Gregory Sly

Choosing Wheelchair Ramps For Steps

A ramp for stairs for wheelchairs can to reduce the chance of falling which are a frequent cause of injuries for individuals using wheelchairs. The type of ramp that's best depends on your lifestyle and budget.

Modular ramps made of aluminum metal are a non-permanent solution that does not require building permits. They're sized to easily fit in vehicles and come with handles to make transporting them easy.

Length

A ramp for wheelchairs allows anyone who utilizes a wheelchair, motor scooter or similar mobility device to get access to the building or home without needing to climb stairs. The ramps are either permanent, semi-permanent, or portable and can be made of concrete, wood, aluminum or another material. The length of a ramp determines the incline of its slope and how easy it will be for the person using a wheelchair threshold bridging ramp or scooter to navigate. The length of the ramp is determined by a variety of factors, including the amount of space available, whether it will be used in a residential or commercial setting, and any obstacles, such as buildings, pathways or trees, which might limit the area the space in which the ramp is placed.

The first thing to consider when selecting a ramp is the number of steps that it will need to overcome. This can be determined by measuring the rise of the steps, or using the aid of a device that measures the incline and distance. The length of the ramp should include any other distances that need to be overcome such as sidewalks or curbs.

Once the total rise is established and the slope can be compared to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines for slope ratios. The ADA recommends that for every one" of vertical rise that the ramp has to overcome the ramp must be at a minimum 12" long, resulting in an incline of 5 degrees.

If the person using the ramp lives in a single-story house and is a single-story home, a threshold ramp could be a better option rather than constructing a longer ADA-compliant ramp. Threshold ramps are designed to be positioned over small bumps or thresholds in doorways and other entryways, allowing users to push their scooter or wheelchair over the bump easily.

Portable ramps are often built to fit in the majority of automobiles, and include handles. They are ideal for those who require a temporary solution or who are planning to move in the near future and want to be able to carry their ramp with them. Modular ramps are available in lengths that are longer and can accommodate different stair-heights.

Incline

It is important to consider the slope of your ramp when you are using a wheelchair or scooter. A steep ramp could be dangerous or a challenge for anyone having to roll up and down the ramp, regardless of their abilities. ADA guidelines recommend a 1:12 slope ratio, which means that for every inch of vertical rise the ramp should have 12 inches (one foot) of ramp length. This ensures the ramp is secure, and that there is a smooth landing at the top and bottom to allow for an easy transition.

Wheelchair ramps are available in various styles and sizes, to suit most accessibility requirements and step heights. They can be permanent, semi-permanent or portable. They are available in a variety of materials and are utilized for commercial or residential usage.

Permanent ramps are constructed into the ground or concrete pad and are designed for long term use. Most often, they require a permit to be installed. The ramps can be left in place for the time needed by those who require to access their building or home in wheelchairs.

Modular ramps are designed to meet a wide range of accessible needs and can be customized for each specific situation. They are constructed from several modular segments that can be easily assembled and then re-assembled at the site. These ramps are used by public or commercial users and must be in compliance with strict ADA guidelines.

Portable ramps are usually made from aluminum and can be folded like a suitcase for easy transport. The ramps are available in sizes from 2' to 12'. These ramps are used to load power chairs or scooters into vans, and also for a the short incline of your home. Some ramps can support up to 300 pounds, while others are only 100 pounds. These ramps are ideal for occasional or temporary use. They can also be a cost effective alternative to a permanent ramp.

Surface

A wheelchair ramp is a great choice to retrofit stairs in homes, bridges between steps in sunken living rooms or even just surmounting small steps at the entrance of a home. There are a myriad of kinds of ramps, but they're not all made equal. To ensure that you get the best ramp for your needs, here are some essential questions to ask yourself.

The most important thing to consider is the kind of surface the ramp will have. The most common surface is a non slip wheelchair ramp-slip one that can help lower the risk of falls, especially in wet weather conditions. Aluminium, foam and rubber are all non-slip substances.

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

Another thing to consider is whether the ramp has to be permanent or if it could be disassembled and moved. Permanent ramps are typically built on site and are made of wood, concrete or metal. These are more expensive than modular ramps and require a building permit to install.

Modular ramps are more versatile and affordable. They are usually made of aluminum. They can be made to fit in most automobiles, and come with handles for easy transport. They can be removed without causing damage to the house and are a great option for people who travel ramps for wheelchairs or move occasionally.

Another option is a suitcase ramp which is an economized version of the ramp that is modular and can be transported in the trunk of a vehicle or in a small storage bag. They are not ADA compatible and should only be used for personal use. The only disadvantage of a suitcase-style ramp is that it cannot support heavier vehicles, such as the power wheelchair or scooter.

Handrails

There are many options for wheelchair ramps. They can be permanent, semi-permanent, or portable. Permanent ramps are bolted in place, while semi-permanent ramps rest on a concrete pad and can be moved to a different place without damaging the surface underneath. Portable ramps are transportable since they fold. They can be used to load motor chairs into vans or for short slopes.

Wheelchair ramps can be constructed out of a variety such as wood, aluminum metal and concrete. The type of material used can impact the price and time needed for installation. It is essential to consider the size and weight of the device as well as any additional accessories or persons. Without this information, you run the chance of selecting an ramp that is too small or won't be enough to support the user and their equipment.

Handrails for ramps are not required, but recommended to ensure safety. They can keep users from falling and provide safety for the users, particularly when climbing the stairs that lead up to the ramp. Ramps must 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 a handrail on both sides to stop people from falling off the side.

Think about a modular aluminum handicap ramp if you require a ramp for your electric wheelchair car ramps that is both durable and cost-effective. They are less expensive than other types, and can be installed quicker than a permanent wooden or concrete ramp that may require a permit and take a few weeks to complete. A modular ramp is constructed from pre-built ramp sections that allow for quick assembly. These ramps are great for homes with stairs to be overcome or used for temporary use by family or friends who have steps. They come in a variety of lengths that can accommodate a wide range of step heights. Regardless of the type of ramp you pick, safety features like anti-slip mats and glow-in-the dark ramp tape are also important to have for added security.