Keep the maximum pitch (the number of feet the ramp rises for every foot of horizontal run) to 1 in 12, and if possible, build it 42 or 48 inches wide. (The minimum width is 36 inches.) Have the building inspector review your deck ramp plans before starting construction on the project. Construct a single-tiered ramp—one whose entire rise is on a single stringer. Or, to build longer ramps, set posts on footings at equal intervals along both sides of the run. Mark the angle of descent on the posts, and cut and install stringers with angled ends. Install handrails on ramps and landings. Expect to spend 10 to 12 hours building a 10- to 12-foot deck ramp. You’ll need to remove sod and install landscape fabric and gravel before you begin. Learn how to build a ramp for a deck with our step-by-step instructions, below.
