Who Is Wheelchair Ramps For Steps And Why You Should Care
Choosing Wheelchair Ramps For Steps
A ramp for wheelchairs with steps can lower the chance of falling, which is a common injury for those who use wheelchairs. The type of wheel chair Ramp design that's best depends on your lifestyle and budget.
Modular ramps are made from aluminum and do not require building permits. They're sized to fit easily into cars and have handles for easy transportation.
Length
A ramp for wheelchairs allows people who is using a wheelchair ramp minivan, motor scooter or similar mobility device to get access to a home or other building without needing to climb stairs. The ramps are either permanent, semi-permanent, or portable, and constructed from concrete, wood or aluminum. The length of the ramp determines how steep it is and how it is easy or difficult it will be for people who is using a wheelchair or scooter. The length of the ramp is determined by a variety of factors, including the space available, whether it will be utilized in a residential or commercial setting, as well as any obstacles, such as paths, buildings or trees that might limit the area the space in which the ramp is placed.
The first thing to think about when selecting a ramp is the number of steps that it must overcome. This can be determined by measuring the rise of the steps or using an instrument that measures the incline and distance. The length of the ramp should also include any other distances, like sidewalks or curbs, which may have to be crossed.
Once the total rise is established, 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 the ramp must be at least 12" long, which is an incline of 5 degrees.
If the person who is going to utilize the ramp is in a single-story home it might be possible to install a threshold ramp instead of a longer ramp that meets ADA guidelines. Threshold ramps can be put in place over small bumps or thresholds in doors or other entrances to allow wheelchairs and scooters to pass easily over them.
Portable ramps are often designed to fit into most automobiles, and include handles. They are perfect for those who require a temporary solution or who are planning to relocate in the near future and would like to be able to carry their ramp with them. Modular ramps can be found in longer lengths to fit different stair levels.
Incline
The slope of the ramp you select is an important aspect to consider for those who use the wheelchair or scooter. A ramp with a steep slope can be a challenge or dangerous for those who must climb and descend it, regardless of their abilities. ADA guidelines recommend a 1:12 ramp slope ratio, which means for every inch of vertical rise, there should be 12 inches (one foot) of ramp length. This ensures that the ramp is secure, and also that there is an even landing at the top and bottom to allow for a smooth transition.
Wheelchair ramps are available in many styles and sizes, to suit most accessibility requirements and the height of the steps. These ramps are either permanent, semi-permanent or mobile. They are available in a variety of materials that can be used for residential or commercial occupied use.
Permanent ramps are constructed into the ground or a concrete pad and are designed for long-term use. Most often, they require a permit to install. These ramps can be left in place for the time needed by those who need to enter their home or building in a wheelchair.
Modular ramps can be sized to accommodate a variety of accessibility needs. These ramps are constructed from many modular segments that can be easily assembled and re-assembled on site. These ramps are often used for commercial or public occupants and are required to follow strict ADA guidelines.
Portable ramps are typically made of aluminum and fold up like a suitcase for easy transport. The ramps are available in sizes from 2' to 12'. These ramps are used to load scooters or power chairs into vans, and also for a small inclines at home. Some ramps support up to 300 lbs, while others can only support 100 pounds. These ramps are perfect for temporary or occasional usage. They can also be an affordable alternative to a permanent ramp.
Surface
A ramp for wheelchairs can be used to retrofit stairs into your home or bridge steps in sunken rooms or even simply climb a small hill near the doorway. There are many different kinds of ramps, but not all are made equal. To make sure you get the right ramp for your needs, here are some key questions to ask yourself.
The type of surface the ramp will be constructed on is an important factor to take into consideration. The most common surface is a non-slip material which can reduce the chance of falling, especially in wet weather conditions. Non-slip surfaces include rubber, aluminum, and foam.
If you must utilize your scooter or wheelchair when it rains it is also advisable to consider an accessible ramp with an impervious surface. This will ensure that the ramp remains dry and will provide traction for users.
Another thing to be aware of is whether the ramp will need to be an ongoing solution or if it could be disassembled and moved. Permanent ramps are usually fabricated on site and are made of concrete, wood, or metal. These are more expensive than modular ramps and require an building permit to construct.
Modular ramps, which are usually made of aluminum, are a more affordable and versatile choice. They can be made to fit in most vehicles, and also have handles for easy transport. They can be removed without causing damage to the home and are a good option for people who move around occasionally.
Another option is a suitcase ramp which is a smaller version of a modular ramp that can be transported in the trunk of a car or in a small bag for storage. These are not ADA-compliant and should only be used for personal use. The only drawback of an ADA-compliant suitcase ramp is that it can't support larger vehicles, such as a power adjustable wheelchair ramps or scooter.
Handrails
There are a variety of choices for ramps for wheelchairs. They can be permanent, semi-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 below. Portable ramps are transportable because they can be folded. They can be used to load power chairs into vans or for short inclines.
Wheelchair ramps can be found in various materials, including metal, wood and concrete. The type of material can affect the cost and timeframe. It is important to consider the size and weight of the mobility device and any other accessories or persons. You risk selecting a van ramp for wheelchair that is too small or not strong enough to support both the user as well as the equipment.
Handrails on ramps aren't required but highly recommended to ensure security. They can to prevent falls and provide security for users, particularly when climbing the steps leading to the ramp. For ADA compliance, ramps must have a handrail that is 34-38 inches higher than the ramp's surface, and extends from one end of the ramp to the other. A ramp should also include an accessible handrail on both sides to stop people from falling off the side.
You should consider a modular aluminum handicap ramp if you require a ramp for your wheelchair that is durable and affordable. These ramps are cheaper than other ramps and can be put in place in less time than required for a permanent wood or concrete ramp, which could require a building permit and take weeks to complete. Modular ramps are constructed using pre-fabricated ramp sections for rapid assembly. They are ideal for homes with stairs that need to be climbed or temporary use when visiting family members or friends members who have steps. They come in various lengths that can accommodate a broad range of heights for steps. No matter what kind of ramp you choose the safety features such as anti-slip mats and glow-in-the dark ramp tape are also essential to have for added security.