Installing a Wheelchair Ramp For Your Front Door

A ramp for wheelchairs at your front door can help reduce the chance of serious injuries caused by falls. These ramps are typically constructed for use as a walkway to the porch. However they can also be used to access vehicles or other places.

These modifications can be integrated into the home in a tasteful way to maintain its resale value. Modular ramps can be customized in style and can be customized to the specific style of your home.

Design Considerations

The slope of the ramp should be gentle and easy for power wheelchair ramp occupants to move. The ADA recommends ramp slopes should not be steeper than 1 in 12 (for every inch of vertical rise, you need 12 inches of horizontal space).

The landings on the ramps must be wide enough to allow a door to swing open and open. They should be a safe distance away from the edge of a ramp to prevent chair tires from rolling over the edge. For instance, a 58 inch wide landing can provide plenty of room to accommodate an entrance door that opens into the ramp area.

You may want to consider adding a flare to the side if the ramp is long, and there is no level landing at the end. This reduces the chance of slipping at the bottom of your ramp since it turns towards the back. Handrails are a crucial aspect of ramp design. They're not just decorative flimsy additions, they're lifelines for ramp occupants. ADA regulations require handrails that are at least 34-38 inches tall with gripping surfaces that can support the body weight of a person regardless of the weather.

It's a good idea install handrails on both sides of the ramp, particularly where there are changes in direction. These railings will alert visually impaired walkers and wheelchair ramp 4ft users to the modifications in the material of the ramp and also provide the user something to hold onto for safety.

Some ramps for scooters and wheelchairs can be folded out of the way to save space when not in use. However, they generally require a lot of space. Portable ramps, such as the Aerolight-Folding ramp, offer an excellent solution to this issue. They have hinges in the threshold which allow the ramp to be folded up and over. The ramp can be put just outside the front door to bridge the gap between a single or a number of steps. It's an excellent option for people with mobility issues who wish to have their scooter or wheelchair with them at all times.

Materials

When constructing a ramp the material used is among the most important decisions that needs to be taken. Based on the type of ramp and the design, materials can vary considerably. Wood is the most sought-after ramp material due to its ability to be constructed in a variety of styles and complements many homes. A wooden ramp requires regular maintenance to prevent insects and rotting. In addition the wooden ramp is generally more expensive than an aluminum or concrete ramp.

It is important to know the needs of the disabled person and the setting in which the ramp will be placed before you can choose the most suitable ramp. Taking the time to answer questions like, "will it be used outdoors or indoors?" and, "how to build a small wheelchair ramp (just click the following article) often will it be used?" will help narrow down the choices and make selecting the right ramp much easier.

The selection of the best ramp depends on a number of other factors. For example how high or low the ramp should be. ADA guidelines suggest ramps that are 12" long per inch of vertical rise. This ensures that a ramp is safe for a person using a wheelchair, scooter or walker.

Concrete, aluminum and wooden ramps are among the most popular alternatives. Modular aluminum ramps are manufactured and generally less expensive than a concrete or wood ramp. However, they may not be as durable or as customizable as a concrete or wood ramp.

Threshold ramps are short ramps that are placed directly on top of a raised door threshold or sidewalk curb. They are typically constructed of aluminum or rubber and give traction when someone switches between different walking surfaces.

If you are in need of a permanent ramp it is recommended to talk to an experienced handyman who can help you with the installation process and provide guidance on selecting the proper material for your ramp. They have the experience to design and construct an appropriate ramp that is secure and complements the style of your home. They can also help determine whether a building permit is required and if inspections are needed to ensure that the ramp is constructed safely and correctly.

Installation

In order to put up ramps for wheelchairs first, you need to decide where it will be placed. It doesn't have to be directly up to the front door, but it will need to be near enough for people in wheelchairs to get in and out of the house without the need to climb steps or stairs. It's also a good idea to inquire with your municipal authority to find out what requirements might apply to the construction of a ramp in your area.

The Americans with Disabilities Act sets standards for safe ramp slopes, and it is recommended to follow these guidelines to ensure your ramp is safe for people using wheelchairs. The ADA recommends ramps that have 12 inches of space per inch of slope. This will ensure that vehicle wheelchair ramp users can move up and down the ramp with enough room to avoid slowing down or stop and risk falling.

After determining the location where the ramp will be installed, you'll need decide on which ramp is the best one for your requirements. There are a variety of ramps that are available including portable ramps, modular ramps, and ramps made of wood or concrete.

portable wheelchair ramps ramps are available in a variety of lengths and are easily moved when not being used. They can be used to cover small thresholds or to cover a short set of steps leading to the entrance. An aluminium self-supporting ramp that attaches to the floor of the home or to the door plate of the entrance provides maximum stability and is easy to set up.

For a ramp that is wider and bridges over the threshold, an Aerolight-Up-and-Over ramp kit is available. The ramp is designed to fit within the UPVC threshold, which means it won't harm it. It can also be folded when not in use. This ramp can be used combination with an Entry Flap accessory for a bridge to over the threshold of the door to get into the house.

Modular ramps can be constructed in various configurations to match the specific needs of your home and your wheelchair user. They are considered to be the most durable option. They feature platforms and railings and are constructed from a variety of materials, dependent on your budget and design preferences.

Maintenance

Even the smallest physical obstacle can hinder mobility for a person who relies on the use of a scooter or wheelchair. A ramp that bridges a gap between a threshold on the surface and the doorway can eliminate this barrier, making your home more accessible. A professional handyman will help you select the best materials for your ramp to meet your functional needs and complement your home's design.

After you've put up a ramp, regular maintenance is vital to its durability and safety. Sweep and remove debris regularly to ensure your ramp is free of tripping hazards. Clean the ramp's surface with mild soap and warm water, paying special attention to areas that collect dirt and grime. If your ramp is metal ensure that you clean it regularly in order to prevent rust.

Some ramps need to be cleaned more frequently than others. Steel ramps may require regular touches-ups using a steel wool or paintbrush. Wooden ramps require more frequent maintenance. Be on the lookout for cracks, dents and rust spots that should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

If you reside in an area with a harsh winter climate it is recommended to salt your ramps just as you would a walkway or sidewalk. This will prevent accumulation of snow and ice, which can cause an additional risk of tripping. Don't over-salt the ramps as this can cause damage to wheelchair tires and bearings.