Adding a wheelchair ramp to a manufactured home may be necessary for some residents. Not only does it give those in a wheelchair access to the home, but it makes it easier for anyone with a walker or a stroller to get to the front or back door.
Building a wheelchair ramp takes a little more thought and planning than nailing a bunch of pieces of wood together. In fact, there are certain specifications and requirements that must be met when doing it correctly, and these are regulated by the ADA, also known as the American Disabilities Act.
Also, be sure to speak to your mobile home park community manager for approval and guidance on how to proceed. Your community manager should be able to provide guidance and advice on how to install a ramp.
The ADA is in charge of setting the requirements for wheelchair ramps to ensure the safety of those with certain disabilities. These specifications include the ramp slope, ramp length, ramp placement, and the landing size of the ramp.
Let’s take a closer look at the ADA requirements:
Ramp slope must be at least 1:20 and no greater than 1:12.
Ramp width must be at least 36 inches wide.
Top and bottom ramp landing sizes must be at least 60 inches long and 36 inches wide (at least five feet square) and be level.
If longer than six feet or greater than a 6-inch rise, the ramp must have handrails on both sides.
Cross slopes cannot be greater than 1:50 and must feature a non-slip surface.
There must be a 1.5-inch space between the handrail and wall it’s installed on.
Handrails must be continuous and without obstructions.
Handrails cannot feature sharp or abrasive elements and the top should be between 34 and 38 inches above the floor.
In addition to the ADA requirements, there may be additional specifications listed in the local building code. Before building a wheelchair ramp, you should always make sure it meets those additional specifications to avoid potential lawsuits, especially if someone were to get injured.
How to Build a Wheelchair Ramp for Your Mobile Home
If you plan on adding a wheelchair ramp to your mobile home, there are several ways to do so. Most people will either choose to build one themselves or purchase one that’s pre-built to meet the ADA requirements. Either way, there will be some work involved before it’s installed.
If you plan on building it yourself from wood, you’ll need a saw, hammer, drill, chalk line, framing square, concrete footers, composite deck board, and pressure-treated lumber (4x4, 2x6, and 2x4). You’ll also need to plan your wheelchair ramp design out before you begin building to ensure accuracy. Anybody experienced in basic carpentry and who has the skills to build a deck can build a wooden wheelchair ramp.
A prebuilt metal ramp is usually configured to fit each application, and only needs to be assembled. Assembly can be done by most handy persons with basic hand tools.
For more useful tips and helpful advice on manufactured home living, head over to our blog and read our wide range of blog posts. If you’re interested in renting or owning a mobile home in Indiana, Kentucky, or Ohio, contact us at mPark Homes today for more information!