Installing a Wheelchair Ramp For Your Front Door

A ramp for wheelchairs at your front door helps reduce the risks of serious injuries from falls. These ramps for outdoor use are typically built to lead up to a porch, although they can also be used to get into vehicles or other places.

These modifications can be incorporated into the home in a chic way to preserve the resale value. Modular ramps are available in different styles and are able to be customized to match your home's style.

Design Considerations

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

Ramp landings should be large enough to allow a door to open and swing freely. They should also be a secure distance from the edge of the ramp, so that the tires of chairs don't accidentally roll over the ramp edge. For instance, a 58-inch wide landing can allow plenty of space to accommodate an entrance door that opens into the ramp area.

Consider adding a side flare in the event that the ramp is long, and there is no level to land at the end. This can reduce the chance of tripping at the end of your ramp as it is curved towards the back. Handrails are another important aspect of ramp design. These are not just decorative afterthoughts; they're lifelines for those who use the ramp. ADA regulations require handrails to be at least 34-38 inches tall with gripping surfaces that can hold the body weight of a person in any weather.

It is a good idea to install handrails on both sides of the ramp, especially when there is a change in direction. These railings will alert visually impaired walkers and wheelchair users to the modifications in the material of the ramp and also provide the user something to hold on to for safety.

Some ramps can be folded away to save space when not in use. However, they generally require a significant amount of space. Portable ramps such as the Aerolight-Folding Ramp offer a solution to this issue. They have hinges inside the threshold that allow the ramp to be folded up and over. This allows the ramp to be placed right outside a front door, allowing it to be used to bridge one step or a few steps into a house. It's a great choice for those with mobility issues who want to have their scooter or wheelchair ramp for van on them at all times.

Materials

The selection of materials is an important decision when designing a ramp. Based on the type of ramp and design, the materials used can differ considerably. Wood is the most popular ramp material because it can be constructed in a variety of styles and complements many homes. A wooden ramp will require regular maintenance to prevent rotting and insect infestation. Additionally the wooden ramp is typically more expensive than concrete or aluminum ramp.

To choose the best ramp, it is important to know the specific requirements of disabled people and the setting in which the ramp will be installed. 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 select the best ramp.

The right ramp to use for a doorway also depends on other aspects, such as how far up or down the ramp will need to be. In general, ADA guidelines recommend ramps being 12" long for every inch of vertical rise. This ensures that a ramp is safe for anyone using wheelchairs or walker.

The most sought-after ramps are concrete, aluminum and wood. Modular aluminum ramps are prefabricated, and are typically cheaper than wood or concrete ramps. However, they might not be as sturdy or as flexible as a concrete or wood ramp.

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

If you require an all-weather ramp it is recommended to seek out a professional handyman who can assist you in the process of installing it and help you choose the appropriate material for your ramp. They can design and build a ramp that is both safe and enhances the look of your home. They can also help you determine whether a building permit required and if inspections are needed to ensure that the ramp is built correctly and safely.

Installation

The first step of installing a electric wheelchair ramp for car ramp is to determine the location it should be. It doesn't need to be right up to the front door however it needs to be close enough for people in wheelchairs to get in and out of the home without having to climb stairs or steps. It's recommended to inquire with your municipality to see what specific requirements might apply to the construction of ramps in your area.

The Americans with Disabilities Act establishes standards for safe slopes on ramps. It is recommended to follow these guidelines to ensure your ramp is safe for wheelchair users. In general the ADA recommends that for every inch of rise, ramps should contain 12 inches of length. This will ensure that the wheelchair user can move up and down the ramp with enough space to avoid slowing down or stopping, which could lead to an accident.

Once you have determined the best location for the ramp to be located, you'll need to decide which type of ramp will best suit your needs. There are several types of ramps to choose from that are portable, such as modular ramps, and ramps made of wood or concrete.

Portable ramps come in various lengths and can be easily moved when not in use. They can be used for small thresholds or for a series of short steps leading up to the front door. A self-supporting aluminum ramp that is connected to the floor or to the door plate at the entrance gives the highest stability and ease of installation.

Aerolight-Up and Over Ramp Kits can be purchased for the wider ramp that can cross the threshold. The ramp is positioned inside the UPVC threshold so that it isn't damaging it, and folds down when not in use. It can be paired with an Entry Flap accessory to bridge over the door threshold and into the house.

Modular ramps are available in many configurations that can be tailored to the needs of your removable wheelchair ramps (related web-site) or home user. They are thought to be the most durable choice. They come with platforms and railings and are constructed from various materials, depending on your budget and style preferences.

Maintenance

Even the tiniest physical obstacle can hinder mobility for a person who is dependent on the use of a scooter or 10ft wheelchair ramp. A ramp that bridges the gap between a surface and the threshold for entry doors can eliminate this barrier and make your home accessible. A professional handyman can assist you to choose the best ramp materials to meet your requirements and complement your home's design.

After you've put up a ramp, regular maintenance is essential to its durability and safety. Make sure to sweep and remove debris regularly to ensure that your ramp is free of hazards that could cause tripping. Make use of mild soap and water to clean the ramp's surface. Pay particular attention to areas where dirt and grime accumulate. If your ramp is made of metal, make sure to clean it frequently to prevent the rust from developing.

Certain ramps require more frequent cleaning than others. Steel ramps might require regular cleaning with paintbrushes or steel wool. Wooden ramps require a lot of maintenance. Keep an eye out for cracks, dents and rust spots that must be fixed as soon as possible to avoid further damage.

If you live in a harsh winter climate you must salt your ramps for wheelchairs into house the same way you would a walkway or a sidewalk. This will prevent accumulation of snow and ice, which can cause an additional tripping hazard. Do not over-salt ramps because this could damage the tires of wheelchairs and bearings.