Concrete ramp

In many contexts, concrete ramps are necessary constructions because they offer a reliable and effective way to handle elevation changes. Concrete ramps come in handy for a variety of purposes, including public space accessibility, heavy equipment mobility, and seamless transitions in industrial settings.

Concrete’s strength and longevity make it the perfect material for building ramps. Its resilience to large weights and inclement weather guarantees longevity and low maintenance. Because of this, concrete ramps are a dependable option for both commercial and residential uses.

A concrete ramp’s intended use, slope, and surface finish are just a few of the many variables that must be carefully taken into account during design. To ensure that the ramp is not too steep for users, the slope must be just right for both safety and usability. Increased traction from a textured or treated surface can lower the chance of slips and falls.

Adding a concrete ramp to your property can improve accessibility for all visitors in addition to improving functionality. Concrete ramps facilitate inclusive and convenient movement for individuals with mobility challenges, strollers, and equipment by offering a stable and smooth pathway.

What is a ramp?

Nowadays, a ramp is a necessary structure when driving on a slope to accommodate wheelchairs, bicycles, strollers, and other forms of transportation. It usually replicates a staircase.

Purpose

A ramp is situated on a set of stairs or at the doorway of a room. Its primary function is to join horizontal planes of varying heights when a structure other than a staircase is required, such as for transportation or the needs of the disabled.

  • The angle of the ramp should be minimal so that a disabled person in a wheelchair without a drive can climb it independently.
  • The surface should not be slippery, straight, and have no irregularities. Nothing should interfere with movement.

Stability of the structure

The structure is similar to a flight of concrete stairs, but instead of steps, it features a level plane for descent. Its slope shouldn’t be higher than 10%, unlike a staircase, and a 9% ascent plane is already unusual because it will be impossible for a person with a disability to climb without assistance.

What types are there?

Let’s first clarify the various kinds of ramps. Depending on the substance employed:

  • metal;
  • concrete;
  • wooden.

Additionally, ramps are

  • Stationary;
  • Folding;
  • Removable.

At the building’s entrance, stationary are placed. They remain in place. When there is a shortage of space, folding can be used and lowered as needed. They are fastened to the passage’s wall. frequently placed in homes where a stationary one’s installation would impede other residents’ freedom of movement. Removable ones are placed in temporary positions to get around obstacles when they arise. They themselves also exist in various varieties:

  1. Sliding telescopic – two ramps that extend in length and when assembled do not take up much space.
  2. Roll ramps are an option for those who have very little space. Thanks to a special frame they roll up like a carpet.
  3. Ramps are a folding model that is used to overcome rapids and other small hills.

Ramps are further divided into:

  • monolithic;
  • with wall support;
  • with full support on the ground or bedding.

How to make it yourself?

Determination of design parameters

Concrete ramp is one of the most stable types. They can be single-flight (one span) or multi-flight (with intermediate platforms). It depends on the lift height. The maximum length of one strip should not exceed 9 meters, so you cannot make one long plane over a long distance. It is also taken into account that the maximum height of the march is 80 cm. Based on this, when calculating the dimensions of the ramp, you need to take into account the platforms at the beginning, end of the ramp, as well as intermediate platforms. When constructing a ramp, it is important to know that nothing should impede the ascent, for example, a door. The platforms must be of sufficient size to allow enough space for the stroller to turn freely.

The minimum width of the ramp plane must be 1 m if one-way traffic is provided, and, accordingly, 2 m if two-way. The law also provides for the mandatory installation of sides on the ramp so that the wheels of the stroller do not jump off the surface. Their minimum height is 5 cm. For safety and ease of movement on the ramp, it is equipped with railings on both sides. Handrails must be located along the entire length, their height must take into account the needs of children and adults. Therefore, the railings are located at a height of 50 cm – for a child and, accordingly, 70, 90 cm – for an adult.

The calculation of the ramp

Before starting work, you need to prepare, make all the necessary calculations and measurements, that is, draw up a project. According to the standards, the height of the ramp should relate to the length in the calculation of 1:12. This means that for the construction of a structure 1 meter high, it must be made 12 meters long, and at a height of 1.2 meters – 15 meters. However, according to the norms, it is forbidden to do so, so it is necessary to divide it into 2 marches of the same length – 7.5 meters, the site between the marches will be at an altitude of 0.6 meters (h1/2 = 1.2/2)

The site between the marches will be 2 m2 in size. L1 17 m2 (15 m and 2 m platform) is therefore required.

V1 = S * 10^2 = 1/10 17 m^2 = 1.7 m^3.

In cubic meters, V2 is equal to h1 * l1 = 1, 2 * 15 = 18 m2 * ½ brick thickness (0.125 m).

0.002 = 1125 pieces for m = 2, 25.

We also calculate the required length of the reinforcement’s valves (243 linear meters) and the volume of embosses used (9 m3):

  • area – s;
  • ramp height – h1;
  • platform height – h2;
  • slab length – l1;
  • concrete volume – v1;
  • wall volume – v2;
  • number of bricks – n.

Sequence of works

  • Step 1. We make markings for the structure with cords and pegs. In this case, the internal width of the future structure is taken into account.
  • Step 2. We pour the foundation under the walls.
  • Step 3. We carry out stretching and setting the slope.
  • Step 4. We are engaged in laying out the brick walls. After this, we wait about a month.
  • Step 5. We fill the distance between the walls.
  • Step 6. It is necessary to make a protective layer between the backfill and the concrete (polyethylene is often used).
  • Step 7. We reinforce the structure.
  • Step 8. We make a flanging.
  • Step 9. We carry out concreting. It is better to pour concrete of grade not lower than M300 from the bottom up. Since the top layer will dry quickly, it is lubricated with water so that everything dries evenly. If cracks appear after it has completely dried, they can be repaired with cement screed.
  • Step 9. We install the railings.
  • Step 10. We cover the structure with paving stones or other material.
Aspect Details
Purpose Concrete ramps are used to provide smooth, accessible pathways for wheelchairs, strollers, carts, and other wheeled items.
Materials Primarily consists of concrete, but may include reinforcement like steel rebar for added strength.
Construction Involves creating a solid foundation, framing the ramp, pouring and leveling the concrete, and ensuring a proper slope for accessibility.
Maintenance Regular inspection for cracks, cleaning to remove debris, and sealing to protect against weather damage.
Benefits Durable, long-lasting, supports heavy loads, and provides a non-slip surface when properly finished.

If you want to provide accessibility and ease of movement for a home, business, or public area, building a concrete ramp is a workable solution. To guarantee that the ramp is secure, long-lasting, and complies with all requirements, the procedure calls for meticulous planning and attention to detail. Every stage of the construction process, from choosing the appropriate materials to adhering to correct construction methods, is vital to the project’s success as a whole.

The longevity of a concrete ramp is one of its main advantages. Concrete is a long-lasting material because it can tolerate heavy use and adverse weather conditions, unlike other materials. Concrete ramps also require little upkeep, which ultimately saves time and money. They are therefore the best choice for both commercial and residential applications.

Additionally, concrete ramps can be tailored to meet particular requirements and tastes. The design of the ramp can be adjusted to meet the intended use, whether it is for wheelchair access, loading docks, or another purpose. This adaptability guarantees that the ramp fulfills its intended function and blends in perfectly with the surroundings.

Concrete ramp construction may seem like a difficult undertaking, but with the correct advice and tools, it can be a rewarding and manageable project. A ramp that is both functional and aesthetically beautiful can be made by following best practices and safety regulations. In the end, a well-built concrete ramp improves convenience and accessibility, making areas more welcoming and easy for all users to use.

A robust and useful way to provide accessibility in a variety of locations, including residential and commercial buildings, is with a concrete ramp. It provides a stable, smooth surface that guarantees safety for people who have trouble moving around and for people who are carrying heavy objects. In order to meet safety regulations and ensure long-lasting performance, building a concrete ramp requires careful planning, the right materials, and adherence to construction guidelines. This post will walk you through the crucial measures and factors to take into account when building a sturdy and useful concrete ramp.

Video on the topic

Ramp with a grillage for car scales

Cast the ramp

Ramp for disabled people (MGN). Angle of inclination and dimensions of the ramp

Pouring the ramp

Ramp entry for a car, OSB formwork

Ramp 200m2

Ramp. How to do it right.

High entry into the garage, part 2, result

Which aspect of concrete application are you most interested in?
Share to friends
Marina Petrova

Candidate of Technical Sciences and teacher of the Faculty of Construction. In my articles, I talk about the latest scientific discoveries and innovations in the field of cement and concrete technologies.

Rate author
StroyComfort1.com
Add a comment