19 Jan When a Ramp Isn’t Enough: Identifying Vertical Accessibility Barriers in Building Design
In North Texas construction, accessibility is often approached as a horizontal challenge. When elevation changes appear in a design, the default solution is frequently a ramp.
While ramps are essential in many applications, relying on them alone can create design complications. Long ramp runs can consume valuable square footage, alter traffic flow, and impact the architectural vision of a property.
For architects, general contractors, and developers, identifying vertical accessibility barriers early in the design phase helps support TAS compliance while maintaining operational efficiency and aesthetic integrity.
The Slope vs. Space Challenge: When Ramps Reach Their Limit
One of the most common oversights in early-stage design is underestimating the footprint of a code-compliant ramp.
Under ADA and Texas Accessibility Standards guidelines, a typical ramp must follow a 1:12 slope ratio. This means every 1 inch of vertical rise requires 12 inches of horizontal run.
The Footprint Reality
To accommodate a 36-inch rise, such as a porch or loading dock height, a design may require approximately 36 feet of ramp run. In addition, 5-foot by 5-foot landings are typically required at the top, bottom, and at each change of direction.
In tight commercial sites, that amount of horizontal space is not always practical.
Physical Demands of Long Ramps
Even when technically compliant, extended ramp runs may be physically demanding for individuals with limited upper-body strength or mobility challenges.
Compliance standards establish minimum requirements. However, usability and daily convenience are also important considerations during design.
The 30-Foot Landing Requirement
ADA guidelines generally require a landing at least every 30 feet of ramp run. This increases the total footprint and may add structural and cost considerations to the project.
In many modern commercial and mixed-use layouts, allocating that much area to a ramp can disrupt circulation plans and leasable space.
Identifying Hidden Vertical Accessibility Barriers
Not all vertical barriers are obvious during schematic design. In many projects, they appear in subtle transitions that can complicate final inspection.
Split-Level Floor Plans
Popular in modern DFW office spaces and boutique commercial properties, sunken lobbies or raised mezzanines of 18 to 24 inches still require an accessible route.
If not addressed early, these features may require significant redesign later in the project.
Stage and Platform Access
In schools, churches, and auditoriums, raised stages and dais areas are common areas of non-compliance. These transitions must provide an accessible path, not just stair access.
Garage-to-Home Transitions
In residential design, a single step from a garage into a mudroom can limit long-term accessibility. For homeowners planning aging-in-place features, this transition is an important consideration.
Early identification allows the design team to evaluate lift or elevator options before construction advances.
Engineered Vertical Solutions: A Compact Alternative to Ramps
When a ramp is not feasible due to space constraints or design intent, engineered vertical solutions may provide a practical alternative.
Vertical Platform Lifts (VPLs)
Often referred to as porch lifts, Vertical Platform Lifts typically occupy a footprint of approximately 5 feet by 5 feet, depending on model and configuration. They can serve rises up to manufacturer limits, commonly around 12 to 14 feet.
VPLs are frequently used in:
- Tight garage corners
- Historic storefronts
- Commercial entries with limited sidewalk depth
- Raised office platforms
Because they move vertically rather than horizontally, they can preserve valuable floor space.
Learn more about Vertical Platform Lifts here: https://lift-aids.com/vertical-platform-lifts/
LULA Elevators
For projects requiring more vertical travel than a platform lift is designed to accommodate, a Limited Use/Limited Application elevator may be appropriate.
LULA elevators are commonly installed in low-rise commercial buildings, schools, and places of worship. They generally require a shallower pit than a full commercial elevator, which may reduce structural impact compared to standard systems. Exact pit and overhead requirements vary by manufacturer and application.
LULA systems provide an enclosed, code-compliant vertical solution for buildings that do not require a full passenger elevator.
Explore LU/LA Elevator options here: https://lift-aids.com/lu-la-elevators/
Integrated Design Benefits
Unlike exterior ramps that are sometimes added late in the process, vertical lifts and elevators can be incorporated into the building core during planning.
When coordinated with architectural and electrical drawings early, these systems can support both compliance and design cohesion.
Navigating TAS and TDLR Requirements in Texas
In Texas, accessibility compliance involves coordination with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
While ADA and TAS standards are largely aligned, TAS may include additional technical specifications that impact layout and equipment selection.
Working with a Licensed Texas Elevator Contractor helps ensure:
- Proper equipment selection
- Accurate CAD submittals
- Electrical coordination
- Documentation aligned with state inspection requirements
Early coordination can help reduce delays and minimize redesign before final inspection.
Strategic Takeaway for North Texas Design and Construction Professionals
The goal is not simply to meet minimum requirements. It is to anticipate barriers before they impact project timelines or property value.
When vertical accessibility challenges are identified late, teams often resort to rushed solutions that appear temporary or disrupt the architectural vision.
By evaluating vertical barriers during schematic design and consulting with experienced accessibility specialists, architects, and contractors can:
- Preserve leasable square footage
- Support TAS compliance
- Maintain design integrity
- Reduce inspection risk
At Lift-Aids, we partner with North Texas professionals to evaluate accessibility barriers early and recommend engineered solutions that align with both code requirements and project goals.
Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute safety, engineering, or regulatory advice. Equipment selection and performance vary based on application, environment, installation conditions, and usage.