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Installing a Wheelchair Ramp For Your Front Door A wheelchair ramp at your front door will reduce the chance of serious injury from falls. These ramps are typically constructed to connect to a porch. However they can also be used to reach vehicles or other destinations. These modifications can be incorporated into the home in a stylish way to preserve the resale value. mymobilityscooters are available in various designs and can be adapted to match your home's style. Design Considerations The ramp slope should be gentle, and easy to navigate for wheelchair users. The ADA recommends ramp slopes should not be more steep than one in 12. (For every inch of vertical rise you must traverse 12 inches horizontally). The landings of the ramp must be wide enough to allow a door to swing and open freely. They should be at a safe distance away from the edge of the ramp to prevent chair tires from slipping over the edge. A 58-inch wide landing, for instance, gives ample space to accommodate a front entryway that opens onto the ramp area. If the ramp is long and doesn't offer a level landing at the end of the incline, think about adding a flare to the side. This reduces the chance of slipping at the bottom of your ramp because it curves to the right. Handrails are another important aspect of ramp design. They aren't just decorative but also vital for the ramp occupants. ADA regulations require handrails that measure 34 to 38 inches tall and have gripping surfaces that are able to support a person's weight without becoming slippery in a variety of weather conditions. Installing handrails both on the left and right side of the ramp is a great idea, particularly if there are any shifts in direction. These railings warn visually impaired walker and wheelchair users to modifications in the material of the ramp, and they also give the person using the ramp something to hold on to for safety. Some ramps can be folded away to make space when not in use. However, they generally require a significant amount of space. Portable ramps, like the Aerolight-Folding ramp, are an excellent solution to this problem. They feature hinges that are within the threshold, allowing the ramp to fold up and over it. The ramp can be positioned in front of the front door and used to cross one or more steps. It's also a great choice for those with mobility issues who wish to keep their scooter or wheelchair with them at all times. Materials When constructing a ramp, the material used is among the most important decisions to be made. Depending on the kind of ramp and the style, the materials may differ dramatically. In general wood is the most commonly used ramp material used in homes due to the fact that it is able to be built in a wide range of styles and complements the design aesthetic of a lot of homes. A wooden ramp requires regular maintenance to prevent insects and rotting. Additionally, a wooden ramp is usually more expensive than an aluminum or concrete ramp. It is crucial to know the needs of the disabled person and the setting in which the ramp will be set up before you decide on the best ramp. It is important to take the time to answer questions such as, “will it be used indoors or outdoors?” and, “how often will it be used?” will help narrow down the choices and make the selection of the best ramp much easier. The choice of the ideal ramp is contingent on a number of other aspects. For instance the height or how low the ramp should be. ADA guidelines recommend ramps of 12” long for every inch of vertical rise. This ensures that a ramp is safe for someone who uses a wheelchair, scooter or walker. Concrete, aluminum and wooden ramps are the most popular alternatives. Modular aluminum ramps are prefabricated and usually cost less than a concrete or wood ramp. However, they might not be as durable or as customizable as a concrete or wood ramp. Threshold ramps are short ramps that sit directly over a raised door threshold or sidewalk curb. They are typically made from aluminum or rubber, and provide traction as a person changes levels between different walking surfaces. If you require an all-weather ramp, it is best to talk to a professional handyman who can assist you in the process of installing it and offer advice on choosing the right material for your ramp. They will be able to design and construct a ramp that is both safe and enhances the look of your home. They can also help you determine if a building permit is required and if you require inspections to ensure that the ramp is constructed correctly and safely. Installation The first step of installing a ramp for wheelchairs is determining where it should be placed. It doesn't need to be right next to the front door however, it should to be close enough for a person in a wheelchair to move in and out of the home without having to climb stairs or steps. It is also advisable to check with your local municipality to find out what regulations might apply to the construction and installation of a ramp. The Americans with Disabilities Act establishes standards for safe slopes on ramps. It is a good idea that you adhere to these guidelines in order to ensure that your ramp is safe for wheelchair users. In general, the ADA recommends that for every inch of rise, ramps should include 12 inches of length. This will allow wheelchair users to travel up and down a ramp without stopping or having to slow down, which could cause an accident. After determining where the ramp should be placed, you'll have decide on which ramp is the best one for your needs. There are a variety of ramps, including wooden or concrete ramps, modular ramps and ramps that are portable. Portable ramps are available in different lengths and can easily be moved when not being used. They can be used to cover small thresholds or as a short sequence of steps that lead to the entrance. A self-supporting aluminum ramp that attaches to the flooring of the home or the door plate of the entrance provides maximum stability and is easy to put in. Aerolight-Up and Over Ramp Kits are available for the wider ramp that can be able to bridge over the threshold. The ramp is placed inside the UPVC threshold to ensure it isn't damaging it, and folds down when not in use. This ramp can be used combination with an Entry Flap accessory for a bridge that can cross the threshold of the door and get into the house. Modular ramps are available in many configurations that can be customized to the needs of your wheelchair or home user. They are considered to be the most durable choice. They can be built with a variety materials and with platforms or railings, depending on the budget and style you prefer. Maintenance Even the tiniest physical obstruction can limit mobility for someone who relies on an electric scooter or wheelchair. A ramp that bridges the gap between a surface threshold and the doorway can eliminate this barrier, making your home more accessible. A professional handyman will help you choose the best ramp materials to meet your functional needs and complement your home's aesthetics. Regular maintenance is crucial to the safety and longevity of your ramp. Regularly sweep and remove debris to ensure that your ramp is free of tripping hazards. Use mild soap and water to clean the ramp's surface. Pay particular attention to areas where dirt and grime accumulate. If your ramp is made of metal, be sure to clean it regularly to avoid rust build-up. Some ramps require more frequent cleaning than others. Steel ramps, for example might require periodic touch-ups using paintbrushes or steel wool. Wood ramps, on other hand require more frequent maintenance. Be on the lookout for dents, cracks and rust spots that must be fixed as soon as possible in order to prevent further damage. If you live in a harsh winter climate you must salt your ramps the same way you would a sidewalk or walkway. This will prevent snow and ice buildup, which could create an additional hazard for tripping. However, don't over-salt your ramps as excessive salt can harm the wheels and bearings of wheelchairs.