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More Info for the Skamper Ramp
Skamper-Ramps® are blowmolded
polyethylene for the 2008 SKR3, Super Skamper-Ramp, or fabricated box-extruded,
PP (polypropylene) for the original SKR1 ramp. They float and tare chemical-
and UV-resistant, rugged, and recyclable. For this reason they will not yellow,
mildew, grow barnacles or become “scummy” over time.
After 6 years of research
and in-pool testing we have found that these materials have the longest life-span,
are most economical, lightest weight while providing the greatest strength-to-weight
ratio along with robustness, are most reliable, are most versatile to use, and
are easiest to assemble.
The SKR3 was developed to
withstand frequent use by pets and larger dogs and simply snaps together. The
oridignal Skamper-Ramp is for emergency or infrequent use, precenting critter
and small animal drownings.
The ramps come complete with all
the necessary assembly hardware for proper installation.
Note: Hardware for attaching the D-ring-clips to the pool deck HAS NOT been
supplied due to the wide variety of deck types and materials. Please consult
with your local hardware store or pool service company to make the appropriate
selection. We suggest a 1/4" pan-head stainless steel screw that is 1 3/8"
long and a plastic or lead concrete anchor for sinking into your deck.
How long will it last?
The (SKR3) ramp is made
of blowmolded polyethylene or box-extruded polypropylene--some of the strongest,
most durable materials available that can float. In addition, the materials
used are UV- and chemical- resistant. Because of this, we know it will hold
up for a very long time--one has been installed in a pool in Charleston, SC
for over 5 years, still looks great and is going strong. While we can't make
guarantees, it should last a very long time!
NOTE: For optimal performance
it is important, from time to time, to check and make sure the nuts and bolts
are tight and the rope is taut so the ramp is snug to the pool wall.
We suggest attaching the
ramp to the pool’s deck with the stainless steel D-ring-clips and rope
provided. The ramps have a knot tied as close to the ramp surface as possible
in order for it to maintain its orientation.
There are two sets of holes
in the ramp for threading the rope through, in order to have a snug fit to the
wall (including under a deep coping, such as with a steel sided vinyl wall.)
Some people choose to use
existing railings, pool cover anchors, or water leveler covers, rather than
drilling into their deck. In this case, be sure the rope tie-downs are not spread
much farther apart than the width of the ramp for optimal performance.
The ramp should float/hang
in the water at an angle that is approximately 30-degrees below horizontal so
that the ramp’s round “nose” is submerged by a few inches.
Lead-plug or stainless steel
anchors with non-rusting screws are suggested for poured/solid decks; non-rusting
bolts and nuts with a lock washer are suggested for hollow decks. Customers
should check with their pool service company if they are unsure what method
to use!
Directions for assembly
and attachment are provided with every Skamper-Ramp.
Vinyl Liner Pools
Skamper-Ramps are designed to keep an animal’s claws from slashing the
plastic walls of vinyl liner pools as they attempt escape. Each corner radius
is designed to protect--not puncture--the vinyl liner.
For extra buoyancy we suggest
using flotation “noodle” sections attached with plastic tie-downs.
While we haven't had anyone report a problem but we understand and respect the
fear of replacing a liner. In order to minimize rub, if you have it or can get
it, we suggest doubling the vinyl wall layer in the area where the ramp will
be installed.
If that is not possible
you could tape the edge of the ramp that will be closest to the pool wall with
duct tape or waterproof vinyl pool tape. We are in the process of developing
a vinyl pool kit for this.
In the case of thick coping/a
deep overhanging deck, be sure to rethread the rope through the holes below
the logo, in order to pull the ramp snugly under the overhang, and close to
the pool wall.
Each SKAMPER-RAMP kit includes:
SKAMPER-RAMP parts, D-ring tie down clips, washers
and rope, assembly instructions, installation instructions, product warranty
description and warranty card (for original owner).
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