Wheelchair Ramp Guidelines: Understanding Slope and Length

A wheelchair ramp slope can help you safely get in and out of your home — especially if you regularly use a walking or mobility aid like a wheelchair, scooter, walker, or rollator. This guide explains the importance of a wheelchair ramp slope and guidelines for making them safe and ADA-compliant.

What's the ideal incline for a wheelchair ramp?

Slope requirements vary depending on whether the ramp is for a residential or commercial space. Here are the details:

Residential

Residential wheelchair ramps don't have to meet the exact ADA ramp slope requirements, but following similar guidelines will improve safety and accessibility.

The recommended slope for a residential wheelchair ramp is 2:12, creating around a 10-degree incline. So, for every two inches of vertical rise, you'll need 12 inches of ramp length. The minimum recommended width is 36 inches.

Although residential ramps have more flexibility, it's still important to prioritize safety and ease of use.

If you want a ramp that can travel with you, portable ramps typically measure 8 feet or less and can be purchased online from companies like Handiramp or EZ-Access.

Commercial

Commercial wheelchair ramps must adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards.

According to the ADA guidelines, the maximum slope ratio allowed is 1:12, which means that for every inch of vertical rise, the ramp must extend 12 inches horizontally, resulting in a gentle incline of about 4.8 degrees (or an 8.33% maximum rise), which must be uniform from top to bottom.

The ADA also specifies that the ramp should be at least 36 inches wide, though 48 inches is often recommended for more comfort and accessibility.

In addition to the slope and width, ADA-compliant ramps require resting platforms. For every 30 feet of ramp length, there must be a 36 by 60-inch minimum resting platform. Platforms are also required at both the top and bottom of the ramp to provide a safe, flat area for users to pause or transition.

Why is wheelchair ramp slope so important?

For individuals who use mobility aids, the slope of a wheelchair ramp makes a huge difference.
A slope that's too steep makes it dangerous and difficult to ascend and descend, increasing the risk of accidents or falls.

A ramp that's too flat will take up more space, making it hard to fit at the entrance of your home.
Following ADA guidelines ensures that adults with mobility issues can navigate ramps with minimal effort, increasing their safety and independence and reducing the risk of accidents.

In addition, in the United States, commercial buildings must abide by specific building codes, ensuring they are handicapped accessible. If your dwelling is not up to code, you'll likely face fines and possible closure until the infraction is fixed.

How to calculate the length and slope of a wheelchair ramp

Remember the gold standard ratio: 1:12. One inch of verticle rise requires 12 inches of ramp length. To calculate the required ramp length:

1. Measure the vertical rise: This is the height of the step or incline the ramp needs to overcome, measured in inches.

2. Multiply by 12: Multiply the vertical rise by 12 to find the minimum horizontal length the ramp needs.

Here's a real-world example: If you need a ramp to reach a 30-inch height (like a porch), your ramp should be at least 30 feet long to be safe and comfortable for wheelchair users.

• Here's the calculation: 30 inches x 12 = 360 inches, or 30 feet.

The right ramp length depends on several things in your situation, such as:

• User's ability: Depending on the strength of the person using the ramp, you may be able to increase or decrease the slope in a residential setting where the ramp does not need to meet strict ADA standards. 

• Available space: In smaller spaces, achieving the desired ramp slope may be challenging. While longer ramps with gentler slopes are always preferred, some residences may require shorter and steeper ramps. Remember that safety should always be the primary concern.

• Location and climate: Depending on where the ramp is placed, you may need to consider climate concerns, like rain or snow. Consider using slip-resistant materials that provide traction on the ramp surface and adding handrails. 

• Type of mobility aid: A manual wheelchair requires much more effort to push up a ramp and more control when descending. Power wheelchairs, on the other hand, can handle steeper inclines. 

• Compliance with regulations: An ADA wheelchair ramp slope must comply with guidelines for ramp design. Regulation compliance ensures legal protection for you or your business and also provides a safe and accessible ramp to wheelchair users.

Considerations when building or installing an accessibility ramp

Slope is a key element, but there are other important factors to keep in mind when building or buying a wheelchair ramp:

• Surface material: You want a ramp made from non-slip materials that offer traction in all weather. Textured rubber, anti-slip concrete, or wood with anti-slip tape can significantly reduce the risk of slipping.

• Handrails: Handrails are essential for commercial ramps that rise more than 6 inches and extend more than 72 inches in length. They provide extra support for users and help prevent falls. Even in residential settings, handrails are beneficial for additional safety and stability. If handrails are not possible, consider edge protection.

• Turning radius: If the ramp turns, ensure the turning radius is wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair without difficulty.

• Clear pathways: Keep the areas around the top and bottom of your ramp free from furniture, plants, and other items that could block your path or make movement difficult.

• Maintenance: Look for loose screws, cracks in the surface, and make sure the handrails are secure. Clean your ramp often to prevent it from getting slippery, and remove any leaves, ice, or other debris that could cause falls.