How to Build a Wheelchair Ramp | Lowe's (2024)

FAQs

How do you make a simple wheelchair ramp? ›

The recommended slope for wheelchair ramps is 1:12 (one inch of rise for every 12 inches of ramp length). For example, if the deck's height is 24 inches, the ramp length should be approximately 24 feet to achieve a 1:12 slope. Adjust the calculations based on your specific requirements.

Ramp Length Affects Safety, Comfort, and Compliance

In certain buildings and spaces, wheelchair ramps must comply with the ADA recommendation of 12 feet of length for every foot of rise.

Cut sheets of 3/4-inch plywood to five-foot lengths to serve as landings at the top and bottom of the ramp. Cut more of these for any additional landings you'll need. They must be at least as wide as the ramp and at least 60 inches long to allow space for wheelchairs to turn around.

The ADA requires that all business and public use wheelchair ramps adhere to a 1:12 slope ratio, meaning that for every inch of vertical rise there must be 12 horizontal inches (one foot) of ramp.

Most wheelchair ramps are made from wood, concrete, steel, or aluminum. The material will impact the overall price. Prefabricated aluminum tends to be the most budget-friendly long-term solution, while steel or concrete costs more to install.

Now, on to ADA guidelines. For commercial occupied use, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) recommends a 1:12 slope. This means that every 1” of the vertical rise you need to overcome, there needs to be at least 1 foot (12”) of ramp length.

The American Disability Association's guidelines for ramps require 1 foot of length for every 1 inch of rise. For example, if you have three steps with a total rise of 21 inches, then you would need 21 feet of ramp length.

There are two parts to Medicare coverage: Part A covers “Hospital Insurance” and Part B covers “Medical Insurance.” Wheelchair ramps fall under the category for durable medical equipment (DME) covered by Part B, just like a wheelchair.

How long should a wheelchair ramp be for 1 step? ›

For commercial use when somebody is sitting in the wheelchair or scooter while it climbs the ramp, ADA recommends a 1:12 slope, which means that every 1" of vertical rise requires at least 1' (12") of ramp length (5 degrees of incline). Example: A 24" rise requires a minimum ramp length of 24' (288") (24 divided by 1).

This means that for every 1 inch of rise, 12 inches of ramp are required. For example, if an entryway is 36 inches high, you will need a ramp that is at least 36 feet long. The 1:12 slope ratio reduces the steepness of a ramp to 5 degrees of incline and makes it both easier and safer to traverse.

It's best to choose medium-length lumber. For 2x4 and 2x6 boards, that means 16 feet or less in length. For 4x4 posts, choose beams that are 10 feet or less in length. Use screws instead of nails because nails can become undone and pose a safety hazard.

A platform lift provides a vertically rising and descending landing that transports a person from one level to another. Platform lifts work for people either with or without a wheelchair. They are often used to get up onto a deck or porch. There are many types and styles.

Ramp stringers should be 2x6 for unsupported spans less than 8 feet.