If you are thinking of building a wheelchair ramp, you have many options open to you. Disabled ramps come in all shapes and sizes, and are available as permanent and temporary solutions. For a permanent ramp design we highly suggest you use the services of a professional team. If your ramp is needed for a public access building, there are strict rules and regulations on design, angles, and access.
Building a Wheelchair Ramp : Temporary Versus Permanent Wheelchair Ramps
First and foremost, before deciding on the style of ramp, you need to decide whether your ramp is a temporary solution or not. If you own a public access building, then a permanent ramp is most likely to be the best solution. When the ramp is for your own home, before building one, ensure you don’t need planning permission. If you share a front entrance with other residents, you will need to consult your local council about installing a ramp. When you rent your home, then a portable ramp may be a better solution. You do not want to pay out a lot of money for a ramp that you will then leave behind when you move.
Building a Wheelchair Ramp : Wheelchair Ramps Designs
If your ramp will be a permanent fixture, then a concrete design is often the best solution. Temporary ramps on the other hand will be made of lightweight metal or rubber. A permanent ramp is built to withstand a lot of traffic as well as all weather conditions. So it is important to use the help of the experts. Installing a ramp that gets slippery when there is ice on the ground could land you in trouble, as accidents can happen and you would be held responsible.
When choosing your ramp design, there are standard angles for ramps as well as minimum requirements for width and access. Go Access Ltd can provide you with all the information you need to ensure your ramp is set at the right gradient and that it provides the correct wheelchair access.
Ramp Styles
The style of ramp you choose will depend on how much space you have in front of your premise or home. If you have plenty of room, a standard straight ramp can be used. But, if there is too not much space, making a ramp steeper is not the answer you are looking for. To get an idea of what type of ramps can be used, take a look around your own town. Public access buildings will all have ramps in place. These can be straight ramps, zigzag ramps, or even ramps that circle around your building to get to the front door.
Zigzag ramps are common when there is a steep gradient to contend with. But, be careful to ensure that the corners are not too tight. If you have very little room outside your premise but your front door is up a set of steps, a ramp that circles around your build can provide you with a solution that is both safe as well as aesthetically pleasing. Contact Go Access Ltd today to discuss your individual needs, and to find the best solution for building a wheelchair ramp for your home or premise.