Choosing Wheelchair Ramps For Steps
A removable wheelchair ramp ramp for steps can reduce the risk of falling which is a frequent cause of injury for people who use wheelchairs. The best ramp for you depends on your budget and your lifestyle.
Modular ramps are made of aluminum metal and don't require building permits. They're designed to fit comfortably into cars and feature handles for easy transportation.
Length
A wheelchair ramp allows someone who uses a wheelchair, motor scooter or similar mobility device to enter the building or home without climbing stairs. These ramps are either permanent, semi-permanent or portable and are constructed of concrete, wood, aluminum or another material. The length of a ramp determines the degree of its incline and how it will be easy for someone using a scooter or wheelchair to navigate. The length of the ramp is determined by various factors, including the space available for it, whether it is used in a home or commercial space, and any obstacles, like buildings, pathways or trees, which could limit the space in which the ramp is placed.
When selecting a ramp, the first thing to think about is the number of steps it will need to climb. This can be accomplished by measuring the rise of the steps, or using a device to measure the incline and length. The length of the ramp should include any other distances, like sidewalks or curbs that might need to be crossed.
Once the total rise is determined Once you have determined the total rise, 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, resulting in a 5 degree incline.
If the person who will be using the ramp lives in a single-story house and is a single-story home, a threshold ramp could be a better option instead of installing a larger ADA-compliant ramp. Threshold ramps are designed to be placed over small thresholds or bumps in the entryways of doors and other entranceways and allow the user to move their scooter or wheelchair over the bump easily.
Portable ramps, such as ramps for suitcases that fold in quarters or in half, are sized to fit inside the majority of vehicles and are often equipped with handles. These ramps are perfect for those who require temporary solutions or are planning to move in the near future. Modular ramps are available in longer lengths and are able to accommodate a variety of stair heights.
Incline
The slope of the ramp you choose is a key aspect to consider for those who use the wheelchair or scooter. A steep ramp could be dangerous or difficult for anyone having to climb and descend the ramp, regardless of capabilities. ADA guidelines recommend a 1:12 slope ratio, 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 secure and has a flat landing at both the top and bottom of the ramp to allow for smooth transitions.
wheelchair foldable ramp ramps are available in a variety of sizes and styles to accommodate most step heights and accessibility needs. They are available in three different types that are permanent, semi-permanent, and portable. They are available in a variety of materials and are used for commercial or residential used.
Permanent ramps are erected into the ground or concrete pad and are designed for long-term use. Installation is typically subject to the approval of a permit. These ramps are the ideal option for those with a consistent need to access their home or building using a scooter or vehicle wheelchair ramps and can be positioned until they are needed.
Modular ramps can be sized to accommodate a variety accessibility requirements. These ramps are constructed from multiple modular segments that are easily assembled and re-assembled on site. These ramps are utilized by public or commercial occupants and must be in compliance with strict ADA guidelines.
Portable ramps are generally made out of aluminum, and can be folded into a suitcase, making them easy to move. They are available in a variety of sizes beginning at 2' and go up to 12'. These ramps are typically used for small inclines at home, and also to load an electric scooter or power chair into the back of van. Some ramps support up to 300 pounds, while others are only 100 pounds. These ramps are a great solution for temporary or intermittent use. They can also be an economical alternative to a permanent ramp.
Surface
A wheelchair ramp is a great choice for retrofitting stairs at home and bridging steps in sunken living spaces or even just surmounting an incline at the doorway of a home. There are a myriad of kinds of ramps, and not all are made equal. To make sure you get the right 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 common surface is one that is non-slip that can help lower the chance of falling particularly in wet weather conditions. Aluminium, foam, and rubber are all non-slip materials.
If you need to use the wheelchair or scooter in the rain, you might also want to look for a ramp with an impervious surface. This will ensure that the ramp stays dry and will provide traction for users.
A final factor 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 constructed from wood, concrete or metal. These ramps are more expensive and require a permit for installation.
Modular ramps are more versatile and affordable. They are typically made of aluminum. They can be constructed to fit into most vehicles and have handles to make transporting them easy. They can be removed from the home without harming it, and are a great choice for those who move or travel frequently.
A suitcase ramp is an alternative option. It is a smaller version than a modular ramp that can be put in the trunk or storage bag inside a car. These are not ADA compatible and should only be used for personal use. The only disadvantage of a suitcase ramp is that it does not support heavier vehicles such as the power scooter.
Handrails
There are different alternatives for ramps for wheelchairs. They can be permanent, semi-permanent or portable. Permanent ramps are bolted in place and semi-permanent ramps are set on a concrete pad that can be moved to another location without disrupting the concrete surface beneath. Portable ramps can be folded away, making them easy to transport. They can be used to load motor chairs into vans or for short slopes.
Wheelchair ramps are made of different materials like metal, wood, and concrete. The kind of material used can affect the price and time needed to construct. Before you decide on ramps, it is essential to know the size of the mobility device being used as well as the weight of the equipment and any other accessories or passengers. You run the risk of selecting a ramp that is too Small Wheelchair Ramps or insufficient to support both the user as well as the equipment.
Handrails for ramps are optional but are highly is recommended to ensure safety. They provide stability and prevent falls, especially for those who are walking the stairs that lead to the ramp. For ADA compliance, ramps must feature a handrail that is 34-38 inches higher than the ramp's surface, and extends from one side of the ramp to the other. A ramp should also have a handrail on both sides to prevent people from falling off the ramp.
Think about a modular aluminum handicap ramp if want a wheelchair ramp which is both durable and affordable. They are less expensive than other ramps and can be put in place much faster than an all-weather concrete or wooden ramp that might require a permit and take a few weeks to build. Modular ramps are constructed from pre-built ramp sections that allow for easy installation. These ramps are perfect for homes with stairs that must be cleared, or for temporary use by family members or friends with steps. They are available in a wide range of lengths to accommodate various different heights of steps. No matter what kind of ramp you select the safety features such as anti-slip mats and glow-in-the dark ramp tape are important to ensure peace of mind.