20 Fun Details About Wheelchair Ramp For Front Door
Installing a Wheelchair Ramp For Your Front Door
A wheelchair ramp at your front door can help reduce the risk of serious injury caused by falls. These ramps for outdoor use are typically constructed to lead to a porch, although they can be used to access vehicles or other locations.
These modifications can be incorporated into the home in a tasteful way that preserves the resale value. Modular ramps are available in various designs and can be adapted to suit your home's design.
Design Considerations
The slope of the ramp must be smooth and easy for wheelchair users to navigate. fold away wheelchair ramps recommends that ramp slopes shouldn't be steeper than one in 12. (For every inch of vertical rise, you have to travel 12 inches horizontally).
Ramp landings should be large enough to allow doors to open and swing freely. They must also be a safe distance from the edge of the ramp, so that the chair's tires do not accidentally slide over the ramp's edge. For example, a 58-inch wide landing will provide plenty of room to accommodate the front door which can be opened into the ramp area.
If the ramp is long and does not have an even landing at the bottom of the slope, you might want to consider installing a flare on the side. This can reduce the chance of tripping at the end of your ramp because it curves towards the back. Another important feature of the ramp design is the handrails. These are not just ornamental features, they are lifelines for those who use the ramp. ADA regulations require handrails that are at least 34 to 38 inches tall and have gripping surfaces that can support a person's weight without becoming slippery in weather conditions.
Installing handrails on both the left and right side of the ramp is a good idea, especially when there are any shifts in direction. These railings warn visually impaired walker and wheelchair users of the changes in ramp surface material and also provide the user something to hold onto for safety.
Some ramps can be folded out of the way to save space when they are not in use. However, they typically require a significant amount of space. Portable ramps like the Aerolight-Folding Ramp are a great solution to this issue. They have hinges inside the threshold that allow the ramp to fold up and then over. The ramp can be placed just outside the front door to cross the gap between a single or a number of steps. It's a great choice for those with mobility issues who want to keep their wheelchair or scooter on their vehicle at all times.
Materials
The selection of materials is an important choice when designing a ramp. Materials can be very different based on the design and type of the ramp. In general wood is the most common ramp material used in homes due to the fact that it is able to be built in a wide range of styles and enhances the design aesthetic of a lot of homes. A wooden ramp will require regular maintenance to avoid rotting and insect infestation. A wooden ramp can be more expensive than a aluminum or concrete ramp.
It is essential to understand the needs of the disabled person and the environment where the ramp will be installed before you decide on the most suitable ramp. Answering questions such as "will it be indoors or outdoors?" or "how often will it used?" will narrow down your choices and make it easier to choose the right ramp.
The right ramp to use for your doorway is dependent on other factors including how high or low the ramp should be. In general, ADA guidelines recommend ramps to be 12" long for every inch of vertical rise. This ensures that the ramp is safe for someone who is using a scooter, wheelchair or walker.
Concrete, aluminum, and wooden ramps are the most sought-after options. Modular aluminum ramps are manufactured and are usually less expensive than a wood or concrete ramp. However, they may not be as sturdy or as flexible as a wood or concrete ramp.
Threshold ramps are ramps that are placed directly on top of a raised door threshold or sidewalk curb. 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 you should consult with a professional handyman who can assist you in the process of installing it and help you choose the appropriate material for your ramp. They have the experience to design and build a ramp that is safe and complements the style of your home. They can also assist with determining whether you'll require permits for building and inspections to ensure the ramp will be constructed correctly and safely.
Installation
In order to put up a wheelchair ramp, the first step is to decide where it will be installed. It doesn't have to be right next to the front door however, it should to be close enough for a person in a wheelchair to get in and out of the home without climbing stairs or steps. It is also advisable to check with your local municipality to find out what regulations might apply to the construction and installation of ramps.
The Americans with Disabilities Act establishes guidelines for safe ramp slopes. It is recommended to follow these guidelines in order to ensure your ramp is safe for wheelchair users. Generally speaking, the ADA recommends that for every inch of rise, ramps should have a length of 12 inches. This will allow wheelchair users to move up and down the ramp without stopping or having to slow down, which could result in an accident.
After determining where the ramp will be placed, you'll have to decide which type of ramp will best suit your requirements. There are several types of ramps to choose from, including portable ones, modular ramps and ramps made of concrete or wood.
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 thresholds or to cover a short set of steps leading up to the entrance. A self-supporting aluminum ramp that is affixed to the floor or the door plate at the entry point offers the greatest stability and is easy to install.
Aerolight-Up and Over Ramp Kits can be purchased for an extended ramp that can cross the threshold. The ramp is designed to fit within the UPVC threshold, which means it won't damage it. It can also be folded 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 customized to meet the needs of your wheelchair or home user. They are considered to be the most durable option. They have railings and platforms and can be constructed in different materials depending on your budget and preferences for design.
Maintenance
If you or someone in your family is reliant on wheelchair, scooter or walker, the smallest physical obstacle can hinder mobility. A ramp that bridges a gap between a surface threshold and the entry door can eliminate this obstacle, making your home more accessible. A professional handyman will help you select the right materials for your ramp to fulfill your functional needs and also match the aesthetics of your home.
After you've constructed a ramp, regular maintenance is vital to its durability and security. Clean and remove debris frequently to ensure that your ramp is free of tripping hazards. Make use of mild soap and water to clean the ramp's surface, paying particular attention to areas that are prone to grime and dirt. If your ramp is constructed of metal, be sure to clean it regularly to prevent rust deposits.
Certain ramps require to be cleaned more frequently than others. Steel ramps, for example might require periodic touch-ups using steel wool or a paintbrush. Wood ramps, on contrary require more regular care. Keep an eye out for dents, cracks and rust spots that must be fixed as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
If you reside in the harsh winter weather it is recommended to salt your ramps as you would a walkway or sidewalk. This will prevent snow and ice buildup, which can create an additional hazard for tripping. Do not over-salt ramps as this can damage wheelchair tires and bearings.