Installing a Wheelchair Ramp For Your Front Door

A ramp for wheelchairs at your front door helps reduce the risk of suffering an injury that is serious from falls. The ramps are usually constructed for use as a walkway to the porch. However, they can be used to access vehicles or other places.

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

Design Considerations

The ramp slope should be gentle and easy to move for wheelchair users. The ADA recommends that ramp slopes shouldn't be steeper than one in 12. (For every inch of vertical rise you have to travel 12 inches horizontally).

The landings of the ramp should be large enough for a door to open and swing freely. They should be at a safe distance away from the edge of a ramp to stop chair tires from rolling over the edge. For example, a 58-inch wide landing can give plenty of room to accommodate the front door which is able to open into the ramp.

Consider adding a side flare in the event that the ramp is long, and there is no level landing at the end. This decreases the chance of slipping when it curves inward at the end of the ramp. Handrails are an additional aspect of ramp design. They aren't just decorative but are also lifelines for the ramp occupants. ADA regulations require handrails that measure 34 to 38 inches high and have gripping surfaces that are able to hold a person's weight without becoming slippery in wet weather conditions.

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

Some ramps are built 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 fantastic solution to this issue. They feature hinges within the threshold that allow the ramp to fold up and over. The ramp can be put right outside the front door and used to bridge a single or multiple steps. It's also a great choice for people who have mobility issues and want to keep their scooter or wheelchair with them at all times.

Materials

When constructing a ramp the material used is among the most important decisions to be taken. Based on the type of ramp and the style, the materials may differ dramatically. 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. A wooden ramp will require regular maintenance to prevent rotting and insect infestation. A wooden ramp can be more expensive than aluminum or concrete ramp.

In order to choose the appropriate ramp, it is important to understand the specific needs of disabled people and the setting in which the ramp will be put in. Answering questions like "will it be outdoors or indoors?" or "how often will it used?" will narrow down your options and make it easier to select the best ramp.

The choice of the right ramp is based on a variety of other aspects. For example, how high or low the ramp is recommended to be. ADA guidelines recommend ramps that are 12" long for every inch of vertical rise. This will ensure that the ramp is safe for someone who uses a wheelchair, scooter or walker.

Concrete, aluminum, and wooden ramps are the most popular options. Modular aluminum ramps are manufactured and generally less expensive than a wood or concrete ramp. However, they may not be as robust or as customizable as a concrete or wood ramp for van wheelchair (click homepage).

Threshold ramps are ramps that are placed directly on top of the threshold of a door or sidewalk curb. They are typically made of rubber or aluminum, and offer traction when a person changes levels 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 mobile ramp for wheelchair. They'll have the knowledge to design and build an accessible ramp that is safe and complements the style of your home. They can also help you determine if a building permit is required and if inspections are required to ensure that the ramp is built properly and safely.

Installation

The first step of constructing a ramp for wheelchairs is determining where it should be placed. It doesn't have to be located right at the front door. But it should be close enough for a person using a wheelchair to access and leave the home without climbing the steps or up the stairs. It is also advisable to check with your local municipality to determine what regulations might apply to the construction and installation of ramps.

The Americans with Disabilities Act sets guidelines for safe ramp slopes, and it is best to follow these guidelines to ensure that your ramp is safe for those using wheelchairs. The ADA recommends ramps that have 12 inches of space per inch of slope. This will enable the wheelchair user to move through the ramp without having to stop or slow down, which could cause the risk of falling.

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

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 up to the entrance. A self-supporting aluminum ramp that is affixed to the floor or to the door plate at the entry point gives the highest stability and a simple installation.

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 isn't damaging it, and can be folded away when not in use. This ramp can be used in conjunction with an Entry Flap accessory for a bridge to traverse the threshold of the door to enter the house.

Modular ramps can be constructed in various configurations to match the specific needs of your home and your wheelchair user. They are thought to be the most durable choice. They have railings and platforms and can be built in different materials according to your budget and style preferences.

Maintenance

Even the tiniest physical obstruction could limit mobility for someone who uses the use of a scooter or wheelchair. A ramp that bridges the gap between a surface and an entry door threshold can eliminate this obstacle and make your home more accessible. A professional handyman will help you choose the best ramp materials to meet your functional needs and fit well with your home's design.

Regular maintenance is crucial to the safety and longevity of your ramp. Make sure to sweep and remove debris regularly to keep your ramp clear of tripping hazards. Use a mild soap and water to clean the ramp's surface. Pay particular attention to areas where dirt and grime accumulate. If your ramp is constructed of metal, make sure to clean it regularly to prevent rust deposits.

Some ramps require more frequent cleaning than others. Steel ramps may require periodic cleaning with paintbrushes or a steel wool. Wooden ramps require more regular maintenance. Be alert for cracks, dents and rust spots, which must be fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

If you live in a harsh winter climate you must salt your ramps just as you would a walkway or sidewalk. This will help prevent accumulation of snow and ice, which can cause a tripping risk. Be careful not to salt too much on your ramps as excessive salt can harm the wheels and bearings of wheelchairs.