What Freud Can Teach Us About Wheelchair Ramp
Wheelchair Ramp Design and Construction
A ramp for wheelchairs is a crucial tool in helping your loved ones live at home independently. If they are not designed properly they could be dangerous to use.
ADA regulations require landings to be level at every shift in direction to avoid compound slopes. They must also have a surface that is gripping for wheelchair users.
Design
The ramp's design should be in line with the Americans with Disabilities Act standards to allow wheelchairs to maneuver the structure with ease. For instance, the ramp's slope should not exceed a ratio of 1:12 and must have level landings at any change in direction or change in the ramp's surface. The ramp must also be constructed from treated lumber which is more durable and withstands rain better than untreated lumber.
The ramp's top and bottom must be free of obstacles, such as trees or bushes, as well as other structures which could hinder the user's safe passage. The ramp's surface should also be non-slip and hard. Some municipalities require that the entire ramp be covered with an anti-slip surface.
For the frame of the ramp Choose treated lumber that is at least 4 inches wide. Create posts to anchor the ramp, ensuring that they are at least eight feet apart and that they extend below the ground level. Spindles are the best way to connect the posts with the ramp's railings. This type of connection is preferred because it minimizes the risk of the ramp operator falling off the side of the ramp.
Next, build the ramp's frame using joists that are at most 16 inches long and 2 by 4 inch beams. The joists should be at least 18 inches above ground and secured by joist hangings, which are nails that grip within the joists, preventing them from sliding. Attach the ramp decking with a framing nailer.
Include an upper landing in the doorway to ensure wheelchair occupants can easily manage the doorswing. This landing should be large enough to give at least 12-24 inches of "elbow room" on the handle side for out-swing doors. The landing for doors with in-swinging should be 58 x 60 inches in order to accommodate the threshold of the door as well as a wheelchair Threshold ramp for sliding glass door user who needs to walk backwards in the doorway.
Install a level landing when changing the direction of the ramp, to avoid wheelchairs from having to slam their brakes at corners. A level landing allows you to move the ramp out of the way if necessary so that lawnmowers and other equipment can slide under it.
Materials
The material used to build the ramp for wheelchairs can be either concrete, wood or aluminum. A professional ramp installer will help you choose the best option for your office or home. It is important to consider your specific needs and budget when selecting the materials for the ramp. The ramp should be simple to maintain and should be safe to use. Certain cities require that the ramp be laid with an anti-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. Utilizing the incorrect materials or construction techniques can lead to dangerous conditions for wheelchair ramp for van users. You can find the most current construction regulations in your local government building department library, or on the internet.
Wood ramps can be the least expensive option for ADA ramp materials. However they require more care. The surface of wood ramps need to be regularly treated with a sealer to avoid warping and rot. Wood can split, which is particularly hazardous for wheelchair users. Wood ramps can also require additional support to keep the structure upright and stable.
Concrete minivan ramps for wheelchairs are extremely durable and long-lasting, but they can be costly. They are heavy, which means more work is required to construct them, and they can make it difficult to move the ramp once they are no longer needed. Concrete ramps are strong enough to withstand the weight of power wheelchairs.
Aluminum ramps are less heavy and less expensive than steel or concrete. They also have the same durability, strength and resistance to corrosion. They are also more affordable than iron and steel, making them an excellent option for people on an extremely tight budget. Aluminum is environmentally friendly because it is a part of the earth's crust naturally and is recyclable.
The ramp's upper landing needs to be level, or within 3/8 inches of the threshold of the door, allowing wheelchairs with smaller wheels to move over the ramp without getting stuck. Ramps that have gaps greater than this won't meet ADA standards. It is also important to ensure that the ramp transitions smoothly between the landing area and the ground surface. The final section of the ramp should have beveled transitions to avoid an abrupt stop for wheelchairs when they exit or enter a dwelling.
Installation
A ramp for wheelchairs is a plane inclined ramp that can be used as an alternative to or in addition to stairs. It lets wheelchair users and those who use strollers or carts to access areas that would otherwise be difficult to access like a front door or a set up of steep steps.
When choosing a wheelchair accessible ramp, there are a variety of factors to consider, such as the location, height, and cost. A ramp should be situated near the door as possible to prevent unnecessary journeys. It should also be positioned at a level that is easily accessed by the person who is using it. It should be firmly anchored to the floor and clear of any obstructions such as trees, cars parked or other obstacles.
ADA regulations require that ramps are equipped with handrails either side. The rails must be at least 36 inches apart, and have the gripping surface rounded or smooth. They should also be connected to the edge of the ramp and extend 12 inches over it. If the ramp has switchesbacks or an L-shaped layout handrails must be continuous between the ramp's runs.
The length of the ramp is determined by its incline. However, there are some standard ramp types which are suitable for all situations. A threshold ramp, for instance is a ramp that is flush with the curb's lip or threshold of the doorway. Portable ramps are, on the other hand they can be moved to a new place and come in a variety of sizes. Modular aluminum ramps may also be built on-site. These are usually used for public or commercial areas and are typically longer than the threshold and portable ramps.
If you're considering a permanent ramp, make sure to check with the building department of your city to determine if you'll need an approval. You should also speak to an expert in mobility about the kind of ramp that works best for your space and needs. In some cases installing permanent ramps could increase the value of your home.
Maintenance
It is important to keep your ramp for wheelchairs in good condition, especially if it will be used frequently. You'll need to conduct regular inspections and fix any structural issues when they arise. This will ensure that the ramp complies all ADA requirements, and is safe for the users.
Wooden ramps require regular maintenance to remove dirt and debris that could block access. Keep the ramp spotless to stop moisture from building up under the surface. This can cause the onset of rot. Wood preservatives and stains only work only if the ramp is cleaned prior to applying.
Wheelchair ramps can be more challenging to maintain than other kinds of ramps because they are more susceptible to wear and wear and tear. It is important to have the proper tools. A good set of gauge spanners and screwdrivers is vital to ensure that all fixings are tight and secure. Also, you should regularly check the handrails for signs damage or corrosion. It's possible that over time, as they are used repeatedly, some of the fittings and bolts that hold the handrails on may loosen, which can be a major safety concern for those who use the ramp.
Another important aspect is to ensure the ramp's surface is grippy, especially in winter, when conditions can be difficult. You'll need to sweep up any dirt, leaves or other debris that could obstruct and cause slippage. Additionally, you'll need to apply an ice melt that is not corrosive to the ramp surface before winter arrives to avoid slips and injury.
You should consider buying "snow tires" or traction wheels for your wheelchair if plan to use it throughout the winter. They're specially designed to provide better tracking on snow and uneven surfaces, so they'll be more efficient than standard drive medical wheelchair ramp tires at keeping you on the ramp. Alternatively, you can place heating pads or tape on the ramp surface to help melt ice and snow before it gets accumulated.
