14 Common Misconceptions About Wheelchair Ramp

Wheelchair Ramp Design and Construction

A ramp for wheelchairs (linked website) is an important tool for helping your loved ones live at home independently. If they are not designed properly they could be dangerous to use.

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

Design

The ramp's design should be in line with the Americans with Disabilities Act standards to allow wheelchairs to navigate the structure easily. For instance, the ramp's slope cannot exceed a ratio of 1:12 and must have level landings at any angle or shift in the ramp's surface. It also must be constructed out of treated lumber that is more robust and withstands rain better than untreated lumber.

The ramp's top and bottom should be free of obstacles like trees or bushes, or any other structures that could hinder the user's safe passage. In addition the surface of the ramp must be smooth and non-slip. Certain municipalities require the use of an anti-slip surface running along the entire length of the ramp.

Use treated lumber at least four inches in width for the frame of the ramp. To make sure the ramp is secure, build posts that are at least 8 feet apart and extend beyond the level of the ground. The posts should be connected to the plastic ramp for wheelchair's railings using spindles. This type of connection decreases the risk of a ramp operator slipping off the side.

Next, construct the frame of the ramp using beams that measure 2 by 4 inches in length and joists that are at minimum 16 inches long. The joists should be at least 18 inches above the ground and secured by joist hangings, which are nails that sit inside the joists to prevent 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. The landing should be enough to give at least 12-24 inches of "elbow space" on the handle side for out-swing doors. For doors with in-swing, the landing must be at least 58 inches by 60 inches to accommodate the door's threshold and a person using wheelchair who has to roll backward through the doorway.

Install a level landing when changing the direction of the ramp, to avoid wheelchairs from having to slam their brakes at corners. A level landing makes it easier to remove a ramp of the way if required, so that equipment like lawnmowers can move under it.

Materials

Aluminium, concrete, or wood can be used to build ramps for wheelchairs. A professional ramp installation service will help you choose which is best for your home or business. When choosing the material to use for the ramp, it is important to consider your budget and the specific requirements. The ramp should be easy to maintain and safe for use. Certain cities require that the ramp be laid out with a non-slip, non-slip surface.

Be sure to check with your local government for permits before you begin building or buying any materials. Also, make sure to follow all local building codes. The wrong materials or construction methods can result in 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 cheapest option for ADA ramp materials. However, they require more maintenance. Wood ramps must be regularly treated with an adhesive to stop rot. Wood can splinter and can be dangerous for people using wheelchairs. Wood ramps may also require additional support to keep the structure upright and stable.

Concrete ramps are extremely durable and long-lasting, but they can be costly. They are heavy, which means more work is required to construct ramps and may make it difficult to move the ramp when they are no longer needed. Concrete ramps can withstand the weight of large power wheelchairs.

Aluminum ramps are lighter and less expensive than steel or concrete. They also have the same durability, strength and resistance to corrosion. They are also more affordable than steel and iron, making them an excellent option for people on budgets. Aluminum is environmentally friendly because it is a part of the earth's crust naturally and is recyclable.

The upper ramp's landing needs to be at a level, or within 3/8 inch of the threshold to allow for the front wheels of smaller wheelchairs to cross it without getting stuck. Ramps with a gap larger than this won't meet ADA standards. You should also ensure that the ramp transitions smoothly between the upper landing and the ground surface. The removable ramp for wheelchair's last section should have a beveled edge to stop wheelchairs from abruptly stopping when they leave or enter a home.

Installation

A wheelchair ramp is a plane inclined ramp that can be used as an alternative or in addition to stairs. It allows wheelchair users and people who use carts or strollers to navigate areas that would otherwise be difficult to reach like a front door or a set of sloping steps.

When selecting a wheelchair access ramp, there are a variety of aspects to take into consideration, including the location, height, and price. The ramp should be located closest to the door in order to avoid unnecessary journeys. It should be set at a height that the person using it can be able to easily access it. It should be firmly anchored to the floor and clear of obstructions, such as car parks, shrubs or other obstacles.

ADA regulations stipulate that ramps must have handrails on either side. The rails must be at least 36 inches apart, and have a gripping surface that is rounded or smooth. They must also be anchored to the edge of the ramp and extend 12 inches beyond the ramp. Handrails must 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 common ramp types that are suitable for all situations. For example the threshold ramp is placed directly on the lip of a curb or at the threshold of a doorway while portable ramps can be moved from one spot to another and are available in a variety of sizes. Modular aluminum ramps may also be built on-site. These are often used for commercial or public areas and are typically longer than the threshold and portable ramps.

Check with your city's construction department to determine if a permit is required for an ongoing ramp. Also, you should consult an expert in mobility about the kind of ramp that will work best for your needs and the space. In some instances, installing permanent ramps can boost the value of your home.

Maintenance

It's important to make sure your ramp for wheelchairs is maintained, particularly if you will be using it often. It is essential to conduct regular inspections and fix any structural issues when they arise. This will ensure that the ramp is in compliance with all ADA requirements and is safe for all users.

Regularly cleaning wooden ramps is necessary to get rid of dirt and other debris that may hinder access. Keeping the ramp clean will also prevent moisture from trapping under the surface and leading to decay. Wood preservatives and stains only work effectively only if the ramp is clean before application.

wheelchair ramps for cars ramps are more difficult to maintain than other ramps due to the fact that they are more susceptible to wear and tear. The most important thing is to ensure you have the proper tools to complete the task. A set of gauge spanners and screwdrivers will be essential for making sure all fixings are tight and secure. You should also regularly inspect the handrails for signs of corrosion or damage. With time and repeated use, it's possible for some of the fittings or bolts that hold the handrails to become loose. This can pose a safety concern for anyone using the ramp.

It is also essential to ensure that the surface the ramp is sufficiently grippy, especially in winter when conditions can be difficult. 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 surface before winter arrives to avoid slips and injury.

If you're planning to use your ramp all 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 efficient than standard wheelchair tires in keeping you on the ramp. You can also utilize heating pads or tape to melt the snow and ice on the ramp prior to it gets too much.