Elevations / Field changes ADA Ramp
Elevations / Field changes ADA Ramp
(OP)
We ran into a problem while installing a ADA ramp. We installed a ADA ramp per the “boiler plate” details given on the plan. The only grades shown was a spot elevation at the detectable warning surface and at the old / new sidewalk transition about 20lf away.
The top of the ramp which was installed per the detail rises to an elevation 2 ½” higher than the existing sidewalk and then a slopes about 10lf. to the existing elevation. The problem is the customer and architect contend that we should have changed the elevation high point to meet the existing elevation without the slope. It is our argument that if there was to be a grade change the architect needed to show it by note or elevations shown on the plan. We all know why the architect isn't backing us up!Is there any writings to back up my argument?
Thanks,
Excavator.
The top of the ramp which was installed per the detail rises to an elevation 2 ½” higher than the existing sidewalk and then a slopes about 10lf. to the existing elevation. The problem is the customer and architect contend that we should have changed the elevation high point to meet the existing elevation without the slope. It is our argument that if there was to be a grade change the architect needed to show it by note or elevations shown on the plan. We all know why the architect isn't backing us up!Is there any writings to back up my argument?
Thanks,
Excavator.





RE: Elevations / Field changes ADA Ramp
Unfortunately, I am not knowledgeable in this area to provide you a reference, but keep fighting the good fight, and I'll be watching this to learn how to handle this from our wiser members.
RE: Elevations / Field changes ADA Ramp
My first reaction is something shouldn't have looked right to you when you were setting your forms and you should have paused and called the designer. I don't think I've ever seen an ADA ramp that goes up and then down, when a steady grade would work fine.
RE: Elevations / Field changes ADA Ramp
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RE: Elevations / Field changes ADA Ramp
RE: Elevations / Field changes ADA Ramp
RE: Elevations / Field changes ADA Ramp
1. Hit both grades shown on the plan. There are no contours or other reference information which could communicate smooth continuous transition
2. It doesn't break any rules of ADA and doesn't trigger handrails (you didn't give us enough info to judge this)
3. It doesn't break any rules of the detail.
If all of those conditions are correct, then you shouldn't have to replace it. you won't be vindicated or get rid of the sour grapes, but the architect and client will just have to accept it and move on. If your ramp is greater than 5%, you will need a 2% max landing at the top of it.... so really point #2 is the big question.
RE: Elevations / Field changes ADA Ramp
RE: Elevations / Field changes ADA Ramp
Were there water traps (non-draining area or swampy areas) created by the difference?
Or, does the water now drain down towards the building with the slight slope now present? If so, that would be reason to rebuild the slope and the grade? Either a water trap or a water ponding near the building would ice over in winter too.