Plans for Building Handicapped Ramps

Research the building guidelines outlined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. The handicapped ramp has to abide by building regulations, so make sure you are informed of these before you begin construction. It will also need proper signage.

Assess the entry and exit points of the area where you construct the ramp. Draw a map of the area, as it currently appears, and take photographs for your records. Take measurements of the area including door widths, current pathway lengths and note any stairs that are in place.

Speak to your local building authority. It grants permission to building projects, based on the plan's viability and legality. Seek its advice about laws that are enforced, and procedures that have to be followed when building a ramp, so you can plan accordingly.

Contact handicapped people and their care providers in the area, through clinics or community centers. Ask for their feedback about what ramp facilities they need -- such as handrails, emergency alarms or extra signs. Getting the user's opinions will help you design a suitable ramp.

Look around the local area at ramps that have already been built. You will get a better understanding of how much space you will need, and how a ramp fits alongside stairs, gardens, doorways and other features.

Refer back to your original map, outlined in Step 2, and start planning where you will put the ramp. Ramps are commonly "L" shaped or "U" shaped, and are a minimum of 36 inches wide to fit a wheelchair.

Create a draft copy of a plan. Include how the ramp will look, its dimensions, construction materials, budget, time frame for the build and potential builders to use. Don't overlook the landing area; this is the area where a door is opened or closed. You will need to ensure that there is enough space for the wheelchair to be maneuvered.

Employ a builder, and begin finalizing the ramp design together. A builder has expert insight on construction techniques and you will be able to design a schedule and work out costs more accurately. Using the proper materials is imperative for safety and durability.

Refer back to the ADA regulations, plus the building authority information you sourced in Step 3. Make sure your plan fits the criteria before commencing work.