Assuring Safety With Wooden Wheelchair Ramps

By Hispanic

Want to ensure safety in your home? Why not install a wooden wheelchair ramp? Wooden wheelchair ramps are installed in homes. Most residences with handicapped members prefer to build these ramps themselves. This way, safety, durability, and ease of use can be ensured. Many of these ramps are available in modular kits. Modular wheelchair ramps are usually installed by securing nuts and bolts to the ramp floor, deck, rails and landing systems. These wheelchair ramps can be permanent or temporary.

These wheelchair ramps have specific installation standards. In most cases, the designs of the ramps are associated with the slope, rise and the fixing of the handrails. Modular wooden wheelchair ramps have a maximum slope of 1 inch of rise per 12 inches of run. The maximum rise for most runs is 30 inches, for which the maximum run is also 30 inches.

The minimum inner clearance (width) of the ramp has to be 36 inches. Take note that landing systems for both top and bottom of every run are provided. The landing width should be the same as the ramp itself, but it should be at least 60 inches in length. Handrails are required especially if the ramp ratio exceed 1:15. They are often placed on both sides with a measurement of between 30-38 inches from the ramp floor.

The materials used for these kinds of ramps are really important. Although most wooden wheelchair ramps are modular, you still have to inquire about the wood. The surface should not be slippery. Generally, pressure treated wood is the best material to use. The essential features are always safety and durability.

Termites and other pests can damage and destroy your ramp floor. To prevent this, it is strongly recommended that the wooden surface be treated. In addition, don't forget to use galvanized deck screws which should be at least three inches. Also, take note that rainy seasons or any wet situations can make the floor very slippery. Remember to always cover the ramp with plastic carpet runners or rolled roofing. You can buy these items from your local hardware store.

About the Author:

We commonly see wheelchair ramps almost everywhere, making one out of wood has to be treated properly so termites and other pest will not damage or destroy it causing unwanted accidents.