When planning to install a ramp—whether for residential, commercial, or industrial purposes—it's crucial to determine the appropriate size to guarantee safety, accessibility, and adherence to regulations. Correct ramp sizing ensures that individuals using wheelchairs, walkers, or mobility aids can navigate spaces with ease, while also supporting businesses in safely transporting equipment and deliveries.
This guide will walk you through four simple steps to determine the correct ramp size for your location.
Why Ramp Size Matters
The right ramp size ensures:
✅ Compliance with ADA guidelines for commercial businesses and public spaces.
✅ Safe navigation for mobility devices, carts, and heavy loads.
✅ Proper fit within the available space to avoid obstructions.
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of selecting the ideal ramp size.
Step 1: Measure Your Space
Key Measurements to Take:
📏 Available Run Distance – Measure how far the ramp can extend outward without obstructions.
📏 Usable Width – Measure the width of the entrance or pathway to ensure a proper fit.
📏 Vertical Rise – Measure the total height from the ground to the top step or landing.
📌 Example: If your top step is 24 inches high, your vertical rise is 24 inches.
Accurate measurements are essential, as they will dictate the ramp’s length and slope.
Step 2: Research ADA and Local Accessibility Requirements
Before buying or installing a ramp, it's important to review federal, state, and local regulations.
ADA Guidelines for Commercial Ramps
For wheelchair-accessible ramps in public or commercial spaces, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires a 1:12 slope ratio, meaning:
➡ For every 1 inch of vertical rise, you need at least 12 inches (1 foot) of ramp length.
➡ This equates to a 5-degree incline, ensuring easy navigation.
Residential & Industrial Ramps
For non-ADA residential or industrial applications, steeper slopes (like 2:12 or 3:12 ratios) might be acceptable depending on the intended use. However, safety and usability should always be the top priority.
📌 Example: If your entryway has a 24-inch rise:
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An ADA-compliant ramp would require 24 feet of length (1:12 slope).
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A steeper residential ramp with a 2:12 slope would require 12 feet of length.
Make sure to consult your mobility device’s user manual for the recommended slope. It's also important to review local codes, as requirements may differ depending on your location and the type of building.
Step 3: Use an Incline Calculator
Instead of calculating the ramp length by hand, use the EZ-ACCESS® Incline Calculator for quick and accurate results.
How to Use the Incline Calculator:
1️. Enter your measured vertical rise from Step 1.
2️. Select your desired slope ratio (e.g., 1:12 for ADA compliance).
3️. Get your recommended ramp length instantly!
Try the EZ-ACCESS Incline Calculator
📌 Example Calculation:
If your rise is 10 inches and you choose a 1:12 slope, the calculator will recommend a 10-foot ramp.
Step 4: Verify Space and Adjust as Needed
After calculating the ramp length, make sure it fits within the available space.
Things to Consider:
✔ Does the ramp fit straight out, or do you need a turn? Modular ramps allow for L- or U-shaped configurations if space is limited.
✔ Is there enough width for mobility devices or equipment? ADA-compliant ramps should be at least 36 inches wide.
✔ Does your ramp need a landing platform? Longer ramps may require platforms for resting points or direction changes.
📌 Pro Tip: If your available space can't accommodate a straight ramp, consider a modular ramp system with turns to better fit your layout.
Thanks to our friends from EZ-ACCESS® for this article.