An Easy-To-Follow Guide To Wheelchair Ramp
Wheelchair wheel chair ramp for vans Design and Construction
A telescopic wheelchair ramps ramp can be an important aid to help the person you love independently at home. But if not designed correctly, they can be dangerous to use.
ADA regulations require landings to must be level with any change in direction, so as to avoid compound slopes. They also need to provide a grippy surface for wheelchair users.
Design
The ramp's design has to meet the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards to ensure that wheelchairs comfortably navigate the structure. The ramp slope can't exceed a 1:12 ratio and the landings must be level in any change of direction or shift on the ramp's surface. It must be constructed of treated lumber which is more durable than lumber that is not treated and can withstand the effects of rain better.
The ramp's top and bottom should be free of obstructions such as trees or bushes, as well as other structures which could interfere with the safety of the user. The ramp's surface must be non-slip and hard. Certain municipalities require an anti-slip running surface on the entire length of the ramp.
Use treated lumber of at least four inches in width for the frame of the ramp. To make sure the ramp is secure, build posts that are at least 8 feet apart and extend to below the level of the ground. Spindles are the best way to connect the posts with the ramp's railings. This kind of connection is preferred since it reduces the risk of an operator of the ramp falling off the edge of the ramp.
Next, build the frame for the ramp using joists that are at most 16 inches long and 2 by 4 inch beams. Make sure that the joists stand a minimum of 18 inches above ground level and that they're secured with joist hangers which are nails that grip the inside of the joists and prevent them from slipping out of alignment. Attach the ramp decking using a framing nailer.
Install an upper landing on the doorway so that the wheelchair ramp with rails-bound occupants are able to easily maneuver the doorswing. This landing should provide 12 to 24 inches on the handle side of out-swinging doors. For in-swing doors, the landing must be at least 58 inches by 60 inches to accommodate the door's threshold and a person in wheelchair ramps at walmart who has to walk backwards through the doorway.
Install a level landing whenever you change in ramp direction to prevent the necessity for wheelchairs to hit on their brakes when turning corners. A level landing makes it easier to move the ramp out of the way if necessary so that lawnmowers and other equipment can go under it.
Materials
Concrete, wood or aluminium can be used to build ramps for wheelchairs. A professional ramp installation service can help you decide which one is suitable for your business or home. When choosing the material for the ramp, it's crucial to consider your budget and requirements. The ramp should be simple to maintain and should be safe for use. Certain cities require that the ramp be covered with a non-slip surface.
Be sure to inquire with your local government for permits prior to building or buying any materials. Also, be sure to follow all local building codes. The wrong materials or construction techniques can create dangerous conditions for wheelchair ramps for vans-users. You can find the most current information on construction requirements at the building department of your local government office or library, or on the internet.
Wood ramps can be the least expensive alternative for ADA ramp materials. However they require more care. The wood ramp's surface should be treated regularly with a sealer to avoid rot and warping. Wood splinters can be a problem, and is particularly hazardous for people in wheelchairs. Wood ramps may also require additional support to ensure the structure remains in place and stable.
Concrete ramps can be costly but they are also durable and long lasting. They are heavy, which means more labor is required to put in ramps and may make it difficult to move the ramp once they are no longer needed. Concrete ramps are strong enough to withstand the weight of Power Wheelchair ramps wheelchairs.
Aluminum ramps weigh less than concrete or steel however they possess the same strength and corrosion resistance. They are also cheaper than steel or iron, which makes them an ideal choice for those on a limited budget. Aluminum is environmentally friendly since it is found in the earth's crust naturally and is able to be recycled.
The ramp's upper landing should be level or within 3/8 inches of the threshold of the door in order for wheelchairs with smaller wheels to pass over the ramp without getting stuck. Ramps with gaps higher than this comply with ADA standards. You should also ensure that the ramp transitions smoothly between the landing area and the ground. The ramp's last section should be curved to stop wheelchairs from abruptly stopping when they leave or enter a home.
Installation
A ramp for wheelchairs is a plane inclined ramp that can be erected as an alternative to or in addition to stairs. It allows wheelchair users and those who use carts or strollers to access areas that are otherwise difficult to access.
When choosing a wheelchair access ramp, there are many aspects to take into consideration, including the location, height, and price. The ramp should be located closest to the door in order to avoid unnecessary traveling. It should also be placed at an angle that is easy to use by the person who is using it. It should also be properly fixed to the ground and free of obstructions, like the trees or cars parked.
ADA regulations stipulate that ramps should have handrails on either side. The rails must be at minimum 36" apart and have a smooth or rounded gripping surface. In addition, they must be connected to the ramp and extend at least 12 inches beyond the ramp edge. Handrails must be continuous if the ramp is designed with switchbacks, or in an L-shaped layout.
The length of a ramp depends on the incline, however there are a few common ramp types that are suitable for most situations. A threshold ramp, for instance, sits flush against the lip of the curb or threshold of the doorway. Portable ramps are however, can be moved to a different location and are available in different sizes. There are also modular aluminum ramps that can be assembled on the spot. These are often used in public or commercial areas and are typically longer than the threshold and ramps that are portable.
If you are considering a permanent ramp, make sure to check with the building department of your city to see if you need permits. Also, you should consult an expert in mobility to determine the kind of ramp that is best for your needs and space. In certain situations the installation of permanent ramps can improve the value of your house.
Maintenance
It is crucial to keep your ramp for wheelchairs in good condition especially if it will be used frequently. You'll need to perform regular inspections, and fix any structural problems as they develop. This will ensure that the ramp complies all ADA requirements, and is safe for the users.
Wooden ramps require regular maintenance to remove debris and dirt that could block access. Keeping the ramp clean will also stop moisture from accumulating beneath the surface and creating decay. Preservatives and stains for wood only work when the ramp has been thoroughly cleaned prior to application.
Wheelchair ramps are more difficult to maintain than other ramps because they are more susceptible to wear and tear. It is essential to have the right tools. A good set of gauge spanners as well as screwdrivers are essential for making sure all fixings are secure and secure. It's also worth regularly inspecting the handrails to make sure they are in a good condition and are free of damage or corrosion. It's possible that, over time, with repeated usage and use, the fittings and bolts which hold the handrails in place may loosen and cause an extremely dangerous risk for those using the ramp.
It is also important to make sure that the surface of the ramp is grippy enough, especially in winter when the conditions can be challenging. You'll need to clean away any dirt, leaves or other debris that could block the ramp and cause slippage. You'll also need to apply an ice melt that's non-corrosive to the ramp's surface to avoid slips and injuries.
Think about buying "snow tires" or traction wheels for your wheelchair if intend to use it during the winter. These wheels are designed to better track on slippery and snowy surfaces. They will help you remain on your ramp longer than standard wheelchair tires. You can also make use of heating pads or heating tape to melt snow and ice on the ramp before it builds up.