Choosing Wheelchair Ramps For Steps

A ramp for wheelchairs helps reduce the risk of falls which are a frequent cause of injuries for those using wheelchairs. The ideal ramp for you will depend on your budget and lifestyle.

Modular ramps made from aluminum metal are a permanent solution that does not require building permits. They're designed to fit into vehicles and come with handles for easy transporting.

Length

A wheelchair ramp is a means for a person who is using a motor scooter, wheelchair or other mobility device to enter an area or home without having to climb stairs. The ramps are either permanent, semi-permanent or portable and are made from wood, concrete, aluminum or another material. The length of the ramp determines the degree of steepness and how easy or difficult it will be for people using a scooter or wheelchair. A variety of factors determine the length of the ramp that is required, including whether the ramp will be used at home or in a commercial location, the available space and any obstacles such as trees, walkways, or buildings which could limit where a ramp can be placed.

The first thing to consider when selecting a ramp is the number of steps it will need to overcome. This can be determined by measuring the rise of the steps or by using an instrument that analyzes the incline and distance. The length of the ramp must include any other distances, like sidewalks or curbs, that might need to be crossed.

Once the total rise is determined, it can be compared to Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines regarding slope ratios. The ADA recommends a ramp of at least 12 inches in length for every inch of vertical rise. This creates a 5-degree incline.

If the person using the ramp is living in a single-story house and is a single-story home, a threshold ramp could be a better choice rather than constructing a longer ADA-compliant ramp. Threshold ramps are designed to be positioned over small thresholds or bumps in doorways and other entryways, allowing the user to move their scooter or wheelchair ramps for vans over the bump with ease.

portable wheelchair ramps for homes ramps, like ramps for suitcases that fold in quarters or half, are sized to fit into the majority of vehicles and are often equipped with handles. They are ideal for those who require a temporary solution or who will be moving in the near future and want to be able take their ramp with them. Modular ramps are available in longer lengths and are able to accommodate a variety of stair heights.

Incline

It is important to consider the slope of your ramp if you use a wheelchair or scooter. A steep ramp can be dangerous or challenging for anyone who has to walk up and down the ramp, regardless of their capabilities. ADA guidelines recommend a ramp slope ratio of 1:12, meaning that for every inch of vertical rise, there should be 12" (one foot) of length. This ensures that the ramp is safe and has an equally flat landing at the top and bottom of the ramp to allow for smooth transition.

Wheelchair ramps are available in many sizes and styles, to suit most accessibility requirements and step heights. They are available in three kinds that are permanent, semi-permanent, and portable. They are made of different materials and are used by both commercial and residential users.

Permanent collapsible ramps for wheelchairs (Read the Full Post) are erected in the ground or on a concrete pad and are designed for long-term use. Often, they require a permit to install. These ramps are a great choice for those who have a consistent need to access their building or home with a scooter or wheelchair, as they can be left in place until required.

Modular ramps are designed to address the wide array of accessible needs and can be custom sized to meet the specific needs of each situation. They are constructed from many modular segments that can be easily assembled and re-assembled on site. These ramps are often used for public or commercial occupants and are required to comply with strict ADA guidelines.

Portable ramps are typically made of aluminum, and they can be folded like a suitcase, making them easy to transport. They are available in a variety of sizes that start at 2' and go up to 12'. These ramps are used to transport power chairs or scooters into vans, and also for a the short incline of your home. Some of these ramps are able to support up to 300 pounds while others are able to support 100 lbs. These ramps are ideal for temporary or occasional usage. They are also a cost effective alternative to a permanent ramp.

Surface

A ramp for wheelchairs can be used to retrofit stairs into your home, bridge steps in sunken rooms or just climb a small rise near the doorway. There are a variety of ramps, but not all are created equal. There are a few questions you can be asking yourself to ensure you find the perfect ramp for your needs.

One crucial aspect to take into consideration is the type of surface the ramp will have. The most common surface material is a non-slip type. This will decrease the risk of falling, especially when it's wet. Non-slip surfaces include rubber, aluminum, and foam.

If you need to use the wheelchair or scooter in the rain, you may also want to look for a ramp that has an impervious surface. This will ensure that the ramp is dry and offers the users with traction.

Another aspect to be aware of is whether the ramp will need to be permanent or if it could be removed and moved. Permanent ramps are constructed on the spot from concrete, metal or wood. These are more expensive than modular ramps and require a building permit to install.

Modular ramps are more adaptable and affordable. They are usually constructed of aluminum. They can be constructed to fit into most vehicles and come with handles that make it easy to transport. They can be removed from the house without harming it, and are a great choice for those who move frequently or travel frequently.

Another option is a suitcase ramp, which is smaller version of the ramp that is modular and can be carried in the trunk of a car or in a small storage bag. They are not ADA-compliant and are intended for personal use. The only disadvantage of the suitcase-style ramp is that it does not support heavier vehicles, such as a scooter or power wheelchair.

Handrails

There are several options for wheelchair ramps, including semi-permanent, permanent, or portable. Permanent ramps are bolted onto the ground, while semi-permanent ones rest on a concrete pad that can be moved without damaging the surface below. Portable ramps are foldable, making them easy to transport. They are often used for short inclines, or to load a power chair onto the side of a van.

Wheelchair ramps are constructed from a variety of materials, including wood, aluminum metal and concrete. The type of material used can affect the price and time needed to construct. It is essential to consider the light weight wheelchair ramps and size of the mobility device along with any other accessories or persons. You run the risk of selecting a ramp that is too small or not able to accommodate both the user and the equipment.

Handrails for ramps are optional, but recommended to ensure safety. They provide stability and prevent falls, especially for users who are navigating the steps leading to the ramp. For ADA compliance, ramps must have a handrail that is 34-38 inches above the ramp surface and extends from one side of the ramp to the other. A ramp should also have an accessible handrail on both sides to keep people from falling off the ramp.

If you are seeking a ramp for wheelchairs that is economical and durable, you should consider a modular handicap ramp built of aluminum. They are less expensive than other kinds and can be put in place much faster than an all-weather concrete or wooden ramp that may require a permit and take a few weeks to build. Modular ramps are constructed of ramp sections that are constructed off-site to allow for quick assembly. These ramps are perfect for homes that have stairs that need to be climbed, or for temporary use by friends or family with steps. They are available in a variety of lengths that can accommodate a broad range step heights. Regardless of the type of ramp you select the safety features such as anti-slip mats and glow-in-the-dark ramp tape are also essential to add for additional security.