Boat Ramps

Intro   |   Considerations   |    Ramp Surfaces   |   Cast-in-place Ramps   |   Push Slab Ramps

Ramp Surfaces

Ramps can be constructed of many different materials. The frequency of use, cost of construction, and durability of the ramp should be considered when deciding on the type of materials to use. In cases where ramp use is only occasional, an unimproved dirt or grassed surface may be sufficient. In this case, proper slope is critical to assure that the rear wheels of the towing vehicle remain on the dry bank when the trailer is extended into the water.

In most cases, pond or lake owners who desire a boat ramp will prefer a hardened, all-weather surface. Concrete slabs, precast reinforced or prestressed concrete planks, or gravel and crushed rock may all be used to construct a more durable, hard surfaced ramp. Concrete slabs afford maximum convenience and durability whereas precast reinforced or prestressed concrete plank ramps are simpler to construct in preexisting impoundments. Concrete planks may be laid in place on a well-prepared and properly sloped site.

A ramp also can be surfaced with gravel or crushed rock. The gravel or crushed rock used for a ramp should have less than 5 percent of the material capable of passing through a 200-mesh sieve. Gravel ramps should have a maximum slope of 15 percent, with at least 6 inches gravel depth. Protection of ramp edges and the water end with larger material (crushed stone or rip-rap) is recommended. Protection of the water end is especially important if outboard motors will be used to load/unload boats. The prop wash can erode the pond bottom at the end of the ramp, resulting in sloughing or breaking of the slab.

Concrete slab boat ramps can be constructed in two ways: cast-in-place and push-slab. Cast-in-place construction allows for the best control over slope and final ramp placement, but also requires a dry working area. Push slab construction is usually the better alternative for creating boat ramps in existing impoundments, but it is possible to construct a cast-in- place ramp in an existing impoundment. This approach requires construction of a cofferdam around the proposed ramp area, allowing subsequent removal of the water to facilitate drying and construction. Once the concrete has cured, the cofferdam can be removed, allowing the end of the ramp to be submerged.