How to Build a Ramp & Attach it to a Porch

Measure the area needed for the wheelchair ramp. The Americans with Disabilities Act specifies that for every inch you need to elevate the ramp, there should be a foot of lateral distance. For instance, a rise of 6 inches would require 6 feet of ramp. Factor in space for the door to open, perhaps by placing a flat area at the top of the ramp.

Clear the area of obstacles, such as tree stumps, bushes and flowers. The process will be easier if the ground is level and clear.

Set the posts into concrete at the appropriate locations. It is best to use four pairs of posts to ensure stability. Place the posts every quarter of the total distance. You will not need posts at the beginning of the ramp, where it will rest on the ground. For optimum stability, place posts flush to the building.

Cut the posts to the desired height. The formula for the post height is "height in inches equals distance from the start of the ramp in feet minus the thickness of the wood." Assuming that the wood is 2 inches thick, a post 6 feet from the start of the ramp will need to be 6 inches - 2 inches, or 4 inches high. Be sure to check the calculations on any blueprints you have drawn.

Lay the planks across the posts and nail them into position to create the ramp frame. Lay the rest of the planks so that they lie in the direction of travel up the ramp, and attach them securely to the frame with as many nails as needed. Use wood-filler between the planks.

Sand the finished ramp to ensure that it is as smooth as possible. Mix sand and varnish together. Paint the ramp to seal it and provide traction for a wheelchair or buggy. Finish the ramp by placing a metal lip between it and the porch door. Insert handrails if needed.