This Is The History Of Wheelchair Ramp
Wheelchair Ramp Design and Construction
A wheelchair ramp is a crucial tool in helping your loved ones live at home independently. If they are not designed properly, they can be dangerous to use.
ADA regulations require level landings at any changes in direction, to avoid compound slopes. They must also provide an area that is grippy for wheelchair users.
Design
The ramp's design must meet the Americans with Disabilities Act standards so that wheelchairs are able to maneuver the structure with ease. For instance, the ramp's slope cannot exceed the ratio 1:12 and must have level landings at any direction change or shift in the ramp's surface. The ramp must also be constructed of treated lumber that is more robust and can withstand precipitation much better than untreated lumber.
The ramp's top and bottom must be free of obstacles such as trees or bushes, or any other structures which could hinder the safety of the user. The surface of the ramp should be non-slip as well as hard. Some municipalities require that the entire ramp be covered with an anti-slip surface.
For the ramp frame, use treated lumber that is at least 4 inches wide. To secure the ramp, build posts that are at least 8 feet apart and extend below the ground level. Spindles are the best way to join the posts with the railings of the ramp. This kind of connection is preferred since it minimizes the risk of a ramp operator falling off the edge of the ramp.
Next, construct the frame of the ramp with beams of 2 by 4 inches in size and joists that are at minimum 16 inches long. Make sure that the joists are a minimum of 18 inches above ground level and are secured using Joist hangers which are nails that grip the inside of the joists to prevent them from slipping out of place. Attach the ramp decking with framing nails.
Add an upper landing near the doorway to allow wheelchair users to control the doorswing without difficulty. This landing should have 12 to 24 inches on the handle side of out-swinging doors. For doors with in-swing, the landing must be at least 58 by 60 inches to accommodate the door's threshold and a person using wheelchair who has to walk backwards through the doorway.
Install a level landing when you change the direction of the ramp to stop wheelchairs from having to slam their brakes into corners. A level landing is easier to remove a ramp of the way when needed, so that lawnmowers and other equipment can be able to pass underneath it.
Materials
Concrete, wood or aluminium can be used to construct a wheelchair ramp. A professional ramp installer can assist you in choosing the right option for your office or home. It is essential to take into consideration your individual needs and budget when choosing the materials for the ramp. The ramp should also be simple to maintain and safe for use. Some cities require that the ramp be laid with a non-slip surface.
Before you purchase any material or begin building, be sure that you have the required permits from your local authority and that you comply with all building codes in your area. Incorrect construction materials or techniques can create dangerous conditions for wheelchair users. You can get the most up-to-date information regarding construction requirements at your local government's building department office library or online.
Wood ramps are usually the least expensive choice of ADA ramp materials, however they require more care than other options. Wood ramps should be regularly treated with a sealer in order to prevent decay. Wood splinters can be a problem, and is particularly hazardous for wheelchair users. Wood ramps can also need additional support to maintain the structure.
Concrete electric ramps for wheelchairs are extremely durable and last for a long time however they can be costly. They are also heavy, which demands more work to construct and makes moving the ramp after it's no longer needed difficult. Concrete ramps are strong enough to support the weight of power wheelchairs.
aluminum wheel chair ramp - https://mobility-scooters-uk00987.ivasdesign.com/50802940/15-top-pinterest-boards-of-all-time-about-folding-wheelchair-ramp - ramps are lighter than steel or concrete however they offer the same strength and resistance to corrosion. They are also cheaper than steel or iron which makes them an ideal choice for those with a tight budget. Aluminum is also eco-friendly as it is naturally present in the Earth's crust and can be recycled.
The upper ramp's landing should be at a level, or within 3/8 inch of the door threshold in order to allow the front wheels of smaller wheelchairs to pass over it without getting stuck. Ramps that have a gap greater than this will not be able to meet ADA standards. Also, ensure that the ramp transitions smoothly between the upper landing and the ground surface. The final section of the ramp should be curved to prevent wheelchairs from stopping abruptly at the point of leaving or entering a home.
Installation
A ramp for wheelchairs is an inclined plane that is used in addition to or instead of stairs. It lets wheelchair ramp for suv users and those who use carts or strollers to navigate areas that are otherwise difficult to access, such as a front door or a set of steep steps.
When choosing a wheelchair car ramp accessible ramp, there are a variety of factors to consider, including the location, height, and cost. A ramp should be situated as close to the door as possible to avoid unnecessary travel. It should be set at a level that the person using it can easily navigate. It should also be fixed to the ground and clear of obstructions, such as the trees or cars parked.
ADA regulations stipulate that ramps must have handrails on either side. The rails should be at least 36" apart and have a smooth or rounded gripping surface. They should also be connected to the edge of the ramp, and extend 12 inches beyond it. Handrails should be continuous if the ramp is constructed with switchbacks, or in an L-shaped layout.
The length of a ramp depends on the incline, however there are a few standard ramp types that can be used in all situations. For instance, a threshold ramp sits right on the edge of a curb, or the threshold of a doorway while ramps that are portable can be moved from one place to another and come in a variety of sizes. Modular aluminum ramps can be built on-site. These ramps are usually used in commercial or public areas, and tend to be longer.
If you're thinking of a permanent ramp, be sure you check with your city's building department to see if you need an approval. It is also advisable to speak with a mobility specialist about the type of ramp that is best for your space and needs. In some instances, installing permanent ramps can improve the value of your home.
Maintenance
It's important to make sure your wheelchair ramp is well maintained, especially if you will be using it often. You'll need to conduct regular inspections, and fix any structural problems as they arise. This will help ensure that the ramp complies with all ADA requirements and is safe for all users.
Regular cleaning of wooden ramps is essential to remove debris and dirt that could hinder access. Cleanliness of the ramp will also stop moisture from trapping under the surface and creating decay. The wood preservatives or stains will only work when the ramp has been thoroughly cleaned prior to application.
Wheelchair ramps are more challenging to maintain than other types of ramps, since they are more prone to wear and tear. The most important thing is to ensure that you have the appropriate tools for the job. A good set of gauge spanners and screwdrivers will be essential for making sure all fixings are secure and secure. Also, you should regularly check the handrails for signs corrosion or damage. With time and repeated usage, it's possible for some of the bolts or fittings on the handrails to come loose. This could pose an unsafe situation for anyone who uses the ramp.
It is also important to ensure that the surface of the ramp is sufficiently grippy, especially in winter when conditions can be challenging. You will need to sweep up any dirt, leaves or other debris that could obstruct and cause slippage. In addition, you'll want to apply a non-corrosive ice melt to the ramp's surface prior to winter arrives to avoid slips and causing injury.
You should consider purchasing "snow tires" or traction wheels for your wheelchair if you intend to use it during the winter. These wheels are made to track better on slippery and snowy surfaces. They can help you stay on your ramp for longer than regular wheelchair tires. You can also use heating tape or pads to melt the snow and ice on the ramp prior to it builds up.
