How Long Does a Wheelchair Ramp Need to Be?
How long does a wheelchair ramp need to be and how do you calculate the correct length? These are important questions to answer to ensure that your facility complies with the norms established in the Americans with Disabilities Act. It’s also important to protect the safety of wheelchair users and their caregivers.
ADA ramp requirements help prevent accidents such as people falling out of their wheelchairs or mobility scooters. Because ramps are also a requirement in many public places to ensure access for all, ensuring ADA compliance in these locations is a must.
ADA Wheelchair Ramp Slope Requirements
The slope of a wheelchair ramp refers to how steep it is. This can be expressed as a ratio (rise:run) or as an angle. Though a short ramp may seem more practical as it takes up less space, installing a ramp that's too short for the rise (such as for getting a wheelchair upstairs) can lead to a very steep slope ratio.
Compliance with ADA wheelchair ramp requirements with regard to ramp length is mandatory in public and commercial spaces. It is recommended (but not required) for residential settings. In both cases, these guidelines have been developed to ensure a safer experience for the wheelchair user and their caregiver(s), if applicable.
Handicap Ramp Slope Requirements
The Americans with Disabilities Act stipulates a 1:12 slope ratio for ramps used in public spaces. This means that for each 1 inch of rise, 12 inches (one foot) of length is required. This ratio ensures that the steepness of the ramp stays at around 5°. A study published in 2015 found that 1:12 and 1:10 ramps are the most comfortable for wheelchair users, with steeper slopes producing significant rises in blood pressure.
While ADA rules only apply to ramps installed in places that are open to the public, many homeowners also chose ADA-compliant wheelchair ramps for their homes. In homes with very limited space, a slope ratio of 2:12 (12 inches of ramp run for every two inches of rise) is acceptable. However, it’s important to keep in mind that this ratio increases the incline to 9.5° and therefore makes it more difficult to traverse.
ADA Ramp Landing Requirements
|
Ramp Length (Inches) |
Ramp length (Feet) |
Platforms Needed |
|
1-360 |
1-30 |
0 |
|
361-720 |
31-60 |
1 |
|
721-1080 |
61-90 |
2 |
|
1081-1440 |
91-120 |
3 |
In addition to rules about the length of a ramp, the ADA states that ramps must have a resting platform for every 30' of ramp length. If the ramp changes direction, the platform must measure 60" x 60". If the ramp is straight, the platform has to cover the width of the ramp and be 60" long.
Remember that each extra platform you need will add 60" to the total length of the ramp. The ADA also requires a 5' x 5' clearing at the top and the bottom of the ramp. Therefore, if you don't have a platform or space at the top of the ramp, you will also need a landing platform which will add another 60" to the total length of the ramp.
ADA Ramp Landing Requirements:
Example 1: How Long Should an ADA-Compliant Wheelchair Ramp Be for 3 Steps?
Based on an average step height of 7.5”, a ramp for three steps should be approximately 22’ long.
Example 2: How Long of a Ramp Do I Need for 4 Steps?
Based on the same calculations and an ADA-compliant slope, a four-step ramp should be 30’ long.
How to Calculate the Correct Length for a Wheelchair Ramp
The easiest way to get an idea of how long your ramp needs to be is by using an online ramp length calculator. If you're thinking of investing in a ramp, this tool can help you calculate a rough budget and decide which type of ramp would be most appropriate for the space you have.
Alternatively, you can calculate ramp length (in feet) manually based on the total rise (in inches) and the desired slope. These formulas are based on those provided by calculator-online.net:
4.8°: Rise in inches divided by 1
7°: Rise in inches divided by 1.5
10°: Rise in inches divided by 2
For example, for a slope of 10° with a rise of 12”: 12/2= 6 feet long
Frequently Asked Questions
These are a few additional things to consider before purchasing or renting a ramp.
Which Type of Wheelchair Ramp Should I Get?
Straight ramps are probably the most common type of wheelchair ramp and a great solution as long as you have enough room for its entire length. You can also find:
Left or right turn ramps (“dog-leg” ramps). These feature one 90° turn.
Switchback ramps. These feature one or more 180° turns.
Left or right turn ramps are especially useful if the landing area is on a different side of the property to your walkway.
Should You Rent a Wheelchair Ramp?
In some circumstances, renting a ramp may be the best choice. If you foresee using your ramp for a short period of time, portable wheelchair ramp rental can be the most cost-effective solution. Remember that rented ramps must also meet safety standards if they are to be used by the public.
Are Portable Ramps a Good Permanent Solution?
Portable ramps, such as those offered in our store in Denver, Colorado, can offer families in need of a wheelchair a good temporary or permanent solution. Portable ramps tend to be more affordable than installing a permanent ramp and offer the advantage of being easy to store and easy to carry around and use wherever you are.
Please note that most portable ramps measure between two and six feet, meaning they are only suitable for small rises. Just like rented ramps, portable ramps must comply with ADA regulations if they will be used in places that are open to the public.
Ramp Length Affects Safety, Comfort, and Compliance
Calculating ramp length correctly will ensure that the wheelchair user can travel up and down the ramp comfortably and reduce the likelihood of accidents. In certain buildings and spaces, wheelchair ramps must comply with the ADA recommendation of 12 feet of length for every foot of rise.
In addition to wheelchair ramp length, it’s important to think about the shape of the ramp and ensure a non-slip surface. A mobility expert can explain the options and help you determine the best kind of wheelchair ramp for your business or home.