Ramp timbers

[Wombat2]

I want to build a ramp from the deck near the laundry where there is currently 2 steps down.http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v698/Wombat2/back006-1.jpg

It will run to the post which is actually level with the corner of the house. 1400 wide and 3200 long. I'll need 4 joists but what size? Plain hardwood or should I use treated H4 ?

[Bloss]

I'd use H4 - or H3 TP so long as the timber is on concrete or stirrups/ post brackets at the lower end and not on the dirt. Size depends on the span between supports. If you intend having simply a 3200 run and no intermediate supports then you would need to scale up - 190x45 will go 3100mm and might be OK for 3200, but I'd go 240x45 to have no flexing. Or if the soil is OK you could put in a centre bearer of 90x45 (or a bit bigger) between two stirrups and use 90x45 joists. :2tsup:

[Cecile]

do you need to consider the incline of this ramp for disabled access? from memory the maximum is 1:12...do you have enough length? if the run is too short, the ramp may end up being very steep

[Bloss]

An oldish post and OP hasn't been back, but from the description it's about 1:9 and 1:8 is generally OK for walking although for a wheelchair should be a minimum of 1:14 and ideally 1:20 but that is not mandated for a private residence. AS 1428.1 refers.