Building Bridges Yourself

Read this tip to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Wheelchair Ramps and other Wheelchairs topics.

Can I build my own wheelchair ramp?

Building Bridges Yourself

You've built a cupola for the upstairs. You made a dollhouse for your daughter. You built a birdhouse. You set a boat afloat. Surely you can construct a custom wheel chair ramp so you or your loved one can ride up to the front or back entrance or both?

Building and using wheelchair ramps can't always be a piece of cake. Here are some tips before you head to Home Depot for this new weekend plan, Project Wheelchair Ramp:

• Use the same wood as the wood in your house. If it's sturdy enough for your walls, it will support a wheelchair or scooter.

• Aluminum or steel wheelchair ramps are durable. Buy sheets of metal that you can weld together if necessary.

• Remember, steeper ramps are more dangerous. If the distance is 24 inches, incline the ramp 2 inches (one unit of height to twelve units of distance).

• Check the board length and the overall ramp width (36 to 48 inches is recommended) to make sure they're up to code.

• Have your child pop a wheelie up the ramp. If it holds, it's probably solid enough for a wheelchair.

   

Comments

Nobody has commented on this tip yet. Be the first.



Name:


URL: (optional)


Comment:


Not finding the advice and tips you need on this Wheelchairs Tip Site? Request a Tip Now!


Guru Spotlight
Barbara Gibson