Installing a Wheelchair Ramp For Your Front Door

A ramp for wheelchairs at your front door can reduce the chance of serious injury due to falls. The ramps are usually constructed to connect to a porch. However, they can be used to reach vehicles or other places.

When these modifications are tastefully and seamlessly integrated into the house, they will preserve resale value. Modular ramps are available in different styles and are able to be customized to suit your home's design.

Design Considerations

The ramp slope should be gentle and easy to maneuver for wheelchair users. The ADA recommends ramp slopes not be higher than 1 in 12 (for every inch of vertical rise, you need 12 inches of horizontal travel).

The landings of the ramp must be wide enough to allow doors to swing and open freely. They should also be a secure distance from the edge of the ramp to ensure that the chair's tires don't accidentally roll over the ramp edge. For instance, a 58-inch wide landing will allow plenty of space to accommodate an entrance door that can be opened into the ramp area.

If the ramp is long and doesn't offer a level landing at the end of the incline, consider adding a flare to the side. This reduces the chance of slipping at the end of your ramp because it is curved inward. Handrails are an additional aspect of ramp design. They aren't just decorative but are also lifelines for the ramp occupants. ADA regulations require handrails that are at least 34-38 inches tall with gripping surfaces that can support the weight of a person's body regardless of the weather.

Installing handrails on both the left and right side of the ramp is a great idea, particularly if there are any shifts in direction. These railings alert visually impaired users of wheelchairs and walker of the different characteristics of the ramp surface material and provide them with something to hold on to for safety.

Some ramps can be folded out of the way to save space when they are not in use. However, they usually require a large amount of space. Portable ramps, like the Aerolight-folding ramp for wheelchair ramp, offer the ideal solution to this issue. They have hinges in the threshold that permit the ramp to fold up and then over. This allows the ramp to be kept right outside a front door, which allows it to bridge one step or a few steps into a home. It's also a great option for people who have mobility issues who wish to have 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 taken. Depending on the kind of ramp and the design, the materials used can differ considerably. In general wood is the most common ramp material used in homes due to the fact that it can be constructed in a wide range of styles and enhances the aesthetic of many homes. However, a wooden ramp requires regular maintenance to keep it from rotting or insects from infesting. A wooden ramp is more expensive than a aluminum or concrete ramp.

In order to choose the right ramp, it is important to understand the specific needs of disabled people and the location in which the ramp will be placed. Making sure to answer questions like, "will it be used outdoors or indoors?" and, "how often will it be used?" will help narrow down the options and make choosing the appropriate ramp much simpler.

The right ramp to use for a doorway also depends on other aspects like the length of the ramp must be. ADA guidelines suggest ramps of 12" long for every inch of vertical rise. This helps to ensure that the ramp is safe for a person who uses a wheelchair, scooter or walker.

Concrete, aluminum and wooden ramps are among the most popular ramps available. Modular aluminum ramps are prefabricated and generally less expensive than a concrete or wood ramp. They might not be as long-lasting or customizable as a wood or concrete ramp.

Threshold ramps are short ramps that sit directly over a raised door threshold or sidewalk curb. They are usually made of rubber or aluminum and provide traction as a person changes levels between different walking surfaces.

If you require an unreliable ramp, it's best to talk to a professional handyman. They can assist you with the installation and give guidance on the appropriate material for your ramp. They can create a ramp that is both secure and matches the style of your home. They can also help you determine whether a building permit is required and if you require inspections to ensure that the ramp is built properly and safely.

Installation

The first step in the process of installing a wheelchair ramp is to determine the best location for it. It doesn't have to be right up at the front door. However, it should be close enough to allow someone in a wheelchair to enter and exit the home without climbing steps or stairs. It's recommended to check 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 sets guidelines for safe ramp slopes and it is recommended to adhere to these guidelines to ensure your ramp is safe for those using wheelchairs. In general, the ADA recommends that for every inch of rise, ramps must include 12 inches of length. This will ensure that the wheelchair user can move up and down the ramp with enough space so that they do not have to slow down or stopping and risk an accident.

Once you have determined the best location for the ramp to be placed, you'll need to determine what kind of ramp will best suit your needs. There are a variety of ramps available including portable ramps, modular ramps, ramps made of wood or concrete.

Portable ramps are available in a variety of lengths that can be easily moved when not in use. They can be used to cover small thresholds, or for a short series of steps that lead to the entrance. An aluminium self-supporting ramp that attaches to the flooring of the home or the door plate of the entrance provides maximum stability and is easy to put in.

To build a larger ramp that bridges over the threshold, an Aerolight-Up and Over ramp kit is available. The ramp is placed inside the UPVC threshold so that it won't harm it and folds down when not in use. This ramp can be used conjunction with an Entry Flap accessory for a bridge to traverse the threshold of the door and get into the house.

Modular ramps are available in many designs that can be adapted to meet the needs of your wheelchair or home user. They are generally considered the most durable and long-lasting choice. They come with platforms and railings and can be built in different materials dependent on your budget and design preferences.

Maintenance

Even the tiniest physical obstacle can limit My Mobility Scooters for someone who is dependent on a wheelchair or scooter. A ramp that bridges the gap between a threshold and the entry door can remove the barrier and make your home more accessible. A professional handyman will help you choose the appropriate materials for your ramp that will fulfill your functional needs and match your home's aesthetics.

After you've constructed the ramp, regular maintenance is crucial to ensure its durability and safety. Clean and remove debris frequently to ensure that your ramp is free of hazards for tripping. Clean the ramp's surface with mild soap and warm water, paying particular attention to areas that are prone to collecting dirt and grime. If your ramp is made of steel, be sure to clean it regularly to prevent rust deposits.

Some ramps need to be cleaned more frequently than other ramps. Steel ramps, for example, may need periodic touch-up using a paintbrush or steel wool. Wooden ramps require a lot of maintenance. Check for cracks, dents and rust spots. They should be fixed promptly to avoid further damage.

If you are in a region that experiences harsh winter weather, be sure to salt your ramps the same way you would a sidewalk or walkway. This will stop accumulation of snow and ice, which can create an additional risk of tripping. But, be careful not to over-salt your ramps, as excessive salt can damage wheelchair tires and bearings.