How do you calculate wheelchair ramp length?

How do you calculate wheelchair ramp length?

1. First you need to measure the steps, stairs, thresholds, curbs, vehicles, etc. where the ramp will be placed:

(1) Measure the total vertical height from the ground to where the ramp is placed, which we call the "vertical height". (See below)
How to select a wheelchair ramp?


(2) Measure the total length of the steps to ensure the ramp is long enough to overcome the steps.  (See below)
Slope length

 

2. Understand the slope ratio.

Common slope ratios are: 1:4; 1:6; 1:8; 1:10 (see the figure below).

size

For manual wheelchairs, our recommended slope ratio is 1:6. For example, for a 1 cm rise (vertical height) you will need a 6cm long ramp. If you have a larger space for the ramp, you can buy a longer ramp than recommended as this means you will have less effort and easier going up and down the steps. Note: 1:4 is the maximum height.

Back to blog