Just a matter of a couple decades ago, wheelchair access ramps were not nearly as common as they are today. These structures which so effectively assist mobility for the disabled have become the norm with homes and business structures all around the world. Enhanced accessibility is incredibly important to those suffering from disabilities that affect their mobility. With wheelchair access ramps, you can easily build a safe and secure structure to incorporate into your home or business’s features. Below is a simple step by step guide to constructing such a ramp.
Wheelchair Ramp Specifications
Once you have decided to integrate a wheelchair ramp into your structure, you will need to consider the limitations of its prospective users. Your ramp must be wide enough to be safe while remaining secure enough to handle the weight of electric wheelchairs. In addition to safety and sturdiness, ensure that the ramp maintains a slope that is gentle for users who may be navigating manual wheelchairs.
Ramp Material Options
When building wheelchair access ramps, certain factors must be considered. One of the most fundamental of these factors are the materials you choose to utilise. All individuals who may be using the ramp should be carefully considered. With options such as aluminium, wood, steel and concrete, you are sure to find the ideal ramp material to suit your needs. Though concrete is one of the more expensive materials, it makes for an incredible choice in permanent wheelchair ramps. While wood is a bit cheaper, it is accompanied by an additional maintenance cost. Additionally, metals like steel will need to be galvanised in order to avoid rust and corrosion.
Process of Building a Ramp
Just how you must construct your wheelchair ramp is mandated by the material you have chosen to use. Wheelchair access ramps are best built in sections. Start with the doorway section and attach each section of the ramp one at a time from there. This ensures that you maintain the proper slope. Remember to attach the initial section to the structure with concrete anchor bolts.
The installation of support posts will also be necessary for the security of your ramp. After checking the slope of the first section, you can proceed to the next. Support posts will follow each section’s completion. Once you have gotten to the last section, you should have a bevelled transition from the ramp to your surface to prevent wheels from getting stuck between the two. This also effectively prevents the discomfort of bumps when a user entres or exits your building.
Lastly, always consult a professional before getting started on such an endeavour. Your local government usually provides basic guidelines for the installation of such structures as well. In addition, keep in mind the material you have chosen greatly influences the process required for construction. For example, a wooden deck will eventually push nails back out over time and can cause a hazard. With this material, you will need to use screws instead of nails.