It's The Evolution Of Wheelchair Ramp For Front Door
Wiki Article
Installing a Wheelchair Ramp For Your Front Door
A wheelchair ramp at your front door will reduce the risk of serious injury due to falls. These ramps for outdoor use are typically built to lead up to a porch, however they can also be used to access vehicles or other destinations.
These modifications can be integrated into the home in a stylish way that preserves its resale value. Modular ramps are available in a variety of styles and are able to be customized to match your home's style.
Design Considerations
The ramp slope should be gentle, and easy to navigate for wheelchair users. The ADA recommends that ramp slopes not be steeper than 1 in 12 (for every inch of vertical rise, you require 12 inches of horizontal travel).
The landings of the ramp 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 accidentally rolling over the edge. A 58-inch wide landing, for instance, gives you plenty of space to accommodate a front entryway that can be opened to the ramp area.
If the ramp is long and doesn't offer an even landing at the bottom of the incline, consider adding a flare to the side. This reduces the chance of slipping at the end of your ramp because it is curved to the right. Handrails are another important aspect of the design of the ramp. They aren't just decorative, but they are lifelines for the people who use the ramp. ADA guidelines require handrails that are 34 to 38 inches tall and have gripping surfaces that can support the weight of a person without becoming slippery in a variety of weather conditions.
It's a good idea install handrails on both sides of the ramp, especially when there are abrupt changes in direction. These railings alert visually impaired walker and wheelchair users of the changes in the ramp's surface and give the person using the ramp something to hold onto in order to ensure safety.
Some ramps are designed to fold away when they are not in use, however these typically require a lot of space around them. Portable ramps, such as the Aerolight-Folding ramp, offer an excellent solution to this problem. They have hinges inside the threshold which allow the ramp to fold up and then over. This allows the ramp to be stored right outside the front door, allowing it to bridge a single step or multiple steps into a house. It's also a great option for people who have mobility issues who wish to keep their wheelchair or scooter in their vehicle at all times.
Materials
Material selection is a crucial choice when designing a ramp. Materials can be very different based on the style and type of the ramp. In general wood is the most commonly used ramp material used in homes due to the fact that it can be constructed in a wide range of styles and complements the design aesthetic of a lot of homes. However, a ramp made of wood requires regular maintenance to avoid the rotting process or insects from infesting. Furthermore, a wooden ramp is generally more expensive than aluminum or concrete ramp.
In order to choose the right ramp, it's important to understand the unique needs of disabled people and the setting in which the ramp will be put in. Answering questions like "will it be indoors or outdoors?" or "how often will it used?" will narrow down your choices and make it easier to select the best ramp.
The selection of the best ramp depends on a number of other aspects. For example, how high or low the ramp should be. In general, ADA guidelines recommend ramps be 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.
The most popular ramps are made of aluminum, concrete and wood. Modular aluminum ramps can be prefabricated, and are typically cheaper than wood or concrete ramps. However, they may not be as sturdy or as customizable as a wood or concrete ramp.
Threshold ramps are ramps that are placed directly over a raised door threshold or curbs on sidewalks. They are typically made of rubber or aluminum and offer traction when a person switches between different walking surfaces.
If you are in need of an all-weather ramp, it is best to seek out an experienced handyman who can assist you in the process of installing it and provide guidance on selecting the proper material for your ramp. They will be able to create ramps that are safe and complements the appearance of your home. They can also help determine if a building permit is required and if inspections are required to ensure that the ramp is constructed safely and correctly.
Installation
To install a ramp for wheelchairs first, it is necessary to decide where it should be installed. It doesn't have to be right next to the front door. However, it should be in a location that is close enough for someone in a wheel chair to enter and exit the home without having to climb the steps or up the stairs. It's website recommended to inquire with your municipality to determine what requirements may apply to the construction of ramps in your area.
The Americans with Disabilities Act sets guidelines for safe ramp slopes, and it's a good idea to adhere to these guidelines to ensure that your ramp is safe for people who use wheelchairs. Generally speaking the ADA recommends that for every inch of rise, ramps must include 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 the risk of falling.
Once you've decided the location where the ramp needs to be, you'll have to decide what type of ramp will best meet your requirements. There are a variety of ramps, including concrete or wooden ramps, modular ramps and ramps that can be transported.
Portable ramps are available in different lengths that can be easily removed when not being used. They can be used to create small thresholds or the construction of a short set of steps leading up to the front door. A self-supporting aluminum ramp that attaches to the floor of the home or to the door plate of the entrance will provide maximum stability and is easy to put in.
To build a larger ramp that bridges over the threshold an Aerolight-Up and Over ramp kit is a good choice. This ramp sits inside the UPVC threshold so that it isn't damaging it, and can be folded down when not in use. It can be used in conjunction with an Entry Flap accessory to bridge over the door threshold and into the house.
Modular ramps are available in many configurations that can be tailored to meet the needs of your home or wheelchair user. They are considered to be the most durable option. They can be constructed from different materials and are complemented by railings or platforms, depending on the budget and style you would like to have.
Maintenance
Even the tiniest physical obstacle can hinder mobility for a person who uses a wheelchair or scooter. A ramp that bridges the gap between a surface and the threshold of an entry door can remove this barrier and make your home more accessible. A professional handyman will help you select the right materials for your ramp to meet your functional requirements and complement your home's style.
After you've put up the ramp, regular maintenance is crucial to ensure its longevity and security. Clean and remove debris frequently to keep your ramp clear of hazards for tripping. Clean the ramp's surface using mild soap and warm water, paying special attention to areas that are prone to collecting dirt and grime. If the ramp is made of steel ensure that you clean it regularly in order to prevent the rust from developing.
Some ramps require more frequent cleaning than others. Steel ramps, for example might require periodic touch-ups with a paintbrush or steel wool. Wood ramps, on the contrary require more regular care. Keep an eye out for dents, cracks and rust spots that should be repaired as soon as possible in order to prevent further damage.
If you reside in a harsh winter climate you must salt your ramps just as you would a walkway or a sidewalk. This will stop the accumulation of snow and ice which could create an additional hazard for tripping. Be careful not to salt too much on your ramps, as excessive salt can damage wheelchair tires and bearings.