Thread: Ramp timbers

I want to build a ramp from the deck near the laundry where there is currently 2 steps down.

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 ?

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.

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

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.