Installing a Wheelchair Ramp For Your Front Door

A ramp for wheelchairs at your front door reduces the chance of sustaining serious injuries from falls. These ramps for outdoor use are typically designed to connect to a porch, however they can also be used to get into vehicles or other locations.

These modifications can be incorporated into the home in a tasteful way to preserve its resale value. Modular ramps are available in different styles and are able to be customized to fit your home design.

Design Considerations

The slope of the ramp must be gentle and easy for wheelchair ramp for front door (visit site) occupants to move. The ADA recommends ramp slopes not be higher than 1 in 12 (for every inch of vertical rise, you require 12 inches of horizontal space).

The ramp's landings should be large enough for a door to open and swing freely. They should also be a safe distance from the edge of the ramp, so that the wheel chair ramps for vans's tires don't accidentally roll over the ramp edge. A 58-inch wide landing for instance, gives you plenty of space to accommodate a front entrance that can be opened to the ramp area.

Consider adding a side flare when the ramp is lengthy, and there is no level landing at the end. This will reduce the chance of tripping as it curves to the right at the end of the ramp. Handrails are an additional aspect of the design of the ramp. They aren't just for decoration, but they are lifelines for the ramp occupants. ADA guidelines require handrails that measure 34 to 38 inches high and have gripping surfaces that can support a person's weight without becoming slippery in a variety of weather conditions.

Installing handrails both on the right and left sides of the ramp is a good idea, especially when there are any changes in direction. These railings will alert visually impaired walkers and wheelchair users to changes in the ramp's surface and also provide the occupant something to hold onto in order to ensure 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 ramp wheelchair ramps like the Aerolight-Folding Ramp offer a fantastic solution to this problem. They feature hinges within the threshold that permit the ramp to be folded up and then over. This lets the ramp be placed right outside a front door, allowing it to cross one or more steps into a home. It's also a great option for those with mobility issues and want to keep their wheelchair or scooter with them at all times.

Materials

When constructing a ramp the material used is among the most crucial decisions to be made. Materials can be very different based on the design and type of the ramp. In general wood is the most commonly used ramp material for homes since it is constructed in a wide range of styles and enhances the design of many homes. A wooden ramp requires regular maintenance to prevent rotting and insect infestation. A wooden ramp is also more expensive than a aluminum or concrete ramp.

To select the appropriate ramp, it is essential to understand the specific needs of a disabled individual and the environment where the ramp will be installed. Answering questions like "will it be indoors or outdoors?" or "how often will it be used?" will narrow down your options and make it easier to choose the right ramp.

The choice of the ideal ramp is contingent on a number of other elements. For instance how high or low the ramp is recommended to be. ADA guidelines suggest that ramps are 12" long per inch of vertical rise. This helps to ensure that a ramp is safe for a person who uses a wheelchair, scooter or walker.

Concrete, aluminum and wooden ramps are the most popular alternatives. Modular aluminum ramps are made and usually cost less than a wood or concrete ramp. However, they may not be as durable or as flexible as a concrete or wood ramp.

Threshold ramps are short ramps that sit directly over a raised door threshold or sidewalk curb. They are typically made from aluminum or rubber, and offer traction when a person changes levels between walking surfaces.

If you need a ramp that is permanent, it is best to consult with an expert handyman who will help you with the installation process and help you choose the appropriate material for your ramp. They can design and construct a ramp that is both safe and complements the appearance of your home. They can also assist in determining if you will need a building permit and inspections to ensure the ramp will be constructed safely and in a safe manner.

Installation

To install a ramp for wheelchairs, the first step is to decide where it will be placed. It doesn't have to be located right at the front door. However, it should be in a location that is close enough for a person using a wheelchair threshold bridging ramp to enter and exit the home without climbing steps or climb stairs. It is also advisable to check with your local municipality to find out what regulations might apply to the construction and installation of a ramp.

The Americans with Disabilities Act establishes standards for safe ramp slopes. It is a good idea to adhere to these guidelines in order to ensure that your ramp is safe for wheelchair users. The ADA recommends ramps have 12 inches of space for each inch of slope. This will ensure that wheelchair users can move between the ramps with enough space to avoid slowing down or stopping and risk a fall.

Once you've decided the location where the ramp needs to be placed, you'll need to decide which type of ramp will best meet your requirements. There are a variety of ramps that are available including portable ramps, modular ramps and concrete or wood ramps.

Portable ramps are available in different lengths and can be easily moved when they are not being used. They can be used to cover small ramps for wheelchairs thresholds, or to cover a short set of steps leading up to the entrance. A self-supporting aluminium ramp that is connected to the floor or to the door plate at the entrance gives the highest stability and a simple installation.

Aerolight-Up and Over Ramp Kits are available to create the wider ramp that can be able to bridge over the threshold. This ramp is designed to fit inside the UPVC threshold, which means it won't cause damage to it. It can also be folded when not being used. 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 different configurations to match the specific requirements of your house and the wheelchair user. They are generally considered the most durable and long-lasting choice. They have railings and platforms and are constructed from various materials, according to your budget and style preferences.

Maintenance

Even the tiniest physical obstruction can hinder mobility for a person who relies on the use of a scooter or minivan wheelchair ramp. A ramp that bridges a gap between a threshold and the entry door can remove this obstacle and make your home more accessible. A professional handyman can assist you to select the best materials for your ramp to meet your functional needs and complement your home's aesthetics.

Regular maintenance is essential for the longevity and safety of your ramp. Make sure to sweep and remove debris regularly to keep your ramp free of hazards that could cause tripping. Clean the ramp surface with mild soap and warm water, paying special focus on areas that accumulate dirt and grime. If your ramp is metal ensure that you clean it regularly in order to avoid corrosion.

Some ramps require more frequent cleaning than others. Steel ramps, for example might require periodic touch-ups with paintbrushes or steel wool. Wooden ramps require more frequent maintenance. Be on the lookout for cracks, dents and rust spots that must be fixed as soon as possible in order to prevent further damage.

If you live in an area with a harsh winter climate it is recommended to salt your ramps the same way you would a walkway or sidewalk. This will stop accumulation of snow and ice and causing the risk of tripping. Do not over-salt ramps because this can cause damage to wheelchair tires and bearings.