1. What is Slope of Ramp?

The slope of a ramp represents the steepness or incline of the ramp surface. It is defined as the ratio of vertical rise to horizontal run and is crucial in accessibility design, construction, and safety compliance.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the fundamental slope formula:

Where:

• \( Rise \) — Vertical height difference (meters)
• \( Run \) — Horizontal distance (meters)

Additional Calculations:

• Slope Ratio: Expressed as 1:X (e.g., 1:12)
• Slope Percentage: (Rise/Run) × 100%
• Angle: arctan(Rise/Run) in degrees

3. Importance of Slope Calculation

Details: Proper slope calculation is essential for wheelchair accessibility compliance, building code requirements, drainage design, and ensuring safe and functional ramp installations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter rise and run values in meters. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will provide slope ratio, dimensionless slope value, percentage, and angle.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the maximum slope for wheelchair ramps?
A: ADA guidelines recommend 1:12 slope ratio (8.33%) maximum for wheelchair ramps. Steeper slopes may require handrails and resting platforms.

Q2: How is slope different from gradient?
A: Slope is typically expressed as a ratio (1:X) or dimensionless value, while gradient is usually expressed as a percentage. They represent the same relationship mathematically.

Q3: What units should I use for rise and run?
A: Use consistent units (meters recommended). The calculator works with any unit as long as both rise and run use the same unit of measurement.

Q4: Can I calculate run if I know rise and slope?
A: Yes, Run = Rise / Slope. Rearrange the formula based on what values you know.

Q5: What slope is considered too steep for walking?
A: Slopes greater than 1:5 (20%) are generally considered too steep for comfortable walking and may require stairs instead.