This post is part 4 of the Wheelchair Ramp Series. Be sure to read part 1 and part 2 and 3 , to learn more about the main components of a properly constructed wheelchair ramp, design, and aesthetics and materials. – Wheelchair Ramps Part 1 – Overview, Wheelchair Ramps Part 2 – Design, Wheelchair Ramps Part 3 – Aesthetics and Materials
Now that we have covered many important aspects and choices in designing and building your wheelchair ramp in the proper fashion its time to get down to the question you have been wondering about, ” what’s it gonna cost? ” Lets take a look….
Wheelchair Ramp Costs
There are many different aspects to consider when thinking about the cost of such a project as a handicap ramp. These costs can include a number of different changes to the home such as rebuilding a porch to the correct height and size, walkways, landscaping and even a new and larger front door. It is not uncommon for the cost of a ramp to range from 100-200 dollars per liner foot or 1,200-2,400 dollars per vertical foot. For example a ramp that is 16’ long could be in a range of 1600-3200 dollars. These costs are simply to give the reader a ball park idea and are not hard costs. Your project will vary with the needs of your loved one and the special requirements of your home and building codes for your area.
Wheelchair Ramp Dimension Guidelines
Here are some helpful dimensions to use that will ensure proper functioning of your wheelchair accessible ramp.
- -Allow at least a 5’X5’ opening on the porch with a minimum space of 18” on the latch side of the door.
- -Many times it is beneficial to design the ramp so that stairs are still present for those who wish to use them.
- The side rails of the deck should be a minimum of 36” high*
- -Handrail height should be around 30”-36” in height with a space under the rail to allow leaves, water, and other debris to be removed. The height as well as the space below the rail and even the baluster spacing will be subject to the building codes in your area.
- -Decking should be laid perpendicular to the direction of travel and should have at gap of around 1/8” or more for proper drainage as well as seasonal expansion and contraction of the wood.
- -The handrail should be spaced 1 ½” from the guard rail to allow enough clearance for the elderly user to comfortable grasp the handrail while this spacing is not far enough that an arm could pas through and get stuck.
Temporary Handicap Ramps
Sometimes a large and permanent wheelchair accessible ramp is not necessary and a temporary wheelchair ramp is the best option to safely get an elderly person into or out of a home or mother in law suite. There are many products available to fill the need for different types of temporary ramps. Temporary or suitcase rampscan range in cost from $90-$200 or more depending on their size.
I hope you found this series of posts about handicap ramps helpful! If you have any comments or other important information that you would like to share please leave us a comment below!
Be sure t0 check out Part 1 , Part 2, and Part 3 of this series – Wheelchair Ramps part 1 – Overview , Wheelchair Ramps Part 2 – Design , and Wheelchair Ramps Part 3 – Aesthetics and Materials
What do you think about Wheelchair Ramps? Let us know by leaving a comment below!
Great article. I’m an advocate of wheelchair ramps and would like for them to be a more common feature in all buildings.
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