Important Guidelines for Installing a Stair Ramp
Are you thinking about installing a stair ramp for a loved one? Stair ramps, also known as wheelchair ramps, are a perfect way for a handicapped individual to navigate the floors of your home and are now more affordable to build place into your home than ever before.
That said, you feel that you can do the job of building the ramp yourself. After all, you know your house best, and with your expertise, you feel confident you can install the parts properly and safely.
When building a ramp, there are a few guidelines you’ll want to follow to make sure you get the best results. Read this article to find out what you need to know!
Make Sure to Plan Ahead
Before you get started on your stair ramp, the first thing you’ll want to do is map out your plan of action. Putting up a stair ramp requires a lot of labor and moving parts, and the last thing you’ll want to do is go through all of that effort only to do the project incorrectly. With that said, you’d do well to ask yourself some important questions before going through with the whole process.
Make sure to consider the following before you begin the installation process:
- Who will be using the stair ramp?
- How much space do you have to work with?
- What is the main point of entry in your home?
- How many ramps do you need?
Answering these questions should give you an idea of what you need and how to execute the process before you start building the wheelchair ramp.
Know the Measurements
You can’t just build a ramp with any measurement. Doing so could result in a ramp that doesn’t work properly, or worse, one that could put the user in harm’s way. Make sure your ramp has the proper measurements to operate under safe conditions.
The maximum slope of the ramp should be no more than 1:12 and the rise should be no more than 30 inches. Make sure that the width of the ramp is at least 3 feet wide to safely handle the wheelchair (you’ll want to measure the wheelchair to get an exact number).
Install Proper Landings
Landings spaces are spaces at the top and bottom of the ramp to allow the user to easily get on and off of the ramp itself. These spaces should be at least as wide as the ramp itself and around 5 feet long to allow room for mobility. Make sure the landings are easy to access and use materials that allow for safe movement on its surface.
Let’s Help You Get Started
Now that you know some of the most important guidelines for stair ramp installation, you’ll be able to start installing your ramp safely and easily. Of course, sometimes the project may end up being a bit more than you originally intended for it to be, and you may need some professional help to get it done. When that’s the case, you’ll want to rely on Ability Center for all of your stair ramp needs.
Our company offers only the highest quality with our goods and services. Our expertise in mobility services spans for decades, and we’ve become the leaders in the industry because we make sure to do the job right. We offer ramp-building services and financing for your stair ramp, as well as plenty of accessible vehicles and a wide variety of mobility products, including wheelchairs, scooters, mobility lifts, and more.
Ready to get started? Check out our site to learn more about what we do, or reach out to us whenever you’re ready to receive our help. We can’t wait for the chance to serve you!
