How to Build a Wheelchair Ramp

How to Build a Wheel Chair Ramp How to Build a Wheelchair Ramp A wheelchair ramp is an indispensable item for a handicap person to make life accessible. A well-constructed wheelchair gives required mobility that the person needs to carry on personal as well as professional work. While building a wheelchair ramp one must take into consideration certain important factors that are essential to ensure it meets the basic established requirements.

There are different types of wheelchair ramps that can be built, depending upon the specific requirements. Following are the instructions that will help you to understand how you can build a simple and reliable portable wheelchair ramp:

Before starting the construction, you must find out if the local building codes require you to hold a permit. Talk to the respective local building inspector to know about the permit and also ask for a copy of the building code for wheelchair ramps. Familiarize yourself with the required standards for the wheelchair construction. Mostly one needs to follow specifications established by Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Once you figure out the specifications that you have to incorporate in the wheelchair construction, device a rough layout. You can opt for any design taking into consideration factors like height to be raised, weight of the user, strength of the user and space available.
Plan the slope of your ramp. Make sure that it does not exceed a 1:12 slope. It means that for every 12 linear inches of ramp, the raise should not be more than 1 inch. However, for loading an unmanned wheelchair into a vehicle, a higher gradient can be used. In any case it should not exceed 1 in 3.
Now decide upon the width. 36 inches width is most suitable. Do not include any deck trim or handrails in this measurement. Also make sure that the wheelchair has a minimum run of 30 inches i.e. 30 inches long.
Install handrails to the wheelchair ramp. Fix them at a height of 36 inches. Ensure the gripping surfaces are continuous on both sides of the ramp and provide 1 ½-inch space between the rail and a wall. Keep the ends of handrails either rounded or returned smoothly to wall, floor or post, as the case may be.
Level landings are important to maintain an aggregate slope that complies with ADA guidelines. They are required at the bottom and top of each ramp and each ramp run. The landing length should be at least 60 inches. However, if the ramp changes direction at landings, then minimum landing size should be 60 in by 60 in. This enables the user to rest safely on a level surface.

Other Important Points to Remember

Use proper building materials. Take into consideration local conditions while choosing the material.
Consider consulting a professional contractor who has required expertise in ADA construction. This will help you to construct a wheelchair ramp that is durable and functional.