If you're installing a handicap accessibility ramp for your business, you're probably already involved with the calculations of the height, length, and slope of the ramp. You need the proper dimensions to ensure a safe ramp for those with accessibility problems. However, there are other factors that you need to consider as well, especially if you live somewhere with cold, snowy winters. Here are a few things to think about as you plan your handicap ramp installation.

Consider The Construction Material

The first thing you need to think about when you're installing a handicap ramp is what type of material it's going to be crafted from. When your business is located somewhere with cold winters, you need to account for the risk of damage from the cold, as well as the chances of slippery surfaces due to snow, ice, or rain. 

Additionally, if you live somewhere that experiences particularly hot summers, you should consider a ramp crafted from something that won't get exceedingly hot. Metal of any kind will absorb heat, and it can pose a burn risk to anyone who happens to touch it. Instead, opt for wood if you live somewhere with persistent hot summers.

Think About Traction

Another important factor, especially when you're dealing with snow, ice, and rain, is traction on the ramp. Metal ramps in particular can be quite slippery under these conditions. You can talk with the ramp installer about the possibility of putting a traction coating on the ramp. Otherwise, you can add your own traction strips if you purchase them separately.

Address Snow And Ice Removal

Harsh winters can be problematic for your ramps because of snow and ice. You'll need to address this in advance so that you don't run the risk of having an unsafe ramp on your property. Consider having the ramp coated with an anti-ice coating that will help snow and ice melt off rapidly. You can also install radiant heat on the ramp if you opt for a metal product. 

As an alternative, you'll need to make sure that you shovel snow and apply ice melt products to the ramp right away in inclement weather. However, with a metal ramp, ice melt products may cause damage to the metal surface with repeated exposure.

These are a few of the most important things to consider when you're installing a handicap accessibility ramp on a building that's located somewhere with harsh winters and poor weather.