About the ADA Ramp Slope, Run & Landing Calculator
Architects, contractors, and facility managers ensure perfect accessibility compliance with our precision ADA ramp calculator. Determine the exact required run length based on total rise, strictly enforcing the 1:12 maximum slope and 30-inch maximum rise rules. Instantly calculate necessary landing dimensions, verify continuous run limits, and identify handrail triggers to build safe, fully compliant accessible routes following the 2010 ADA Standards.
How it works
- Input the total vertical rise required for the ramp structure.
- Review the automatically calculated minimum horizontal run length needed to achieve the required 1:12 slope.
- Verify how many intermediate landings are required if the total rise exceeds 30 inches.
- Check the generated dimensions for top, bottom, and intermediate landings, as well as handrail requirements.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum allowable slope for an ADA ramp?
Under the 2010 ADA Standards, the maximum slope for a newly constructed ramp is 1:12, meaning for every 1 inch of vertical rise, there must be at least 12 inches of horizontal run.
When are intermediate landings required on an ADA ramp?
A ramp run cannot exceed 30 inches of vertical rise. If a greater rise is needed, an intermediate landing of at least 60 inches by 60 inches must be provided before the next ramp section begins.
When do ADA ramps require handrails?
Handrails are required on both sides of a ramp run if the ramp has a vertical rise greater than 6 inches or a horizontal length greater than 72 inches.
Can an ADA ramp have a cross slope?
Yes, but the cross slope (the slope perpendicular to the direction of travel) cannot exceed 1:48, or roughly 2%. This prevents wheelchairs from pulling to one side and tipping.
References
- Department of Justice - 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design (Section 405)