5 Tools That Everyone Working In The Wheelchair Ramp Industry Should Be Making Use Of

Wheelchair Ramp Design and Construction

A ramp for wheelchairs is a vital tool for helping your loved ones live independently in their home. If not designed correctly, they are unsafe to use.

ADA regulations require that landings must be level with any shift in direction to avoid compound slopes.  fold away wheelchair ramps  must also 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's slope shouldn't exceed a 1:12 ratio, and the landings should be level in any change of direction or shift in the ramp's surface. It also must be constructed from treated lumber, which is more durable and withstands rain better than untreated lumber.

The ramp's bottom and top should be free of obstructions such as trees or bushes, as well as other structures that could hinder the safety of the user. In addition, the surface of the ramp must be smooth and non-slip. Some municipalities require that the entire ramp be coated with an anti-slip surface.

For the frame of the ramp Choose treated lumber that is at minimum four inches wide. To ensure the ramp is secured, construct posts that are at least 8 feet apart and extend below the level of the ground. Spindles are the best way to join the posts with the ramp's railings. This kind of connection minimizes the possibility of a ramp user falling off the ramp.

Next, build the frame for the ramp using Joists that are at minimum 16 inches long and beams of 2 by 4 inches. Make sure that the joists are a minimum of 18 inches above ground level and that they are secured with Joist hangers, which are nails that grip the inside of the joists to prevent them from sliding out of alignment. Attach the ramp decking with framing nails.

Install an upper landing close to the doorway to allow wheelchair users to control the doorswing easily. This landing should have 12 to 24 inches on the handle side of the doors that swing out. For in-swing doors the landing should be at least 58 by 60 inches to allow for the threshold and a person in wheelchair who has to walk backwards through the doorway.

Install a level landing when you change the direction of the ramp to stop wheelchairs from having their brakes into corners. A level landing is easier to move a ramp out of the way when needed, so that equipment like lawnmowers can be able to pass underneath it.

Materials

Aluminium, wood, or concrete can be used to build a wheelchair ramp. A professional ramp installer can help you choose the best option for your office or home. When choosing the material for the ramp, it is important to take into account your budget and the specific requirements. The ramp should also be simple to maintain and safe for use. Certain cities require that the ramp be paved with an anti-slip surface.

Be sure to inquire with your local government for permits before you begin building or purchasing any materials. Also, make certain to follow the local building codes. Utilizing the incorrect materials or construction techniques can result in dangerous conditions for wheelchair users. You can find the most current information about construction regulations at your local government's building department office library or online.

Wood ramps are the most affordable option for ADA ramp materials. However they need more maintenance. The wood ramp's surface must be regularly treated with a sealer to avoid warping and rot. Wood can splinter, which could be particularly dangerous for those who are in wheelchairs. Wood ramps can also require additional support to ensure that the structure is in place and stable.

Concrete ramps can be expensive, but are durable and long lasting. They are heavy, which means that more labor is required to install them, and they can make it difficult to move the ramp after it is it is no longer required. Concrete ramps can handle the weight of heavy power wheelchairs.

Aluminum ramps are lighter than concrete or steel however they possess the same strength and resistance to corrosion. They are also more affordable than iron or steel, which makes them a great option for those with a tight budget. Aluminum is also environmentally friendly because it is naturally present in the Earth's crust and can be recycled.

The ramp's upper landing should be at a level level or within 3/8 inches of the threshold of the door to allow wheelchairs with smaller wheels to move across the ramp without getting stuck. Ramps with a gap larger than this will not be able to meet ADA standards. Also, ensure that the ramp is smooth transitioning from the upper landing to the surface. The last section of the ramp should have a beveled transition to avoid the abrupt stop of wheelchairs as they enter or exit an apartment.

Installation

A wheelchair ramp is an inclined plane that is erected on top of or instead of stairs. It allows wheelchair users and people who use strollers or carts to access areas that would otherwise be difficult to reach like an entranceway or a set up of steep steps.

There are a variety of factors to consider when selecting a ramp for wheelchairs such as height, location and cost. The ramp should be placed close to the door to prevent unnecessary traveling. It should also be positioned at an elevation that is easily accessed by the person using it. It should be securely anchored to the floor and clear of any obstructions such as trees, cars parked or other obstacles.

ADA regulations require that ramps are equipped with handrails either side. The rails should be at minimum 36" apart and have an even or smooth gripping surface. In addition, they must be attached to the ramp and extend at least 12 inches over the ramp's edge. Handrails must be continuous if the ramp is constructed with switchbacks or an L-shaped layout.

The length of a ramp depends on the slope, however there are a few basic ramps that can be used in all situations. For example the threshold ramp is directly on the lip of a curb, or the threshold of a doorway while ramps that are portable can be moved from one place to another and are available in a variety of sizes. Modular aluminum ramps can also be built on-site. These are often used for public or commercial spaces, and are typically larger than the threshold and ramps that are portable.

Consult with your city's building department to determine whether a permit is required for an ongoing ramp. It's also a good idea to speak with a mobility expert to determine what kind of ramp will best fit your requirements and the space that you have. In some cases installing permanent ramps could boost the value of your home.

Maintenance

It's important to make sure your wheelchair ramp is well maintained, especially if you are going to use it frequently. You'll need to conduct regular inspections and deal with any structural issues as they arise. This will ensure that the ramp complies with all ADA requirements and is safe for all users.

Regular cleaning of wooden ramps is necessary to remove debris and dirt that may block access. Keep the ramp spotless to stop moisture from accumulating beneath the surface. This could cause rot. Preservatives and stains for wood only work when the ramp is clean prior to application.

Wheelchair ramps are more difficult to maintain than other ramps because they are more prone to wear and tear. The most important thing to do is ensure that you have the right tools for the job. To ensure that all fixings are secure and tight you'll need a good set of screwdrivers as well as gauge spanners. It is also important to regularly check the handrails to ensure they are in a good condition and do not show signs of corrosion or damage. It is possible that over time, and with repeated use, some of the bolts and fittings that hold the handrails on may come loose and cause an extremely dangerous risk for those using the ramp.

It is also essential to make sure that the surface of the ramp is sufficiently grippy particularly in winter, when the conditions can be challenging. You'll need to clean off any leaves, dirt or other debris that could obstruct and cause slippage. Additionally, you'll need to apply a non-corrosive ice melt on the ramp's surface prior to winter arrives to prevent slipping and causing injury.

Consider purchasing "snow tires" or traction wheels for your wheelchair if you are planning to use it for the duration of the winter. These wheels are made to better track on slippery and snowy surfaces. They will allow you to remain on your ramp more effectively than regular wheelchair tires. You can also make use of heating pads or heating tape to melt the snow and ice on the ramp before it accumulates.