Blog entry by Carri Quinn
The inclusion of ramps for wheelchairs in the home is an excellent idea for any family that has a member who is using a wheelchair or a scooter. They allow them to move around the house and in the community.
When you consider a few factors like the slope, length and style of the ramps that you are buying, it is easy to decide. The best ramp will make sure that it is safe to use.
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Ramps can help someone who uses a wheel chair to navigate obstacles. There are several different types of ramps that are available with temporary or permanent ones. The best ramp for you will depend on the specific conditions and the surface you plan to use it on. You can also think about the slope, weight capacity, and safety features such as side rails or non-slip surfaces. It's often recommended to speak with accessibility and healthcare professionals experts to assist you in choosing the right ramps for your needs.
Portable ramps are typically constructed of lightweight materials, making them easy to transport or lift. They can also fold up wheelchair ramps down when not in use, making them convenient for transportation and storage. They offer a gradual rise that allows wheelchairs over barriers or height variations like steps or curbs. They can be used indoors or outdoors, and some come with safety features that help to avoid accidents and falls.
There are portable ramps available in local accessibility equipment stores as well as medical supply shops and online solution providers. You can also search for alternatives at hardware or construction stores that carry mobility equipment and often have a selection of ramps for different requirements. Local disability organizations are also an excellent resource for finding ramps, because they have a variety of relationships with manufacturers and suppliers that can offer competitive pricing.
If you want your ramp to be compliant with ADA standards, ensure that it's in compliance with the current accessibility guidelines. It must be 36 inches wide to accommodate the telescopic wheelchair ramps wheels and other items that are ADA-compliant like handrails. Also, look for ramps with a smooth surface that's compatible with your scooter or wheelchair. If you'd like to be able to drive into your van with the ramp installed you should look for an telescoping ramp that is able to be extended or retracted to the height required by your vehicle.
Modular ramps are a great option for homes as they can be broken into sections that can easily be constructed on site. Aluminum is the material used to construct these ramps, since it offers durability and strength without sacrificing lightness. You can also find ramps that are modular and have a smooth surface to help with traction, as well as a toe protector to provide additional protection. You can pick concrete ramps or a wood ramp if you want an option that is more durable. They're typically built on-site, and you'll likely need a building permit to construct them. They're great if you don't want to deal with the hassle of repair or replacement of damaged ramps.
Semi-permanent
When You Plan to Use a Ramp Temporarily
If you are planning to use your wheelchair ramp for a short amount of time, like during recovery from an injury or surgery, then a temporary portable ramp that folds is the best option. This type of ramp is lightweight and folds up for easy transport and can be installed on a curb or doorway to aid you in getting into your car or over the step at your home. This is an excellent choice when you plan to travel with your mobility device. It is easy to take it with you wherever you go.
Semi-permanent ramps can be a good alternative for those who do not intend to use the ramp for a very long time. They differ from portable ramps in that they use a tongue-and groove system to join the sections. This allows them to be disassembled and reassembled quickly. They are usually made of aluminum which makes them tough and weather-proof and typically have a one-year warranty. Modular ramps come in different lengths and slopes, to suit different needs.
Conditions of Progressive or Long-term Recovery
If you need a wheelchair ramp for longer duration then a semi-permanent solution is likely to be the ideal choice for your home. These are generally more robust than temporary ramps since they are designed to be used over longer periods of time. They are generally more expensive than portable wheelchair ramps for vehicles and temporary ramps. However, they offer an extremely solid, sturdy solution for your scooter or wheelchair.
A telescoping or adjustable ramp is a possibility for semi-permanent ramps for access. Both of these options are similar in that they feature sections that allow the ramp to be extended for greater accessibility. They can be folded in half or quarters to make them more convenient to transport and store than full-length wheelchair ramp for car boot ramps. They're usually constructed with safety edges that are different in color with the main surface of the ramp to provide greater visibility, which is essential when you're using the ramp in public areas.
If you're in search of an all-weather ramp for your home, you should consult with a home modification contractor. They will provide you with the best type of ramp to meet your particular needs and ensure that your new ramp is visually appealing and complies with local codes and ADA guidelines. They can also help you with the financial options available for buying a permanent ramp like a home improvement loan reverse mortgage, state-based disability grants. This will allow you to avoid any unexpected costs. You can also reach out to your local government and ask them to help you modify your home to make it accessible.