Concrete Ramps

 

Ancient civilizations utilized a variety of construction tools and techniques that are still in use today. For example, levers, pulleys, piledrivers, and even cranes were invented much further back in history than most people realize. Earthen ramps were used for portage as well as construction, and many archaeologists believe that ramps were vital tools for the construction of the Egyptian pyramids. Although ramps are still sometimes used today for construction, most people are more accustomed to seeing concrete ramps that serve other purposes.

What Is the Purpose of Ramps?

In a nutshell, ramps are labor-saving tools that facilitate the movement of loads between points with different elevations. Whether going from a lower to a higher point or vice versa, and whether powered by humans, animals, or machinery, ramps allow loads to be moved with less force than lifting them in a straight vertical lift. The total travel distance is longer, but the reduction in effort is substantially less.

How Are Concrete Ramps Used in the Modern World?

Ramps are used for a wide range of purposes, including moving pallets of material to and from trucks, providing pedestrians an easier way to access buildings, and satisfying the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Ramps can allow vehicles to transition between pavements of different heights, or they can allow people with mobility issues to avoid the stress of climbing stairs or steps.

What Are Some Important Things to Consider When Designing Concrete Ramps?

When planning any concrete project, it is essential to choose a reputable, experienced contractor to ensure the quality of both the design and the installation. Here are four factors that your contractor will need to consider.

1. Slope: The slope is an expression of the ratio between the length of the ramp and the height difference between the starting and ending points of the ramp. The steeper the slope is, the greater the force needed will be.
2. Texture: Your contractor will need to choose the right finish for your specific ramp. Rough textures can provide superior traction for pedestrians, but forklifts and other vehicles typically find it harder and slower to shift heavy loads.
3. Load: The more the load weighs, the stronger the ramp needs to be. For example, an access ramp that supports only a handful of pedestrians at the same time does not need to be as strong as a loading ramp that supports fully laden 18-wheelers.
4. Mix: There are several basic concrete mixes that can be used to construct ramps. One of the most critical parts of the mix is the size of the aggregate chosen. Although it might sound counterintuitive, smaller aggregates make concrete stronger than larger aggregates.

When you need superior concrete work, contact RDC Paving. We are an experienced, highly respected company serving many locations in Central Texas. Our concrete services include the installation of ramps, driveways, sidewalks, wheel stops, and ADA-complaint features, and we also offer parking lot maintenance and parking lot striping. Our asphalt services include asphalt milling, asphalt paving, asphalt overlays, sealcoating, asphalt repairs and crack repairs, and asphalt driveway paving and asphalt patching. We also offer parking lot striping and complete parking lot maintenance programs. We have an exceptional reputation for craftsmanship, honesty, customer service, and professionalism. If you are interested in requesting a free quote, you can call 512-920-9155, or you can submit the online form.