Incredibly, I can’t find any plans for building a wheelchair ramp anywhere on the web. Lots of sites with come-ons, but they’re really just trying to sell you design services or modular ramps or even just trying to get you to come there so they can sell wheelchairs, etc.
So, does anyone know of any construction plans for a “typical” (whatever that means) ramp somewhere on the web, using common construction materials?
Replies
I haven't seen any plans but the ones we've built out of either wood or concrete just followed the ADA guidelines of a max slope of 1/12 (1 inch vertical for every 12 inches horizontal). I'm doing this from memory so I believe that number is correct. Design and materials depend on where it is being built and space constraints.
Good luck,
John
J.R. Lazaro Builders, Inc.
Indianapolis, In.
http://www.lazarobuilders.com
The eastern paralyzed veterans are always a good source of info on accessability guidelines. Here's some help:
http://data.unitedspinal.org/ArchitectureFaq/FAQs.asp?search=Wheel+chair+ramp+construction&submit=Search+%3E%3E&mode=anywords
Remodeling Contractor just outside the Glass City.
Quittin' Time
Here's a ramp that accesses an addition for a wheelchair user. It blends pretty nice with the deck at the back of the main house. Notice the board at the side of the ramp, to keep the wheels from sliding off the surface. We put the mid rail away from the users hands on the wheel height. His powered chair makes the ascent and decent easy. Also, minimum 4' turning radius on landings, try not to run over 14' w/o a landing, and as john says, the 1 in12 ratio. Other things to consider are smooth transitions at doorway thresholds and bottom of ramps.
This guy has performed valiantly with his disability. We were honored to help any way we could. Best of luck.
Remodeling Contractor just outside the Glass City.
Quittin' Time
This site isn't what your asking for but is the complete guidelines http://www.access-board.gov/adaag/html/adaag.htm
Smile. It could be worse. You could be me working for you.
I saw some at the ADA site.
Here's the ADA guidelines. A slope of 1:20 is recommended, but as steep as 1:12 is acceptable. There are also guidelines about landings, turning radius, etc.
http://www.access-board.gov/adaag/html/adaag.htm#4.8
But I think you were asking how to construct such a ramp. I don't know of a good place with construction details.