What about handrails for ramps?

Handrails are required for slopes steeper than 1:20. They should be 34-38 inches high, continuous, and provide proper grip for safety and accessibility.

How to handle multiple ramp sections?

Add landings between sections. Each landing should be at least 60 inches long and provide adequate turning space for wheelchair users.

What about edge protection for ramps?

Edge protection is required for ADA compliant ramps. This includes curbs, walls, or railings to prevent wheelchair users from accidentally rolling off the ramp.

Ramp Calculator

Q: What is the maximum slope for a wheelchair ramp?

1:12 (8.33%) is the maximum slope for most wheelchair ramp applications. This provides safe and comfortable access for wheelchair users while meeting ADA compliance requirements.

Q: How long should a ramp landing be?

Minimum 60 inches for ADA compliance. Landings provide safe resting areas and turning space for wheelchair users and should be level with proper drainage.

Ramp Parameters

Rise

Vertical height to overcome

Run

Horizontal distance

Ramp Type

Type of ramp

Landing Length

Length of landing platform

Landing Width

Width of landing platform

Calculation Results

Ramp Calculator: Your Guide to Ramp Design

Need to calculate the proper dimensions for your ramp? Our Ramp Calculator helps you determine the correct slope, length, and landing requirements for your specific needs.

Understanding Ramp Calculations

Ramp calculations are important for several reasons:

Safety: Proper slope for safe use
Accessibility: ADA compliance requirements
Comfort: Easy navigation for users
Space Planning: Efficient use of area
Cost Control: Accurate material estimates

How to Use the Ramp Calculator

Enter Rise: Input vertical height
Enter Run: Input horizontal distance
Select Ramp Type: Choose appropriate type
Enter Landing Details: Input landing dimensions
Click Calculate: Get ramp specifications

Ramp Calculation Formulas

Slope Ratio:
S = R / L

Slope Percentage:
P = (R / L) × 100

Slope Angle:
A = arctan(R / L)

Ramp Length:
L = R / S

Where:
S = Slope ratio
R = Rise
L = Run
P = Slope percentage
A = Slope angle

Common Ramp Specifications

Wheelchair Ramps:
- Maximum slope: 1:12 (8.33%)
- Minimum width: 36 inches
- Landing size: 60 × 60 inches
- Handrail height: 34-38 inches
Vehicle Ramps:
- Maximum slope: 1:4 (25%)
- Minimum width: 96 inches
- Landing size: 120 × 120 inches
- Surface: Non-slip material
ADA Compliant Ramps:
- Maximum slope: 1:12 (8.33%)
- Minimum width: 36 inches
- Landing size: 60 × 60 inches
- Edge protection required
Custom Ramps:
- Variable slope options
- Custom dimensions
- Special requirements
- Unique applications

Real-World Examples

Example 1: Standard Wheelchair Ramp

Rise: 30 inches
Run: 30 feet
Ramp Type: Wheelchair
Landing Length: 5 feet
Landing Width: 5 feet
Results:
- Slope Ratio: 1:12
- Slope Percentage: 8.33%
- Slope Angle: 4.76°
- Total Length: 30 feet
- Landing Area: 25 sq ft

Example 2: ADA Compliant Ramp

Rise: 36 inches
Run: 36 feet
Ramp Type: ADA Compliant
Landing Length: 5 feet
Landing Width: 5 feet
Results:
- Slope Ratio: 1:12
- Slope Percentage: 8.33%
- Slope Angle: 4.76°
- Total Length: 36 feet
- Landing Area: 25 sq ft

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum slope for a wheelchair ramp?

1:12 (8.33%) for most applications.

How long should a ramp landing be?

Minimum 60 inches for ADA compliance.

What about handrails?

Required for slopes steeper than 1:20.

How to handle multiple sections?

Add landings between sections.

What about edge protection?

Required for ADA compliant ramps.