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How to Build a Removable Wheelchair Ramp

A removable wheelchair ramp is a great solution for people who don't own their homes, or will only be in a wheelchair temporarily. You can save money by making one on your own, which is no more complicated than a moderate level woodworking project.

Things You'll Need

  • 12 to 18 inch posts
  • 2 by 6 joists for framework
  • Decking wood for body
  • Power saw
  • Power drill
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the height of the home’s entrance from the ground. For instance, if you have two four-inch steps leading to your front door, this figure would be eight inches. ADA (the Americans with Disabilities Act) standards for wheelchair ramps dictate one foot of ramp length for every inch of rise. In this case, your ramp would need to be at least eight feet long. This does not include the length of the landing, or the platform at the top of the ramp. The platform should be wide and long enough for the wheelchair to completely turn around on.

    • 2

      Draw up the plans. Many people find it helpful to take photos and measure the dimensions of the area where the ramp will go. This can help you decide the best shape and placement of your wheelchair ramp. You can also use this drawing to plan for your wood supplies and to apply for any necessary building permits or permissions from your homeowner’s association.

    • 3

      Recruit a few friends. If you are an experienced woodworker, you may be able to handle this project alone, but have a second set of hands available. At the very least, this will save you some time. Before you start drilling and cutting, make your action plan. Start with the landing first, and build the ramp out from it. Otherwise, if your calculations are off, you run the risk of leaving too little or too much room for the wheelchair user at the entry door.

    • 4

      Know that the construction itself can be broken into three main components: the foundation, the frame and the body. The foundation is constructed with posts which can be pounded into soft ground in order to make removal easier when necessary. Some posts may require cementing for stability. This will make ramp removal more difficult; however it may be the safest option for the wheelchair user. A contractor can help you determine if cementing is necessary. Additional posts may be required for safety depending on the length of your ramp. After the posts are in place, construct the framing for the landing and for the length of the ramp as you would a deck, reinforcing the joints for stability. Attach the frame to the posts, and complete the body with decking boards.

    • 5

      Sand and seal. Once the building is complete, test the ramp to see if anything needs to be adjusted or fixed. If you have access to the wheelchair, practice maneuvering up and down the ramp. Don’t forget to turn around on the landing. Make sure an able-bodied person completes this test run before the wheelchair user, just in case there are any problems that need last-minute attention.

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