How much does it cost to install a ramp?

Ramps are installed to make buildings more accessible to people who have trouble walking or using stairs and rely on walkers or wheelchairs for moving around. They make going in and out of a house easier and safer.

Depending on your needs, location, and the amount of space available, ramp costs can vary. On an average, a permanent wooden ramp around 30 ft. long will cost around $3,250, including labor and materials.

ADA guidelines

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) provides certain codes and guidelines for installing ramps. Though you may not always need to meet these standards if you are building a ramp for residential use, they are recommended and serve as an excellent reference point.

Slope

While installing any ramp, always use the least possible slope. This means that you should build the longest ramp that can be constructed in that space. A ramp with a low slope has many advantages. Not only is it easier to climb, there is also lesser danger of falling backwards. It is also safer to use a ramp during bad weather like rain or snow if the slope is not too steep. As per the ADA, the slope of a ramp in a new construction should not exceed 1:12 and the maximum rise for any run should not be more than 30 inches.

Landings

The landing at the bottom and top of each ramp should be as wide as the ramp leading to it and have a minimum length of 60 inches. A level landing at the top will help the user to stop and open the door. A level landing at the bottom is necessary to prevent the user from veering off the course when making a turn. If the ramp changes direction at the landing, the landing size should be at least 60 inches by 60 inches. Sometimes, when the ramp is too long (longer than 30 feet), you will have to build a level resting platform in the middle to help the user take a break.

Weight

Ramps are specifically designed for the type of weight they are intended to support. For example, some ramps are built only for manually operated wheelchairs while some are meant only for electric wheelchairs. Talk to your contractor about how you intend to use the ramp so that he can design it accordingly.

Handrails

A ramp with a rise greater than 6 inches or a horizontal projection greater than 72 inches should have handrails on both sides to assist users and prevent accidents. The handrails should be between 34 and 38 inches in height.

Edge protection

Ramps and landings with drop-offs should have curbs (at least 2 inches), walls, railings or projecting surfaces to ensure people do not slip or fall off.

Indoor vs outdoor ramps

Indoor and outdoor ramps can differ in the materials used for their construction. The materials used to build an outdoor ramp should be able to withstand all weather conditions. It is also important to make sure that the ramp will be safe and usable at all times. For instance, water should not accumulate on the ramp’s walking surfaces during rain. Pressure-treated wood, concrete, aluminium and galvanized steel are good choices for outdoor ramps. When constructing an indoor ramp, make sure to choose designs and materials that suit your accessibility needs and also complement the rest of your home.

Portable vs. fixed ramps

Portable ramps are ideal for renters or for people who are temporarily disabled following an injury or an accident while fixed ramps may be a better idea for people who are confined to a wheelchair for life.

Fixed or permanent ramps are made of wood ($108 per l.f.), concrete ($200 per l.f.), metal ($264-$2,090) or other materials. Portable ramps are made with lightweight materials and are easy to transport.

Portable ramps can be classified into different types depending on the function they are expected to perform. For example, folding ramps ($100-$1,048), also called suitcase or multi-fold ramps, may have one or many folds to make them small and easy to transport. They are generally made of aluminum and have different weight specifications. Roll-up ramps ($280-$1,300) are similar to folding ramps, but can be rolled up for storage and are lightweight and compact. Track ramps ($240-$1,900) are also made of lightweight aluminum and have two individual tracks that align with the wheels on both sides of the chair and can be folded or opened to achieve the desired length.

Custom vs. modular ramps

Custom ramps are built by a contractor to meet the specific needs of a client and are usually permanent. Common materials used in the construction of custom ramps include wood, concrete, and metal. Modular ramps function as fixed ramps, but can be disassembled, moved, and set up again. They are generally made of lightweight aluminum, require low maintenance and are ideal for temporary or semi-permanent use. In most cases, you will not need a building permit to install a modular ramp.

Types

Threshold ramps

Threshold ramps can help people using canes, walkers or wheelchairs maneuver small changes in the heights of floor surfaces with safety and ease. Depending on the features and materials used to construct them, threshold ramps can be classified into the following types.

Wheelchair ramps

For people in wheelchairs either due to illness or injury, wheelchair ramps provide increased freedom and movement. Based on the type of materials involved in their construction, wheelchair ramps are typically classified as follows.

Modular ramps

Modular ramps ($450-$3,750) are made of prefabricated segments that can be later put together to achieve the desired length.

Labor

Always hire a licensed professional who is familiar with the ADA guidelines and has experience building ramps. Your local disability services organization may be a good source of information.

To build a 30 ft. wooden ramp, you will need the services of two carpenters ($70 per hour) for two days, costing around $2,240 in labor. For building a concrete ramp, you can hire a handyman or a contractor at $60-$90 per hour.

Enhancement and improvement costs

• Since normal porch lights or streetlights may not provide adequate visibility, you may want to consider hiring an electrician ($65-$85 per hour) to install additional lighting along your wheelchair ramp. In-deck LED lighting ($60 per 8-piece box) may be a good option.

Additional considerations and costs

• Some neighborhoods may have codes, restrictions or specific rules about building ramps. Before beginning construction, talk to the local building code office to find out if there are any permit or inspection requirements. Be sure to specify whether the ramp will be for temporary or permanent use because that may affect the decision.
• Call 811 or make an online request before doing any excavation to check for utilities.
• Always hire a professional who is aware of the ADA guidelines and has experience building ramps.