Choosing Wheelchair Ramps For Steps
A ramp for stairs for wheelchairs helps reduce the risk 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 are constructed of aluminum and do not require building permits. They are made to fit easily into cars and have handles for easy transportation.
Length
A ramp for wheelchairs allows anyone who is using a motor scooter, wheelchair or similar mobility device to get access to a home or other building without climbing stairs. The ramps are either permanent, semi-permanent or portable, and constructed from concrete, wood or aluminum. The length of a ramp will determine the degree of its incline and how it is easy for someone using a wheelchair or scooter to navigate. A variety of factors determine the length of ramp that is required, such as whether the ramp is used in a home or commercial setting, the available space and any obstacles like buildings, walkways or trees that might limit the area where a ramp can be placed.
When choosing a ramp, the first thing to consider is the number of steps it'll need to climb. This can be determined by measuring the rise of the steps or by using an instrument that determines the incline and distance. The length of the ramp must include any other distances, like curbs or sidewalks, which may have to be crossed.
After the total rise has been determined, you can evaluate it against the Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines for slope ratios. The ADA recommends ramps that are at least 12 inches long 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 single-story house and is a single-story home, a threshold ramp could be a better choice than installing a longer ADA-compliant ramp. Threshold ramps are designed to be placed over small bumps or thresholds that are found in doorways and other entryways that allow the user to push their wheelchair or scooter over the bump easily.
Portable ramps are often sized to fit in most vehicles, and come with handles. They are perfect for those who require an interim solution or are planning to move in the near future and want to be able take their ramp with them. Modular ramps can be found in longer lengths that can accommodate different stairwell heights.
Incline
The slope of the ramp you pick is a crucial factor for those who use scooters or wheelchairs. A steep ramp can be dangerous or challenging for anyone who has to walk up and down the ramp, regardless of ability. ADA guidelines recommend a 1:12 ramp slope ratio, which means for every inch of vertical rise the ramp should have 12 inches (one foot) of ramp length. This ensures the ramp is safe, and also that there is a smooth landing at the top and bottom, allowing for an easy transition.
Wheelchair ramps are available in various styles and sizes, to meet the needs of all accessibility requirements and the height of the steps. These ramps are available in three types which include permanent, semi-permanent and portable. They are made of various materials and can be used by both commercial and residential users.
Permanent ramps are erected into the ground or concrete pad and are designed for long term use. Often, they require a permit for installation. These ramps are the best option for those who have the need to regularly access their home or building using a scooter or vehicle wheelchair ramps, as they can be positioned until needed.
Modular ramps are sized to accommodate a variety of accessibility requirements. These ramps are made from modular segments which can be easily assembled on the spot. The ramps are used by public or commercial occupants and must be in compliance with strict ADA guidelines.
Portable ramps are usually made out of aluminum, and can be folded up like an ordinary suitcase to make them easy to carry. They are available in a range of sizes beginning at 2' and go up 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 are able to support up to 300 pounds while others can only support 100 lbs. These 4 wheeler ramps are great for temporary or occasional usage. They are also an affordable alternative to a full sized permanent ramp.
Surface
A folding wheelchair ramp for van ramp is a great choice to retrofit stairs in homes and bridging the steps of sunken living rooms or even just an incline in the front of a house. There are many different kinds of ramps, and they're not all designed to be the same. To ensure you choose the right ramp for your needs, here are some essential questions to ask yourself.
The type of surface that the ramp will be constructed on is a crucial aspect to consider. The most commonly used surface is one that is non-slip that will help reduce the chance of falling particularly in wet weather conditions. Aluminium, foam, and rubber ramps for wheelchairs are all non-slip products.
If you have to use a wheelchair or scooter in the rain, you might also want to look for a ramp with a waterproof surface. This will ensure the ramp stays dry and provides users with traction.
Another factor to take into consideration is whether the ramp will need to be permanent or if it can be disassembled and moved. Permanent ramps are usually fabricated on-site and constructed from wood, concrete or metal. They are more expensive and require a permit to install.
Modular ramps, typically made of aluminum, are a more affordable and versatile choice. They can be customized to fit into most vehicles, and also have handles for easy transportation. They can be removed from your home without damaging it and are an excellent option for people who move or travel frequently.
Another alternative is a suitcase ramp which is smaller version of an adjustable wheelchair ramp ramp that can be carried in the trunk of a car ramp for electric wheelchair or in a bag that is small enough for storage. They are not ADA-compliant and are only suitable for personal use. The only drawback to a suitcase ramp is that it will not be able to support larger vehicles like a power scooter.
Handrails
There are a variety of choices for wheelchair ramps. They can be permanent, semi-permanent or portable. Permanent ramps are bolted in place and semi-permanent ramps are set on concrete pads and 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 power chairs into vans or for short slopes.
Wheelchair ramps can be constructed out of a variety, including wood, aluminum metal and concrete. The type of material can influence the price and installation timeframe. Before you decide on ramps, it is crucial to know the dimensions of the mobility device used and the weight of the equipment and any additional accessories or passengers. Without this information you chance of selecting the wrong ramp, which is small or will not be able to support the user and their equipment.
Handrails for ramps are not required, but strongly recommended to ensure safety. They offer stability and help prevent falls, especially for those who are walking the stairs that lead to the ramp. For ADA compliance, ramps should 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 have handrails on both sides in order to prevent people from falling.
If you are seeking a ramp for your wheelchair that is economical and durable, you should consider a modular handicap ramp constructed from aluminum. These ramps are less expensive than other types and can be constructed quicker than a permanent wooden or concrete ramp that might require permits and take several weeks to build. A modular ramp is constructed from pre-built ramp sections for rapid installation. These ramps are great for homes that have stairs that must be cleared, or for temporary use by family or friends who have steps. They are available in a broad range of lengths to accommodate many different step heights. Safety features such as anti-slip tape and glow-in the-dark mats are crucial to have on any ramp.