11 Methods To Refresh Your Wheelchair Ramp

Wheelchair Ramp Design and Construction

A ramp for wheelchairs is a crucial tool in helping a loved one live at home in a way that is comfortable for them. If they are not designed correctly they could be unsafe to use.

ADA regulations require level landings on any changes in direction to prevent compound slopes. They must also have an area that is grippy 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. The ramp's slope must not exceed a 1:12 ratio and the landings have to be level at any change in direction or shift in the ramp's surface. It must also be constructed using treated lumber, which is more durable than untreated lumber and can weather precipitation better.

The top and bottom of the ramp need to be free of obstructions like bushes, trees or other structures that may hinder the safe passage of the ramp's user. Additionally, the surface of the ramp must be smooth and non-slip. Some municipalities require an anti-slip running surface on the ramp's entire length.

For the frame of the ramp, use treated lumber that is at minimum four inches wide. Create posts to anchor the ramp, ensuring they are at least eight feet apart, and that they extend beyond the level of the ground. The posts should then connect to the ramp's railings using spindles. This kind of connection is preferred since it reduces the risk of an operator of the ramp falling off the edge of the ramp.

Then, construct the ramp's frame using joists that are at most 16 inches long and beams of 2 by 4 inches. Make sure that the joists are at 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 and prevent them from sliding out of alignment. Attach the ramp decking using a framing nailer.

Include an upper landing in the doorway to ensure wheelchair users can easily navigate the doorswing. This landing should have 12 to 24 inches on the handle side of the doors that swing out. For in-swing doors, the landing must be at least 58 inches by 60 inches to accommodate the door's threshold and a person in a wheelchair who needs to walk backwards through the doorway.

Install a level landing when changing the direction of the ramp, to avoid wheelchairs from having to slam their brakes on corners. A level landing makes it easier to move the ramp out of the way if necessary to allow lawnmowers or other equipment can pass underneath it.

Materials

Aluminium, concrete, or wood can be used to build  ramps for wheelchair s. A professional ramp installation company can assist you in deciding which is best for your business or home. It is essential to take into consideration your individual needs and budget when selecting the materials for the ramp. The ramp should be simple to maintain and should be safe to use. Some cities require that the ramp be paved with an anti-slip surface.

Be sure to check with your local government for permits before you begin building or purchasing any materials. Also, be sure to follow all local building codes. Making use of the incorrect materials or construction techniques can result in dangerous conditions for wheelchair users. You can find current construction requirements in your local government building department library, or on the internet.

Wood ramps can be the least expensive option for ADA ramp materials. However, they require more maintenance. The surface of wood ramps should be treated regularly with a sealer to avoid rot and warping. Wood can split and be dangerous for people using wheelchairs. Wood ramps may also require additional support to ensure the structure remains standing and steady.

Concrete ramps are extremely durable and long-lasting, but they can be expensive. They are also heavy, which means more effort to install and makes moving the ramp once it is no longer needed difficult. Concrete ramps are strong enough to support the weight of power wheelchairs.

Aluminum ramps are lighter than steel or concrete however they possess the same strength and resistance to corrosion. They are also less expensive than steel or iron, which makes them an excellent choice for those on a limited budget. Aluminum is also eco-friendly, since it is found naturally in the earth's crust and can be recycled.

The ramp's upper landing needs to be level or within 3/8 inches of the threshold of the door, allowing wheelchairs with smaller wheels to pass across the ramp without getting stuck. Ramps that have a gap higher than this meet ADA standards. You should also ensure that the ramp transitions smoothly between the upper landing and the ground. The ramp's final section should be curved to ensure that wheelchairs don't stop abruptly at the point of leaving or entering a home.

Installation

A ramp for wheelchairs is an inclined plane that is erected as an addition or in lieu of steps. It allows wheelchair users and people who use strollers or carts to get around areas that would otherwise be difficult to access like a front door or a set of sloping steps.

When choosing a wheelchair access ramp, there are numerous factors to consider, including the location, height, and cost. The ramp should be placed as close as possible to the door to avoid unnecessary travel. It should be located at a level where the person using it is able to easily walk on it. It should also be properly anchored to the ground and clear of obstructions like shrubbery or parked cars.

ADA regulations require ramps to have handrails either side. The rails should be at least 36" apart and have a smooth or rounded gripping surface. They must also be attached to the edge of the ramp and extend 12 inches beyond it. Handrails should be continuous if the ramp is designed with switchbacks, or in an L-shaped layout.

The length of a ramp depends on the slope, however there are several standard ramps that can be used in all situations. A threshold ramp, for example is a ramp that is flush with the lip of the curb or the threshold of the doorway. Portable ramps are, on the other hand are able to be moved to a new place and come in different sizes. Modular aluminum ramps may also be assembled on-site. These ramps are typically used in public or commercial areas, and tend to be longer.

If you are considering a permanent ramp, be sure you check with your city's building department to determine if you require permits. You should also speak to an expert in mobility to determine the kind of ramp that works best for your needs and the space. In certain cases the installation of an ongoing ramp could increase the resale value of your home.

Maintenance

It is essential to ensure that your ramp for wheelchairs is maintained, especially if will be using it often. You'll need to conduct regular inspections and deal with any structural issues as they occur. This will ensure that the ramp is in compliance with all ADA requirements and is safe for all users.

Wooden ramps require regular cleaning to get rid of dirt and debris that could block access. Cleaning the ramp regularly will also stop moisture from trapping under the surface and leading to rot. Preservatives and stains for wood only work when the ramp has been thoroughly cleaned prior to application.

Wheelchair ramps can be more challenging to maintain than other types of ramps, as they are more likely to experience wear and tear. It is essential to have the proper tools. To make sure that all fixings are secure and secure you'll need a good set of screwdrivers as well as gauge spanners. It's also important to check regularly the handrails to ensure they are in good working order and have no signs of damage or corrosion. As time passes, and with repeated usage, it's possible for the bolts or fittings that are anchored the handrails to become loose. This could pose an unsafe situation for anyone who uses the ramp.

It is also important to ensure that the surface of the ramp is grippy enough, especially in winter when the conditions are difficult. You'll need to remove any dirt, leaves and other debris that may hinder the surface and cause slippage. You'll also want to apply an ice melt that is non-corrosive to the ramp surface to prevent slips and injuries.

If you're planning to use your ramp throughout the winter months, you should consider purchasing traction wheels or "snow tires" for your wheelchair. These are specifically designed to offer better tracking on uneven surfaces and snow, so 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 snow and ice on the ramp prior to it gets too much.