Disabled individuals are often faced with several challenges when it comes to finding easy access to many buildings. Most that are for commercial use or which are open to the public must comply with laws that require them to adhere to certain guidelines in regards to those with mobility issues. Private residence wheelchair ramp construction may use these same specifications to build safe structures.
The Americans with Disabilities Act was enacted in 1990 and has set forth construction specification that provide for the safest ramps for those with limited mobility. They cover everything from the slope progression and width to guard rails and slip protection. It even suggests the most appropriate materials for various circumstances.
Proper adherence to specifications is not only important for the quality of the project, but also for the safety of all who would use it. It must be adequate for those in chairs or who use walkers, canes and crutches as well as those who walk on their own recognizance. Creating such a structure means taking on a responsibility to make sure it is done correctly so that no one gets hurt.
Structures of this type may be built from several different materials. If one intends the construction to remain as a permanent fixture, the most durable material is concrete, and though sturdy, it is also a bit expensive. Anti-slip textures can be added directly to the surface as it is drying.
While steel has great strength, it is not rust and corrosion proof without galvanization and it is easy to slip on without added texture. Aluminum is resistant to weather conditions and is strong, but it is also expensive and requires anti-slip measures. Because it is so lightweight, there is always the risk of bending under the strain of the weight being put on it, so support calculations need to be precise.
Wood is both more affordable and more common though being a natural substance, it requires regular maintenance. It will need to be sealed with a varnish to prevent warping and rotting due to weather conditions and sanding is necessary to prevent splinters on the hand rails. Boards should be attached with screws instead of nails and placement should be close enough to be a smooth ride but still allow space for water drainage.
ADA specifications suggest that for each foot in length, the slope rise just one inch. This angle is the right pitch to be gentle enough for someone to roll themselves up and allows one to more securely manage the decline. For the sake of safety, a level area of at least two feet should be installed at intervals of approximately eight feet.
There is quite a bit of planning that goes into proper wheelchair ramp construction. The slope needs to be at a safe ratio and adequate steps should be taken to ensure the structure is durable and strong enough to hold the weight of all who pass over it as electric chairs are quite heavy. It needs to be easily traveled by those on wheels, crutches, walkers, canes and on feet.
The Americans with Disabilities Act was enacted in 1990 and has set forth construction specification that provide for the safest ramps for those with limited mobility. They cover everything from the slope progression and width to guard rails and slip protection. It even suggests the most appropriate materials for various circumstances.
Proper adherence to specifications is not only important for the quality of the project, but also for the safety of all who would use it. It must be adequate for those in chairs or who use walkers, canes and crutches as well as those who walk on their own recognizance. Creating such a structure means taking on a responsibility to make sure it is done correctly so that no one gets hurt.
Structures of this type may be built from several different materials. If one intends the construction to remain as a permanent fixture, the most durable material is concrete, and though sturdy, it is also a bit expensive. Anti-slip textures can be added directly to the surface as it is drying.
While steel has great strength, it is not rust and corrosion proof without galvanization and it is easy to slip on without added texture. Aluminum is resistant to weather conditions and is strong, but it is also expensive and requires anti-slip measures. Because it is so lightweight, there is always the risk of bending under the strain of the weight being put on it, so support calculations need to be precise.
Wood is both more affordable and more common though being a natural substance, it requires regular maintenance. It will need to be sealed with a varnish to prevent warping and rotting due to weather conditions and sanding is necessary to prevent splinters on the hand rails. Boards should be attached with screws instead of nails and placement should be close enough to be a smooth ride but still allow space for water drainage.
ADA specifications suggest that for each foot in length, the slope rise just one inch. This angle is the right pitch to be gentle enough for someone to roll themselves up and allows one to more securely manage the decline. For the sake of safety, a level area of at least two feet should be installed at intervals of approximately eight feet.
There is quite a bit of planning that goes into proper wheelchair ramp construction. The slope needs to be at a safe ratio and adequate steps should be taken to ensure the structure is durable and strong enough to hold the weight of all who pass over it as electric chairs are quite heavy. It needs to be easily traveled by those on wheels, crutches, walkers, canes and on feet.
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