Using composite decking stock for ramp
bigbob2
| Posted in Construction Techniques on
I’ve been hired by a non-profit group to build some small ramps so that their elderly participants can have access via wheelchair. They want to make them movable so they can store the units when not in use. They chose a new brand name: Portico . This stuff is dense and quite heavy if they want to be moving this ramp. In any case, if I need to glue this stuff, will the PL Pollyurethane work on it? I intend to test it tonight, as I just picked up some sample pieces this AM. Anyone out there who has worked on this stuff before? Thanks.
Replies
Be aware that a lot of the composite decking materials (not familiar with Portico) are not as stiff as comparable wood products. This isn't so critical for a deck, but may be for a ramp.
even if it is the stuff with groves in it I would think twice, think slippery when wet.
But on any ramp you should generally apply "sandpaper" strips or some such to aid traction.
you're right..that's part of the drill.
Depending on the size of the ramp and the weight, you might consider adding a couple of wheels to one edge so that the ramp can be set on it's side and wheeled around a little easier.
good idea.