Easy, low-cost zero-step entrances can be made on at least 90% of lots. In general, the only type of lot where a zero-step entrance is not feasible is one that presents all three of the following problems:
- the lot rises or falls so steeply from the street that a maximum 1:12 slope cannot be created without extensive grading and
- the lot will not have a driveway and
- there is no vehicular access to the back of the home by an alley or other roadway.
In the 90+% of lots that do not present the above set of problems, the lot should be developed and the home sited so that at least one zero-step entrance can be approached by a slope no steeper than 1:12 (less steep when possible). This entrance can be approached by a sidewalk, a driveway, a garage floor, or other useable route.
When lots are so steep they can't as a whole be graded to a 1:12
slope in a cost-effective way, the driveway may have to exceed 1:12 in
steepness. In those cases the builder can construct a 1:12 (or less) route
leading from the driveway to the no-step entrance.
Several Ways to Make Zero-Step Entrances on Sloping Lots
- If a home includes an attached garage or carport, the floor of the
garage or carport can be constructed in such a way that a no-step entrance
leads to the room adjacent to the garage or carport.
- If a particular lot rises from the street (i.e., if the lot is
higher at the back than the front), the no-step entrance may be constructed at
a front, side or back door, with a sidewalk or driveway leading to the
entrance.
- If a lot slopes down from the street (i.e., if the lot is lower at
the back than the front), a no-step entrance may be constructed at the front
door by means of a sidewalk running from the street or driveway. If the lot
slopes down very steeply, a bridge-type walkway may lead from the front
sidewalk to the porch.
- If a lot is higher on one side than the other, the driveway or
sidewalk leading to the no-step entrance should be constructed on the higher
side of the lot. This facilitates the construction of a ramp or walkway which
is short and yet does not exceed the 1:12 ratio. Reversing the house plan to
its mirror image (for example, a kitchen located on the east side of the lot
reversed to the west side) may facilitate locating the driveway on the higher
side.
Drawing from EntrywaysOn a lot higher on one side than the other, construct the driveway on the higher side. - If a lot rises steeply from the street (i.e., is not amenable to
grading to a 1:12 maximum ratio) and at the same time there is no driveway,
access may be available to the back of the home by means of an alley or other
roadway. In that case, a no-step entrance may be constructed at the back of the
home.
Drawing from EntrywaysEven when lots are steep, no-step entrances can be simple. Important: For photos of houses that incorporate these principles, and much additional information about creating zero-step entrances, download the free "Entryways" Power Point listed on the links portion of the Home Page.
