Tom

Entrances

1. Front steps are inaccessible. A ramp with a slope of 1: 20 is preferable, but 1: 12 is suitable with handrails. Ramp should be at least 36" wide with handrails approximately 30-32" tall. Anti slip treads will help with traction during inclement weather. Landings of at least 5' x 5' should be incorporated before and after the ramp. A landing is also required at any changes in ramp direction. If house doors open outwardly a 5' x 6 ½' landing is required. Wood is a more economical material choice compared to concrete and can be built and disassembled easier. Ramp surfaces should be ¾" plywood for sturdiness and weather resistance. Temporary ramps might be considered as a short-term solution. Other more costly alternatives to ramps include electric lifts, electric stairs, and elevators.
2. Lever or loop handles are easier to operate than twist type knobs.
3. Doors should open with a force of 8 lbs. or less. Auxiliary handles can be added to allow 2 handed opening and closing of doors. Power door openers are an alternative.
4. Peep holes or door windows are usually too high to benefit a person seated in a w/c. An additional peephole can be installed at 42 – 48".
5. A package shelf can be helpful if two hands are needed to open doors. The shelf should be built into the railing system if possible. Shelves should always be located on the latch side of the doorway.
6. Locks should be operable with one hand without extensive manipulation required. Lock oil will help ease most lock operations.
7. If a storm door is present, latches on both doors should be on the same side.
8. A kick plate will protect doors from w/c footrests, dollies, walkers, etc…
9. Entry thresholds should be ½" or less.
10. Door swing or opening direction can be reversed to increase maneuvering spaces.
11. Swing away hinges can increase clearance space by 2".