1. What is the Ramp Angle Formula?

The ramp angle formula calculates the angle of inclination of a ramp based on its vertical height and horizontal run. This is important for ensuring ramps meet accessibility standards and safety requirements.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the trigonometric formula:

Where:

• \( height \) — Vertical height of the ramp (feet)
• \( run \) — Horizontal run of the ramp (feet)
• \( \arctan \) — Inverse tangent function

Explanation: The formula calculates the angle whose tangent is the ratio of height to run, giving the incline angle in degrees.

3. Importance of Ramp Angle Calculation

Details: Proper ramp angles are crucial for accessibility compliance (ADA recommends ≤4.8° or 1:12 slope), safety, and usability for wheelchairs and mobility devices.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the vertical height and horizontal run in feet. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will output the angle in degrees.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the maximum recommended ramp angle?
A: The ADA recommends a maximum slope of 1:12 (4.8°), meaning 1 inch of rise per 12 inches of run.

Q2: How does ramp angle affect wheelchair users?
A: Steeper angles make it more difficult and potentially dangerous for wheelchair users to navigate the ramp independently.

Q3: What's the difference between rise and run?
A: Rise is the vertical height change, run is the horizontal distance covered by the ramp.

Q4: When is a ramp required instead of stairs?
A: For accessibility compliance, ramps are required wherever there's a vertical change greater than ½ inch in public spaces.

Q5: Can this calculator be used for roof pitches?
A: Yes, the same calculation applies to roof pitches, though they're typically expressed as a ratio (e.g., 4:12).