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Installing a Wheelchair Ramp For Your Front Door

A wheelchair ramp at your front door can reduce the chance of serious injuries caused by falls. These ramps for the outdoors are usually constructed to lead to a porch, although they can also be used to access vehicles or other locations.

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

Design Considerations

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

The landings of the ramp should be wide enough for a door to open and swing. They should be an appropriate distance from the edge of a ramp to prevent chair tires from accidentally rolling over the edge. For instance, a 58-inch wide landing can give plenty of room to accommodate a front door that opens into the ramp area.

If the ramp is long and doesn't offer an even landing at the end of the slope, you might want to consider installing a flare on the side. This decreases the chance of tripping as it curves towards the end of the ramp. Another important aspect of the ramp design is the handrails. They're not just decorative flimsy additions, they're lifelines for ramp occupants. ADA regulations require handrails that are 34 to 38 inches high and have gripping surfaces that are able to support a person's weight without becoming slippery in wet weather conditions.

It is a good idea to install handrails on both sides of the ramp, particularly where there are changes in direction. These railings alert visually impaired users of wheelchairs and walker of the different characteristics of the ramp surface material and provide them with something to hold onto for safety.

Some ramps are designed to fold out of the way when they are not in use, however these typically require a lot of space around them. Portable ramps like the Aerolight Folding Ramp offer a solution to this issue. They come with hinges that fit in the threshold and allow the ramp to fold and over it. The ramp can be put right outside the front door to cross one or more steps. It's a great option for people with mobility issues who want to have their scooter or wheelchair on their vehicle at all times.

Materials

The selection of materials is an important choice when designing a ramp. Materials can be very different based on the style and type of the ramp. In general, wood is the most commonly used ramp material for homes since it is able to be built in a wide range of styles and enhances the aesthetic of many homes. A wooden ramp will require regular maintenance to prevent the ramp from insects and rotting. In addition, a wooden ramp is typically more expensive than concrete or aluminum ramp.

To select the appropriate ramp, it is essential to understand the unique needs of a disabled individual and the setting in which the ramp will be installed. Taking the time to answer questions like, "will it be used outdoors or indoors?" and, "how often will it be used?" will help narrow down the options and make choosing the appropriate ramp much easier.

The selection of the best ramp is based on a variety of other aspects. For example the height or how low the ramp should be. In general, ADA guidelines recommend ramps being 12" long for every inch of vertical rise. This ensures that a ramp will be safe for someone using a wheelchair or walker.

Aluminum, concrete and wooden ramps are the most popular ramps available. Modular aluminum ramps are made and are usually less expensive than a wood or concrete ramp. They may not be as long-lasting or customizable as a wood or concrete ramp.

Threshold ramps are short ramps that are placed directly on top of a raised door threshold or curbs for sidewalks. They are usually made of rubber or aluminum and provide traction when a person changes between various walking surfaces.

If you are in need of a permanent ramp you should consult with a professional handyman who can assist you in the process of installing it and help you choose the proper material for your ramp. They have the experience to design and build a ramp that is safe and complements the style of your home. They can also assist with determining whether you'll require an approval for construction or inspections for the ramp to be built properly and safely.

Installation

In order to install ramps for wheelchairs first, you need to determine where it will be put in. It doesn't have to be directly up to the front door, but it will need to be close enough for people in wheelchairs to be able to enter and exit of the home without the need to climb the stairs or steps. It's recommended to check with your municipal authority to find out what conditions may apply 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 that your ramp is safe for people who use wheelchairs. The ADA recommends ramps that have 12 inches of space for each inch of slope. This will allow the aluminium wheelchair ramps - published here - user to travel up and down the ramp without stopping or having to slow down, which could result in an accident.

Once you have determined the location where the ramp needs to be located, you'll need to decide which type of ramp will best meet your requirements. There are many types of ramps that are available including portable ramps, modular ramps and ramps made of wood or concrete.

Portable ramps are available in various lengths that can be easily moved when not in use. They can be used to cover small thresholds, or as a short sequence of steps leading to the entrance. A self-supporting aluminum ramp that is affixed to the floor or the door plate at the entrance gives the highest stability and is easy to install.

Aerolight-Up and Over Ramp Kits are available for the wider ramp that can bridge over the threshold. This ramp is designed to fit within the UPVC threshold, so it won't cause damage to it. It can also be folded when not being used. This ramp can be used conjunction with an Entry Flap accessory for a bridge to cross the threshold of the door and enter the house.

Modular ramps are available in many configurations that can be tailored to the needs of your wheelchair or home user. They are generally regarded as the most durable and long-lasting choice. They can be constructed in different materials and are complemented by railings or platforms, depending on the budget and design you prefer.

Maintenance

When you or a loved one relies on a wheelchair, scooter or walker, the smallest physical obstruction can prevent full mobility. A ramp that bridges the gap between a threshold and the entrance door can eliminate this barrier and make your home more accessible. A professional handyman can help you select the right ramp material to meet your functional needs and match your home's design.

After you've constructed a ramp, regular maintenance is vital to its longevity and security. Sweep and remove debris regularly to ensure that your ramp is free of tripping hazards. Clean the ramp's surface with mild soap and warm water, paying particular attention to areas that are prone to collecting dirt and grime. If your ramp is made of metal ensure that you clean it frequently to prevent the rust from developing.

Some ramps need to be cleaned more frequently than other ramps. Steel ramps may require regular touch-ups with paintbrushes or a steel wool. Wooden ramps require more regular maintenance. Keep an eye out for cracks, dents and rust spots that should be repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage.

If you are in a region that experiences harsh winter weather, be sure to salt your ramps as you would for a sidewalk or walkway. This will stop the accumulation of snow and ice and creating the risk of tripping. But, be careful not to over-salt your ramps as excessive salt can cause damage to the bearings and tires of wheelchairs ramps.