How to Build a Folding Car Ramp

Loading your dog in and out of the car can present a real challenge -- especially if you have a large breed. Keeping a folded dog ramp handy in the trunk or back of your car can save your back, help an aging or physically challenged dog and make the experience of including your pet on your outings a pleasure as opposed to a worry. A portable folding dog ramp provides an easy, inexpensive project you can complete in less than an hour.

Things You'll Need

  • Baseboard molding
  • Saw
  • Lumber or shelving board
  • Hammer
  • Nails
  • Carpet knife
  • Staple gun and staples
  • Carpet remnant or runner
  • Heavy-duty 4- or 5-inch hinges with screws
  • Screwdriver
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Instructions

    • 1

      Cut 3.5-inch-wide baseboard molding into four sections, each 30 inches long, to create the side rails for the ramp. Have a home supply store cut the molding if you do not have a saw.

    • 2

      Saw or have the home supply store cut a piece of 16-inch-wide lumber or shelving board into two pieces, each 30 inches long, to create the base of the ramp. Take your dog's weight into account; use a board that will provide the support needed.

    • 3

      Use a hammer and nails to attach the molding to the sides of each section of lumber or shelving board, checking to ensure that the bottom edges of the molding are flush with the bottom of the ramp lumber. Your dog ramp now has sides to guide your dog.

    • 4

      Cut the carpet runner into two sections, each 16 inches wide and 30 inches long. Use a carpet knife or utility knife to cut your carpet pieces. These knives can be purchased at any hardware or home-improvement store. Attach the carpet runner or remnant to the ramp using flat-head nails or a staple gun. Use a non-skid backing or base to keep the carpet from slipping. Keep the edges of the ramp free from carpet in the areas where you will attach the hinges.

    • 5

      Join the two ramp halves together using two heavy-duty hinges. Attach the ramp pieces with the hinges using a screwdriver and screws so the two ramp sides without carpet will close together and the ramp will unfold with the carpet on the topside of the dog ramp. Space the hinges evenly.