Installing a Wheelchair Ramp For Your Front Door
A wheelchair ramp at your front door will reduce the risk of serious injury from falls. These ramps are typically built to connect to an outdoor porch. However, wheelchair ramp portable can be used to reach vehicles or other destinations.
When these modifications are tastefully integrated into the home, they can help preserve the value of resales. Modular ramps are available in various styles and are able to be customized to match your home's style.
Design Considerations
The slope of the ramp must be gentle and easy for wheelchair occupants to move. The ADA recommends ramp slopes should not be steeper than 1 in 12 (for every inch of vertical rise, you require 12 inches of horizontal space).
Ramp landings should be large enough to allow doors to swing open and open. They should be placed at an appropriate distance from the edge of a ramp to prevent chair tires from accidentally rolling over the edge. A 58-inch wide landing, for instance, will give you plenty of space to accommodate a front entrance that can be opened to the ramp area.
If the ramp is long and doesn't have an even landing at the top of the slope, you might want to consider adding a side flare. This will reduce the risk of slipping at the end of your ramp because it turns 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 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.
It is a good idea to install handrails on both sides of the ramp, especially where there are changes in direction. These railings alert visually impaired walker and wheelchair users to changes in the ramp's surface and give the user something to hold onto in order to ensure safety.
Some ramps can be folded out of the way to make space when not in use. However, they typically require a large amount of space. Portable ramps like the Aerolight Folding Ramp offer a solution to this. They come with hinges that fit within the threshold and allow the ramp to fold down and over it. This lets the ramp be kept right outside a front door, allowing it to be used to bridge a single step or multiple steps into a home. It's also a great choice for those with mobility issues who wish to have their scooter or wheelchair on them at all times.
Materials
When constructing a ramp the material used is among the most important decisions to be taken. Depending on the kind of ramp and style, the materials may differ considerably. In general wood is the most common ramp material for homes because it can be constructed in a wide range of styles and enhances the aesthetic of many homes. A wooden ramp will require regular maintenance to prevent rotting and insect infestation. A wooden ramp is also more expensive than concrete or aluminum ramp.
To select the best ramp, it is important to understand the unique needs of a disabled individual and the setting in which the ramp will be put in. Answering questions like "will it be indoors or outdoors?" or "how often will it be used?" will narrow down your choices and help you choose the right ramp.
The choice of the right ramp is based on a variety of other factors. For instance, how high or low the ramp is recommended to be. ADA guidelines recommend ramps of 12" long for every inch of vertical rise. This ensures that a ramp will be safe for anyone using wheelchairs or walker.
The most well-known ramps are concrete, aluminum and wood. Modular aluminum ramps are manufactured and are generally cheaper than concrete or wood ramps. They may not be as long-lasting or customizable as a wooden or concrete ramp.
Threshold ramps are short ramps that are placed directly over the threshold of a door or curbs on sidewalks. They are usually made of rubber or aluminum and offer traction when a person changes levels between the walking surfaces.
If you require a permanent ramp it is best to consult a professional handyman. They can help in the installation process and offer suggestions on the best material for your ramp. They will have the expertise to design and build an appropriate ramp that is secure and complements the style of your home. They can also help determine if a building permit is required and if you require inspections to ensure that the ramp is built safely and correctly.
Installation
In order to put up ramps for wheelchairs first, it is necessary to decide where it should be installed. It doesn't need to be directly up to the front door, but it will need to be near enough for people in wheelchairs to get in and out of the house without the need to climb stairs or steps. It's also a good idea to check with your municipality to determine what requirements may be applicable to the construction of ramps in your neighborhood.
The Americans with Disabilities Act sets standards for safe ramp slopes, and it's best to adhere to these guidelines to ensure your ramp is safe for people using wheelchairs. In general the ADA recommends that for every inch of rise, ramps should have a length of 12 inches. This will enable the wheelchair user to go through the ramp without stopping or having to slow down, which could result in an accident.
Once you've decided the location where the ramp needs to be located, you'll need to decide what type of ramp will best meet your requirements. 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 various lengths and are easily moved when not in use. They can be used for small thresholds or a series of short steps leading up 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 put in.
For a wider ramp that bridges over the threshold, an Aerolight-Up and Over ramp kit can be used. The ramp is placed inside the UPVC threshold so that it won't harm it and can be folded away when not in use. It can be paired with an Entry Flap accessory to bridge over the threshold of the door and into the house.
Modular ramps are available in a variety of configurations to meet the specific requirements of your house and wheelchair user. They are thought to be the most durable option. They can be built with various materials and include platforms or railings, depending on the budget and style you would like to have.
Maintenance
If you or someone you love is reliant on wheelchair, scooter or walker, even the smallest physical barrier can prevent full mobility. A ramp that bridges the gap between a floor and an entry door threshold can eliminate this barrier and make your home accessible. A professional handyman can help you choose the best ramp materials to meet your needs and complement your home's aesthetics.
Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and safety of your ramp. Clean up and remove debris frequently to keep your ramp free of hazards for tripping. Use mild soap and water to wash the ramp's surface. Pay particular attention to areas that are prone to grime and dirt. If the ramp is made of steel ensure that you clean it regularly in order to prevent the rust from developing.
Some ramps require more frequent cleaning than others. Steel ramps may require regular cleaning with paintbrushes or steel wool. Wooden ramps require a lot of maintenance. Be alert for dents, cracks and rust spots, which must be fixed as soon as possible in order to prevent further damage.
If you reside in the harsh winter weather you must salt your ramps just as you would a walkway or a sidewalk. This will stop the accumulation of snow and ice which can create an additional risk of tripping. Do not over-salt ramps as this can cause damage to wheelchair tires and bearings.