15 Weird Hobbies That Will Make You More Effective At Wheelchair Ramp
Wheelchair Ramp Design and Construction
A ramp for wheelchairs is an important tool for helping your loved ones live at home independently. If they are not designed properly they can be dangerous to use.
ADA regulations require landings to be level at any change in direction, so as to avoid compound slopes. They must also have an area that is grippy for wheelchair users.
Design
The ramp design should meet the Americans with Disabilities Act standards to allow wheelchairs to maneuver the structure with ease. For example, the ramp slope must not exceed a ratio of 1:12 and must have level landings at any change in direction or shift in the ramp's surface. The ramp must also be constructed out of treated lumber that is more robust and weathers precipitation far better than untreated lumber.
The top and bottom of the ramp must be free of obstructions such as trees, bushes or other structures that could hinder the safe movement of the ramp's user. The surface of the ramp should also be non-slip and hard. Some municipalities require that the entire ramp be covered with an anti-slip surface.
Use treated lumber at least four inches in width for the ramp frame. Build posts to secure the ramp, ensuring that they are at minimum eight feet apart and that they extend beyond the level of the ground. Spindles are the best way to connect the posts to the ramp's railings. This type of connection reduces the chance of a ramp operator falling off the side.
Next, construct the frame of the ramp with beams of 2 by 4 inches in size, and Joists that are at least 16 inches long. Make sure that the joists are a minimum of 18 inches above the ground and that they're secured with joist hangers, which are nails that hold the inside of the joists to prevent them from sliding out of alignment. Attach the ramp decking with a framing nailer.
Install an upper landing close to the doorway to enable wheelchair occupants to manage the doorswing with ease. This landing should provide 12 to 24 inches on the handle side of out-swinging doors. For in-swing doors the landing should be at least 58 by 60 inches to allow for the threshold of the door and a person in wheelchair who must roll backward through the doorway.
Install a level landing when you change the direction of the ramp to prevent wheelchairs from having to hit their brakes at corners. A level landing makes it simpler to move a ramp out of the way if required, so that equipment such as lawnmowers can be able to pass underneath it.
Materials
The material used to construct ramps for wheelchairs could be either concrete, wood or aluminum. A professional ramp installer will help you choose the best option for your home or office. When selecting the material for the ramp, it is important to take into account your budget and specific needs. The ramp should also be easy to maintain and safe to use. Some cities require that the ramp be paved with a non-slip surface.
Before you purchase any material or begin construction, make sure that you have the necessary permits from your local authority and ensure that you adhere to all building codes within your area. Incorrect construction materials or methods can result in dangerous conditions for wheelchair-users. You can find up-to-date construction guidelines in your local building department of the government library, or on the internet.
Wood ramps are the least expensive option for ADA ramp materials. However they require more care. The wood ramp's surface must be regularly treated with a sealer in order to stop warping and rot. Wood can split and be dangerous for people using wheelchairs. Wood ramps also require additional support in order to ensure the structure is maintained.
Concrete ramps are extremely durable and last for a long time, but they can be costly. They are also heavy, which demands more work to construct and can make moving the ramp when it is no longer needed difficult. Concrete ramps can withstand the weight of powerful wheelchairs.
Aluminum ramps weigh less than concrete or steel however they possess the same strength and resistance to corrosion. They are also cheaper than steel or iron, which makes them an excellent choice for those on a limited budget. Aluminum is also green because it is naturally found in the earth's crust and can be recycled.
The ramp's upper landing should be at a level level or within 3/8 inches of the threshold of the door in order for wheelchairs with smaller wheels to pass across the ramp without getting stuck. Ramps that have a gap greater than this do not comply with ADA standards. You should also make sure that the ramp transitions smoothly between the landing area and the ground. The ramp's final section should be curved to ensure that wheelchairs don't stop abruptly at the point of leaving or entering the home.
Installation
A wheelchair ramp is an inclined plane that is installed in addition to or instead of stairs. It allows wheelchair users, and those who use strollers or carts to access areas that are otherwise difficult to access.
When selecting a wheelchair access ramp, there are numerous factors to consider, such as the location, height, and cost. The ramp should be placed close to the door in order to avoid unnecessary traveling. It should also be positioned at an angle that is easy to use by the person who is using it. It should also be fixed to the ground and free of obstructions like the trees or cars parked.
ADA regulations stipulate that ramps must have handrails either side. The rails should be at minimum 36" apart and have an even or smooth gripping surface. They should also be connected to the edge of the ramp, and extend 12 inches beyond it. Handrails should be continuous if a ramp is designed with switchbacks or an L-shaped layout.
The length of a ramp is contingent on the slope, however there are several standard ramps that are suitable for most situations. A threshold ramp, for instance is a ramp that is flush with the lip of the curb or the threshold of the doorway. Portable ramps are, on the other hand, can be moved to a new location and are available in various sizes. Modular aluminum ramps may also be constructed on-site. They are typically used for commercial or public areas and are typically longer than the threshold and ramps that are portable.
Check with your city's construction department to determine whether a permit is required for an enduring ramp. It is also a good idea to consult with a mobility expert to find out what type ramp will be the most suitable for your requirements and the space that you have. In some cases the installation of an all-weather ramp can increase the resale value of your home.
portable wheelchair ramps is essential to ensure that your wheelchair ramp is well maintained, particularly if you are going to use it often. You'll need to conduct regular inspections and address any structural issues as they occur. 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 dirt and debris that may block access. Cleaning the ramp regularly will also stop moisture from accumulating under the surface and creating decay. Preservatives and stains for wood can only be effective if the ramp has been thoroughly cleaned prior to applying.
Wheelchair ramps are more challenging to maintain than other kinds of ramps because they are more prone to wear and wear and tear. It is important to have the right tools. A set of gauge spanners as well as screwdrivers will be essential for making sure all fixings are secure and secure. It's also worth regularly inspecting the handrails to ensure that they are in good shape and are free of damage or corrosion. As time passes, and with repeated use, it's not uncommon that some bolts or fittings on the handrails to come loose. This can pose an issue for anyone using the ramp.
Another crucial aspect is to ensure that the ramp's surface has enough grip, especially in winter when conditions can be a challenge. You'll need to sweep away any leaves, dirt and other debris that can obstruct the surface and cause slippage. Additionally, you'll need to apply an ice melt that is not corrosive to the ramp's surface prior to winter arrives to avoid slips and causing injury.
If you're planning on using your ramp all winter months, you should consider purchasing wheels for traction, or "snow tires" for your wheelchair. They're specially designed to provide better tracking on uneven surfaces and snow, so they'll be more effective than standard wheelchair tires in aiding you to stay on the ramp. You can also utilize heating pads or tape to melt snow and ice on the ramp prior to it accumulates.