How Long Does a Wheelchair Ramp Need to Be?

The americans with disabilities act (ada) requires a 1:12 slope ratio for commercial ramps (ramps used in public spaces). This means that for every 1 inch of rise, 12 inches of ramp are required. For example, if an entryway is 36 inches high, you will need a ramp that is at least 36 feet long.

How Long Does a Wheelchair Ramp Need to Be?

Wheelchair ramps are an important tool for allowing people with mobility impairments to access buildings and other structures. A wheelchair ramp must be the right length to ensure the safety of the wheelchair user and others who may be using the ramp. Whether you are installing a ramp in a home or a public building, there are important considerations when determining how long a wheelchair ramp needs to be.

The primary consideration when determining the length of a wheelchair ramp is the rise or elevation of the ramp. The rise is the vertical distance from the ground level at the bottom of the ramp to the ground level at the top of the ramp. The ramp should have a maximum slope of 1:12, meaning that for every 12 inches of horizontal distance, the ramp should rise 1 inch. A ramp with a 1:12 slope is considered the safest and most comfortable for wheelchair users.

For example, if the rise of the ramp is 24 inches, the ramp should be 24 feet long. If the rise of the ramp is 36 inches, the ramp should be 36 feet long. If the ramp must rise more than 36 inches, then the ramp must have a landing between the bottom and the top of the ramp. In this case, the ramp should be divided into two parts, each