Installing a Wheelchair Ramp For Your Front Door

A ramp for wheelchairs ramps near your front door can help reduce the chance of serious injuries due to falls. These ramps are typically built to lead to the porch. However, they can be used to access vehicles and other locations.

If these changes are elegantly integrated into the house, they will keep the resale value. Modular ramps are available in various styles and are able to be customized to fit your home design.

Design Considerations

The slope of the ramp must be smooth and easy for wheelchair occupants to maneuver. The ADA recommends that ramp slopes not be more steep than one in 12. (For every inch of vertical rise you need to travel 12 inches horizontally).

Ramp landings should be large enough to allow doors to swing open and open. They should be at a safe distance away from the edge of the ramp to prevent the chair's tires from rolling over the edge. A 58-inch wide landing, for instance, will give plenty of room to accommodate a front entryway that opens onto the ramp area.

If the ramp is long and doesn't have an even landing at the bottom of the incline, consider adding a side flare. This will reduce the risk of slipping at the end of your ramp as it is curved to the right. Another crucial aspect of ramp design is the handrails. They aren't just for decoration but are also lifelines for the occupants of the ramp. ADA regulations require handrails to be at least 34-38 inches tall with gripping surfaces capable of holding the weight of a person's body in any weather.

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

Some ramps are built to fold away when they are not in use, however these typically require lots of space around them. Portable ramps, like the Aerolight-Folding ramp are the ideal solution to this issue. They feature hinges that are inside the threshold, allowing the ramp to fold down and over it. The ramp can be placed right outside the front door and used to cross one or more steps. It's an excellent option for those with my mobility scooters issues and want to have their wheelchair or scooter on their vehicle at all times.

Materials

Material selection is a crucial decision when designing a ramp. Depending on the type of ramp and the style, the materials may differ significantly. Wood is the most well-known ramp material due to its ability to be built in various styles and complements many homes. However, a wooden ramp requires regular maintenance to prevent the rotting process or insect infestation. Additionally the wooden ramp is typically more expensive than concrete or aluminum ramp.

To choose the appropriate ramp, it's important to understand the unique needs of disabled individuals and the location in which the ramp will be put in. Answering questions like "will it be outdoors or indoors?" or "how often will it used?" will narrow down your choices and help you choose the right ramp.

Choosing the right ramp for your doorway is dependent on other factors like the length of the ramp should be. ADA guidelines suggest ramps that are 12" long per inch of vertical rise. This will ensure that the ramp is safe for a person who is using a scooter, wheelchair or walker.

The most popular ramp options are aluminum, concrete and wood. Modular aluminum ramps are prefabricated, and are typically less expensive than wood or concrete ramps. They may not be as durable or as customizable as a wood or concrete ramp.

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

If you require a ramp that is permanent, it is best to seek out a professional handyman who can assist you in the process of installing it and offer advice on choosing the proper material for your ramp. They will be able to design and construct ramps that are secure and matches the style of your home. They can also assist with determining if you will need a building permit and inspections to ensure that the ramp can be built properly and safely.

Installation

In order to put up a wheelchair ramp first, you need to decide where it will be placed. It doesn't need to be right next to the front door. However, it should be in a location that is close enough for a person using a wheelchair to Get Easy Access with 4 Inch Rubber Ramp into and out of the home without having to climb the steps or up the 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 a ramp.

The Americans with Disabilities Act establishes standards for safe slopes on ramps. It is recommended that you adhere to these guidelines to ensure that your ramp is safe for wheelchair users. The ADA recommends ramps with 12 inches of space per inch of slope. This will allow the wheelchair user to move up and down the ramp without stopping or having to slow down, which can cause an accident.

After determining where the ramp will be placed, you'll have to decide which type of ramp is best for your requirements. There are a variety of ramps to choose from, including portable ones, modular ramps, and ramps made of wood or concrete.

Portable ramps are available in various lengths and are easily removed when not being used. They can be used to cover small thresholds, or for a short series of steps that lead to the entrance. A self-supporting ramp made of aluminum that attaches to the flooring of the home or to the door plate of the entrance will offer maximum stability and is easy to set up.

Aerolight-Up and Over Ramp Kits can be purchased for an extended ramp that can cross the threshold. The ramp is positioned within the UPVC threshold to ensure it doesn't damage it and folds 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 are available in a variety of configurations that can be tailored to meet the needs of your wheelchair or home user. They are considered to be the most durable choice. They can be constructed from different materials and are complemented by platforms or railings, based on the budget and style you would like to have.

Maintenance

If you or a loved one is dependent on the use of a wheelchair, scooter, or walker, even the smallest physical obstruction can prevent full mobility. A ramp that bridges a gap between a threshold and the doorway can eliminate the barrier, making your home more accessible. A professional handyman will help you select the best materials for your ramp to meet your requirements and match your home's aesthetics.

Regular maintenance is vital for the longevity and safety of your ramp. Clean and remove debris frequently to ensure that your ramp is free of hazards for tripping. Clean the ramp surface with mild soap and warm water, paying particular attention to areas that collect dirt and grime. If your ramp is constructed of metal, be certain to keep it clean to prevent rust deposits.

Some ramps have to be cleaned more frequently than others. Steel ramps may require periodic touch-ups with paintbrushes or a steel wool. Wooden ramps require more regular maintenance. Watch for cracks, dents and spots of rust. These should be repaired promptly to avoid further damage.

If you reside in a harsh winter climate, you should salt your ramps the same way you would a sidewalk or walkway. This will stop accumulation of snow and ice, which could create an additional risk of tripping. Do not over-salt ramps because this can damage wheelchair tires and bearings.