Wheelchair Ramp For Front Door: A Simple Definition
Wiki Article
Installing a Wheelchair Ramp For Your Front Door
A ramp for wheelchairs near your front door can help reduce the chance 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 access vehicles or other destinations.
These modifications can be integrated into the home in a tasteful way to maintain its resale price. Modular ramps are available in various designs and can be adapted to fit your home design.
Design Considerations
The ramp slope should be gentle, and easy to navigate for wheelchair users. The ADA recommends ramp slopes should not be more than 1 in 12 (for every inch of vertical rise, there must be 12 inches of horizontal travel).
The landings on the ramps must be wide enough to allow a door to open and swing freely. They should be placed at an appropriate distance from the edge of a ramp to stop chair tires from accidentally rolling over the edge. For instance, a 58 inch wide landing will provide plenty of room to accommodate the front door which is able to open into the ramp.
You may want to consider adding a flare to the side in the event that the ramp is long, and there is no level landing at the end. This will reduce the chance of slipping when it curves to the right at the end of the ramp. Handrails are another important aspect of ramp design. They aren't just for decoration, but they are lifelines for the occupants of the ramp. ADA regulations require handrails that measure 34 to 38 inches tall and have gripping surfaces that are able to support a person's weight without becoming slippery in weather conditions.
Installing handrails on the left and right side of a ramp is a good idea, particularly if there are any shifts in direction. These railings alert visually impaired users of wheelchairs and walker of the differences in 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 they are not in use. However, they typically require a significant amount of space. Portable ramps, such as the Aerolight-Folding ramp are the perfect solution to this. They feature hinges within the threshold which allow the ramp to fold up and over. The ramp can be placed right outside the front door and used to bridge one or more steps. It's a great choice for those with mobility issues who wish to have their scooter or wheelchair on them at all times.
Materials
The selection of materials is an important decision when building ramps. Materials can be very different based on the style and type of the ramp. Wood is the most sought-after ramp material because it can be constructed in a variety of styles and can be a great complement to many homes. However, a wooden ramp requires regular maintenance to avoid decay or insect infestation. A wooden ramp is more expensive than a concrete or aluminum ramp.
It is crucial to know the requirements of a disabled person and the environment in which the ramp will be placed before you decide on the best ramp. Making sure to answer questions such as, "will it be used indoors or outdoors?" and, "how often will it be used?" will help narrow down the choices and make selecting the right ramp much easier.
The choice of the ideal ramp is contingent on a number of other factors. For example, how high or low the ramp should be. In general, ADA guidelines recommend ramps being 12" long for every inch of vertical rise. This ensures that the ramp is safe for people who use a wheelchair or walker.
The most well-known ramps are aluminum, concrete and wood. Modular aluminum ramps are made and usually cost less than a concrete or wood ramp. They might not be as durable or customizable as a wood or concrete ramp.
Threshold Ramps are ramps which sit directly above the threshold or curb on the sidewalk. They are typically constructed of aluminum or rubber and offer traction when a person switches between different walking surfaces.
If you need a permanent ramp it is best to talk to an experienced handyman. They can assist you with the installation and give advice on the right material for your ramp. They will be able to create a ramp that is both safe and complements the appearance of your home. They can also assist with determining if you will need permits for building and inspections to ensure that the ramp can be constructed safely and in a safe manner.
Installation
In order to install a wheelchair ramp first, you need to decide where it should be put in. It doesn't have to be located right at the front door. But it should be in a location that is close enough for a person in a wheel chair to get into and out of the house without climbing steps or stairs. It's recommended to check with your municipality to see what specific requirements might apply to the construction of ramps in your area.
The Americans with Disabilities Act sets guidelines for safe slopes on ramps, and it is best to follow these guidelines to ensure that your ramp is safe for those who use wheelchairs. The ADA recommends ramps with 12 inches of space for every inch of slope. This will ensure that wheelchair users can travel up and down the ramp with enough room to avoid having to slow down or stop, which could lead to an accident.
After determining where the ramp will be installed, you'll need to decide which type of ramp will best suit your needs. There are many types of ramps, such as concrete or wooden ramps, modular ramps, and ramps that can be transported.
Portable ramps are available in a variety of lengths and are easily moved when not being used. They can be used to create small thresholds or the construction of a short set of steps that lead to the front door. A self-supporting aluminum ramp that is attached to the floor of the home or to the door plate of the entrance provides the highest stability and is simple to set up.
Aerolight-Up and Over Ramp Kits are available to create the wider ramp that can cross the threshold. The ramp is placed inside the UPVC threshold so that it doesn't damage it and can be folded away when not in use. It can be combined with an Entry Flap accessory to bridge over the threshold of the door and into the home.
Modular ramps can be constructed in a variety of configurations to match the specific requirements of your home and wheelchair user. They are generally regarded as the most durable and long-lasting choice. They can be built with various materials and include platforms or railings, based on the budget and design you prefer.
Maintenance
Even the smallest physical obstacle can hinder mobility for a person who is dependent on an electric scooter or wheelchair. A ramp that bridges the gap between a threshold on the surface and the doorway can eliminate this barrier and make your home more accessible. A professional handyman will help you choose the best materials for your ramp to satisfy your needs and match your home's aesthetics.
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the safety and longevity of your ramp. Make sure to sweep and remove debris regularly to keep your ramp clear of hazards for tripping. Clean the ramp's surface using mild soap and warm water, paying particular focus on areas that accumulate dirt and grime. If your ramp is made of steel, be sure to clean it regularly to avoid the formation of rust.
Certain ramps check here require more frequent cleaning than others. Steel ramps may require periodic touch-ups with a steel wool or paintbrush. Wooden ramps require more regular maintenance. Check for cracks, dents and spots of rust. Repairs should be made promptly to avoid further damage.
If you live in an area with a harsh winter climate you must salt your ramps the same way you would a walkway or sidewalk. This will prevent the accumulation of snow and ice and creating a tripping risk. However, don't over-salt your ramps, as excessive salt can damage wheelchair tires and bearings.