Installing a Wheelchair Ramp For Your Front Door
A ramp for wheelchairs at your front door will reduce the risk of serious injury caused by falls. The ramps are usually constructed for use as a walkway to an outdoor porch. However they can also be used to access vehicles and other locations.
These modifications can be integrated into the home in a chic way to maintain its resale price. Modular ramps are flexible in design and can be incorporated into your specific home design.
wheelchair ramps for home should be gentle and easy to navigate for wheelchair users. The ADA recommends ramp slopes should not be more than 1 in 12 (for every inch of vertical rise, you need 12 inches of horizontal travel).
The landings on the ramps must be wide enough to allow doors to open and swing around. They should be placed at an appropriate distance from the edge of a ramp to stop chair tires from accidentally rolling over the edge. For instance, a 58 inch wide landing will allow plenty of space to accommodate a front door that opens into the ramp area.
You may want to consider adding a flare to the side when the ramp is lengthy and there isn't a level landing point at the end. This reduces the chance of tripping at the end of your ramp as it is curved towards the back. Handrails are a crucial aspect of the design of the ramp. These are not just ornamental features, they are lifelines for ramp occupants. ADA regulations require handrails that are at least 34-38 inches tall with gripping surfaces that can hold a person's body weight regardless of the weather.
It's a good idea to install handrails on both sides of the ramp, especially when there are abrupt changes in direction. These railings inform 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 can be folded away to save space when they are not in use. However, they usually require a significant amount of space. Portable ramps like the Aerolight-Folding Ramp offer a solution to this issue. They have hinges inside the threshold which allow the ramp to be folded up and over. The ramp can be positioned in front of the front door and used to bridge a single or multiple steps. It's a great choice for people with mobility issues and want to keep their wheelchair or scooter on them at all times.
Materials
When building a ramp, the material used is among the most important decisions to be taken. Depending on the type of ramp and style, the materials may differ considerably. In general wood is the most commonly used ramp material for homes because it is able to be built in a variety of styles and complements the design of many homes. A wooden ramp will require regular maintenance to avoid rotting and insect infestation. Additionally, a wooden ramp is usually more expensive than an concrete or aluminum ramp.
To choose the best ramp, it is essential to understand the unique needs of a disabled individual and the location in which the ramp will be installed. Answering questions such as "will it be indoors or outdoors?" or "how often will it be used?" will narrow down your options and make it easier to pick the right ramp.
The choice of the right ramp is contingent on a number of other elements. 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 ensures that a ramp is safe for people who use wheelchairs or walker.
The most popular ramps are concrete, aluminum, and wood. Modular aluminum ramps are prefabricated and are usually less expensive than a wood or concrete ramp. However, they may not be as robust or as customizable as a wood or concrete ramp.
Threshold Ramps are short ramps that are placed directly above the threshold or curb on the sidewalk. They are typically constructed of aluminum or rubber and provide traction when a person changes between various walking surfaces.
If you require an all-weather ramp, it is best to talk to an experienced handyman. They can help with the installation and give advice on the right material for your ramp. They'll have the knowledge to design and build a ramp that is safe and complements the style of your home. They can also assist in determining if you will need a building permit and inspections for the ramp to be built properly and safely.
Installation
To install a wheelchair ramp first, you need to decide where it will be placed. It doesn't need to be right up at the front door. However, it should be near enough to allow someone in a wheelchair to access and leave the home without climbing steps or stairs. You should also check with your local municipality to find out what requirements might apply to the construction and installation of ramps.
The Americans with Disabilities Act sets guidelines for safe ramp slopes, and it's recommended to follow 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 contain 12 inches of length. This will enable the wheelchair user to travel up and down the ramp without stopping or having to slow down, which can cause an accident.
Once you've determined the location where the ramp needs to be located, you'll need to decide which type of ramp will best meet your needs. There are several types of ramps to choose from including portable ramps, modular ramps, ramps made of wood or concrete.
Portable ramps are available in different lengths and can easily be removed when not being used. They can be used for small thresholds or the construction of a short set of steps that lead to the front door. An aluminium self-supporting ramp that is attached to the floor of the house or the door plate of the entrance will offer the highest stability and is simple to set up.
Aerolight-Up and Over Ramp Kits are available for an extended ramp that can be able to bridge over the threshold. The ramp is designed to fit inside the UPVC threshold, so it won't damage it. It can also be folded away when not in use. This ramp can be used combination with an Entry Flap accessory for a bridge that can over the threshold of the door to be able to enter the home.
Modular ramps are available in many configurations that can be tailored to meet the requirements of your home or wheelchair user. They are thought to be the most durable choice. They can be constructed in a variety materials and with platforms or railings, depending on the design and budget you would like to have.
Maintenance
Even the tiniest physical obstacle could limit mobility for someone who uses a wheelchair or scooter. A ramp that bridges the gap between a surface threshold and the entry door can eliminate the barrier, making your home more accessible. A professional handyman will assist you choose the best materials for your ramp that will fulfill your functional needs and match your home's aesthetics.
Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and safety of your ramp. Clean up and remove debris frequently to ensure that your ramp is free of hazards that could cause tripping. Use a mild soap and water to clean the ramp's surface, paying special attention to areas where dirt and grime accumulate. If your ramp is made of metal, make sure to clean it frequently to prevent rust.
Some ramps need to be cleaned more often than others. Steel ramps, for example might require regular touch-ups with a paintbrush or steel wool. Wooden ramps require more frequent maintenance. Be on the lookout for cracks, dents and rust spots that should be repaired as quickly as possible to prevent further damage.
If you reside in an area with a harsh winter climate it is recommended to salt your ramps just as you would a sidewalk or walkway. This will prevent accumulation of snow and ice, which could create an additional tripping hazard. Don't over-salt the ramps as this could damage the tires of wheelchairs and bearings.