Installing a Wheelchair Ramp For Your Front Door

A wheelchair ramp at your front door can reduce the risk of serious injury from falls. These ramps are typically constructed for use as a walkway to a porch. However they can also be used to reach vehicles and other locations.

If these changes are elegantly integrated with the home, they can keep the resale value. Modular ramps offer flexibility in style and can fit your specific home design.

Design Considerations

The slope of the ramp should be gentle and easy for wheelchair 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 ramp's landings should be wide enough for doors to swing and open freely. They should be at an appropriate distance from the edge of a ramp to stop wheel chair ramp tires from accidentally rolling over the edge. A 58-inch wide landing, for instance, gives plenty of room to accommodate a front entryway that is open to the ramp area.

If the ramp is long and doesn't offer a level landing at the bottom of the slope, you might want to consider adding a side flare. This will reduce the risk of tripping at the end of your ramp since it turns towards the back. Another important feature of ramp design is handrails. They aren't just decorative, but they are lifelines for the occupants of the ramp. ADA guidelines require handrails that are at least 34 to 38 inches high and have gripping surfaces that are able to support a person's weight without becoming slippery in wet weather conditions.

Installing handrails both on the right and left sides of the ramp is a great idea, particularly in the event of any changes in direction. These railings will alert visually impaired walkers and wheelchair users of the changes in the ramp's surface and also provide the person using the ramp something to hold onto in order to ensure safety.

Some ramps are designed to fold away when not in use, but they typically require lots of space around them. Portable ramps, such as the Aerolight-Folding ramp are the perfect solution to this issue. They have hinges that sit in the threshold and allow the ramp to fold down and over it. The ramp can be positioned just outside the front door and used to bridge the gap between a single or a number of steps. It's a great option for those with mobility issues who wish to keep their wheelchair or scooter on them at all times.

Materials

When constructing a ramp the material is one of the most important decisions that needs to be made. Based on the type of ramp and the design, materials can vary dramatically. Wood is the most well-known ramp material because it can be built in various styles and can be a great complement to many homes. A wooden ramp will require regular maintenance to prevent the rotting process and insect infestation. Furthermore the wooden ramp is usually more expensive than an concrete or aluminum ramp.

It is important to know the requirements of a disabled person and the setting where the ramp will be set up before you decide on the most suitable ramp. Answering questions such as "will it be outdoors or indoors?" or "how often will it be used?" will narrow down your choices and help you choose the right ramp.

The choice of the ideal ramp is contingent on a number of other factors. For example how high or low the ramp is recommended to be. In general, ADA guidelines recommend ramps to be 12" long for every inch of vertical rise. This will ensure that a ramp is safe for a person who is using a scooter, wheelchair or walker.

Aluminum, concrete and wooden ramps are among the most popular ramps available. Modular aluminum ramps are prefabricated and usually cost less than a concrete or wood ramp. They may not be as long-lasting or as customizable as a wood or concrete ramp.

Threshold Ramps are ramps that sit directly over a threshold that is raised or a curb on the sidewalk. They are usually made of aluminum or rubber, and offer traction when the user moves between different walking surfaces.

If you need an unreliable ramp, it's best to consult a professional handyman. They can assist with the installation process and provide suggestions on the best material for your ramp. They have the experience to design and build a ramp that is safe and matches the look of your home. They can also assist with determining if you require an approval for construction or inspections to ensure that the ramp can be constructed safely and in a safe manner.

Installation

The first step in the process 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 should be near enough to allow someone using a wheelchair to access and leave the home without having to climb steps or climb stairs. It's also a good idea to consult with your local municipal authority to find out what requirements might apply to the construction of a ramp in your area.

The Americans with Disabilities Act sets guidelines for safe ramp slopes, and it is best to follow these guidelines to ensure your ramp is safe for those using wheelchairs. The ADA recommends ramps have 12 inches of space for every inch of slope. This will allow wheelchair users to move up and down the ramp without having to stop or slow down, which can cause a fall.

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

Supportec portable wheelchair ramp ramps are available in a variety of lengths and can easily be moved when not in use. They can be used for small thresholds or a series of short steps leading up to the front door. A self-supporting ramp made of aluminum that attaches to the flooring of the house or the door plate of the entrance provides maximum stability and is simple to set up.

Aerolight-Up and Over Ramp Kits can be purchased for a wider ramp which can be able to bridge over the threshold. The ramp is placed within the UPVC threshold so that it doesn't damage it and can be folded down when not in use. It can be combined with an Entry Flap accessory to bridge over the door threshold and into the house.

Modular ramps can be built in various configurations to match the specific needs of your home and the wheelchair user. They are generally regarded as the most durable and long-lasting choice. They can be constructed in a variety materials and with railings or platforms, depending on the budget and style you would like to have.

Maintenance

Even the smallest physical obstacle can limit mobility for someone who relies on the use of a scooter or wheelchair. A ramp that bridges a gap between a threshold and the entry door can remove the barrier and make your home more accessible. A professional handyman can assist you to select the right ramp material to meet your needs and complement your home's aesthetics.

Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure the safety and longevity of your ramp. Regularly sweep and remove debris to ensure that your ramp is free of hazards that could cause tripping. Use mild soap and water to clean the ramp's surface. Pay particular attention to areas where grime and dirt accumulate. If your ramp is made of metal, be certain to keep it clean to avoid rust build-up.

Certain ramps require more frequent cleaning than others. Steel ramps may require regular touches-ups using paintbrushes or steel wool. Wood ramps, on the contrary require more frequent maintenance. Keep an eye out for dents, cracks and rust spots, which must be fixed as soon as possible in order to prevent further damage.

If you live in an area with severe winter weather, make sure to salt your ramps as you would for a sidewalk or walkway. This will prevent the accumulation of snow and ice which could create an additional risk of tripping. Do not over-salt ramps as this can damage wheelchair tires and bearings.