Wheelchair Ramp Design and Construction
A wheelchair ramp is a vital tool for helping your loved ones live independently in their home. If they are not designed correctly, they are dangerous to use.
ADA regulations require level landings on any changes in direction to avoid compound slopes. They must also provide a gripping surface for wheelchair users.
Design
The ramp design should meet the Americans with Disabilities Act standards so that wheelchairs are able to maneuver the structure with ease. For instance, the ramp's slope cannot 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 should also be constructed using treated lumber which is more durable than lumber that is not treated and is able to withstand rain better.
The ramp's top and bottom should be free of obstructions like trees or bushes, or any other structures that could hinder the safety of the user. In addition the surface of the ramp must be smooth and non-slip. Some municipalities require the use of an anti-slip surface running along the ramp's entire length.
Use treated lumber of at minimum 4 inches in width for the frame of the ramp. Create posts to anchor the ramp, making sure they are at least eight feet apart, and that they extend below ground level. The posts should then connect with the ramp's railings by using spindles. This kind of connection minimizes the chance of a ramp operator falling off the ramp.
Then, construct the ramp's frame using joists that are at most 16 inches long and beams of 2 by 4 inches. The joists must be at least 18 inches above the ground and secured by Joist hangings, which are nails that sit within the joists to stop them from sliding. Attach the ramp decking with a framing nailer.
Include an upper landing in the doorway so that wheelchair occupants can easily manage the doorswing. 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 doors with in-swing, the landing must be at least 58 by 60 inches to accommodate the door's threshold and the person in wheelchair who has to roll backward through the doorway.
Install a level landing when you change the direction of the ramp, to avoid wheelchairs from having to hit their brakes on corners. A level landing allows you to move the ramp out of the way, if needed so that lawnmowers and other equipment can go under it.
Materials
Concrete, wood or aluminium can be used to build ramps for wheelchairs. A professional ramp installation company will help you choose which one is suitable for your business or home wheelchair ramp. 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. Some cities require that the ramp be laid with an anti-slip surface.
Be sure to inquire with your local government for permits prior to building or purchasing any materials. Also, make sure to follow all local building codes. Incorrect construction materials or techniques can create dangerous conditions for wheelchair users. You can find the most current information on construction requirements at your local government's building department office or library, or on the internet.
Wood ramps can be the most affordable option for ADA ramp materials. However, they require more maintenance. Wood ramps should be treated regularly with a sealer in order to prevent rot. Wood can splinter and be dangerous for people using wheelchairs. Wood ramps may require additional support to keep the structure in place and stable.
Concrete ramps can be expensive, but are durable and last for a long time. They are heavy, which means that more labor is required to install ramps and may make it difficult to move the ramp when it is no longer required. Concrete ramps are able to withstand the weight of large power wheelchairs.
Aluminum ramps weigh less than concrete or steel, but they have the same strength and resistance to corrosion. They are also more affordable than steel or iron and are an ideal choice for those on a limited budget. Aluminum is also green as it is naturally present in the Earth's crust, and can be recycled.
The ramp's upper landing should be at a level level or within 3/8 inches of the threshold of the door in order for wheelchairs with smaller wheels to move across the ramp without getting stuck. Ramps with a gap greater than this do not conform to ADA standards. It is also important to ensure that the ramp transitions smoothly between the upper landing and the ground. The final section of the ramp must have a a beveled transition to avoid the abrupt stop of wheelchairs when they enter or leave an apartment.
Installation
A ramp for wheelchairs is a plane inclined that can be installed as an alternative to or in addition to steps. It allows wheelchair users as well as people 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 cost. The ramp should be located closest to the door in order to avoid unnecessary travel. It should also be placed at an angle that is easy to navigate by the person who is using it. It should be firmly anchored to the floor and free of obstructions like car parks, shrubs or other obstacles.
ADA regulations require ramps to are equipped with handrails either side. The rails must be at least 36" apart and have smooth or rounded gripping surface. They must also be attached to the edge of the ramp, and extend 12 inches beyond the ramp. If a ramp has switchesbacks or an L-shaped layout, handrails should be a continuous length between the ramp runs.
The length of a ramp depends on the incline, however there are a few common ramp types that can be used in all situations. For example the threshold ramp is directly on the lip of a curb or at the threshold of a doorway, while ramps that are portable wheelchair ramp for van can be moved from one spot to another and come in many different sizes. Modular aluminum ramps may also be built on-site. These ramps are typically used in commercial or public areas, and tend to be longer.
Check with your city's construction department to determine the need for a permit for a permanent ramp. It is also advisable to speak with a mobility specialist about the kind of ramp that is best for your needs and space. In some cases, installing permanent ramps can improve the value of your home.
Maintenance
It is essential to keep your ramp for wheelchairs in good condition particularly if it is going to be used frequently. You'll have to conduct regular inspections and repair any structural issues as they occur. This will ensure that the ramp complies with all ADA requirements and is safe for all users.
Regularly cleaning wooden ramps is required to remove debris and dirt that could block access. Keeping the ramp clean will also stop moisture from accumulating under the surface and leading to the onset of rot. The wood preservatives or stains only work only if the ramp is thoroughly cleaned before application.
Wheelchair ramps can be more difficult to maintain than other kinds of ramps for scooters and wheelchairs, since they are more prone to wear and tear. The most important thing is to make sure you have the appropriate tools for the job. To ensure that all fixings are secure and secure, you will need an appropriate set of screwdrivers and gauge spanners. You should also regularly inspect the handrails to see if there are signs of corrosion or damage. With time and repeated use, it's not uncommon for the fittings or bolts that hold the handrails to become loose. This could pose an issue for anyone using the ramp.
It is also essential to ensure that the surface of the ramp is grippy enough especially in winter, when conditions can be challenging. You'll need to remove any dirt, leaves and other debris that can 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 before winter arrives to prevent slipping and injury.
Think about buying "snow tires" or traction wheels for your van wheelchair ramp (Highly recommended Online site) if you intend to use it during the winter. These wheels are made to better track on snowy surfaces and uneven surfaces. They will help you stay on your ramp more effectively than normal wheelchair tires. You can also use heating tape or pads to melt snow and ice on the ramp prior to it gets too much.