Choosing Wheelchair Ramps For Steps

A wheelchair ramp with steps can decrease the chance of falling which is a frequent injury for people who use wheelchairs. The type of ramp that is best depends on your personal preferences and budget.

Modular ramps are made from aluminum and do not require building permits. They're made to fit into vehicles and come with handles that make it easy to transport them.

Length

A wheelchair ramp allows someone who uses a motor scooter, wheelchair or similar mobility device to access the building or home without needing to climb stairs. These ramps can be permanent, semi-permanent, or portable, and made from concrete, wood or aluminum. The length of the ramp determines the degree of steepness and how it is to navigate for those using a wheelchair or scooter. A variety of factors determine the length of ramp that is required, such as whether the ramp is used at home or in a commercial location, the available space and any obstacles, such as buildings, walkways or trees that might limit the area where a ramp can be placed.

The first thing to consider when choosing a ramp is the number of steps it will need to overcome. This can be determined by taking the rise of the steps or by using the aid of a device that analyzes the the incline and distance. The length of the ramp should include any other distances, like sidewalks or curbs, which may have to be crossed.

Once the total rise has been determined, you can evaluate it against the Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines for slope ratios. The ADA recommends ramps that are at least 12 inches in length for every inch of vertical rise. This results in five degrees of incline.

If the person who is going to be using the ramp lives in a single-story house it is possible to install a threshold ramp instead of installing an extended ramp that is in line with ADA guidelines. Threshold ramps are designed to be positioned over small thresholds or bumps in the entryways of doors and other entranceways and allow users to move their scooter or wheelchair over the bump easily.

Portable ramps are typically sized to fit in most vehicles, and are equipped with handles. They are perfect for those in need of an interim solution or are planning to relocate in the near future and would like to be able to take their ramp with them. Modular ramps can be found in longer lengths to accommodate different stairways levels.

Incline

The slope of the ramp you pick is a crucial consideration for those using scooters or wheelchairs. A ramp with a steep slope can be a challenge or dangerous for those who need to roll up and down it, regardless of their abilities. ADA guidelines recommend a 1:12 ramp slope ratio, 1109278 which means that for every inch of vertical rise there should be 12 inches (one foot) of ramp length. This ensures that the ramp is safe and also that there is a smooth landing at the top and bottom, allowing for an easy transition.

Wheelchair ramps are available in many sizes and styles, to suit most accessibility requirements and steps heights. These ramps are either permanent, semi-permanent or portable. These ramps are available in various materials and can be used by both residential and commercial users.

Permanent ramps are built into the ground or a concrete pad and are designed for long-term use. They usually require a permit to be installed. The ramps can be left in place for the time needed by those who have to access their home or workplace in a wheelchair.

Modular ramps can be sized to accommodate a variety of accessibility requirements. They are constructed of modular segments which can be easily assembled on-site. These ramps are utilized by public or commercial occupants and must comply with strict ADA guidelines.

Portable ramps are typically made of aluminum, and they can be folded like a suitcase to make them easy to transport. The ramps are available in sizes that range from 2' to 12'. These ramps are commonly used for short inclines at home and for loading the power chair or scooter into the back of van. Some ramps are designed to support up to 300 pounds while others can only support 100 lbs. These ramps are great for occasional or temporary use. They can be an affordable alternative to an all-weather ramp.

Surface

A ramp for wheelchairs is a great choice to retrofit stairs in your home or bridging the steps of sunken living rooms or even just surmounting small steps at the entrance of a home. There are a myriad of kinds of ramps, and they're not all designed to be the same. To make sure you get the best ramp for your needs, here are some important questions to ask yourself.

The type of surface the ramp will be constructed on is an important aspect to take into consideration. The most commonly used surface is a non-slip one. This reduces the chance of falling, especially when it's wet. Rubber, foam and aluminium are all non-slip materials.

If you need to use an electric scooter or wheelchair in the rain, you might consider looking for a ramp with an impervious surface. This will ensure that the ramp remains dry and will provide traction for users.

The last thing to think about is whether the ramp has to be permanent or if it's feasible to disassemble and move it. Permanent ramps are typically constructed on-site and made from concrete, wood, or metal. They are more expensive and require a permit to construct.

Modular ramps, typically made of aluminum, are an affordable and flexible option. They can be customized to fit into a variety of vehicles, and have handles that make it easy to transport. They can be removed from the home without damaging it and are a great option for those who move frequently or travel frequently.

Another alternative is a suitcase ramp which is smaller version of the ramp that is modular and can be transported in the trunk of a vehicle or in a bag that is small enough for storage. These are not ADA conforming and should be used only 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 different options for wheelchair ramps. They can be permanent, semi-permanent, or portable. Permanent ramps are bolted onto the ground, while semi-permanent ones rest on concrete pads that can be moved without causing damage to the ground beneath. Portable ramps are foldable, making them easy to transport. They are typically used for short inclines or to load a power chair into the side of a van.

Wheelchair ramps are available in different materials like metal, wood and concrete. The kind of material used will affect the cost and duration for the installation. Before you decide on a ramp, it's essential to know the size of the mobility device being used as well as the weight of the equipment and any additional accessories or passengers. There is a chance of selecting a ramp that is too small or 1109278 not able to support both the user and the equipment.

Handrails on ramps aren't required but highly recommended for security. They offer stability and help keep from falling, particularly for users who are navigating the stairs that lead to the ramp. Ramps must have a handrail 34-38 inches high above the ramp surface, and extend from one end to the other. A ramp should also have an accessible handrail on both sides to keep people from falling off the side.

Consider a modular aluminum handicap ramp if require a ramp for your wheelchair that is durable and affordable. They are less expensive than other ramps and can be put in place in a fraction of the time needed for a permanent wooden or concrete ramp, which could require the building permit and take weeks to complete. Modular ramps are constructed of ramp sections that are built off-site for quick assembly. They are ideal for homes with stairs that need to be climbed or temporary use for visiting family or friends members who have steps. They are available in a variety of lengths that can be used to accommodate a wide range of step heights. Safety features such as anti-slip tapes and glow-in-the-dark mats are important to include on any ramp.