1. What is Ramp Percentage?

Ramp percentage is a measure of the steepness of a slope, calculated as the ratio of vertical rise to horizontal run, expressed as a percentage. It's commonly used in construction, accessibility design, and transportation engineering to ensure safe and compliant slopes.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the ramp percentage formula:

Where:

• Rise — Vertical height difference (ft)
• Run — Horizontal distance (ft)

Explanation: The formula calculates what percentage the vertical rise is of the horizontal run. For example, a 1-foot rise over a 20-foot run equals a 5% slope.

3. Importance of Ramp Percentage Calculation

Details: Accurate ramp percentage calculation is crucial for ADA compliance, wheelchair accessibility, vehicle ramp design, and ensuring safe slopes for pedestrians. Different applications have specific maximum allowable percentages for safety and accessibility.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both rise and run in feet. Ensure measurements are accurate and in the same units. Values must be greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the maximum ADA compliant ramp slope?
A: The maximum slope for ADA compliant ramps is 8.33% (1:12 ratio).

Q2: How does ramp percentage relate to angle?
A: Ramp percentage = tan(angle) × 100. A 45° angle equals a 100% slope.

Q3: What's the difference between slope percentage and slope ratio?
A: Slope percentage is rise/run × 100, while slope ratio is expressed as rise:run (e.g., 1:12).

Q4: When is a ramp too steep?
A: This depends on the application. For wheelchair access, anything over 8.33% is generally too steep. For vehicles, steeper slopes may be acceptable depending on the vehicle type.

Q5: Can I use different units for rise and run?
A: No, both measurements must be in the same units for the calculation to be accurate. The calculator expects both values in feet.