Sidewalks provide access to pedestrians, bicyclists, and individuals in wheelchairs, ensuring that they can safely get to structures and around properties. To accommodate people using the sidewalks safely, these walkways must have lowered ramps that connect to the road. Sidewalk ramps exist in many places on public and private roads, as well as on private properties. However, they can become damaged over time, creating safety risks for those who rely on them to get on and off the sidewalk.
What Makes A Sidewalk ADA Compliant?
As mentioned, a sidewalk ramp exists to connect a lower roadway to a walkway. A pedestrian might rely on a sidewalk ramp when walking on a concrete walkway. But this device is even more important for people using wheelchairs, bicycles, crutches, walkers, or strollers, as well as those with mobility restrictions who may have trouble stepping up onto a raised curb. Another term for sidewalk ramps is curb ramps, as they are typically installed near the curb of a sidewalk on a road.
Sidewalk ramps are also used on properties when creating pathways for people to access various areas or enter structures. A ramp should be installed at the entrance to the sidewalk from a parking lot to ensure that people with mobility issues or who are using one of the wheeled devices can access the sidewalk and enter the structure. A sidewalk ramp must meet certain construction codes in its slope:
- It must be no more than 1:12 slope. (Slope must not exceed one inch per foot or a maximum grade of 8.33%.)
- The maximum slope on any side flares must be 1:10.
- The minimum width must be 36 inches.
Adding the proper sidewalk ramps is required for a property or road to meet the guidelines set forth by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The texture patterns on the ramps must be detectable to accommodate those with visual impairments. Maintaining sidewalk ramps is also necessary, as a damaged or cracked ramp could create a safety hazard for someone using it.
Sidewalk Ramp Repair Process
Even if a sidewalk ramp breaks down, the concrete may be repairable. Hiring an experienced concrete contractor is the first step in determining whether it can be repaired. If the surface is cracked or the soil beneath the pad has shifted, a contractor can likely replace the damaged section. Often, repairing a sidewalk ramp is a cost-effective alternative to tearing out and replacing it.
Why NTS Contractors?
Buildings and properties across various sectors provide sidewalk ramps to ensure accessibility for all who utilize them. NTS Contractors is a trusted concrete repair contractor that works closely with commercial clients on several structures. Some of these constructions include multifamily residential real estate — including apartment complexes and condominium complexes — office buildings, industrial facilities, restaurants, and warehouses.
When a sidewalk ramp becomes damaged or does not meet ADA regulations, it’s important to take action right away to get it repaired. Sidewalk ramps are vital to those with mobility challenges, as they rely on them to access sidewalks and pathways when they are unable to climb or step up and over curbs. Contact us to learn more about sidewalk ramp repair and the other concrete services available to clients.