Wheelchair Ramps - Factors to Consider Before Purchase

Installed over steps, thresholds or doorways, wheelchair ramps allow wheelchair and mobility scooter users to access steps, vehicles and raised landings with ease. These accessibility systems are durable and easy to assemble. Ramps are available in a variety of styles and designs, and integrated with advanced features and specifications. They can be installed and removed quickly. Before buying a wheelchair ramp, you need to consider your specific requirements and ensure that the system you choose will meet them. Here are the main factors to consider before you invest in a ramp.

Wheelchair ramp – Consider Nature of Use

If you are planning to use the device for vehicle access or if you need to transport the ramp, you have to buy a portable ramp. Portable systems are lightweight, can be separated, and are easy to use, carry and store. Suitcase ramps come with their own carrying handle. In addition to vehicles, they can be used on steps, landings and thresholds.

Multifold ramps for vans, SUV's and trucks offer rear door access and can accommodate wheelchairs and scooters with various wheel configurations.

Solid wheelchair ramps are heavy duty systems that more permanent but can be moved when needed. They can be fitted with handrails and are ideal for scooters, walkers, wheelchairs, canes and crutches.

Important Considerations before Purchase

The following are the key factors/specifications to consider while selecting a wheelchair ramp:

• Type of material - Wheelchair and scooter ramps are made of different types of materials such as aluminum, steel and wood. The type of material you select should be based on the location where you intend to place the system and portability requirements. Aluminum is lightweight and does not rust, making it a good choice for a portable wheelchair ramp. Quality rubber ramps offer excellent slip resistance. Both aluminum and rubber ramps are suitable for residential and commercial applications.
• Degree of incline and width - The degree of incline of the ramp is an important factor to consider. ADA compliance requires that a rise of 1" has about 12" of ramp length, which is an angle of 4.8 degrees (for a hand-propelled wheelchair). The maximum slope recommended for power chairs is 1.5" rise to 12" length. As for width inside rails, 48" is ideal and the minimum should be 36".
• Surface - Look for a wheelchair ramp with a non-skid surface in order to prevent slipping during inclement weather.
• Weight of ramp - Wheelchair ramps differ in weight based on size and the type of material. If the ramp needs to be moved frequently, make sure it can be easily transported. Choose a ramp that can be folded, comes with a carrying handle, and can be transported or stored properly.
• Load capacity - Check the total load capacity of the ramp before purchase. The weight of the chair, the weight of the user as well as the weight of the caregiver combined should be within the ramp’s total weight capacity.
• Landing - The landing, or the top portion of the wheelchair ramp, needs to be as level as possible. Both the top portion of the ramp as well as the end portion at ground level needs to be level. The width of the landing needs to be at least the width of the ramp and the length should be 60 inches.
• Turning radius - At both ends of the wheelchair/scooter ramp, make sure you have allowed enough room to turn around.

Paying attention to these factors can help you buy a suitable ramp for your needs. It is also important to maintain it well so that it can last for years. Purchase of the system from a reliable dealer would help in many ways. You would be assured of site evaluation and guidance to choose the right wheelchair ramp as well as professional installation services to set it up quickly.

Living Free Home is a full-service home care equipment company dedicated to serving those who have accessibility needs.