15 Things You re Not Sure Of About Wheelchair Ramps For Steps

Choosing Wheelchair Ramps For Steps

A ramp for wheelchairs can help to reduce the chance of falling which are a frequent cause of injuries for individuals who use wheelchairs. The kind of ramp you choose depends on your lifestyle and budget.

Modular ramps are made of aluminum metal and don't require building permits. They're sized to easily fit in cars and come with handles for easy transporting.

Length

A wheelchair ramp is a means for a person who uses a motorized scooter, wheelchair or another mobility device to enter a building or home without having to climb steps. These ramps can be permanent, semi-permanent, or portable and are made from wood, concrete or aluminum, or a different material. The length of the ramp determines the level of its slope and how it is easy access wheelchair ramps or difficult it will be for those who is using a wheelchair or scooter. The length of the ramp is determined by a variety of factors, such as the space available, whether it will be used in a residential or commercial space, and any obstacles, like paths, buildings, or trees, that may limit where the ramp can be placed.

When selecting a ramp, the first thing to take into consideration is how many steps it will need to climb. This can be determined by measuring the rise of the steps or using an instrument that analyzes the the incline and distance. The length of the ramp must include any other distances, like sidewalks or curbs which may have to be crossed.

Once the total rise is known it can be compared to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines for slope ratios. The ADA recommends ramps that are at least 12 inches in length for every inch of vertical rise. This creates an incline of 5 degrees.

If the person who will be using the ramp lives in a one-story home then a threshold ramp might be a better option than installing a longer ramp that is ADA-compliant. Threshold ramps are installed over small bumps and thresholds on entrances or other points so that wheelchairs or scooters to easily cross them.

Portable ramps, such as suitcase ramps that fold in quarters or half they are sized to fit into the majority of vehicles and are often equipped with handles. These ramps are perfect for those who require temporary ramps for wheelchairs solutions or are planning to move in the near future. Modular ramps come in longer lengths to fit different stair levels.

Incline

The slope of the ramp you choose is a crucial factor for those who use the wheelchair or scooter. A ramp with a steep grade can be a challenge or dangerous for those who need to roll up and down it regardless of their capabilities. ADA guidelines recommend a slope ratio of 1:12, which means that for every inch of vertical rise, there should be 12" (one foot) of length. This ensures the ramp is secure, 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 the height of the steps. These ramps can be permanent, semi-permanent or mobile. They are made of different materials and are utilized by commercial and residential users.

Permanent ramps are erected into the ground or concrete pad and are designed for long term use. They usually require a permit for installation. They can be put in place for as long as needed by those who need to get into their home or workplace in a wheelchair.

Modular ramps are designed to meet a wide range of needs that are accessible and can be custom sized for each specific situation. These ramps are made from modular segments that can be assembled easily on site. These ramps are usually used by public or commercial occupants and are required to follow strict ADA guidelines.

Portable ramps are generally made of aluminum and fold into a suitcase for simple transport. The ramps are available in sizes that range from 2 to 12'. These ramps are used to load scooters or power chairs into vans and for the short incline of your home. Some ramps are designed to support up to 300 lbs while others are able to support 100 pounds. These ramps are ideal for occasional or temporary use. They are also an affordable alternative to a full sized permanent ramp.

Surface

A wheelchair ramp can be used to retrofit stairs into your home bridge steps in sunken rooms, or just climb a small hill near the doorway. There are many different kinds of ramps, and they're not all created equal. To ensure you get the right ramp to meet your needs, here are some key questions to ask yourself.

The type of surface that the ramp will be constructed on is an important aspect to consider. The most common surface is a non-slip one that can help lower the chance of falling, especially in wet weather conditions. Non-slip materials include rubber wheelchair ramps for home, aluminum and foam.

If you must use your Retractable Wheelchair Ramps or scooter when it rains it is also advisable to consider an accessible ramp with a waterproof surface. This will ensure that the ramp is dry and offers users with traction.

Another thing to consider is whether the ramp has to be permanent or if it's possible to disassemble and move it. Permanent ramps are usually fabricated on-site and made from concrete, wood or even metal. These ramps are more expensive and require a permit to construct.

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

A suitcase ramp is an alternative option. It is smaller than a modular ramp that can be put in the trunk or a small storage bag of the car. These aren't ADA conforming and should be used only for personal use. The only disadvantage of a suitcase ramp is that it can not be able to handle heavier vehicles such as an electric scooter.

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 beneath. Portable ramps are easily transportable because they fold. They are typically used for short inclines or to fit a power chair into the side of a van.

Wheelchair ramps can be built using a variety of materials such as wood, aluminum metal, and concrete. The kind of material you choose will influence the price and installation timeframe. It is important to consider the size and weight of the mobility device, and any other accessories or persons. Without this information you risk of selecting a ramp that is too small or not enough to support the user and their equipment.

Handrails on ramps aren't required but recommended to ensure safety. They can keep users from falling and provide safety for the users, particularly when climbing the steps leading up to the ramp. Ramps should have a handrail 34-38 inches high above the ramp's surface, and extend from one end to the other. A ramp should also have the handrail on both sides to prevent people from falling off the side.

Consider a modular aluminum handicap ramp if require a ramp for your wheelchair that is durable and affordable. These ramps are cheaper than other ramps and can be installed in less time than required for a permanent wood or concrete ramp, which may require a building permit and can take weeks to construct. A modular ramp is constructed from pre-built ramp sections for easy installation. They are perfect for homes with stairs that have to be cleared or for temporary use when visiting friends or family members with steps. They are available in a large range of lengths that can accommodate various different heights of steps. Regardless of the type of ramp you choose it is important to consider safety features such as anti-slip mats and glow-in-the-dark ramp tape are also essential to ensure security.