How To Save Money On Wheelchair Ramp

Wheelchair Ramp Design and Construction

A ramp for wheelchairs is a vital tool for helping a loved one live independently in their home. If they are not designed correctly, they are dangerous to use.

ADA regulations require level landings at any changes in direction to prevent compound slopes. They also require an accessible surface for wheelchair users.

Design

The ramp's design must be in line with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards to ensure that wheelchairs are able to easily navigate the structure. For instance, the ramp's slope cannot exceed a ratio of 1:12 and must have level landings at any direction change or shift in the ramp's surface. The ramp must also be constructed of treated lumber that is more robust and weathers precipitation far better than untreated lumber.

The ramp's top and bottom must be free of obstructions like trees or bushes, or any other structures which could hinder the safety of the user. Additionally, the ramp's surface must be non-slip and hard. Certain municipalities require an anti-slip running surface along the ramp's entire length.

For the frame of the ramp, use treated lumber that is at minimum four inches wide. To secure the ramp, build posts that are at least 8 feet apart and extend to below the ground level. Spindles are the best way to connect the posts with the ramp's railings. This type of connection reduces the chance of a ramp user falling off the ramp.

Next, construct the ramp's frame with beams of 2 by 4 inches in size, and Joists that are at least 16 inches long. Make sure that the joists are a minimum of 18 inches above the ground and that they are secured with hangers for joists, which are nails that grip the inside of the joists to prevent them from sliding off the ground. Attach the ramp decking with framing nails.

Install an upper landing close to the doorway to allow wheelchair users to control the doorswing with ease. This landing should have 12 to 24 inches on the handle side of out-swinging doors. For in-swing doors the landing should be at minimum 58 by 60 inches to allow for the threshold of the door and a person in wheelchair who has to roll backward through the doorway.

Install a level landing whenever you alteration in the direction of the ramp to prevent the requirement for wheelchairs to step on their brakes as they turn corners. A level landing also makes it easier to move the ramp out of the way when needed so that lawnmowers and other equipment can pass underneath it.

Materials

The materials used to construct a wheelchair ramp can be wood, concrete or aluminum. A professional ramp installer will help you choose the best option for your home or office. When choosing the material for the ramp, it's important to consider your budget and specific needs. The ramp should be easy to maintain, and it must be safe to use. Some cities require that the ramp be laid with a non-slip surface.

Before you purchase any materials or begin building, be sure that you have the required permits from your local authority and that you follow all building codes within your area. Utilizing the incorrect materials or construction techniques could result in hazardous conditions for wheelchair threshold ramps for homes users. You can find up-to-date construction regulations in your local building department or library, or on the internet.

Wood ramps are usually the most affordable of ADA ramp materials, but they require more care than other options. Wood ramps must be maintained regularly using an adhesive to stop rot. Wood can splinter, which can be especially hazardous for wheelchair users. Wood ramps can also require additional support to ensure that the structure is in place and stable.

Concrete ramps can be costly, but are durable and long-lasting. They are also heavy, which means more work to construct and makes moving the ramp when it's no longer required difficult. Concrete ramps can handle the weight of powerful wheelchairs.

Aluminum ramps are less heavy and more affordable than concrete or steel. They also have the same durability, strength and resistance to corrosion. They are also more affordable than steel or iron and are an excellent choice for those on a limited budget. Aluminum is eco-friendly because it is found in the earth's crust naturally and is able to be recycled.

The temporary wheel chair ramp's upper landing must be at a level level or within 3/8 inches of the threshold of the door, allowing wheelchairs with smaller wheels to go across the ramp without getting stuck. Ramps with a gap larger than this will not meet ADA standards. Also, ensure that the ramp moves smoothly between the landing area and the ground surface. The final section of the ramp should have beveled transitions to avoid the abrupt stop of wheelchairs as they exit or enter an apartment.

Installation

A ramp for wheelchairs is an inclined plane that is used on top of or in place of steps. It allows wheelchair users and people who use strollers or carts to get around areas that would otherwise be difficult to access, such as a front door or a set up of steep steps.

When selecting a aluminium wheelchair ramp access ramp, there are many aspects to take into consideration, including the location, height, and price. The ramp should be located as close as possible to the door to avoid unnecessary journeys. It should be placed at a height that the person using it is able to easily walk on it. It should also be fixed to the ground and clear of obstructions like trees or parked cars.

ADA regulations stipulate that lightweight ramps for wheelchairs 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 must be continuous when a ramp is designed with switchbacks or an L-shaped layout.

The length of a ramp is contingent on the slope, however there are a few basic ramp types that can be used in most situations. For instance, a threshold ramp sits directly on the lip of a curb or the threshold of a doorway while portable ramps for wheelchairs for vans can be moved from one place to another and come in many different sizes. There are also aluminum ramps that are modular that can be built on the spot. These are usually used for commercial or public areas and are typically longer than the threshold and ramps that are portable ramps for wheelchair access.

Consult with your city's building department to determine whether a permit is required for an ongoing ramp. Also, you should consult an expert in mobility about the kind of ramp that works best for your space and needs. In certain situations installing permanent ramps could improve the value of your house.

Maintenance

It is crucial to maintain your wheelchair ramp, especially if it will be used frequently. You'll need to perform regular inspections, and correct any structural issues that develop. This will ensure that the ramp complies with all ADA requirements and is safe for all users.

Regular cleaning of wooden ramps is required to remove dirt and debris that may block access. Keep the ramp spotless to stop moisture from building up under the surface. This could cause rot. Preservatives and stains for wood only work only if the ramp is thoroughly cleaned prior to application.

Wheelchair ramps are more challenging to maintain than other kinds of ramps because they are more susceptible to wear and wear and tear. It is essential to have the right tools. A set of gauge spanners as well as screwdrivers are crucial to ensure that all fixings are tight and secure. It is also important to regularly check the handrails to ensure they are in good shape and have no signs of damage or corrosion. It's possible that, over time, as they are used repeatedly some of the fittings and bolts which hold the handrails in place could loosen and pose an extremely dangerous risk for those using the ramp.

Another important factor is ensuring the ramp's surface is grippy, especially during winter when conditions may be difficult. You'll need to sweep away any dirt, leaves or other debris that could block the ramp and cause slippage. Additionally, you'll need to apply a non-corrosive ice melt on the ramp's surface before winter arrives to avoid slips and injury.

You should consider buying "snow tires" or traction wheels for your wheelchair if you plan to use it throughout the winter. They're specially designed to provide better tracking on uneven surfaces and snow, so they'll be more efficient than standard wheelchair tires in aiding you to stay on the ramp. Alternatively, you can place heating pads or tape on the ramp surface to help melt ice and snow before it builds up.