Constructing a Residential Aluminum Ramps Queens
Ramps can be either prefabricated or site-constructed in various configurations and out of various materials. Before commencing the construction of any ramp, it is always a good idea to contact your local building department to find out whether a building permit is required. The building department may also be a great source of information on how best to design and construct a Residential Aluminum Ramps Queens in your area.
Building permits are generally not required when the changes in level are minor and a ramp is an integral part of landscaping (sloped sidewalks, re-grading, etc.), or when a portable ramp is used. However, building permits are usually required for longer ramps or where there is a significant change in level.
Prefabricated ramp systems come in two basic types: portable and fixed.
Portable ramps
Portable ramps are usually made of aluminum, generally come in various lengths from 900 to 2,400 mm (35 to 94 in.) and are useful for overcoming smaller changes in level such as a curb or a couple of steps.
While they can be a cost-effective solution to overcome smaller changes in level, safety and usability should always be considered. They are an excellent choice for temporary use but their lack of handrails and their steeper slopes do not make them appropriate for many people.
Portable ramps can usually be purchased through local home healthcare and medical supply retailers or ordered on-line.
Modular ramp systems
Modular ramp systems incorporate sloped surfaces of varying lengths, as well as landings, guards and handrails, and can be designed and assembled to meet the specific requirements of almost any situation. They are usually fabricated from metal components and are available in standard “off-the-shelf” sizes or customized.
When using modular ramping systems, it is important to provide a stable and firm base, and the potential effects of ground settlement and frost heave should be carefully considered when locating and fastening a prefabricated ramp system.
Using a modular aluminum ramp system may be a practical and cost-effective solution where a temporary ramp is required, as they are quicker and easier to assemble and disassemble than site-constructed ramps. In addition, when dismantled, the ramp components can often be re-used in other locations.
Modular systems can usually be ordered through your local home healthcare and medical supply retailers, or on-line.
A handrail should be affixed in a way that allows a user to grasp it continuously along its entire length — the location of brackets or posts should not require a user to let go of the handrail at any time.
Some users with limited balance will want to steady themselves using the handrail before they move onto the sloped surface. Handrails should extend horizontally for at least 300 mm (12 in.) beyond the starting and ending points of any sloped surface.
If you are building an exterior ramp and live in an area where there is lots of snow or rain, having a covered ramp would be ideal. If this is not possible, consider:
• Locating the ramp on the side of your house that is least likely to be affected by snow drifts or wind-blown rain.
• Locating the ramp to minimize the effect of snow and rain falling from the roof.
• Choosing durable materials for the ramp surface that can be shovelled; such as an aluminium ramp.
• Leaving a gap at the bottom of handrails and guards to allow for snow removal.
• Choosing materials that provide good grip, even when wet.
