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Wheelchair Ramp Design and Construction A ramp for wheelchairs is a valuable aid to help your loved ones live more independently at home. If they are not designed properly, they can be unsafe to use. ADA regulations require level landings at any changes in direction to avoid compound slopes. They also must provide a surface that is gripping for wheelchair users. Design The ramp's design must meet the Americans with Disabilities Act standards so that wheelchairs are able to navigate the structure easily. For instance, the ramp's slope must not exceed the ratio 1:12 and must have landings that are level at any angle or shift in the ramp's surface. It should also be constructed from treated lumber that is more durable than lumber that is not treated and can withstand the effects of rain better. The sides and top of the ramp need to be clear of obstacles such as trees, bushes or other structures that may interfere with the safe passage of the ramp's user. In addition, the surface of the ramp must be non-slip and hard. Some municipalities require that the entire ramp be covered with an anti-slip surface. Use treated lumber of at minimum four inches wide for the ramp frame. Create posts to anchor the ramp, ensuring they are at minimum eight feet apart and that they extend above the ground level. Spindles are the best way to connect the posts with the ramp's railings. This kind of connection minimizes the chance of a ramp user falling off the ramp. Then, build the frame for the ramp using joists that are at least 16 inches long and 2 by 4 inch beams. Make sure that the joists are a minimum of 18 inches above ground level and that they are secured with Joist hangers, which are nails that grip the inside of the joists to prevent them from sliding off the ground. Attach the ramp decking with a framing nailer. Install an upper landing on the doorway to ensure wheelchair occupants can easily manage the doorswing. The landing should be enough to provide at least 12 to 24 inches of “elbow space” on the handle side for out-swing doors. For in-swing doors, the landing must be at minimum 58 by 60 inches to allow for the threshold and a person in wheelchair who must roll backward through the doorway. Install an elevated landing at every alteration in the direction of the ramp to avoid the requirement for wheelchairs to step on their brakes while turning corners. Adding a level landing also allows you to move the ramp out of the way if necessary so that lawnmowers and other equipment can slide under it. Materials The material used to construct the ramp for wheelchairs can be made of wood, concrete or aluminum. A professional ramp installation service can help you decide which is best for your business or home. When choosing the material to use for the ramp, it's important to consider your budget and requirements. The ramp should be easy to maintain, and it must be safe to use. Some cities require that the ramp be laid out with a non-slip, non-slip surface. Before you purchase any material or begin construction, make sure you have the required permits from your local authority and that you follow all building codes within your area. The wrong materials or construction techniques can create dangerous conditions for wheelchair-users. You can find current construction regulations in your local building department of the government or library, or on the internet. Wood ramps are often the cheapest option for ADA ramp materials. However they need more maintenance. Wood ramps must be maintained regularly using a sealer in order to stop the onset of rot. Wood can split and be dangerous for people who use wheelchairs. Wood ramps can also need extra support to maintain the structure. Concrete ramps can be expensive, but are durable and last for a long time. They are also heavy, which requires more effort to install and makes moving the ramp after it's no longer needed difficult. Concrete ramps are strong enough to withstand the weight of power wheelchairs. Aluminum ramps weigh less than steel or concrete however they offer the same strength and resistance to corrosion. They are also less expensive than steel and iron which makes them a great option for people on a tight budget. Aluminum is a green choice because it is found in the earth's crust naturally and is able to be recycled. The ramp's upper landing should be level, or within 3/8 inches of the threshold of the door to allow wheelchairs with smaller wheels to pass across the ramp without getting stuck. Ramps that have a gap greater than this do not conform to ADA standards. It is also important to ensure that the ramp transitions smoothly between the landing area and the ground. The final section of the ramp should have a beveled edge that will stop wheelchairs from abruptly stopping at the point of leaving or entering a home. Installation A ramp for wheelchairs is an inclined plane that is installed as an addition or in lieu of stairs. It allows wheelchair users, and those who use strollers or carts to reach areas that would otherwise be difficult to access. There are several considerations when choosing a wheelchair ramp, including height, location and cost. A ramp should be placed as close to the door as it is possible to avoid unnecessary journeys. It should also be positioned at an angle that is easily accessed by the person who is using it. It should be securely anchored to the floor and clear of obstructions, such as shrubbery, parked cars or other obstacles. ADA regulations stipulate that ramps must have handrails on either side. The rails should be at least 36” apart and have smooth or rounded gripping surface. Additionally, they should be attached to the ramp and extend at least 12 inches over the ramp edge. If a ramp is equipped with switchesbacks or an L-shaped layout, handrails must be in continuous use between the ramp's edges. The length of the ramp is determined by the slope. However, there are some standard ramp types which can be used in all situations. For instance, a threshold ramp sits flush along the lip of a curb, or the threshold of a doorway while portable ramps can be moved from one location to another and are available in a variety of sizes. There are also aluminum ramps that are modular that can be constructed on the spot. portable ramps wheelchair are usually used for public or commercial spaces and are usually longer than the threshold and portable ramps. Contact your city's construction department to determine whether 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 needs and space. In certain situations, installing permanent ramps can increase the value of your home. Maintenance It's crucial to ensure your ramp for wheelchairs is maintained, especially if are going to use it often. It is essential to conduct regular inspections and address any structural issues as they occur. This will help ensure that the ramp is compliant with all ADA requirements and is safe for all users. Regular cleaning of wooden ramps is required to remove debris and dirt that can hinder access. Keep the ramp clean to prevent moisture from accumulating beneath the surface. This could cause rot. The wood preservatives or stains can only be effective only if the ramp is thoroughly cleaned before application. Wheelchair ramps are more challenging to maintain than other types of ramps, since they are more prone to wear and wear and tear. The most important thing to do is ensure you have the appropriate tools for the job. To ensure that all fixings are secure and tight you'll need an excellent set of screwdrivers and gauge spanners. It's also worth regularly inspecting the handrails to make sure they are in a good condition and are free of damage or corrosion. It is possible that over time, with repeated usage some of the fittings and bolts that hold the handrails on may come loose and cause an extremely dangerous risk for those who use the ramp. Another important aspect is to ensure the surface of the ramp is grippy, especially during winter when conditions may be challenging. You'll need to sweep away any dirt, leaves and other debris that could hinder the surface and cause slippage. Additionally, you'll need to apply an ice melt that is not corrosive to the ramp surface before winter arrives to prevent slipping and causing injury. If you're planning on using your ramp during winter months, you should consider purchasing wheels for traction, or “snow tires” for your wheelchair. These wheels are made to better track on snowy surfaces and uneven surfaces. They will allow you to remain on your ramp more effectively than standard wheelchair tires. You can also make use of heating pads or heating tape to melt snow and ice on the ramp before it builds up.