Installing a Wheelchair Ramp For Your Front Door

A ramp for wheelchairs at your front door helps reduce the risks of an injury that is serious from falls. The ramps are usually constructed to lead to an outdoor porch. However they can also be used to reach vehicles or other places.

These modifications can be incorporated into the home in a stylish way that preserves its resale value. Modular ramps are available in various styles and are able to be customized to fit your home design.

Design Considerations

The slope of the ramp should be gentle, and easy to navigate for wheelchair users. The ADA recommends ramp slopes should not be steeper than one in 12. (For every inch of vertical rise you have to traverse 12 inches horizontally).

The ramp's landings should be wide enough for a door to open and swing freely. They should be placed at a safe distance away from the edge of the ramp to prevent chair tires from rolling over the edge. A 58-inch wide landing for example, will give ample space to accommodate a front entryway that is open to the ramp area.

You may want to consider adding a flare to the side when the ramp is lengthy, and there is no level to land at the end. This decreases the chance of slipping when it curves inward at the end of the ramp. Handrails are a crucial aspect of the design of the ramp. They're not just decorative flimsy additions, they're lifelines for ramp occupants. ADA regulations require handrails that are 34 to 38 inches tall and have gripping surfaces that can support a person's weight without becoming slippery in wet weather conditions.

Installing handrails both on the right and left sides of the ramp is a good idea, especially if there are any shifts in direction. These railings inform visually impaired wheelchair and walker users of the different characteristics of the ramp's material and provide them with something to hold on to for safety.

Some ramps are built to fold out of the way when not in use, but these typically require lots of space around them. Portable ramps, such as the Aerolight-folding wheel chair ramp ramp, are the perfect solution to this issue. They have hinges inside the threshold which allow the ramp to fold up and then over. The ramp can be put right outside the front door and used to bridge the gap between a single or a number of steps. It's a great choice for people with mobility issues and want to have their scooter or wheelchair with their vehicle at all times.

Materials

Material selection is a crucial decision when building a ramp. Materials can be very different based on the style and type of the ramp. In general, wood is the most common ramp material for homes since it is able to be built in a variety of styles and enhances the aesthetic of many homes. However, a wooden ramp requires regular maintenance to avoid rotting or insect infestation. A wooden ramp can be more expensive than a aluminum or concrete ramp.

To choose the appropriate ramp, it is essential to understand the specific needs of disabled people and the setting in which the ramp will be installed. Making sure to answer questions like, "will it be used indoors or outdoors?" and, "how often will it be used?" will help narrow down the choices and make the selection of the best ramp much easier.

The selection of the best ramp is based on a variety of other elements. For example, how high or low the ramp should be. ADA guidelines recommend ramps of 12" long per inch of vertical rise. This will ensure that a ramp is safe for someone who is using a scooter, wheelchair or walker.

Concrete, aluminum and wooden ramps are the most popular options. Modular aluminum ramps are manufactured and are generally cheaper than concrete or wood ramps. They may not be as durable or customizable as a wood or concrete ramp.

Threshold ramps are short ramps that sit directly over a raised door threshold or curbs on sidewalks. They are typically made from rubber or aluminum, and offer traction when people change levels between the walking surfaces.

If you require a permanent ramp it is best to talk to a professional handyman. They can help in the installation process and offer advice on the right material for your ramp. They will be able to design and construct foldable ramps for wheelchairs that are secure and matches the style of your home. They can also assist you in determining whether you'll require a building permit and inspections to ensure the ramp will be built properly and safely.

Installation

In order to put up a wheelchair ramp first, it is necessary to decide where it should be installed. It doesn't need to be right next to the front door. But it should be in a location that is close enough for a person in a wheel chair to get into and out of the house without climbing steps or stairs. It is also advisable to check with your local municipality to determine the requirements that might be applicable to the construction and installation of a ramp.

The Americans with Disabilities Act sets standards for safe slopes on ramps, and it is recommended to adhere to these guidelines to ensure your ramp is safe for those using wheelchairs. In general, the ADA recommends that for every inch of rise, ramps must include 12 inches of length. This will allow the wheelchair user to go up and down a ramp without having to stop or slow down, which could cause an accident.

After determining where the ramp will be located, you'll need to decide which type of ramp is the best one for your requirements. There are many types of ramps that are available, including portable ones, modular ramps, ramps made of concrete or wood.

Portable ramps are available in a variety of lengths that can be easily moved when not in use. They can be used to create small thresholds, or as an escalator that lead to the front door. A self-supporting aluminum ramp that is affixed to the floor or the door plate at the entrance gives the highest stability and a simple installation.

Aerolight-Up and Over Ramp Kits can be purchased for a wider ramp which can cross the threshold. This ramp is designed to fit within the UPVC threshold, which means it won't cause damage to it. It can also be folded when not being used. It can be paired with an Entry Flap accessory to bridge over the door threshold and into the house.

Modular mobile ramps For wheelchairs can be built in various configurations to match the specific requirements of your home and your wheelchair user. They are thought to be the most durable choice. They have railings and platforms and are constructed from different materials dependent on your budget and style preferences.

Maintenance

If you or someone you love is dependent on the use of a 3 ft wheelchair ramp, scooter, or walker, the smallest physical barrier can prevent full mobility. A ramp that bridges the gap between a surface and the threshold for entry doors can eliminate this barrier and make your home accessible. A professional handyman will assist you select the right materials for your ramp that will meet your functional requirements and also match the aesthetics of your home.

After you've constructed the ramp, regular maintenance is vital to its durability and safety. Sweep and remove debris regularly to ensure that your ramp is free of tripping hazards. Use a mild soap and water to wash the ramp's surface, paying special attention to areas where dirt and grime accumulate. If your ramp is metal, make sure to clean it regularly in order to avoid the rust from developing.

Certain ramps require more frequent cleaning than others. steel wheelchair ramps ramps may require regular cleaning with a steel wool or paintbrush. Wood ramps, on other hand require more frequent maintenance. Check for cracks, dents and rust spots. They should be fixed immediately to prevent further damage.

If you live in an area with a harsh winter climate you must salt your ramps the same way you would a walkway or a sidewalk. This will stop accumulation of snow and ice, which can cause an additional hazard for tripping. Be careful not to salt too much on your collapsible ramps for wheelchairs, because too much salt could harm the wheels and bearings of wheelchairs.