Wheelchair Ramps
We can install wooden or concrete wheelchair or access ramps.
Ramps require a large run in order to meet the gentle slope that ADA rules require. Some doorways may have surrounding obstacles that make a ramp nearly impossible. Other doorways will work just fine, but may have a very long ramp length.
There are several styles of ramps.
- Wooden ramps are inexpensive, but do require maintenance and occasional replacement. Wooden ramps require some form of tread added to avoid slips.
- Concrete ramps are very low maintenance, but may be more expensive. Concrete ramps can be built with high texture to avoid slips or have bricks set into concrete, as you may have seen at city crosswalks.
As you can see, these ramps are very long, for a very short drop.
These ramps require a maximum slope of 1/12, which means that the ramp needs to run forward (horizontally) 12 inches for every 1 inch of rise from ground level (hence the slope is called 1/12 or 1 inch to 12 inch). Flatter ramps can be built, but steeper ramps may be uncomfortable to use.
With some planning and perhaps a larger flat area first, most areas can accommodate a ramp. Even when a straight out ramp will not fit, a turn or two can help fit a ramp into a tight area when necessary.
Ramps can be built with a flat platform at the doorway, followed by the ramp section. When the drop is greater, a second flat platform can be added to allow for a turn onto a second ramp section.
Last Updated: June 26, 2014