How to Build a Handicap Ramp at Home
- 1). Calculate the length of the ramp. For every 2 inches of height, add 1 foot of length to the ramp.
- 2). Cut four sections of 4-by-4 board extending the length of the ramp for the support beams underneath. Place the four sections in the position of the actual ramp so the tops are even with the higher surface. Cut the ends sitting on the ground at angles so the tops of the 4-by-4 are level with the ground. Also angle and cut the ends at the top so they are vertical with the ground.
- 3). Cut out a section of plywood, using a width of 4 foot and the length determined in Step 1.
- 4). Lay two 4-by-4 inch boards parallel to each other and spaced 4 feet apart from the outer edges. Insert the other two 4-by-4 inch boards between them, equally spaced out. Make sure the angled edges of all pieces face downward.
- 5). Align the plywood top of the ramp over the 4-by-4s. Drive screws down through the top of the ramp, every 6 inches along all four support beams.
- 6). Cut four 4-by-4s for the legs supporting the top of the ramp. Use the original height elevation and subtract 4 1/4-inches for the plywood top and the support beams running underneath. The legs will be attached under the beams. Cut four pieces using this length. Next, cut angles into one end of each 4-by-4 so they sit evenly underneath the beams against the surface. Attach one leg under each support beam at the end with penny nails.
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