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How to Measure for a Rubber Access Ramp

Posted by

March 22, 2026

On August 27, 2021

Getting the right measurements for a rubber access ramp is crucial for ensuring safety, compliance, and accessibility. Whether you're installing a ramp at home, work, or a commercial space, accurate measurements prevent costly mistakes and ensure your ramp functions perfectly. In this guide, we'll walk you through every measurement you need to take before ordering your recycled rubber ramp.

At EZY Access Solutions, we've helped thousands of Melbourne residents and businesses measure and install rubber ramps. This guide shares our proven process so you can get it right the first time.

Meausre for a rubber Ramp

Learn how to measure for a rubber access ramp with our simple step-by-step guide. Includes tools needed, measurement techniques, and height recommendations.

Tools You'll Need

Before you start measuring, gather these essential tools:

**Tape measure** – A 5-metre tape measure is ideal for most doorways and steps

- **Spirit level** – To check if your surface is flat or sloped

- **Notebook and pen** – For recording measurements

- **Camera or phone** – Optional but helpful for documenting the site

- **Helper** – A second person makes measuring easier and more accurate

How to Measure Your Door Threshold

Step 1: Measure the Height of the Threshold

1. Position your tape measure at the bottom of the door opening (on the ground/floor level outside)

2. Measure straight up to the top of the threshold lip

3. Record this measurement in millimetres

This height tells you what ramp grade you need. Most standard thresholds range from 10mm to 50mm, requiring a gentle slope ramp.

Step 2: Measure the Width of the Opening

1. Measure the width of your door opening from left frame to right frame

2. Your ramp should be at least as wide as the door for safe passage

3. Add an extra 100mm if possible for comfort and safety

**Pro tip:** If your door is 900mm wide, order a ramp that's 1000mm wide minimum.

Step 3: Measure the Depth You Have Available

1. Measure outward from your door threshold into the space where the ramp will sit

2. Measure at least 1 metre out (or more if space allows)

3. This determines how long your ramp can be, which affects the slope gradient

The longer your ramp, the gentler the slope – important for wheelchair accessibility and safety.

How to Measure for Steps and Stairs

Measuring Step Height

1. Place your tape measure on the ground at the base of the first step

2. Measure vertically to the top of the first step (the riser height)

3. Repeat for each step if you have multiple steps

4. Add these measurements together for total height

**Example:** If you have two steps with 150mm risers each, your total height is 300mm.

Measuring Step Width

1. Measure the width of the step tread (the horizontal part you step on)

2. Ensure this measurement equals your ramp's required length at the slope

Measuring Horizontal Distance Available

1. Measure from the base of your stairs outward into the space where the ramp will sit

2. The more horizontal space you have, the gentler your ramp slope can be

3. A 1:12 ratio (1mm rise per 12mm length) is ideal for wheelchair accessibility

Understanding Ramp Height and Slope Grades

Once you have your height and distance measurements, you can calculate the right ramp grade.

Common Ramp Heights and Recommended Slopes

| 10–25mm | 1:12 (very gentle) | Slight thresholds, gentle grade ramps |

| 25–50mm | 1:10 to 1:12 | Standard door thresholds |

| 50–150mm | 1:8 to 1:10 | Single to double steps |

| 150–300mm | 1:6 to 1:8 | Multiple steps |

**Slope Ratio Explanation:** A 1:12 slope means for every 1mm of height, you need 12mm of horizontal distance.

**Example:** For a 100mm high threshold with a 1:10 slope, you'd need 1000mm (1 metre) of ramp length.

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Measuring for Sliding Door Ramps

Sliding doors present unique challenges since you can't simply place a ramp across the threshold without affecting the door's operation.

Steps to Measure for Sliding Doors

1. **Threshold height** – Measure the lip height as with standard doors

2. **Door frame width** – Measure the full width of the sliding door opening

3. **Space beside the door** – Measure the space available to one side of the door

4. **Clearance depth** – Ensure your ramp doesn't block the door's path

Many sliding doors require a [Link: /rubber-threshold-ramps] specifically designed not to interfere with door operation.

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Checking for Surface Issues

Before ordering, inspect the area where your ramp will sit.

### Look For:

- **Uneven or sloped surfaces** – Use your spirit level to check. Major slopes (more than 10mm) may require a tapered base ramp

- **Cracks or damage** – The base surface should be reasonably smooth

- **Moisture or drainage** – Ensure water won't pool at the ramp base (rubber ramps handle moisture well, but the base shouldn't be waterlogged)

- **Temperature extremes** – Recycled rubber performs well in Melbourne's climate from hot to cold

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Recording Your Measurements

Create a simple measurement sheet:

```

Location: _______________

Height: _____ mm

Width: _____ mm

Available depth: _____ mm

Surface condition: _______________

Photos attached: Yes / No

Special notes: _______________

```

Taking photos from multiple angles helps our team confirm measurements before manufacturing your custom ramp.

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When to Choose Different Ramp Heights

Your choice of ramp height depends on your specific accessibility need:

- **10–25mm ramps** – Small thresholds, door lips, slightly uneven surfaces

- **50–100mm ramps** – Single steps, basement transitions

- **100–200mm ramps** – Double steps, significant height changes

- **200–300mm ramps** – Triple steps, significant level changes

For wheelchair users, the gentler the slope, the better. Always opt for the longest possible ramp length if space allows.

Why Accurate Measurements Matter

Inaccurate measurements lead to:

- Ramps that don't fit properly

- Slopes that are too steep for wheelchair users

- Safety issues during installation

- Wasted money on products you can't use

- Delays in getting your accessibility solution

Professional measurement takes 15–20 minutes and saves significant headaches later.

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Common Measurement Mistakes to Avoid

1. **Measuring only at one point** – Thresholds aren't always level; measure multiple points

2. **Forgetting the slope ratio** – A 200mm rise needs 2400mm of ramp length for a 1:12 slope

3. **Not accounting for handrails** – If you need handrails, they reduce usable ramp width

4. **Ignoring the available space** – Measure the actual space you have before choosing ramp length

5. **Mixing millimetres and metres** – Keep all measurements in millimetres for clarity

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Ready to Order Your Rubber Ramp?

Once you've taken these measurements, you have everything needed to order the perfect recycled rubber ramp for your space. EZY Access Solutions manufactures custom ramps to your exact specifications, using high-quality recycled rubber that's durable, slip-resistant, and environmentally friendly.

Free Ramp Sample

Unsure about rubber ramp quality or colour? Request a **free sample** of our recycled rubber material. Feel the durability and see the finish for yourself before committing to a full ramp.

[Contact EZY Access Solutions today for your free sample and expert advice on ramp selection.]

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Key Takeaways

- Measure height, width, and available depth carefully

- Use the 1:12 slope ratio as your accessibility gold standard

- Record all measurements in millimetres

- Take photos of your space for reference

- Check the surface for issues that might affect installation

- Contact professionals if you're unsure about any measurement