Installing a Wheelchair Ramp For Your Front Door

A ramp for wheelchairs at your front door can reduce the risk of suffering serious injuries from falls. These ramps are typically built to lead to the porch. However they can also be used to access vehicles or other destinations.

If these changes are elegantly integrated with the house, they will preserve resale value. Modular ramps offer flexibility in design and can be incorporated into your specific home design.

Design Considerations

The slope of the ramp should be gentle and easy to move for wheelchair users. The ADA recommends ramp slopes 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 open and swing around. They must also be a safe distance from the edge of the ramp so that wheel chair ramp for van tires do not accidentally slide over the ramp edge. For instance, a 58 inch wide landing should allow plenty of space to accommodate an entrance door that is able to open into the ramp.

If the ramp is long and does not have a level landing at the bottom of the incline, think about adding a side flare. This reduces the risk of slipping as it curves to the right at the end of the ramp. Another important feature of ramp design is the handrails. These are 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 capable of holding the weight of a person's body regardless of the weather.

Installing handrails on the right and left sides of a ramp is a good idea, especially when there are any shifts in direction. These railings alert visually impaired walker and wheelchair users to modifications in the material of the ramp, and they also give the occupant something to hold onto in order to ensure safety.

Some ramps are designed to fold out of the way when they are not in use, however these typically require plenty of space around them. Portable ramps, such as the Aerolight-Folding ramp are the perfect solution to this problem. They have hinges inside the threshold that allow the ramp to fold up and then over. This allows the ramp to be placed right outside a front door, allowing it to bridge one step or a few steps into a house. It's a great option for those with mobility issues who want to keep their scooter or wheelchair ramp For front door on their vehicle at all times.

Materials

When constructing a ramp, the material is one of the most crucial decisions to be taken. Depending on the kind of ramp and the design, materials can vary dramatically. In general, wood is the most commonly used ramp material for homes because it can be constructed in a variety of styles and enhances the design of many homes. However, a ramp made of wood requires regular maintenance to keep it from the rotting process or insect infestation. In addition, a wooden ramp is usually more expensive than concrete or aluminum ramp.

To choose the best ramp, it is important to know the specific requirements of disabled people and the setting in which the ramp will be placed. Making sure to answer questions such as, "will it be used indoors or outdoors?" and, "how often will it be used?" will help narrow down the options and make the selection of the best ramp much simpler.

The selection of the best ramp depends on a number of other factors. For instance how high or low the ramp should be. In general, ADA guidelines recommend ramps be 12" long for every inch of vertical rise. This helps to ensure that a ramp is safe for a person who uses a wheelchair, scooter or walker.

Concrete, aluminum, and wooden ramps are the most popular alternatives. Modular aluminum ramps can be prefabricated, and are typically cheaper than wood or concrete ramps. They might not be as durable or as customizable as a wood or concrete ramp.

Threshold Ramps are short ramps which sit directly above a raised threshold or curb on the sidewalk. They are usually made of aluminum or rubber threshold wheelchair ramp and provide traction when a person moves between different surfaces for walking.

If you are in need of a ramp that is permanent you should talk to an experienced handyman who can assist you in the process of installing it and provide guidance on selecting the proper material for your ramp. They will have the expertise to design and construct a ramp that is safe and matches the look of your home. They can also help determine if a building permit is required and if you require inspections to ensure that the ramp is constructed correctly and safely.

Installation

The first step of constructing a ramp for wheelchairs is determining where it should be placed. It doesn't need to be right next to the front door, but it will need to be close enough for people in wheelchairs to be able to enter and exit of the house without having to climb the stairs or steps. It's recommended to inquire with your municipal authority to find out what requirements might be applicable to the construction of ramps in your area.

The Americans with Disabilities Act establishes guidelines for safe ramp slopes. It is recommended to adhere to these guidelines in order to ensure your ramp is safe for wheelchair users. Generally speaking the ADA recommends that for every inch of rise, ramps must contain 12 inches of length. This will ensure that wheelchair users is able to move between the ramps with enough space so that they do not have to slow down or stop, which could lead to an accident.

Once you've determined where the ramp should be located, you'll need to decide which type of ramp will best suit your needs. There are many types of ramps to choose from that are portable, such as modular ramps, concrete or wood ramps.

Portable ramps are available in a variety of lengths that can be easily moved when not in use. They can be used to create small thresholds or a series of short steps that lead to the front door. A self-supporting ramp made of aluminum that attaches to the floor of the home or the door plate of the entrance provides maximum stability and is easy to set up.

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

Modular ramps can be built in various configurations to match the specific needs of your home and your wheelchair ramp incline user. They are generally considered the most durable and durable option. They can be constructed from a variety materials and with platforms or railings, depending on the budget and style you would like to have.

Maintenance

If you or a loved one relies on the use of a wheelchair, scooter, or walker, the smallest physical barrier can hinder mobility. A ramp that bridges a gap between a threshold on the surface and the doorway can remove this obstacle, making your home more accessible. A professional handyman will assist you select the right materials for your ramp that will meet your functional requirements and match your home's aesthetics.

Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and safety of your ramp. Clean and remove debris frequently to ensure your ramp is free of tripping hazards. Clean the ramp's surface using mild soap and warm water, paying particular attention to areas that are prone to collecting dirt and grime. If the ramp is made of steel, make sure to keep it clean to avoid corrosion.

Some ramps have to be cleaned more often than others. Steel ramps, for example, may need periodic touch-up with paintbrushes or steel wool. Wood ramps, on the contrary require more frequent maintenance. Be aware of cracks, dents and rust spots. Repairs should be made promptly to avoid further damage.

If you are in a region that experiences extreme winter weather, be sure to salt your ramps as you would a walkway or sidewalk. This will stop accumulation of snow and ice, which could create an additional tripping hazard. Do not over-salt ramps as this can damage wheelchair tires and bearings.