Sidewalk Slope Calculator

Calculating the slope of a sidewalk is essential for ensuring proper drainage and accessibility. The Sidewalk Slope Calculator simplifies this process, enabling homeowners, builders, and urban planners to ensure compliance with local regulations and guidelines for safe and accessible walkways.

Sidewalk Slope Formula

The formula for calculating the sidewalk slope percentage is:

\[ SWS = \frac{SRI}{SRU} \times 100 \]

where:

• \(SWS\) is the Sidewalk Slope (%),
• \(SRI\) is the sidewalk rise (in inches),
• \(SRU\) is the sidewalk run (in inches).

Example Calculation

For a sidewalk rise of 3 inches and a run of 36 inches, the sidewalk slope is calculated as:

\[ SWS = \frac{3}{36} \times 100 = 8.33\% \]

Importance of Sidewalk Slope

Correct sidewalk slope is crucial for:

• Preventing water accumulation, which can lead to surface damage and increase slip hazards.
• Ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges.
• Complying with regulations such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the United States, which requires slopes to be no steeper than 1:12 (8.33%).

Common FAQs

1. What is an acceptable slope for a sidewalk?

   • Ideally, sidewalk slopes should not exceed 8.33% to meet ADA compliance and ensure accessibility.

2. How do you measure the rise and run of a sidewalk?

   • The rise is the vertical distance from the start to the end of the slope, and the run is the horizontal distance over which the rise occurs.

3. Can this calculator be used for ramps?

   • Yes, the same principles apply to ramps, making this calculator suitable for ramp slope calculations as well.

This tool offers a straightforward way to calculate and evaluate the slope of sidewalks, ensuring they meet safety and accessibility standards.