Accessibility Ramps

The applicable slope depends on whether the work is a building ramp, exterior path, or curb ramp and on the governing code, regulation, municipality, and approved design. Harrowgate builds to the project criteria and surveys available rise and run before demolition. Tolerance is reserved below the maximum so field variation does not create rejection.

Toronto accessibility guidance uses a 1:50, or 2 percent, maximum cross slope for curb ramps. The project designer confirms the governing requirement. Harrowgate checks cross slope across the full clear width and at transitions, because local depressions, gutter warping, or tactile panels can create noncompliant points even when average slope appears acceptable.

They are required at defined hazards and transitions, including curb ramps under applicable public-space criteria. Location, width, depth, profile, orientation, and visual contrast come from the governing design. Harrowgate embeds the approved units flush and aligns them across the clear route without interfering with drainage or snow removal.

Handrail and guard requirements depend on rise, slope, edge condition, location, and governing code. Where required, rail height, gripping surface, clearance, continuity, extensions, and post location are designed together with clear width and landings. Harrowgate coordinates embeds before concrete so rail installation does not narrow the route unexpectedly.

We survey surrounding grades, slope permitted surfaces toward an approved outlet, coordinate door thresholds, and install drains where designed. Forms are checked before and during concrete placement. Adjacent asphalt, curbs, and landscaping are restored to the same drainage plan so later settlement or a raised edge does not trap water.

Yes. Harrowgate phases demolition and construction, establishes a temporary accessible route approved by the facility team, protects occupants, and schedules disruptive work. We coordinate doors, operators, rails, tactile surfaces, concrete curing, and final inspection before switching access, so the entrance is not reopened with incomplete safety components.

We measure running slope, cross slope, transitions, landing dimensions, clear width, rail geometry, edge protection, tactile indicator location, threshold height, and door manoeuvring space. Measurements are taken at several locations, not just endpoints. Drainage and surface finish are inspected under the same closeout because accessibility depends on usability as well as dimensions.