1. What is Slope Percentage?

Slope percentage is a measure of the steepness of a ramp or incline, calculated as the ratio of vertical rise to horizontal run multiplied by 100. It's essential for designing accessible ramps that comply with disability access regulations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the slope percentage formula:

Where:

• \( \text{rise} \) — Vertical change (in consistent units)
• \( \text{run} \) — Horizontal change (in consistent units)
• \( 100 \) — Conversion factor to percentage

Explanation: This formula calculates the percentage grade of a slope, which is crucial for determining if a ramp meets accessibility standards.

3. Importance of Slope Calculation

Details: Proper slope calculation is critical for creating accessible environments. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) recommends a maximum slope of 8.33% for ramps, making accurate calculation essential for compliance and safety.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both rise and run values in the same units (e.g., both in meters or both in feet). Ensure values are positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the maximum slope percentage for wheelchair ramps?
A: The ADA recommends a maximum slope of 8.33% (1:12 ratio) for wheelchair ramps to ensure accessibility.

Q2: How do I measure rise and run accurately?
A: Measure rise vertically from the lowest to highest point, and run horizontally along the base length. Use the same units for both measurements.

Q3: Can this calculator be used for road grades?
A: Yes, the same formula applies to road grades, though typical road gradients are much lower than ramp slopes.

Q4: What if my run measurement is zero?
A: Run cannot be zero as it would create division by zero. A run of zero would represent a vertical wall, not a ramp.

Q5: How does slope percentage relate to angle?
A: Slope percentage = tan(angle) × 100. A 45° angle equals a 100% slope, while lower angles produce smaller percentages.