Slope Made Simple
✨ Your quick guide to sizing a ramp for any entrance. ✨

Residential spaces allow room for creativity — combining stairs and a ramp in one thoughtful design makes accessibility seamless, even in tight spaces.
We all know the ADA “golden standard”: a 1:12 ratio—every inch of rise needs a foot of ramp. For example: a 7″ step = 7′ of ramp.
But for residential spaces, this isn’t a requirement. Two quick takeaways:
- Portable ramps (4–6 ft) often work for 1–2 steps, even if the slope is slightly steeper.
– Use a tape measure from the top step down to the ground to visualize the length you’ll need.
- Measure carefully: total step height (each riser) and step depth. Use a tape measure from the top step down to ground level to gauge the length you’ll need.
Pro Tip: When in doubt, consult an occupational therapist or universal design pro to get the safest fit.
Your goal is simple: create the least slope practical within the available space so every guest can enter with ease.
👉 Read our quick guide on ramps
👉 Shop our favorite 4ft ramp here
✨ Shop for Good
There’s still time to grab your Glennon Card and enjoy 20% off at 340+ local retailers (and select online stores) from October 17–26 — including our annual sponsor, NewSpace Home Organization.
✨ In case you missed it!
👉 Read about this month’s sponsor: Accessible and Family-Friendly Stays in Branson. Use promo code “TIFFANY” for $75 off your next stay!
👉 Join the SMILE Mass VIP List – Early booking opens Saturday, October 25, for a fully accessible Cape Cod rental.
👉 Read the full SMILE Mass story HERE. Explore the heart behind every accessible feature of the Wellfleet home.
With Joy + Gratitude,

| Occupational Therapist, Universal Design Consultant |
| Joyful Spaces | Effortless Adventures | Lasting Connections. |
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October Issue
