Understanding ADA Ramp Requirements
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) sets standards for accessible ramps. The maximum slope for a ramp in new construction is 1:12 (one inch of rise for every 12 inches of run). This equals a 4.76-degree angle or 8.33% grade.
ADA Ramp Requirements
| Requirement |
ADA Standard |
| Maximum Slope |
1:12 (8.33%) |
| Minimum Width |
36" clear |
| Maximum Rise per Run |
30" (requires landing) |
| Landing Length |
60" minimum |
| Landing Width |
At least as wide as ramp |
| Handrails Required |
If rise > 6" |
| Handrail Height |
34" - 38" |
| Edge Protection |
2" min curb or rail |
Slope Comparison
| Ratio |
Percent |
Degrees |
Use Case |
| 1:20 |
5% |
2.9 deg |
Easy, no handrails required |
| 1:16 |
6.25% |
3.6 deg |
Wheelchair user preferred |
| 1:12 |
8.33% |
4.8 deg |
ADA maximum (new construction) |
| 1:10 |
10% |
5.7 deg |
ADA (existing buildings only) |
| 1:8 |
12.5% |
7.1 deg |
Residential (not ADA) |
Material Options
| Material |
Cost/Sq Ft |
Pros |
Cons |
| Pressure-Treated Wood |
$15-30 |
Affordable, DIY friendly |
Maintenance, can rot |
| Composite |
$25-50 |
Low maintenance, durable |
Higher cost |
| Aluminum (Modular) |
$50-100 |
Portable, no maintenance |
Expensive, may need permit |
| Concrete |
$20-40 |
Permanent, durable |
Not portable, cracks |
Ramp Building Tips
- Check local building codes - permits usually required
- Consider switchback design for limited space
- Use non-slip surface materials or add grip strips
- Ensure proper drainage - slope slightly away from house
- Include handrails on both sides for safety
- Plan for level landings at top, bottom, and any turns
- Extend handrails 12" beyond ramp at top and bottom
When You Need a Ramp
- Wheelchair or mobility scooter access
- Walker or cane users
- Moving heavy equipment or appliances
- Stroller or cart access
- Temporary or permanent accessibility needs
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate are the results?
The Ramp applies a standard formula to your inputs — accuracy depends on how precisely you measure those inputs. For planning and estimation, results are reliable. For high-stakes or professional decisions, cross-check the output with a domain expert or primary source.
Can I use this on mobile?
Yes — the calculator is designed to work on any device. For complex multi-input calculations on small screens, landscape orientation gives more room to see all fields and results simultaneously.
Common Tip Percentages
| Service | Typical Tip Range | Notes |
|---|
| Restaurant (sit-down) | 15–20% | 20%+ for exceptional service |
| Food delivery | 10–20% | Consider extra for long distances |
| Taxi / rideshare | 10–20% | More for assistance with luggage |
| Hotel housekeeping | $2–5/night | Leave daily, not just at checkout |
| Barber / hair salon | 15–20% | On pre-discount total |
| Pizza delivery | 10–15% or $3–5 minimum | Higher in bad weather |
General Household Budget Ratios (50/30/20 Rule)
| Category | % of Net Income | Examples |
|---|
| Needs | 50% | Rent, groceries, utilities, insurance |
| Wants | 30% | Dining out, entertainment, hobbies |
| Savings / Debt | 20% | Emergency fund, retirement, extra payments |
Common Measurement Conversions for Everyday Use
| Quantity | US / Imperial | Metric Equivalent |
|---|
| 1 cup | 8 fl oz | 237 mL |
| 1 pint | 16 fl oz | 473 mL |
| 1 quart | 32 fl oz | 946 mL |
| 1 gallon | 128 fl oz | 3.785 L |
| 1 lb | 16 oz | 453.6 g |
| 1 ft | 12 in | 30.48 cm |