Wheelchair Ramp Design and Construction
A wheelchair ramp can be an important device to help the person you love independently at home. If not designed correctly, they are 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 an area that is grippy for wheelchair van ramps prices users.
Design
The ramp's design has to meet the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards to ensure that wheelchairs can easily navigate the structure. For example, the ramp slope must not exceed a ratio of 1:12 and must have landings that are level at any change in direction or shift in the ramp's surface. It should also be constructed from treated lumber, which is more durable than lumber that is not treated and can withstand the effects of rain better.
The ramp's top and bottom must be free of obstructions like trees or bushes, or any other structures which could interfere with the safety of the user. The surface of the ramp should be non-slip as well as hard. Some municipalities require that the entire ramp be covered with a non-slip surface.
For the ramp frame, use treated lumber that is at minimum four inches wide. Create posts to anchor 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 to the ramp's railings. This kind of connection is preferred because it decreases the chance of an operator of the ramp falling off the edge of the ramp.
Then, build the frame of the ramp using beams 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 that they are secured with joist hangers which are nails that bind the inside of the joists to prevent them from slipping off the ground. Attach the ramp decking with a framing nailer.
Add an upper landing near the doorway to allow 4ft wheelchair ramp users to control the doorswing without difficulty. The landing should be enough to give at least 12-24 inches of "elbow space" on the handle side for 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 wheelchair users who need to walk backwards in the doorway.
Install a level landing when you change the direction of the ramp, to avoid wheelchairs from having to slam their brakes on corners. A level landing makes it simpler to move a ramp out of the path if needed, so that equipment like lawnmowers can move under it.
Materials
The material used to build a wheelchair ramp can be wood, concrete or aluminum. A professional ramp installer will assist you in choosing the right option for your home or office. It is important to consider your individual needs and budget when selecting the materials for the ramp. The ramp should be simple to maintain and must be safe to use. Some cities require that the ramp be paved with an anti-slip surface.
Before you purchase any materials or begin building, be sure you have the necessary permits from your local authority and that you follow all building codes within your area. Utilizing the wrong materials or construction methods can result in dangerous conditions for wheelchair ramps for Vans users. You can find up-to-date construction requirements in your local government building department or library, or on the internet.
Wood ramps can be the most affordable option for ADA ramp materials. However they need more maintenance. Wood ramps need to be regularly treated with an adhesive to stop the onset of rot. Wood can split and be hazardous for those using wheelchairs. Wood ramps also require additional support to ensure the structure is maintained.
Concrete ramps are extremely durable and long-lasting, but they can be costly. They are heavy, which means that more labor is required to install ramps and may make it difficult to move the ramp once no longer needed. Concrete ramps are strong enough to withstand the weight of power wheelchairs.
Aluminum ramps weigh less than concrete or steel however they offer the same strength and corrosion resistance. They are also more affordable than steel or iron which makes them a great option for those with a tight budget. Aluminum is environmentally friendly because it is found in the Earth's crust naturally and can be recycled.
The upper ramp's landing needs to be level or within 3/8 inch of the threshold to allow the front wheels of smaller wheelchairs to pass over it without getting stuck. Ramps with gaps higher than this conform to ADA standards. You should also make sure that the ramp flows smoothly from the upper landing to the surface. The final section of the ramp should be a beveled transitions to avoid an abrupt stop for wheelchairs when they enter or exit the dwelling.
Installation
A wheelchair ramp is an inclined plane that is installed on top of or in lieu of stairs. It lets wheelchair users and those who use carts or strollers to access areas that would otherwise be difficult to access like an entranceway or a set of steep steps.
There are a variety of factors to consider when selecting a ramp for wheelchairs, including location, height and cost. A ramp should be placed near the door as is possible to help prevent unnecessary travel. It should be placed at a level that the person using it can easily navigate. It should also be fixed to the ground and clear of obstructions, like the trees or cars parked.
ADA regulations state that ramps must have handrails on either side. The rails must be at least 36 inches apart and have the gripping surface smooth or rounded. They should also be connected to the edge of the ramp and extend 12 inches over it. If the ramp has switchesbacks or an L-shaped layout handrails should be a continuous length between the ramp 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. A threshold ramp, for example is a ramp that is flush with the curb's lip or the threshold of the doorway. Portable ramps are, however, can be moved to a different location and are available in different sizes. There are also aluminum ramps that are modular that can be constructed on the spot. These are often used for public or commercial spaces and are usually longer than the threshold and portable ramps.
Check with your city's construction department to determine if a permit is required for a permanent ramp. It is recommended to consult with a mobility ramps for wheelchairs specialist to determine which kind of ramp will best fit your requirements and the space you have. In some cases the installation of a permanent ramp can even boost the value of your home.
Maintenance
It is essential to ensure that your ramp for wheelchairs is maintained, particularly if you are going to use it often. You'll need to perform regular inspections and repair any structural problems as they develop. This will ensure that the ramp meets all ADA requirements and is safe for the users.
Wooden ramps require frequent cleaning to remove dirt and debris that can obstruct access. Keep the ramp spotless to stop moisture from accumulating beneath the surface. This can lead to the onset of rot. Preservatives and stains for wood only work effectively only if the ramp is clean before application.
Wheelchair ramps are more difficult to maintain than other ramps as they are more likely wear and tear. It is essential to have the proper tools. To make sure that all fixings are secure and secure you'll need a good set of screwdrivers and gauge spanners. It is also important to regularly check the handrails to ensure they are in good shape and are free of corrosion or damage. With time and repeated use, it's not uncommon for the bolts or fittings the handrails to become loose. This can pose an issue for anyone who uses the ramp.
Another important factor is ensuring the surface of the ramp has enough grip, especially during winter when conditions may be a challenge. You'll need to sweep away any dirt, leaves and other debris that could hinder the surface and cause slippage. In addition, you'll want to apply a non-corrosive ice melt on the ramp's surface prior to winter arrives to prevent slipping and causing injury.
Think about buying "snow tires" or traction wheels for your wheelchair if intend to use it during the winter. They're specially designed to provide better tracking on snow and uneven surfaces, so they'll be more efficient than standard wheelchair tires at aiding you to stay on the ramp. Alternately, you can put heating pads or tape on the ramp's surface to melt snow and ice before it accumulates.