In commercial construction, ensuring accessibility isn’t just best practice—it’s a legal requirement. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) outlines specific standards that affect site layout, concrete flatwork, and, importantly, ramp construction. Among the most critical of these requirements is the ADA ramp slope, which directly impacts usability, compliance, and liability.
Whether you’re building new or modifying existing infrastructure, getting ramp slope right during the planning and concrete pour phase is essential. Failing to meet ADA slope standards can result in costly delays, failed inspections, or even legal consequences.
What the ADA Says About Ramps
According to the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, a ramp is defined as any walking surface with a slope greater than 1:20 (5%). This includes more than just traditional ramps—curb ramps, sloped walkways, and transitional pathways must also meet ADA criteria if the slope exceeds this threshold.
It’s important to distinguish between these elements:
- Ramps: Sloped surfaces connecting different elevations.
- Curb ramps: Short ramps built into curbs or sidewalks.
- Sloped walkways: Surfaces with gradual slopes under 1:20, which are not regulated as ramps.
Slope Requirements for ADA-Compliant Ramps
The maximum slope allowed for an ADA-compliant ramp in new construction is 1:12, or 8.33%. This means that for every inch of vertical rise, there must be at least 12 inches (1 foot) of horizontal run.
Additional slope criteria include:
- Cross slope: Cannot exceed 1:48 (2.08%) to ensure wheelchairs and mobility devices remain level.
- Maximum rise per run: No more than 30 inches without an intermediate landing.
These measurements ensure safe navigation for individuals with mobility impairments and guide the precise layout of concrete ramp forms.
Landings and Level Rest Areas
ADA guidelines also require ‘level’ landings:
- At the top and bottom of every ramp run.
- Minimum dimensions: 60 inches by 60 inches.
- Maximum slope of landing: 1:48 in all directions.
These landings provide rest areas and accommodate turning or passing space for users with wheelchairs or walkers, playing a crucial role in overall usability.
Handrails and Edge Protection
For ramps with a rise over 6 inches:
- Handrails are required on both sides, installed between 34 and 38 inches in height.
- Edge protection is also necessary—typically a 2-inch curb or barrier—to prevent wheels from slipping off the ramp.
Certified Concrete Construction ensures these elements are integrated during formwork and pour, not treated as afterthoughts.
Surfaces and Materials Considerations
ADA-compliant ramp surfaces must be:
- Stable, firm, and slip-resistant, as per ADA Section 302.1.
For concrete, this usually means a broom finish, which offers traction without roughness. Drainage must also be considered to avoid pooling water while maintaining slope integrity. Our crews factor in fall direction and integrate subtle grade changes for long-term performance.
For more on how we execute this, visit our Concrete Finishing Services.
Common Mistakes in Commercial Installations
Several recurring issues can compromise compliance:
- Overly steep slopes due to miscalculations.
- Missing or undersized landings.
- Incorrect handrail installation or edge protection gaps.
- Surface textures that fail ADA slip resistance requirements.
At Certified Concrete Construction, we eliminate these risks through precise execution and detailed site reviews.
The Role of Certified Concrete Construction
We work closely with project teams to ensure ramp installations meet ADA, ICC A117.1, and local building codes. From layout to finish, our team delivers ADA-compliant solutions for public works and commercial developments across the Raleigh, NC region.
See examples of our work in action on our Commercial Concrete Services page.
We coordinate with architects and engineers early in the design phase to eliminate rework and ensure smooth inspection approvals. Our work is not only code-compliant but inspection-ready—every time.
Delivering Code-Compliant Accessibility
ADA ramp slope requirements are a critical part of accessible design, affecting layout, materials, and safety. By understanding the standards—and partnering with a contractor that knows how to implement them—you can ensure a fully compliant, long-lasting ramp installation.
At Certified Concrete Construction, we bring technical precision and on-the-ground experience to every ramp project. Contact us to learn how we can help your next commercial project meet accessibility standards from the ground up.
