DIY Network

Handicap Landing and Ramp DIY to the Rescue helps to build a safe access! From "DIY to the Rescue" episode DTTR-703

With the new flooring down, it's time to get started making a safe landing. With the aid of a few volunteers from the Charleston Area Therapeutic Riding Facility, the DIY to the Rescue Crew creates an access to the new bathroom that is sure to give the guests a smooth ride!

With the ramp completed, right, one of the CATR guests gives it a trial run.

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Materials and Tools:

pressure treated wood
galvanized roofing nails
framing nailer or nail gun
chop saw or compound miter saw
level
shims (made of pressure treated wood)
circular saw
power drill
masonry bit
portable belt sander

Steps:

1. Start by building the deck frame for the landing. Use pressure treated wood and galvanized roofing nails to hold up against the outside elements. Under the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines, a landing of this kind should be at least 5 ft x 5 ft. This is so that someone in a wheelchair could turn completely around in a circle without getting stuck. Using a chop saw, cut frame pieces size (figures A & B).

Figure A

Figure B

2. Using a framing nailer, assemble each of the pieces of wood to create a frame (figure C). For additional support and stability, cut and attach cross joists to the inside of the frame every 16 inches (figure D).

NOTE: If you don't have a framing nailer, an old fashioned hammer or a power drill and some galvanized decking screws would also do the trick.

Figure C

Figure D

3. Once the deck frame is built, place it flush along the edge of the doorway and flush on the concrete. Check to make sure it is level both horizontally and vertically (figure E). Add a few shims made from pressure treated wood where needed to level it up (figure F) and to provide much needed ventilation.

Figure E

Figure F

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