Ramp installation in Exeter
Professional ramp installation services in Exeter and surrounding areas. Local, reliable handyman - no job too small.
Price Guide
£60-210
Typical Duration
1-4 hrs
Location
Exeter, Devon
Accessibility ramps provide independent access for wheelchair users, people with mobility issues, or anyone who struggles with steps. We install threshold ramps, build wooden ramps for external steps, and fit modular ramp systems. Based in Exeter, covering all of Devon.
Steps are barriers for wheelchair users and challenging for many others - people with walking frames, mobility scooters, parents with pushchairs, or anyone with limited mobility. Ramps solve this, but they need proper design and construction to be safe and functional.
We handle various ramp solutions - simple threshold ramps over doorways, wooden ramps for external steps, modular aluminum ramp systems, and permanent concrete ramps. The key is appropriate gradient, non-slip surfaces, and stable construction.
Ramp Solutions
| Ramp Type | Installation Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Threshold ramps | 30-60 mins | Door thresholds, small level changes |
| Portable modular ramps | 1-2 hours | Temporary access, rental properties |
| Wooden ramps for steps | 2-4 hours | Permanent access to front doors, gardens |
| Concrete/permanent ramps | Varies significantly | Long-term accessibility, high use |
Critical Design Factors
Gradient: The ramp slope matters enormously. Too steep and it's difficult or dangerous to use. Building regulations recommend maximum 1:12 gradient for wheelchair access. Steeper slopes (up to about 1:8) might work for walking aid users but not wheelchairs.
Width: Ramps need adequate width - minimum 900mm for wheelchair access, wider if space allows or for heavy traffic. Narrow ramps are difficult to navigate.
Handrails: For ramps over a certain height or length, handrails are legally required and practically essential for safety.
Surface: Non-slip surface is critical, especially for outdoor ramps that get wet. Grip paint, anti-slip decking, or textured surfaces all work.
Landings: For long ramps, level landing platforms are needed at intervals for rest and maneuvering. Building regulations specify when these are required.
Example: A 60cm step height
To build a compliant wheelchair ramp for a 60cm (2 foot) step, you need a 7.2m (23 foot) long ramp. This is longer than many people expect and might not fit in available space. This is why ramp design needs careful planning.
Why Choose Us for Ramp installation in Exeter?
Improves accessibility for wheelchairs and walkers
Safe gradients and non-slip surfaces
Sturdy construction for long-term use
Solutions for steps, thresholds, and entrances
What to Expect
1. Site Assessment
We'll measure the height change, assess available space, discuss who'll use the ramp and how (wheelchair, walker, scooter, etc.), and recommend appropriate solutions. If the ideal ramp won't fit your space, we'll discuss alternatives or modifications.
2. Installation or Construction
For threshold ramps or modular systems, we install and secure them. For wooden or permanent ramps, we build to appropriate gradient, ensure stability, add non-slip surfaces, and install handrails if needed.
3. Safety Check
We test the ramp is stable and secure, check the gradient is appropriate, verify non-slip surfaces are effective, and ensure handrails (if fitted) are solid. We'll show you any maintenance requirements.
🔧 DIY Tips
Calculate gradient carefully: Measure the vertical rise accurately, then calculate required ramp length (rise × 12 for wheelchair access). Don't build it then discover it's too steep.
Build wider than minimum: The 900mm minimum is tight. If you have space, 1200mm is much more comfortable for wheelchair users and easier for people with walking frames.
Use treated timber for outdoor ramps: Exterior-grade treated timber lasts much longer than standard timber. Marine ply or exterior-grade decking boards work well for ramp surfaces.
Add texture for grip: Smooth wood or painted surfaces become slippery when wet. Add anti-slip paint, grip strips, or use textured decking boards.
Secure firmly: Ramps move slightly under load if not properly secured. For wooden ramps, coach bolts into ground anchors work well. For temporary ramps, edge brackets prevent sliding.
Consider drainage: Water pooling on ramp surfaces makes them slippery. Slight camber or drainage slots allow water to run off.
Rather leave it to a pro? No problem - that's what I'm here for. Give me a call.
Good to Know
Building regulations apply to permanent accessibility ramps, particularly for commercial properties or new installations. For domestic properties and temporary ramps, regulations are less stringent, but following them creates safer, more usable ramps.
Grant funding is sometimes available for accessibility modifications including ramps. Local councils have Disabled Facilities Grants that might help with costs. Worth investigating before paying for everything yourself.
Modular aluminum ramp systems are expensive to buy but can be configured for various situations, are weatherproof, and can be disassembled and moved if needed. They're worth considering for temporary situations or rentals.
For front doors with limited space, a switchback ramp (like a zigzag) can fit a long enough ramp into a shorter linear space. These are more complex to build but solve space limitations.
Some properties simply don't have space for compliant ramps. In these cases, platform lifts, stairlifts, or moving the entrance to a different access point might be alternatives worth considering.
Handrails need specific height and grip diameter to be useful. Building regulation compliant handrails are 900-1000mm high and 40-45mm diameter for comfortable grip. These details matter for usability.
Anti-slip paint needs reapplying periodically - usually every 1-2 years depending on wear and weather exposure. It's maintenance cost to factor in for outdoor ramps.
Ramps in very exposed positions might need wind-bracing or heavier construction. Lightweight ramps can be caught by strong winds, especially in coastal areas.
For wheelchair users who need to access vehicles, portable ramps exist specifically for car boot access. These are different from building access ramps and much shorter. Don't confuse the two - building access ramps are too long and heavy for vehicle use.
Some wheelchairs are manual, others are electric. Electric wheelchairs are significantly heavier, which affects ramp strength requirements and gradient tolerances. Ask what type of wheelchair will use the ramp.
For properties with multiple steps at different entrance points, sometimes creating one good ramped access is better than trying to ramp every entrance. Main access properly ramped is more useful than multiple inadequate solutions.
Consider future needs when building permanent ramps. Someone who currently uses a walker might need a wheelchair in future. Building to wheelchair-accessible standards now avoids rebuilding later.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does ramp installation cost?
Ramp installation costs £60 for the first hour, then £50/hour after. Simple threshold ramps take around an hour to fit. Building wooden ramps for steps takes 2-4 hours depending on height and length. Complex permanent installations requiring significant construction take longer and we'll quote based on requirements.
What gradient should an accessibility ramp be?
For wheelchair access, ramps should be no steeper than 1:12 (that's 1cm rise for every 12cm length). Steeper is difficult for wheelchair users and potentially unsafe. For a 30cm step height, you need a 3.6m long ramp. We'll calculate appropriate length for your specific situation.
Do you install temporary or permanent ramps?
Both. Temporary ramps can be positioned and secured without permanent alterations - useful for rentals or temporary accessibility needs. Permanent ramps are built and fixed in place for long-term use. We'll advise which suits your situation.
Can you build ramps for existing steps?
Yes, we can build ramps alongside existing steps for most situations. For very high steps or steep sites, the ramp length needed for safe gradients might be impractical and alternative solutions (like platform lifts) might be worth considering.
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