because it minimizes the risk of an operator of the ramp falling off the edge of the ramp.
Then, construct the ramp's frame using Joists that are at minimum 16 inches long and beams of 2 by 4 inches. The joists should be at least 18 inches above the ground and secured with hangings for joists which are nails that grip inside the joists to prevent them from sliding. Attach the ramp decking using a framing nailer.
Create an upper landing in the doorway to allow wheelchair occupants to manage the doorswing easily. This landing should be large enough to allow at least 12 to 24 inches of "elbow room" on the handle side of out-swing doors. For rubber threshold wheelchair ramp that swing in, the landing must be at least 58 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 when you change the direction of the ramp to stop wheelchairs from having their brakes on corners. A level landing is easier to move a ramp out of the way if required, so that equipment like lawnmowers can pass beneath it.
Materials
The materials used to construct ramps for wheelchairs could be made of wood, concrete or aluminum. A professional ramp installation company will help you choose which is best for your business or home. When selecting the material for the ramp, it is important to take into account your budget and the specific requirements. The ramp should be simple to maintain and must be safe to use. Certain cities require that the ramp be laid with an anti-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 wrong materials or construction methods can result in dangerous conditions for wheelchair users. You can get the most up-to-date information on construction requirements at your local building department office, library or online.
Wood ramps are usually the most affordable of ADA ramp materials, however they require more maintenance than other alternatives. The surface of wood ramps should be treated regularly with a sealer in order to stop warping and rot. Wood splinters can be a problem, and can be especially hazardous for people in wheelchairs. Wood ramps also require additional support in order to keep the structure in place.
Concrete ramps are extremely durable and last for a long time however they can be costly. They are heavy, which means more labor is required to install them and can make it difficult to move the ramp once it is no longer required. Concrete ramps are sturdy enough to withstand the weight of power wheelchairs.
Aluminum ramps are less heavy and less expensive than concrete or steel. They also have the same durability, strength and resistance to corrosion. They are also less expensive than iron or steel which makes them a great option for those on a tight budget. Aluminum is also eco-friendly as it is naturally found in the Earth's crust, and can be recycled.
The ramp's upper landing needs to be in a level area, or within 3/8 inches of the threshold of the door, allowing wheelchairs with smaller wheels to move across the ramp without getting stuck. Ramps with gaps higher than this comply with ADA standards. It is also important to ensure that the ramp transitions smoothly between the upper landing and the ground surface. The last section of the ramp should be a beveled transitions to avoid the abrupt stop of wheelchairs when they enter or exit a dwelling.
Installation
A wheelchair ramp is an inclined plane that is installed in addition to or in place of stairs. It lets wheelchair users and those who use carts or strollers to navigate areas that would otherwise be difficult to access, such as an entranceway or a set of sloping steps.
There are a variety of factors to consider when choosing a wheelchair ramp that should be considered, including the size, location, and height. The ramp should be placed closest to the door to prevent unnecessary journeys. It should be set at an elevation that is easily accessed by the person who is using it. It should also be secured to the ground and clear of obstructions like the trees or cars parked.
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. In addition, they must be attached to the ramp and extend at least 12 inches beyond the edge of the ramp. Handrails should be continuous if a ramp is designed with switchbacks, or in an L-shaped layout.
The length of the ramp is determined by its slope. However, there are some basic ramp types that are suitable for all situations. A threshold ramp, for instance is a ramp that is flush with the curb's lip or threshold of the doorway. Portable ramps are however are able to be moved to a different location and are available in different sizes. Modular aluminum ramps may also be constructed on-site. These are usually used in public or commercial areas and are typically longer than the threshold and portable ramps.
Contact your city's construction department to determine if a permit is required for a permanent ramp. Also, you should consult an expert in mobility to determine the kind of ramp that works best for your space and needs. In some cases 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 often. It is essential to conduct regular inspections and address any structural issues as they occur. This will ensure that the ramp is compliant with all ADA requirements and is safe for all users.
Wooden ramps require regular cleaning to remove dirt and debris that could block access. Keep the ramp clean to avoid moisture from building up under the surface. This can lead to the onset of rot. The wood preservatives or stains can only be effective when the ramp has been thoroughly cleaned prior to application.
Wheelchair ramps are more difficult to maintain than other ramps due to the fact that they are more likely wear and tear. The most important thing to do is ensure that you have the appropriate tools for the job. To make sure that all fixings are secure and tight you'll need an appropriate set of screwdrivers and gauge spanners. Also, you should regularly check the handrails for signs corrosion or damage. As time passes, and with repeated use, it's not uncommon for some of the fittings or bolts that hold the handrails to come loose. This could pose a safety concern for anyone who is using the ramp.
It is also crucial to make sure that the surface of the ramp is sufficiently grippy especially in winter, when conditions can be challenging. You'll need to sweep off any leaves, dirt or other debris that might block 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 avoid slips and causing injury.
If you're planning to use your ramp throughout the winter, consider investing in traction wheels or "snow tires" for your wheelchair. They're specifically designed to aid in tracking on uneven and snowy surfaces which is why they'll be more effective than standard wheelchair tires in aiding you to stay on the ramp. You can also utilize heating pads or tape to melt snow and ice on the ramp prior to it accumulates.