How To Build A Ramp Over Existing Steps

In this article, we will cover the basics of how to build a ramp over existing steps. We’ll talk about some of the benefits and drawbacks of ramps, what materials you’ll need to complete this project, and an overview of the construction process. By following these instructions, you can build a ramp that will last for years to come, providing increased accessibility when you need it most.

Determine the appropriate slope.

The appropriate slope for a ramp over steps is 1:12, which means that for every foot of rise in height, there should be 12 feet of run. While this may seem steep at first glance, remember that it is measured from the top of your step to the bottom of your ramp—not from the bottom step to the run.

It’s important to remember that when planning out your project, you’ll want to measure from where you’re standing on top of one step (or several) and mark where this measurement should end up on the ground being graded below it (in other words: don’t forget about elevation!). If you’re using new wood boards rather than concrete pavers or stones as an available surface material then make sure they don’t have any gaps between them so water doesn’t pool up after rainstorms etcetera! The slope needs be gradual enough not only so that people won’t trip over themselves but also so water doesn’t pool up after rains.

Cut the risers down to the correct height.

Determine the height of the risers by measuring the distance between the top of the steps and the bottom tread.
Cut each riser with a reciprocating saw or miter saw. You can also use a circular saw if you wish, but be sure to wear eye protection and work carefully.
Check that your cuts are level by using a small level on top of each cut end. The surface of each cut should be flat and even with one another.

Attach a length of 2-by-6 along the top of the steps.

To build a ramp over existing steps, you’ll need to measure your stairs and use a circular saw to cut 3/4-inch plywood. Attach a length of 2-by-6 along the top of the steps, using screws that extend through the plywood and into the 2-by-6. Use screws long enough to go through both surfaces—for example, if your plywood is 1/2 inch thick, then use 3-inch screws or longer. Use a level on your newly attached ramp piece so you can ensure it’s straight before securing it with more screws in place.

Measure each step separately so that when you’re ready to install the finished product at home (or wherever) it will fit perfectly between them without being too tall or too short—you want your new walkway to be safe.

Cut 3/4 inch plywood into a ramp that is slightly longer than the stairs.

To cut your plywood to size, use a circular saw with a blade that is about 75mm in diameter. Use the straight edge to ensure that the piece of plywood is straight and even. Then, use a tape measure to make sure it’s the correct size. Mark where you need to cut it with pencil so you have something visible when cutting through the material.

After cutting and sanding any rough edges on this ramp for stairs, paint it if desired or leave as-is for maximum durability. You can attach your ramp over existing steps by screwing through from one side into another. Make sure you use screws long enough for this purpose; if they’re too short they’ll strip out easily after repeated use.

Join two 2-by-12s together with long screws to form the ramp frame.

Join the two 2-by-12s together with long screws to form the ramp frame.
Attach plywood to the frame with long screws.

Screw plywood on top of the frame.

As you attach the plywood to the frame, make sure that it is flush with the frame. You want your ramp to be level and straight, so use a level as you screw in each board. If you want to prevent tripping or slipping, add a piece of flat rubber at each end of your ramp.

If you’re using cedar, stain it as soon as possible (within 24 hours) so that any moisture from construction won’t cause mold growth on wood exposed for long periods of time.

Attach rails and posts to either side of the ramp.

Use a drill and screws to attach the rails and posts to the outside of the ramp.
Make sure the rails and posts are level with the ground using a level.
Cut each rail and post to length using a saw. Round off all four corners of each piece with sandpaper and a chisel, if desired.
Use nails or screws to attach them together (a hammer will help).

You can build a ramp over your existing steps in one weekend if you plan carefully.

This is a guide to help you through the process:

Make sure the ramp is wide enough—the wider, the better. Look at fire codes for your area and make sure that the ramp is at least 36 inches wide. It should also be as long as possible to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers.
Make sure the ramp is strong enough—use pressure-treated wood or composite lumber that has been engineered specifically for this purpose (like Trex). Do not use treated wood unless it was specifically designed for ramps because untreated wood may split during placement or seasons of use, causing dangerous conditions on an already compromised surface. Be aware of any local restrictions on material choices so that you don’t end up breaking any laws by using subpar materials.
Make sure the ramp is safe—use handrails on both sides of your new structure in case someone slips while going down stairs or walking across uneven surfaces like gravel paths towards their destination point off in distance away from home base where they might need assistance getting back inside safely without falling off into traffic below after having left their vehicle parked nearby earlier today before heading out shopping around town since they needed some things purchased urgently before leaving town tomorrow morning headed out early after breakfasting together with family members who live nearby each other’s houses where meals are shared weekly between them all when they get together regularly every month without fail without fail always attending church services held monthly at different locations near us here near us there

Final words

Here you have it. Thanks to these easy instructions, you’ve learned how to build a ramp over your existing steps. All that’s left for you to do is to get out there and get building.