Installing a Wheelchair Ramp For Your Front Door

A ramp for wheelchairs at your front door can reduce the risk of serious injury from falls. These ramps for outdoor use are typically designed to connect to a porch, however they can also be used to get into vehicles or other destinations.

These modifications can be integrated into the home in a tasteful way that preserves the resale value. Modular ramps are available in various designs and can be adapted to fit your home design.

Design Considerations

The slope of the ramp must be gentle and easy for wheelchair users to navigate. The ADA recommends ramp slopes should not be steeper than one in 12. (For every inch of vertical rise you have to traverse 12 inches horizontally).

The landings on the ramps must be wide enough to allow doors to swing open and open. They should also be a safe distance from the edge of the ramp so that the tires of chairs aren't able to roll over the ramp's edge. For instance, a 58 inch wide landing can allow plenty of space to accommodate the front door which can be opened into the ramp area.

If the ramp is long and does not have a level landing at the end of the slope, you might want to consider installing a flare on the side. This can reduce the chance of tripping at the end of your ramp since it curves to the right. Handrails are an additional aspect of the design of the ramp. They are not 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 capable of holding the body weight of a person in any weather.

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

Some ramps can be folded out of the way to save space when not in use. However, they typically require a large amount of space. Portable ramps, such as the Aerolight-Folding ramp, offer the ideal solution to this. They come with hinges that fit in the threshold, allowing the ramp to fold up and over it. The ramp can be put just outside the front door to cross a single or multiple steps. It's a great option for those with mobility issues who wish to keep their wheelchair or scooter on their vehicle at all times.

Materials

When building a ramp, the material used is among the most important decisions to be made. Depending on the type of ramp and the style, the materials may differ considerably. Wood is the most sought-after ramp material due to its ability to be built in many styles and can be a great complement to many homes. However, a wooden ramp requires regular maintenance to prevent rotting or insect infestation. In addition the wooden ramp is usually more expensive than aluminum or concrete ramp.

It is essential to understand the needs of the disabled person and the environment where the ramp will be installed before you choose the best ramp. Answering questions such as "will it be indoors or outdoors?" or "how often will it be used?" will narrow down your options and help you select the best ramp.

The choice of the right ramp is based on a variety of other elements. For example the height or how low the ramp is recommended to be. ADA guidelines suggest ramps of 12" long per inch of vertical rise. This will ensure that the ramp is safe for a person who uses a wheelchair, scooter or walker.

The most well-known ramps are concrete, aluminum and wood. Modular aluminum ramps are manufactured and usually cost less than a concrete or wood ramp. However, they may not be as robust or as flexible as a concrete or wood ramp.

Threshold ramps are ramps that sit directly over a raised door threshold or curbs for sidewalks. They are usually made of rubber wheelchair ramps for home (My Home Page) or aluminum and offer traction when people change levels between walking surfaces.

If you require an unreliable ramp, it's best to consult an experienced handyman. They can assist you with the installation process and provide guidance on the appropriate material for your ramp. They have the experience to design and build an accessible ramp that is safe and matches the look of your home. They can also assist you to determine if a building permit is required and if inspections are needed to ensure that the ramp is built correctly and safely.

Installation

The first step of constructing a ramp for wheelchairs is to decide the best location for it. It doesn't need to be right next to the front door, but it will need to be close in order for someone in a wheelchair to be able to enter and exit of the house without the need to climb stairs or steps. You should also consult your local municipality to find out what requirements might apply to the construction and installation of ramps.

The Americans with Disabilities Act sets guidelines for safe ramp slopes and it is recommended to follow these guidelines to ensure your ramp is safe for people who use wheelchairs. The ADA recommends ramps have 12 inches of space per inch of slope. This will allow wheelchair users to move through the ramp without stopping or having to slow down, which could cause the risk of falling.

After determining where the ramp will be placed, you'll have to decide which type of ramp will best suit your requirements. There are many types of ramps, such as concrete or wooden ramps, modular ramps, and ramps that are portable.

Portable ramps are available in a variety of lengths and are easily moved when they are not being used. They can be used to cover small thresholds or as a short sequence of steps leading up 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 provide the highest stability and is simple to install.

Aerolight-Up and Over Ramp Kits are available for a wider ramp which can cross the threshold. The ramp is placed inside the UPVC threshold to ensure it won't harm it and can be folded 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 various configurations that can be customized to meet the requirements of your wheelchair threshold ramp or home user. They are generally considered the most durable and durable option. They can be constructed from different materials and are complemented by platforms or railings, depending on the design and budget you like.

Maintenance

Even the tiniest physical obstacle can limit mobility for someone who uses an electric scooter or wheelchair. A ramp that bridges a gap between a threshold on the surface and the entry door can eliminate this barrier and make your home more accessible. A professional handyman will help you select the right ramp material to meet your needs and match your home's design.

Once you've installed an ramp, maintaining it regularly is crucial to ensure its longevity and safety. Regularly sweep and remove debris to keep your ramp free of tripping hazards. Use a mild soap and water to clean the ramp's surface, paying particular attention to areas that are prone to grime and dirt. If your van ramp for wheelchair is made of metal ensure that you clean it frequently to avoid the rust from developing.

Some ramps require more frequent cleaning than others. Steel ramps may require periodic touch-ups with a steel wool or paintbrush. Wooden minivan ramps for wheelchairs require more regular maintenance. Be alert for dents, cracks and rust spots that should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

If you reside in a harsh winter climate you must salt your ramps just as you would a sidewalk or walkway. This will stop accumulation of snow and ice and causing the risk of tripping. Don't over-salt the ramps as this could damage the tires of wheelchairs and bearings.