External Ramps
External access ramps, also known as outdoor ramps or wheelchair ramps, are inclined pathways that provide accessible routes for individuals with mobility impairments to move between different levels of a building or outdoor space. These ramps are designed to accommodate wheelchair users, individuals with walkers, strollers, or other mobility aids. We take great care in designing a ramp with the aesthetics of your property in mind. We make sure that your ramp doesn’t advertise the fact that a person with mobility issues lives there.
We understand the importance of minimal disruption during installations. Our fitting team works efficiently to fit ramps with the least possible impact on your daily activities.
We service locations throughout Suffolk, including Bury St Edmunds, Ipswich, Stowmarket & Woodbridge.
External Access Ramps
Here are some key aspects of external access ramps:
- Ramps are sloped pathways that connect two different levels, such as a pavement or driveway and an entrance. The slope of an external access ramp is carefully designed to ensure it is within a specific range to allow for easy navigation by wheelchair users. The maximum allowable slope may vary depending on local building codes, but a common guideline is a 1:12 slope ratio. This means that for every 10cm of vertical rise, there should be 120cm of ramp length.
- The width of an external access ramp is important to accommodate individuals using mobility aids and to allow for easy passage and turning. The minimum width prescribed by building codes is typically 90cm, but wider ramps are often recommended to enhance manoeuvrability and accommodate two-way traffic.
- The surface of the ramp should be designed to provide traction and minimize slipping hazards. Common materials used for ramp surfaces include concrete, asphalt, wood, paving slabs or non-slip materials such as rubber or composite decking. The surface should be even and free from any obstacles or irregularities that could impede wheelchair movement.
- At both the top and bottom of the ramp, level platforms called landings are required. Landings provide a resting area for individuals to navigate the transition between the ramp and the adjacent surface. They should be at least as wide as the ramp and have a length that allows for manoeuvrability and easy door operation. Depending on the space available and the height we sometimes need to put a landing within the ramp itself.
- External access ramps generally require handrails and guardrails to provide stability, support, and safety. Handrails can be installed on one or both sides of the ramp and are positioned at a height between 86 to 97 cm to accommodate different users. Guardrails may be required along the sides of the ramp to prevent accidental falls.
- External access ramps need to consider the surrounding landscape and ensure that there are no obstacles or vegetation that hinder safe passage. Clearances must be maintained to allow unobstructed movement along the ramp, and any adjacent elements such as curbs or steps should be appropriately designed for accessibility.
We always follow local building regulations and accessibility guidelines when designing or constructing external access ramps to ensure compliance with and provide safe and accessible routes for individuals with mobility impairments.
Trust A Trader Reviews
Need Some Advice?
Call: 01449 257071
Clare: Can you tell us about your decision to adapt your home for your mother’s needs?
Tara: Absolutely. My mother had been in residential care for 3-4 years, costing £4,600 a month. As a nurse, I decided to use my skills to care for her full-time and wanted her to live with me. The house needed significant adaptations to accommodate her, and that’s when I decided to work with Ian. I knew from first speaking to him that he had a huge amount of knowledge and he was very empathetic. I chose Suffolk Mobility Solutions for their expertise.
Clare: What were the initial challenges you faced in making your home accessible?
Tara: The front entrance had two steep steps, making wheelchair access difficult. Ian designed a thoughtful metal ramp with a gate, considering the right gradient. My mother can now get in and out of the house either in her wheelchair or with her walker in the finer weather.
Clare: How did Ian address the issue of door replacements and accessibility within the property?
Tara: Ian’s attention to detail was exceptional. He replaced one of the outside doors with a level access door for wheelchair accessibility. He matched the colour perfectly with the remaining door, ensuring a seamless and visually cohesive transition.
Clare: Can you elaborate on the interior adaptations that were made?
Tara: Inside, a small ramp was added to the living room, and a pocket door was installed for ease of access. Ian even accommodated a specific lock for the living room, as one of my dogs has a knack for opening doors. The downstairs office was transformed into a bedroom with underfloor heating, and a spacious wet room was created to facilitate showering. A saniflow pump was installed outside of the property.
Clare: Were there any unexpected considerations during the adaptation process?
Tara: Yes, storage was a significant concern to Ian, something I hadn’t thought about. Ian, drawing from his own experiences, suggested a sliding wardrobe to store essential items like incontinence pads, which are delivered in a 3-month supply. This foresight proved invaluable in practicality and organisation.
Clare: How has this home conversion impacted your mother’s and your life?
Tara: The transformation has been life-changing. My mother’s health has improved, and we now enjoy a lovely quality of life together. I can provide 100% support, thanks to the thoughtful adaptations. We’re grateful for the positive outlook on life that this home conversion has brought. Before these works being carried out my mother couldn’t even visit on Christmas day as she couldn’t access the property and there was no suitable toilet for her inside.
Clare: How has Ian and his teams involvement made a difference?
Tara: Ian was fantastic throughout the process, nothing was too much trouble. His lived experience made him unafraid to take on such a large project, understanding the profound impact it would have on our lives. All the work was carried out to a very high standard. I must commend Jamie from Ian’s team who carried out the work to high specification and who made the whole process enjoyable. This home adaptation, guided by Ian’s expertise, has not only made the house accessible but has truly transformed our lives for the better.
Need Some Advice?
Call: 01449 257071
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