Installing a Wheelchair Ramp For Your Front Door

A ramp for wheelchairs near your front door will reduce the risk of serious injury from falls. These outdoor ramps are usually built to lead up to a porch. However, they can also be used to get into vehicles or other locations.

If these modifications are stylishly and seamlessly integrated into the home, they are able to keep the resale value. Modular ramps are available in a variety of designs and can be adapted to match your home's style.

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 travel).

The ramp's landings should be wide enough for doors to swing and open freely. They should be an appropriate distance from the edge of a ramp to prevent chair tires from slipping over the edge. For instance, a 58 inch wide landing should allow plenty of space to accommodate a front door that can be opened into the ramp area.

Consider adding a side flare when the ramp is lengthy and there isn't a level to land at the end. This will reduce the risk of slipping at the bottom of your ramp since it is curved to the right. Handrails are an additional aspect of ramp design. They are not just decorative, but they are lifelines for the people who use the ramp. ADA guidelines require handrails that measure 34 to 38 inches high and have gripping surfaces that are able to hold a person's weight without becoming slippery in a variety of weather conditions.

It's a good idea to install handrails on both sides of the ramp, especially where there are changes in direction. These railings will alert visually impaired walkers and wheelchair users to changes in ramp surface material and give the occupant something to hold onto for safety.

Some ramps can be folded out of the way to make space when not in use. However, they generally require a large amount of space. Portable ramps such as the Aerolight-Folding Ramp are a great solution to this. They have hinges that sit in the threshold, allowing the ramp to fold up and over it. This lets the ramp be placed right outside a front door, which allows it to cross one step or a few steps into a house. It's also a great option for those with mobility issues and want to keep their wheelchair or scooter in their vehicle 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 design, the materials used can differ considerably. In general wood is the most commonly used ramp material used in homes due to the fact that it is constructed in a variety of styles and complements the design aesthetic of a lot of homes. A wooden ramp requires regular maintenance to prevent the ramp from the rotting process and insect infestation. Additionally it is generally more expensive than an concrete or aluminum ramp.

It is essential to understand the requirements of a disabled person as well as the environment in which the ramp will be placed before you can choose the most suitable ramp. Answering questions like "will it be indoors or outdoors?" or "how often will it be used?" will narrow down your choices and make it easier to choose the right ramp.

Choosing the right ramp for a doorway also depends on other factors like the length of the ramp should be. ADA guidelines suggest that ramps are 12" long per inch of vertical rise. This helps to ensure that the ramp is safe for someone who uses a wheelchair, scooter or walker.

Concrete, aluminum wheel chair ramps and wooden ramps are the most sought-after options. Modular aluminum ramps can be prefabricated, and are typically cheaper than concrete or wood ramps. They might not be as long-lasting or 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 wheelchair ramps for home (browse around this website) and offer traction when a person moves between different surfaces for walking.

If you need an unreliable ramp, it's best to talk to an experienced handyman. They can assist you in the installation process and offer advice on the right material for your ramp. They will have the expertise to design and build an appropriate ramp that is secure and complements the design of your home. They can also assist you in determining if you will need an approval for construction or inspections to ensure that the ramp can be built properly and safely.

Installation

In order to put up a ramp for wheelchairs first, it is necessary to decide where it should be put in. It doesn't need to be right up at the front door. However, it should be near enough for a person in a wheel chair to access and leave the house without having to climb steps or stairs. It is also advisable to check with your local municipality to find out the requirements that might be applicable to the construction and installation of ramps.

The Americans with Disabilities Act sets standards for safe ramp slopes, and it's recommended to follow these guidelines to ensure your ramp is safe for people who use wheelchairs. The ADA recommends ramps that have 12 inches of space for each inch of slope. This will ensure that the wheelchair user can travel up and down the ramp with enough space to avoid slowing down or stop and risk falling.

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

Portable ramps are available in different lengths and can be easily moved when they are not being used. They can be used to cover small thresholds, or to cover a short set of steps leading to the entrance. A self-supporting aluminum ramp that is attached to the floor or the door plate at the entry point provides maximum stability and is easy to install.

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

Modular ramps can be built in many different designs to meet the particular requirements of your house and wheelchair user. They are regarded as the most durable option. They can be built with various materials and include platforms or railings, depending on the budget and style you would like to have.

Maintenance

Even the tiniest physical obstruction can limit mobility for someone who uses a temporary wheelchair ramp or scooter. A ramp that bridges a gap between a surface threshold and the doorway can remove this barrier, making your home more accessible. A professional handyman will help you choose the best ramp materials to meet your requirements and fit well with your home's design.

After you've put up the ramp, regular maintenance is crucial to ensure its longevity and safety. Clean and remove debris frequently to keep your ramp clear of hazards for 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, make certain to keep it clean to avoid the formation of rust.

Certain ramps require more frequent cleaning than others. Steel ramps may require periodic cleaning with a steel wool or paintbrush. Wooden ramps require a lot of maintenance. Be aware of cracks, dents, and spots of rust. Repairs should be made immediately to avoid further damage.

If you live in an area with a harsh winter climate it is recommended to salt your ramps as you would a sidewalk or walkway. This will stop snow and ice from accumulating and creating a tripping risk. But, be careful not to over-salt your ramps as too much salt can also damage wheelchair tires and bearings.