Installing a Wheelchair Ramp For Your Front Door
A wheelchair ramp for your front door helps reduce the risk of suffering a serious injury from falls. These outdoor ramps are usually designed to connect to a porch, although they can be used to access vehicles or other destinations.
If these changes are elegantly integrated into the home, they are able to help preserve the value of resales. Modular ramps are available in various styles and are able to be customized to suit your home's design.
Design Considerations
The slope of the ramp should be gentle and easy for wheelchair users to navigate. The ADA recommends that ramp slopes shouldn't be more than one in 12. (For every inch of vertical rise, you need to travel 12 inches horizontally).
The landings of the ramp should be large enough for doors to swing and open freely. They must also be a safe distance from the edge of the ramp to ensure that the tires of chairs don't accidentally roll over the ramp edge. For example, a 58-inch wide landing can allow plenty of space to accommodate the front door which can be opened into the ramp area.
If the ramp is long and doesn't have a level landing at the end of the incline, think about adding a side flare. 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. These are not just decorative flimsy additions, they're lifelines for ramp occupants. ADA regulations require handrails to be at least 34-38 inches tall and have gripping surfaces capable of holding the weight of a person's body in any weather condition.
It's a good idea install handrails on both sides of the ramp, especially when there are abrupt changes in direction. These railings will alert visually impaired walkers and wheelchair users to changes in the ramp's surface, and they also give the occupant something to hold onto in order to ensure safety.
Some ramps are designed to fold out of the way when not in use, but they typically require a lot of space around them. Portable ramps, such as the Aerolight-Folding ramp, offer an excellent solution to this problem. They feature hinges that are in the threshold and allow the ramp to fold down and over it. This lets the ramp be stored right outside the front door, allowing it to be used to bridge one or more steps into a home. It's a great choice for people with mobility issues and want to keep their scooter or wheelchair with their vehicle at all times.
Materials
The selection of materials is an important decision when building a ramp. Depending on the type of ramp and the design, materials can vary significantly. Wood is the most well-known ramp material because it can be built in various styles and complements many homes. A wooden ramp requires regular maintenance to prevent the ramp from insects and rotting. Furthermore, a wooden ramp is typically more expensive than an concrete or aluminum ramp.
In order to choose the right ramp, it is essential to understand the specific needs of disabled individuals and the setting in which the ramp will be installed. Answering questions such as "will it be indoors or outdoors?" or "how often will it used?" will narrow down your options and make it easier to select the best ramp.
Selecting the best ramp for a doorway also depends on other aspects including the length of the ramp will need to be. In general, ADA guidelines recommend ramps be 12" long for every inch of vertical rise. This helps to ensure that the ramp is safe for a person who is using a scooter, wheelchair or walker.
Concrete, aluminum and wooden ramps are among the most popular options. Modular aluminum ramps are prefabricated, and are typically cheaper than concrete or wood ramps. They might not be as durable or customizable as a wood or concrete ramp.
Threshold Ramps are short ramps which sit directly above a raised threshold or curb on the sidewalk. They are usually made of aluminum or rubber and offer traction when a person switches between different walking surfaces.
If you require a ramp that is permanent it is recommended to seek out an expert handyman who will assist with the installation process and help you choose the right material for your ramp. They'll have the knowledge to design and construct an accessible ramp that is safe and complements the style of your home. They can also assist you in determining if you will need permits for building and inspections to ensure the ramp will be built properly and safely.
Installation
To install ramps for wheelchairs first, it is necessary to decide where it will be placed. It doesn't need to be located right at the front door. However, it should be close enough for someone in a wheel chair to enter and exit the home without climbing steps or climb stairs. You should also consult your local municipality to find out what requirements might apply to the construction and installation of ramps.
The Americans with Disabilities Act sets standards for safe ramp slopes and it is a good idea 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 per inch of slope. This will enable the wheelchair user to go up and down a ramp without having to stop or slow down, which could cause a fall.
Once you've decided the location where the ramp needs to be, you'll have to determine what kind of ramp is best suited to your requirements. There are a variety of ramps, such as concrete or wooden ramps, modular ramps and portable ramps.
Portable ramps are available in different lengths that can be easily removed when not in use. They can be used to create small thresholds or for the construction of a short set of steps leading up to the front door. A self-supporting aluminum ramp that attaches to the flooring of the home or the door plate of the entrance provides maximum stability and is easy to set up.
Aerolight-Up and Over Ramp Kits can be purchased for a wider ramp which can cross the threshold. The ramp is designed to fit within the UPVC threshold, so it won't damage it. It can be folded when not being used. It can be paired with an Entry Flap accessory to bridge over the threshold of the door and into the home.
Modular ramps are available in many designs that can be adapted to meet the needs of your home or wheelchair user. They are regarded as the most durable choice. They feature platforms and railings and are constructed from different materials depending on your budget and design preferences.
Maintenance
If you or a loved one is dependent on a wheelchair, scooter or walker, even the smallest physical barrier can hinder mobility. A ramp that bridges the gap between a surface and the threshold for entry doors can remove this barrier and make your home more accessible. A professional handyman can assist you to select the best materials for your ramp to meet your needs and complement your home's aesthetics.
After you've constructed a ramp, regular maintenance is essential to its durability and safety. Make sure to sweep and remove debris regularly to keep your ramp free of hazards for tripping. Use a mild soap and water to wash the ramp's surface. Pay particular attention to areas where dirt and grime accumulate. If your ramp is made of metal, be sure to keep it clean to prevent rust deposits.
Certain ramps require more frequent cleaning than others. Steel ramps may require periodic touches-ups using paintbrushes or steel wool. Wood ramps, on the other hand require more regular care. Watch for rubber wheelchair ramps threshold ramps , dents and spots of rust. They should be fixed immediately to prevent further damage.
If you are in a region that experiences severe winter weather, make sure to salt your ramps as you would a walkway or sidewalk. This will stop accumulation of snow and ice and creating an increase in the risk of tripping. But, be careful not to over-salt your ramps, as too much salt can also cause damage to the bearings and tires of wheelchairs.