15 Presents For Those Who Are The Wheelchair Ramp Lover In Your Life

folding wheelchair ramps Ramp Design and Construction

A ramp for wheelchairs is an important device to help your loved ones live more independently at home. If they are not designed properly they can be dangerous to use.

ADA regulations require level landings at all changes in direction to avoid compound slopes. They also must provide a gripping surface for wheelchair users.

Design

The ramp's design must be in line with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards to ensure that wheelchairs can easily navigate the structure. The wheel chair ramp van slope can't exceed a 1:12 ratio and the landings must be level in any change of direction or shift on the ramp surface. It should also be constructed from treated lumber, which is more durable than untreated lumber and can weather precipitation better.

The ramp's bottom and top should be free of obstacles like trees or bushes, or any other structures which could interfere with the safety of the user. The ramp's surface must be non-slip and hard. Certain municipalities require the use of an anti-slip running surface on the entire length of the ramp.

For the frame of the ramp, use treated lumber that is at least 4 inches wide. To make sure the ramp is secure, build posts that are at least 8 feet apart and extend below ground level. The posts should then connect with the ramp's railings by using spindles. This type of connection is preferred since it minimizes the risk of an operator of the ramp falling off the side of the ramp.

Next, build the ramp's frame using Joists that are at minimum 16 inches long and beams of 2 by 4 inches. The joists must be at minimum 18 inches above the ground and secured using hangings for joists, which are nails that fit inside the joists to prevent them from sliding. Attach the ramp decking using a framing nailer.

Add an upper landing to the doorway so that the wheelchair-bound occupants are able to easily maneuver the doorswing. The landing should be 12 to 24 inches on the handle side of out-swinging doors. For in-swing doors, the landing must be at least 58 inches by 60 inches to allow for the threshold and a person in wheelchair who must walk backwards through the doorway.

Install a level landing when changing the direction of the ramp to prevent wheelchairs from having their brakes into corners. Adding a level landing also makes it easier to move the ramp out of the way when needed, so that lawnmowers or other equipment can slide under it.

Materials

The material used to construct a minivan wheelchair ramp ramp can be made of wood, concrete or aluminum. A professional ramp installer will help you select the most suitable option for your home or office. When choosing the material to use for the ramp, it is crucial to consider your budget and the specific requirements. The ramp must also be easy to maintain and safe to use. Certain cities require the ramp to be laid out with a non-slip, non-slip surface.

Be sure to check with your local government for permits prior to building or purchasing materials. Also, be sure to follow all local building codes. Incorrect construction materials or techniques can create dangerous conditions for wheelchair-users. You can find the most up-to-date information regarding construction requirements at your local government's building department office, library or online.

Wood removable ramps for Wheelchairs are often the most affordable of ADA ramp materials, however they require more maintenance than other alternatives. Wood ramps need to be treated regularly with a sealer in order to stop decay. Wood can split and be dangerous for people using wheelchairs. Wood ramps also require additional support to ensure the structure is maintained.

Concrete ramps can be expensive but they are also durable and long-lasting. They are heavy, which means more work is required to construct ramps and may make it difficult to move the ramp after it is it is no longer required. Concrete ramps are sturdy enough to support the weight of power wheelchairs.

Aluminum ramps are less heavy and more affordable than concrete or steel. They also have the same strength, durability and corrosion resistance. They are also more affordable than steel and iron, making them an excellent option for people on budgets. Aluminum is also environmentally friendly as it is found naturally in the Earth's crust and can be recycled.

The ramp's upper landing must be at a level level, or within 3/8 inches of the threshold of the door, allowing wheelchairs with smaller wheels to pass over the ramp without becoming stuck. Ramps with a gap greater than this do not comply with ADA standards. Also, ensure that the ramp transitions smoothly between the upper landing and the ground. The ramp's last section should have a beveled edge to prevent wheelchairs from stopping abruptly when they leave or enter a house.

Installation

A wheelchair ramp is an inclined plane that is erected on top of or in place of stairs. It allows wheelchair users and people who use carts or strollers to access areas that are otherwise difficult to access like an entranceway or a set up of steep steps.

When selecting a wheelchair access ramp, there are many factors to consider, such as the location, height, and cost. The ramp should be located as close as possible to the door to prevent unnecessary traveling. It should be located at a height that the person using it can easily walk on it. It should be securely fixed to the floor and clear of obstructions like car parks, shrubs or other obstacles.

ADA regulations require ramps to have handrails either side. The rails must be at least 36" apart and have smooth or rounded gripping surface. Additionally, they should be affixed to the ramp and extend at least 12 inches over the ramp edge. If the ramp has switchbacks or an L-shaped layout, handrails must be continuous between the ramp runs.

The length of a ramp is contingent on the incline, however there are a few basic ramp types that can be used in all situations. A threshold ramp, for example is a ramp that is flush with the curb's lip or threshold of the doorway. Portable ramps are however they can be moved to another location and come in different sizes. There are also aluminum ramps that are modular that can be built on site. These ramps are typically used in commercial or public areas and are typically longer.

If you're considering an all-weather ramp, be sure you contact the building department of your city to determine if you require an approval. It is recommended to consult an expert in mobility to determine what kind of ramp will best fit your requirements and the space you have. In some instances, installing an ongoing ramp could increase the value of your home.

Maintenance

It's important to make sure your ramp for wheelchairs is maintained, particularly if you are going to use it frequently. You'll need to perform regular inspections and repair any structural issues that develop. This will ensure that the ramp complies all ADA requirements, and is safe for all users.

Wooden ramps require frequent cleaning to remove dirt and debris that may block access. Keep the ramp spotless to stop moisture from building up under the surface. This could cause decay. Wood preservatives and stains only work if the ramp is completely clean prior to application.

Wheelchair ramps are more difficult to maintain than other ramps due to the fact that they are more susceptible to wear and tear. It is essential to have the right tools. A set of gauge spanners and screwdrivers are essential for making sure all fixings are tight and secure. You should also regularly inspect the handrails for signs corrosion or damage. It's possible that over time, as they are used repeatedly, some of the fittings and bolts which hold the handrails in place may come loose and cause an extremely dangerous risk for people who use the ramp.

It is also essential to ensure that the surface of the ramp is grippy enough especially in winter, when the conditions are challenging. You'll need to clean away any dirt, leaves and other debris that could block the surface and cause slippage. You'll also want to apply an ice melt that is non-corrosive on the ramp surface to prevent slips and injuries.

Think about purchasing "snow tires" or traction wheels for your wheelchair if plan to use it throughout the winter. These are specifically designed to offer better tracking on uneven surfaces and snow and are therefore more effective than standard wheelchair tires at aiding you to stay on the ramp. You can also utilize heating pads or tape to melt snow and ice on the ramp prior to it builds up.