A Brief History Of The Evolution Of Wheelchair Ramp For Front Door
Installing a Wheelchair Ramp For Your Front Door
A wheelchair ramp at your front door can reduce the chance of serious injury due to falls. These ramps for outdoor use are typically built to lead up to a porch, although they can be used to access vehicles or other destinations.
If these changes are elegantly integrated into the home, they are able to preserve resale value. Modular ramps are flexible in style and can be customized to your specific home design.
Design Considerations
The slope of the ramp should be gentle and easy to maneuver for wheelchair users. The ADA recommends that ramp slopes not be steeper than one in 12. (For every inch of vertical rise, you need to move 12 inches horizontally).
The ramp's landings should be wide enough for a door to swing and open freely. They should 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 is able to open into the ramp.
If the ramp is long and doesn't offer an even landing at the end of the slope, you might want to consider adding a side flare. This reduces the chance of tripping at the end of your ramp because it curves inward. Another crucial aspect of ramp design is the handrails. They aren't just for decoration but also vital for the people who use the ramp. ADA regulations require handrails to be at least 34-38 inches high and have gripping surfaces that can hold the weight of a person's body in any weather condition.
Installing handrails on both the left and right side of the ramp is a good idea, especially if there are any changes in direction. These railings will alert visually impaired walkers and wheelchair users to changes in ramp surface material and also provide the occupant something to hold onto in order to ensure safety.
Some ramps are designed to fold away when they are not in use, however these typically require plenty of space around them. Portable ramps, like the Aerolight-Folding ramp, offer an excellent solution to this problem. They feature hinges that are inside the threshold and allow the ramp to fold up and over it. This allows the ramp to be kept right outside a front door, which allows it to be used to bridge a single step or multiple steps into a home. It's an excellent option for those with mobility issues who want to have their wheelchair or scooter on them at all times.
Materials
When constructing a ramp the material is one of the most crucial decisions to be taken. Materials can be very different based on the design and type of the ramp. In general wood is the most common ramp material for homes since it is constructed in a wide range of styles and complements the aesthetic of many homes. A wooden ramp requires regular maintenance to avoid rotting and insect infestation. Furthermore, a wooden ramp is generally more expensive than an concrete or aluminum ramp.
In order to choose the best ramp, it is essential to understand the specific needs of disabled individuals and the location in which the ramp will be put in. Answering questions like "will it be outdoors or indoors?" or "how often will it be used?" will rubber wheelchair ramps threshold ramps 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 factors. For instance, how high or low the ramp is recommended to be. In general, ADA guidelines recommend ramps to be 12" long for every inch of vertical rise. This ensures that the ramp will be safe for people who use wheelchairs or walker.
The most popular ramps are made of concrete, aluminum and wood. Modular aluminum ramps can be manufactured and are generally less expensive than concrete or wood ramps. However, they might not be as sturdy or as flexible as a wood or concrete ramp.
Threshold ramps are short ramps that are placed directly on top of the threshold of a door or curbs on sidewalks. They are usually constructed of aluminum or rubber and offer traction when a person moves between different surfaces for walking.
If you are looking for an unreliable ramp, it's recommended to speak with an experienced handyman. They can assist with the installation and give advice on the right 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 with determining if you require permits for building and inspections for the ramp to be constructed correctly and safely.
Installation
The first step in the process of constructing a ramp for wheelchairs is to determine the best location for it. It doesn't need to be directly up to the front door however, it should to be close enough for someone in a wheelchair to get in and out of the house without having to climb the stairs or steps. It is also advisable to check with your local municipality to find out the requirements that might be applicable to the construction and installation of a ramp.
The Americans with Disabilities Act establishes guidelines for safe ramp slopes. It is recommended to adhere to these guidelines to ensure your ramp is safe for wheelchair users. The ADA recommends ramps with 12 inches of space per inch of slope. This will allow the wheelchair user to go up and down the ramp without stopping or having to slow down, which could cause a fall.
Once you have determined where the ramp should be placed, you'll need to decide which type of ramp will best suit your requirements. There are many types of ramps available, including wooden or concrete ramps, modular ramps, and portable ramps.
Portable ramps are available in a variety of lengths and can be easily moved when not being used. They can be used to cover small thresholds, or as a short sequence of steps leading to the entrance. An aluminium self-supporting ramp that attaches to the flooring of the home or to the door plate of the entrance will offer the highest stability and is simple to set up.
Aerolight-Up and Over Ramp Kits can be purchased for the wider ramp that can bridge over the threshold. This ramp is designed to fit inside the UPVC threshold, so it won't cause damage to it. It can also be folded away when not being used. It can be combined with an Entry Flap accessory to bridge over the threshold of the door and into the house.
Modular ramps are available in many different configurations to match the specific requirements of your house and wheelchair user. They are thought to be the most durable option. They feature platforms and railings and can be constructed in various materials, depending on your budget and style preferences.
Maintenance
When you or someone in your family relies on wheelchair, scooter or walker, even the smallest physical obstruction can hinder mobility. A ramp that bridges a gap between a threshold and the entrance door can eliminate this obstacle and make your home more accessible. A professional handyman will assist you choose the appropriate materials for your ramp that will meet your functional requirements and complement your home's style.
Regular maintenance is essential to the safety and longevity of your ramp. Sweep and remove debris regularly 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 where grime and dirt accumulate. If your ramp is constructed of metal, be sure to keep it clean to prevent rust deposits.
Some ramps need to be cleaned more frequently than others. Steel ramps, for example, may need periodic touch-up with a paintbrush or steel wool. Wood ramps, on contrary require more frequent maintenance. Check for cracks, dents and spots of rust. Repairs should be made immediately to prevent further damage.
If you are in a region that experiences severe winter weather, make sure to salt your ramps as you would your walkway or sidewalk. This will help prevent accumulation of snow and ice, which can cause an increase in the risk of tripping. However, don't over-salt your ramps, as too much salt can also cause damage to the bearings and tires of wheelchairs.