Every entrance is unique, and it’s important to accurately measure how much space you have available for a ramp set up and will as how much ramp you will need to overcome the height of your step or steps. Our Wheelchair Ramp Calculator will provide you with the total ramp length your will need, then it will be up to you to determine if you a straight ramp will suffice, or if you require an L-shape or U-shape.

Once you know the length of ramp you need, it's important to understand how ADA regulations could affect your setup. To ensure that the ramp slope is appropriate for individuals with disabilities, our calculator provides you with the ADA-compliant 1:12 ratio. If you wish to create an L- or U-shape, ADA guidelines require platforms for resting and turning. If you want to use a series of straight ramps that total longer than 30 feet, ADA guidelines require a platform to break up the incline so that there are appropriate, flat rest areas to take a breather. Lastly, if the top of your ramp will sit right before a doorway or gate, a platform will be needed so that there is room to rest and maneuver while opening and closing the door or gate. Read more about ADA compliance in ADA Specifications for Wheelchair Ramps.

The simplest of configurations, straight ramps are available in lengths for 8 feet (for an 8-inch rise) all the way up to 30 feet (for a 30-inch rise). If you are thinking about creating a straight ramp setup that is longer than 30 feet, you will need a platform for resting purposes.

Ideal for shorter spaces or hard-to-reach entryways, L-shape configurations can be set up in left or right directions. L-shape ramps will always require at least two ramps and at least one platform for resting and turning. If your rise is over 35 inches, you will also need leg support brackets to ensure that the platform is properly secure.

U-shape ramps great for compact spaces with rises of 20" or more. They can be set up in left or right directions, and will always require at least two ramps and at least two platforms to ensure plenty of room to rest and turn according to ADA guidelines. If you’re overcoming a rise that is greater than 35”, all platforms will require leg support brackets.

Available in 4-foot or 5-foot square sizes, platforms will be required for certain straight configurations, and required for L- and U-shape configurations. Straight ramps longer than 30 feet will require a platform for resting, L-shape ramps require one platform for the 90-degree turn, and U-shape platforms require at least two platforms to make the 180-degree turn. Platforms are also necessary if the top of the ramp will come into contact with a door or gate; the user will need a flat surface to rest and room to maneuver to open or close the door.