Choosing Wheelchair Ramps For Steps

A ramp for stairs for wheelchairs can help to reduce the chance of falling, a common cause of injuries for those using wheelchairs. The ideal ramp for you depends on your budget and your lifestyle.

Modular ramps made from aluminum metal are a permanent solution that doesn't require building permits. They're designed to fit in vehicles and come with handles that make it easy to transport them.

Length

A wheelchair ramp allows someone who is using a wheelchair, motor scooter or similar mobility device to enter a home or other building without the need to climb the stairs. The ramps are either permanent, semi-permanent or mobile and are constructed from wood, concrete, aluminum or another material. The length of the ramp determines the level of its slope and how it is easy or difficult it will be for those using a Wheelchair Kerb Ramp or scooter. The length of the ramp is determined by several factors, including the amount of space available for it, whether it is utilized in a residential or commercial space, and any obstacles, such as paths, buildings or trees that may limit where the ramp can be placed.

When choosing a ramp the first thing to think about is the number of steps it will have to climb. This can be determined by taking the rise of the steps or using the aid of a device that measures incline and distance. The length of the ramp should also include any other distances, such as sidewalks or curbs that may need to be crossed.

Once the total rise is determined, you can compare it to the Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines for slope ratios. The ADA recommends that for every one" of vertical rise the ramp has to overcome, it must be at least 12" long, which is an incline of 5 degrees.

If the person who will be using the ramp lives in a one-story home 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 bumps or thresholds that are found in entranceways and other areas that allow the user to move their scooter or wheelchair over the bump without difficulty.

Portable ramps, like ramps for suitcases that fold in quarters or in half, are sized to fit inside most vehicles, and usually come with handles. These ramps are great for those who need a temporary solution, or who plan to move in the near future. Modular ramps come in longer lengths to accommodate different stairwell levels.

Incline

It is important to consider the slope of your ramp when you are using a wheelchair or scooter. A ramp with a steep slope could be challenging or dangerous for those who must move up and down it regardless of their ability. ADA guidelines recommend a ramp slope ratio of 1:12, which means that for every inch of vertical rise there should be 12" (one foot) of length. This ensures that the ramp is secure and that there is a flat landing at both the top and bottom of the ramp, allowing for smooth transitions.

Wheelchair lightweight ramps for wheelchairs come in various sizes and styles to accommodate the majority of step heights and accessibility needs. These ramps are available in three different types: permanent, semi-permanent and portable. They are available in a range of materials and can be used for residential or commercial usage.

Permanent ramps are built into the ground or concrete pad and are designed for long term use. They usually require a permit for installation. The ramps can be left in place for as long as is needed by those who need to enter their home or building in a wheelchair.

Modular ramps can be designed to accommodate a variety accessibility needs. These ramps are constructed from several modular segments that can be easily assembled and then re-assembled at the site. These ramps are typically used by public or commercial occupants and are required to adhere to strict ADA guidelines.

Portable ramps are typically made from aluminum and can be folded like a suitcase to make it easy for transport. The ramps are available in sizes from 2' to 12'. These ramps are used to load power chairs or scooters into vans as well as for a short incline at home. Some ramps can support up to 300 pounds while others can only support 100 pounds. These ramps are perfect for use in a temporary or irregular manner. They can also be an affordable alternative to a permanent ramp.

Surface

A ramp for wheelchairs is a great choice to retrofit stairs in homes, bridging steps in sunken living rooms or even just a small rise at the doorway of a home. However, there are a variety of kinds of ramps, and they are not all made in the same way. There are a few things you can consider asking yourself to ensure you get the right ramp for your requirements.

The type of surface the ramp will have is an important aspect to consider. The most popular surface is a non-slip one. This will decrease the risk of falling particularly 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 be looking for a ramp with an impervious surface. This will ensure that the ramp remains dry and will provide traction for users.

Another factor to consider is whether the ramp will need to be an ongoing solution or if it can be removed and moved. Permanent ramps are typically built on site and are made of concrete, wood or even metal. They are more expensive and require a permit for installation.

Modular ramps are more adaptable and cost-effective. They are usually made of aluminum. They can be constructed to fit into most vehicles and have handles that make it easy to transport. They can be removed from the home without causing damage and are an excellent option for those who move frequently or frequently travel.

Another alternative is a suitcase ramp which is smaller version of an adjustable ramp that can be transported in the trunk of a car or in a small bag for storage. These are not ADA-compliant and are only suitable for personal use. The only disadvantage of the suitcase-style ramp is that it can't accommodate larger vehicles, like a scooter or power folding wheelchair ramps for cars.

Handrails

There are many choices for ramps for wheelchairs. They can be permanent, semi-permanent, or portable ramps for wheelchair. Permanent ramps are bolted in place and semi-permanent 4 wheeler loading ramps are set on concrete pads and can be moved to a different location without disrupting the surface beneath. Portable ramps can be folded away, making them easy to transport. They are typically used for short inclines or to load a power chair into the van's side.

Wheelchair ramps can be constructed from a variety of materials such as aluminum metal, wood and concrete. The kind of material used will affect the cost and time required for the installation. Before you decide on a ramp, it is essential to know the size of the mobility device to be used as well as the weight of the equipment and any other accessories or passengers. You risk selecting a ramp that is too small or not able to support both the user as well as the equipment.

Handrails on ramps aren't required but recommended for safety. They can keep users from falling and provide stability for users, especially when navigating the stairs leading up to the ramp. To ensure ADA compliance, ramps should include a handrail 34-38 inches above the ramp's surface, and extends from one side of the ramp to the other. A ramp should have handrails on both sides to prevent individuals from falling.

If you are looking for a wheelchair ramp that is both cost-effective and durable, think about a modular handicap ramp constructed from aluminum. These ramps are cheaper than other kinds and can be put in place faster than a permanent wooden or concrete ramp that might require approval and take a few weeks to finish. A modular ramp is constructed using pre-fabricated ramp sections for quick installation. They are perfect for homes with stairs that have to be climbed or temporary use when visiting friends or family members with steps. They are available in a broad range of lengths to accommodate a variety of different steps. Safety features like anti-slip tapes and glow-in-the-dark mats are important to include on any ramp.