Installing a Wheelchair Ramp For Your Front Door

A ramp for your wheelchair ramps for vans prices at your front door can reduce the risks of an injury that is serious from falls. The ramps are usually constructed to connect to a porch. However, they can be used to reach vehicles or other places.

If these modifications are stylishly and seamlessly integrated into the house, they will preserve resale value. Modular ramps are available in a variety of styles and are able to be customized to suit your home's design.

Design Considerations

The ramp slope should be gentle, and easy to move for 7 ft wheelchair ramp users. The ADA recommends ramp slopes should not be steeper than 1 in 12 (for every inch of vertical rise, you need 12 inches of horizontal travel).

The ramp's landings must be wide enough to allow doors to open and swing. They must also be a safe distance from the edge of the ramp to ensure that the chair's tires don't accidentally roll over the ramp edge. For example, a 58-inch wide landing can give plenty of room to accommodate the front door which can be opened into the ramp area.

If the ramp is long and doesn't offer an even landing at the bottom of the slope, you might want to consider installing a flare on the side. This reduces the chance of slipping at the end of your ramp because it curves to the right. Another important feature of the ramp design is the handrails. They aren't just for decoration, but they are lifelines for the people who use the ramp. ADA regulations require handrails that are at least 34-38 inches tall and have gripping surfaces capable of holding the body weight of a person in any weather.

It's a good idea to install handrails on both sides of the ramp, especially where there are changes in direction. These railings will alert visually impaired walkers and drive medical wheelchair ramp users to changes in ramp surface material, and they also give the person using the ramp something to hold onto in order to ensure safety.

Some ramps can be folded out of the way to save space when they are not in use. However, they typically require a lot of space. Portable ramps, like the Aerolight-Folding ramp, are the ideal solution to this problem. They have hinges in the threshold that permit the ramp to be folded up and then over. The ramp can be put in front of the front door and used to cross a single or multiple steps. It's a great choice for people with mobility issues and want to have their scooter or wheelchair on their vehicle at all times.

Materials

When building a ramp, the material is one of the most important decisions to be made. Depending on the type of ramp and the design, materials can vary considerably. In general wood is the most popular ramp material for homes because it is constructed in a wide range of styles and complements the design aesthetic of a lot of homes. However, a wooden ramp requires regular maintenance to avoid rotting or insect infestation. A wooden ramp is more expensive than a aluminum or concrete ramp.

It is crucial to know the needs of a disabled person as well as the environment in which the ramp will be set up before you choose the best ramp. Answering questions like "will it be indoors or outdoors?" or "how often will it be used?" will narrow down your choices and make it easier to choose the right ramp.

Selecting the best ramp for your doorway is dependent on other factors, such as how far up or down the ramp must be. In general, ADA guidelines recommend ramps to be 12" long for every inch of vertical rise. This helps to ensure that a ramp is safe for someone who uses a wheelchair, scooter or walker.

Concrete, aluminum and wooden ramps are among the most popular options. Modular aluminum ramps can be prefabricated, and are typically cheaper than wood or concrete ramps. However, they may not be as sturdy or as flexible as a concrete or wood ramp.

Threshold ramps are ramps that are placed directly on top of the threshold of a door or curbs on sidewalks. They are typically constructed of aluminum or rubber and provide traction when a person changes between various walking surfaces.

If you need an all-weather ramp, it is best to talk to a professional handyman who can help you with the installation process and help you choose the appropriate material for your ramp. They have the experience to design and build an accessible ramp that is safe and complements the design of your home. They can also assist you in determining whether you'll require a building permit and inspections to ensure the ramp will be constructed safely and in a safe manner.

Installation

The first step in the process of installing a wheelchair ramp is determining the location it should be. It doesn't have to be located right at the front door. But it should be close enough for a person using a wheelchair to access and leave the house without having to climb the steps or up the stairs. It's also a good idea to inquire with your municipality to determine what requirements might apply to the construction of ramps in your neighborhood.

The Americans with Disabilities Act establishes guidelines for safe slopes on ramps. It is recommended to follow these guidelines to ensure that 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 enable the wheelchair user to travel up and down the ramp without stopping or having to slow down, which could result in an accident.

After determining the location where the ramp will be placed, you'll have to decide which type of ramp is best for your needs. There are a variety of ramps, including concrete or wooden ramps, modular ramps, and portable wheelchair ramp for van ramps.

Portable ramps come in various lengths and are easily moved when not in use. They can be used for small thresholds or for the construction of a short set of steps leading up to the front door. A self-supporting aluminum ramp that attaches to the floor of the home or to the door plate of the entrance will offer the highest stability and is simple to install.

Aerolight-Up and Over Ramp Kits are available for a wider ramp which can bridge over the threshold. The ramp is placed inside the UPVC threshold to ensure it won't harm it and can be folded down when not in use. It can be combined with an Entry Flap accessory to bridge over the threshold of the door and into the house.

Modular ramps can be built in a variety of configurations to match the specific requirements of your house and your wheelchair van ramps prices user. They are considered to be the most durable option. They can be built with different materials and are complemented by platforms or railings, depending on the budget and style you would like to have.

Maintenance

Even the tiniest physical obstacle could limit mobility for someone who uses an electric scooter or wheelchair. A ramp that bridges the gap between a floor and the threshold of an entry door can eliminate this barrier and make your home accessible. A professional handyman will help you select the best materials for your ramp to meet your functional needs and complement your home's aesthetics.

Regular maintenance is crucial to the safety and longevity of your ramp. Clean up and remove debris frequently to ensure that your ramp is free of tripping hazards. Clean the ramp's surface with mild soap and warm water, paying particular attention to areas that collect dirt and grime. If your ramp is made of metal be sure to clean it frequently to avoid the rust from developing.

Certain ramps require more frequent cleaning than others. Steel ramps, for example might require periodic touch-ups using a paintbrush or steel wool. Wooden ramps require a lot of maintenance. Be aware of cracks, dents, and rust spots. Repairs should be made immediately to avoid further damage.

If you reside in a harsh winter climate it is recommended to salt your ramps the same way you would a sidewalk or walkway. This will help prevent accumulation of snow and ice and creating a tripping risk. Don't over-salt the ramps as this could damage the tires of wheelchairs and bearings.