Concrete ADA Ramps
ADA-compliant concrete ramps are required at the entrances of commercial, public-access, and multi-family buildings in Seattle — and the slope, width, landing, and handrail rules are not negotiable. We build poured-in-place concrete ramps to the ADA Standards for Accessible Design (Section 405): 1:12 maximum running slope, 36-inch minimum clear width between handrails, level landings at every 30 inches of vertical rise, and edge protection or curb returns where required.
New construction ramps, retrofit upgrades on existing entrances, and SDOT-coordinated curb-cut work are all within scope. SDCI inspects commercial work for compliance before a certificate of occupancy issues; we coordinate inspection holds and document slope and width measurements for the record.
ADA ramp specifications
Under ADA Standards for Accessible Design (Section 405), ramps must meet these minimums: maximum running slope of 1:12 (8.33%), minimum clear width of 36 inches between handrails, maximum rise of 30 inches per run before a landing is required, and level landings (max 1:48 slope) at top and bottom. Handrails are required on both sides for any ramp with a rise greater than 6 inches. Curb ramps at street level require tactile warning surfaces (truncated domes) at the bottom. Edge protection prevents wheels from running off the side.
Commercial vs. residential ADA ramps
Commercial and public-access buildings - offices, retail, medical facilities, multi-family housing - must comply with ADA requirements enforced by DOJ and Seattle SDCI. Private residential ramps for personal use are not covered under the ADA, but many homeowners build to ADA standards for aging-in-place and resale value. SDCI issues permits for commercial ramp work and verifies slope and width compliance during inspection.
ADA ramp cost in Seattle
Concrete ADA ramps in Seattle typically range from $2,500 for a simple curb ramp to $15,000+ for a full building entrance ramp with landings and handrails. Key cost drivers: ramp length (every inch of rise at 1:12 adds 12 inches of run), number of intermediate landings, handrail scope, existing hardscape removal, and site access. We provide a free on-site estimate - every site is different.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a concrete ADA ramp cost in Seattle?
Concrete ADA ramps in Seattle typically cost $2,500–$8,000 depending on length, width, site conditions, and whether handrails, landings, or tactile warning strips are required. Curb ramps at a single corner start on the lower end; full entrance ramps with landings are higher. Get a free on-site estimate - every site is different.
What are the ADA requirements for concrete ramps?
Under ADA Standards for Accessible Design, ramps must have a maximum slope of 1:12 (one inch of rise for every 12 inches of run). Minimum clear width is 36 inches. Ramps with a rise greater than 6 inches require handrails on both sides. Edge protection and level landings at the top and bottom are also required. Seattle's SDCI enforces these standards for commercial and public projects.
Do I need a permit for an ADA ramp in Seattle?
Most ADA ramp installations at commercial or public-access buildings require a building permit from Seattle's SDCI. The permit ensures the ramp meets ADA slope, width, and safety standards. Residential ramps for private use may not require a permit, but it's best to confirm with SDCI before starting. We work with property owners through the permitting process.
How long does it take to build a concrete ADA ramp?
A standard concrete ADA ramp installation takes 2–4 days: one day for excavation and forming, one day for the concrete pour and initial finish, and 24–48 hours before the ramp can bear foot traffic. Permit review timelines are separate and can add weeks depending on project complexity.
How should I maintain a concrete ADA ramp?
Seal the ramp surface every 2–3 years to prevent moisture penetration and surface scaling. Inspect tactile warning strips annually and replace if damaged. Keep drainage clear so water doesn't pool at the base. Repair surface cracks promptly to prevent trip hazards. In Seattle's climate, a penetrating silane or siloxane sealer provides the best long-term moisture protection.
