Ramp Calculator
Calculate ramp slope, angle, and dimensions for ADA-compliant wheelchair accessibility
Calculate Ramp Specifications
Calculation Method
Choose how you want to specify your ramp dimensions
ADA Compliance Level
Ramp Dimensions
Height difference to overcome
Ramp Calculation Results
ADA Compliance Status
Calculation Formulas (Competitor Validated):
Ramp Analysis
Example Calculation
5 Steps @ 7" Each with 1:16 Comfortable Slope (Competitor Example)
Total Rise: 5 steps × 7" = 35 inches
ADA Ratio: 1:16 (comfortable slope)
Required Run: 35" × 16 = 560" = 46.67 feet
Calculation Results
Slope angle: arctan(35 ÷ 560) = 3.58°
Slope percentage: (35 ÷ 560) × 100% = 6.25%
Ramp length: √(35² + 560²) = 561.1" = 46.76 feet
This matches the competitor's calculation exactly!
ADA Compliance Requirements
Understanding ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements for ramp construction:
Slope Requirements
- •Maximum: 1:12 (8.33%) for new construction
- •Comfortable: 1:16 (6.25%) recommended
- •Minimum: 1:20 (5%) to be considered a ramp
- •Prohibited: Steeper than 1:8 (12.5%)
Physical Requirements
- •Width: Minimum 36" (91.5 cm) clear width
- •Rise Limit: Maximum 30" before landing required
- •Landings: 60" minimum length, full ramp width
- •Cross Slope: Maximum 1:50 (2%) camber
Handrail Requirements
- • Required when rise > 6" (15 cm) OR run > 72" (183 cm)
- • Must be on both sides of ramp
- • Height: 34"-38" above ramp surface
- • Extensions: 12" beyond top and bottom
Ramp Construction Guidelines
Professional construction tips for safe and durable ramps:
Material Selection
- •Concrete: Most durable, slip-resistant finish required
- •Wood: Pressure-treated lumber, non-slip surface treatment
- •Aluminum: Lightweight, portable options available
- •Steel: Heavy-duty, requires rust protection
Safety Features
- •Surface: Non-slip texture in all weather conditions
- •Drainage: Proper slope away from walking surface
- •Edge Protection: Curbs or guards to prevent wheel-off
- •Lighting: Adequate illumination for night use
ADA Quick Reference
Common Conversions
Understanding Ramp Calculations
How the Calculator Works
Our ramp calculator uses industry-standard formulas validated against competitor calculations and ADA requirements. The key relationships are based on trigonometry and the Pythagorean theorem for accurate slope, angle, and length calculations.
Key Calculation Steps
- •Slope Ratio: 1 : (run ÷ rise)
- •Slope Angle: arctan(rise ÷ run)
- •Slope Percentage: 100% × (rise ÷ run)
- •Ramp Length: √(rise² + run²)
Safety Considerations
Planning Considerations
Professional vs DIY Construction
DIY Considerations:
- • Temporary or portable ramps may be suitable
- • Pre-fabricated aluminum ramps available
- • Simple wood construction for low-rise applications
- • Must still meet ADA slope requirements
Professional Benefits:
- • Ensures full building code compliance
- • Proper foundation and drainage design
- • Professional liability insurance coverage
- • Permits and inspection coordination