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Wheelchair Ramp DesignIdeas for your PorchThe proper wheelchair ramp design will allow not only those in wheel chairs easier access to the porch and home but also those with limited mobility issues as well.
It's been said a steep ramp is more dangerous than not having a ramp at all. The higher the porch the longer the ramp must be in order to provide a gentle slope. Calculate the rise and run for a wheelchair ramp
Rule of thumb: Have a minimum of 12 inches of ramp for every inch the ramp must rise. The optimum rise would be 20 inches for every inch in vertical rise. For example, if your porch is 18 inches from the ground your ramp should be a minimum of 18 feet long. - Multiply the height in inches by 12 inches {18 x 12 = 216 inches} - Divide that number by 12 inches {216 / 12} =18 feet. If you want the slope to be more gentle, then consider a rise and run of 20 inches. So, your ramp would be 30 feet long {18 x 20 = 360 inches, then 360 / 12 = 30 feet} To learn more about slope, visit our wheelchair ramp slope page.
See how nicely this wheelchair ramp design below was integrated on this country farm house design.
Ramp options
Portable wheelchair ramps, like the one pictured here from Allegro Medical are designed with slopes that accommodate the rise and run.
Their design uses minimal hardware; it's quickly assembled using common hand tools. Modular components make it easy to move the ramp to a new location or even change the configuration. This portability feature makes it ideal when integrating the ramp into your landscape. My father could have used a product like this to access his front porch and his deck. Not enough room for a ramp? Porch too high for a ramp? A wheel chair porch lift is another option to consider. Wheelchair Ramp Landing Design RequirementsLandings are critical to proper wheelchair ramp design.
Other Important Wheelchair Ramp Design ConsiderationsRamps are used year-round so plan accordingly.
Wheel Chair Accessible Home PlansMore and more of us want to remain in our homes longer rather than having to go to a nursing home or other facility. Why? We love our homes and neighborhoods and the independence our homes provide. We know from first hand experience how important that is.In order to make that happen our homes need to be accessible, inside and out. So do one of two things. Either make your current home or your next home is accessible. We've located some home designs that incorporate accessibility standards - so you can stay in them as long as possible Family Home Plans has accessible home designs designed or adaptable to make your home accessible for a lifetime! American with Disabilities Act (ADA)The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) has Accessibility Guidelines for wheelchair ramp design for public access. (Many states have adopted International Residential Codes which pertain to ramps for private residences).You will more than likely be required to get a building permit before building or installing any kind of ramp. Check with your local codes department to determine the requirements for your area. If you have a loved one who needs a ramp, like my Dad did, it's a really good investment. Return from Wheelchair Ramp Design to Front Porch Ideas Home |
Accessibility Topics
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