The alternative of constructing an inclined slab and reinforcing it with steel rebar makes much more practical sense than pouring a slab that could crack under conditions of excessive weight, stress produced thermal contraction and expansion, or a shaking ground. Of course, the slab thickness and amount of rebar reinforcement needs to be calculated according to the load that the slab will be expected to support. If only used as a walk way for people, the maximum weight will not be very high. However, if it is to be used for carrying a vehicle, or for transporting goods that could have a considerable amount of weight, design considerations will need to make the slab much more vigorous.



The ASTM International sets the standards for rebar reinforcement. The Concrete Reinforcing Steel Institute (CRSI) is another major source of information on concrete reinforcement, publishing manuals and technical publications, and providing other information to a wide variety of industry professionals. However, one does not have to become a certified engineer, expert in concrete reinforcement, to do the job correctly. The CRSI Manual of Standard Practice is available to those wanting information on reinforced concrete construction. This and their publication, Pocket Guide for Field Inspection of Rebar, should be checked prior to calculating the amount and placement of rebar in reinforced concrete, according to the expected load.



If the ramp is for a wheelchair, there are dimensional requirements that the ramp must meet. These should be obtained from the ADA Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities, Federal Register, Vol. 56, No. 144., pages 35632-35633. It is the authoritative source for this type of information, and can answer many questions the builder will have in constructing any type of wheelchair ramp.

A concrete ramp is not difficult to build, but should not be constructed without having some education in using reinforced concrete. Enough information is available online to learn enough to be able to perform the work oneself, correctly. As with any trade, it is best to also get advice from someone who is experienced in the trade. Often, do it yourself hardware stores hire competent salespersons who have worked as contractors or subcontractors, and these men and women can offer valuable insight into which products and techniques should be used in any ramp construction.