What is the proper rise for a wheelchair/scooter ramp.?

Question

My porch is 26 inches high, I weigh 170 lbs, and the scooter probably weighs less than 200 lbs

Answer 1

ADA requirements are a slope of 1" rise for every 12" of run. This makes for a huge ramp, in your case 26 feet long. That mild slope will allow a person in a wheelchair to make it up the slope unassisted.

That being said, you may not need that much. Electric chairs and scooters will list the maximum slope they can handle for a given weight. Since this is personal property, you may not be required to adhear to ADA requirements. I built one here in CA to get into a trailer. We were able to use a 2 in 12 slope (which cuts the length in half). If you have the room, use the lower slope, but that just can't happen all the time.

There are other requirements that need to be followed as well. Guard rails are required, and landings if the ramp must turn corners in order to get the length requred.

As far as materials, concrete is always the best, but it can be made from wood (attaching the guard rail/ hand rail at the bottom is tricky).

Answer 2

Hi,
I can't say I truly know, but had a couple of thoughts. I built one for my mother about 10 years ago at that height and I believe the ramp extended approx. 10 ft.

Certainly you might check your local codes/zoning agencies, but also the Orgs. that deal with the Americans with Disabilities act.

Also possible might be contact with organizations that sell/service wheel chairs/ a local hospital/ or therapy center/ or even your own doctor.

If they haven't the exact stats, they may at least be able to direct you appropriately.

Steven Wolf

I wish you well

Answer 3

Diver hit it on the nail. 12-1 is the national code. I wouldn`t hire a DIY doc that has 45 years experience and doesn`t know that yet. Just don`t try and do it in one run.