Learn How to Build a Wheelchair Ramp
- Have you ever wondered how to build a wheelchair ramp? Undertaking such a project is relatively simple for the experienced carpenter, but careful planning is necessary to be sure the ramp fulfills all necessary requirements and regulations so it will be safe and easy to travel for its eventual wheelchaired users.
- The Americans with Disabilities Act sets strict standards for building ramps, so make sure that you install yours correctly. Before you begin construction, it is recommended you check with your local building department on this issue for your state's accessibility regulations. This article describes the basic guidelines and measurement requirements for building ramps.
- Single-family residences have no ramp width dimensional requirements but a minimum of 36" of width (unobstructed by hand rails or ramp edging) is recommended. Level landings are needed at both the top and the bottom of the ramp. In addition, a 60" long landing is needed after every 30" elevation change. Landings need to be at least the same width as the ramp. If the ramp changes direction at a landing, the minimum landing size is 60" x 60".
- Guardrails need to be mounted along both sides of the ramp, and handrails are to be mounted to the inside. The top of the handrail (gripping surface) must be between 34" and 38" above the ramp surface so as to be the correct height for grasping. A handrail needs a clear space of 1 1/2" from it and the surface to which it is mounted. Use 2" x 6" decking boards and install the short way (the width of the ramp, 36" or 48") to provide better traction for wheelchair tires, and install a non-slip surface. The maximum slope of a ramp in new construction is 1:12, but a slope of 1:16 or 1:20 may be easier for a wheelchair user to navigate. A slope of 1:12 means that for every 12" length of ramp, the ramp will rise 1".
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Building Materials for Your Wheelchair Ramp
- Construct the ramp with pressure treated lumber to prevent the wood from rotting. Make sure you purchase the posts that are rated for burial in the ground. Before you start building, be sure to check your local codes for requirements, you might need to apply for a building permit in your area. The transition at the point where a concrete walk or drive meets the ramp should be smooth and level with the landing. The landing should be at least as wide as the ramp, and the length should be a minimum of 60".
- On an exterior door (door swings to the interior) and/or slider, the landing immediately outside should be level and clear of any obstacles. Depending on how a wheelchair approaches the door, the landing requires a maneuvering clearance in front and/or to the side of the entrance. The entrance itself requires a minimum net opening (width) of 32" for the wheelchair to pass through. A wheelchair can approach a door or slider straight on, from the hinge and/or slider side, or from the latch side. Each of these approaches requires a minimum landing size:
- Straight-on approaches: Both door and slider requires a minimum 32" width net opening by a minimum 42" in depth (measuring out from the exterior wall).
- Hinge and/or slide side approach: Both doors require a 54" (minimum) width with the measurement starting from the latch side and measuring back toward the hinge and/or slide side and have a depth of 42" minimum.
- Latch side approach: Both doors require a minimum 32" width net opening plus 24", with the measurement starting from the hinge and/or slide side and measuring back toward the latch side, and have a depth of 42" minimum. Keep in mind the barrier of the threshold for the exterior slider should not exceed 3/4" in height. For all other types of doors, it should not exceed 1/2" in height.
- In addition to using quality lumber, also consider concrete-setting your posts, installing non-slip decking treads every few feet for added traction in wet weather, and keeping an eye on the hardware and trimming you use which will contribute greatly to the overall attractiveness of the finished product.
- If you paint or stain the wood to match your house's siding or trim, a newly built wheelchair ramp can be an attractive, useful addition to your home and your neighborhood.
- As you can see, planning out the route and design of the wheelchair ramp is the most important element in its construction. Using high quality plans will ensure that you are pleased with the eventual look an functionality of the ramp. High quality materials will mean that it will be safe and attractive for years to come.