Do you want to know how you can make your business accessible for people with disabilities?
As a business owner, it’s crucial to consider all kinds of customers. Making your building more accessible is a great way to show your customers you care. A great way to start is by building a wheelchair ramp.
Want to learn how to build a wheelchair ramp? Read on to find out more.
Get a Permit
Secure a permit first before you start learning how to build a wheelchair ramp. Start by looking into the design, materials, height, and dimensions.
You may need to get permits to ensure you follow the building codes and for safety purposes. Inquire in your local building office if a permit and approval are necessary.
Choose the Type of Material
A wooden ramp is ideal for customizable and less expensive wheelchair access. A concrete ramp is best for a low-maintenance ramp. Metal ramps like aluminum and steel are easier to disassemble than other types of ramps.
Decide on the Location
Placement is everything when providing wheelchair access to a building.
Keep in mind that a wheelchair should fit in the door you’re building the ramp up to. That door should also grant access to different parts of the building.
Prepare the Tools You Need
Prepare all the materials, equipment, and tools you’ll be using.
Make sure that you’ve got everything you need in the space where you’re working. It could save you time and effort because you won’t be going back and forth to get the materials.
Determine the Length of Your Ramp
Determine the height of the upper landing location to measure the length of your ramp. The ideal slope ratio is between 1:12 and 1:20. The Americans With Disabilities Act recommends a 1:12 slope. In other words, every inch of height is equal to a foot of length.
For example, if the height of the upper-level landing is 24 inches from the ground, the length of the slope should be 24 feet to accommodate wheelchair access.
The rise shouldn’t exceed 30 inches. A flat rest platform is necessary on the upper-level landing and bottom landing area.
Determining Dimensions and Creating Ramp
Locate the upper-level landing, then attach a three-inch nail on the corner. Tie a string on the nail and use it to lay out your landing.
The length of the string should the same as the identified length of the ramp. Measure the angle the string created from the bottom landing.
After identifying the angle, put the measuring tool on the edge of the lumber. The origin should be on the tip.
Draw a line for you to know where to cut. The cut area would face the ground and attach the other side to the upper-level landing. Make adjustments if the other end doesn’t fit.
Finishing the Ramp
Attach the lumber to the flat rest platform, then cover it with the cut pieces of plywood. Nail the sides and center of the plywood to the lumber. Put handrails to act as support for handicaps.
Concrete ramps will require a footing. The footing provides proper support to the foundation of the structure. Building codes will provide the depth, diameter, and shape of your footings.
You need to create a base for a concrete ramp. Use lumber to connect two sides of the ramp, then pour in the concrete and let it dry.
Learning How to Build a Wheelchair Ramp
Follow this process to learn how to build a wheelchair ramp. Most accessibility options for businesses start with a wheelchair ramp.
Thanks for reading our article! Want to learn more tips on making your office building more accessible? Check out our other blog posts to discover more great tips and suggestions.
