Access Ramp : Advice to get best out of it
Whether you’re building an access ramp to make your home more accessible for the disabled or are simply considering installing one in your own home, you’ll need to follow some basic guidelines. First, ensure that you have planning permission to build the ramp in your property. You can get automatic permission for your ramp if it qualifies for ‘permitted development’. Permitted development has a number of rules, including length and width. If you’re unsure, check with your local planning department. If you can’t obtain planning permission, you will have to follow some additional steps, such as building permits.
Another mistake to avoid is building the ramp in one continuous length. While long spans are a popular DIY solution, they’re not always the best option. Long ramps are difficult to adjust, and they’re impossible to move once installed. Alternatively, you can build each individual module separately and sell them if the need arises. A key area of the ramp is the transition area. It must be level and within 3/8 in. of the threshold. Otherwise, the front wheels of the wheelchair will be stopped.
Aside from allowing wheelchair users to access the home, a proper access ramp can help people with mobility problems access different parts of the house. Stairs, curbs, and steps may make it difficult to enter certain places. By installing an access ramp, a wheelchair user can gain access to all areas of their home with ease. Similarly, a ramp with safety features can help parents navigate uneven surfaces safely. If you’re building a ramp for the disabled, you should take the time to consider all the requirements for the project.
Before purchasing an access ramp, make sure it meets the necessary building regulations. It should be equipped with anti-slip surfaces, kerb rails, and handrails on both sides. A metre-wide space between handrails will allow enough space for mobility aids and a wheelchair. The pente pmr of an access ramp longer than 1.4 metres should be no more than 1:14.
The slope of an accessible ramp is higher than that of a normal ramp. It should not exceed one unit per twelve units of vertical projection (a.k.a., 12 percent). Nevertheless, you should choose a slope that is not too steep or too shallow. Taking into consideration the number of people that will be using the ramp, their physical conditions, and the environment around them, will help you choose the right type of ramp. If you’re unsure about slope and length, you can refer to the tables that come with the product.
Costs: The price of a wheelchair ramp depends on two factors: your living space and the amount of time you can dedicate to assembling it. You can buy a prefabricated aluminum ramp for around $100 per linear foot. If you hire a contractor, expect to spend at least two days on the project. You should budget around $2000 for materials and labor. The cost of hiring a contractor for this work will be around $1500 for a 30′ ramp.