Choosing Wheelchair Ramps For Steps
A wheelchair ramp for steps helps reduce the risk of falling, a common cause of injury for people using wheelchairs. The type of ramp that's best depends on your personal preferences and budget.
Modular ramps are made of aluminum metal and don't require building permits. They're sized to easily fit in vehicles and come with handles to make transporting them easy.
Length
A ramp for wheelchairs allows people who utilizes a motor scooter, wheelchair or similar mobility device to enter an apartment or other structure without needing to climb stairs. The ramps are either permanent, semi-permanent, or portable, and are constructed out of wood, concrete or aluminum. The length of the ramp will determine the degree of steepness and how it is easy or difficult it is to navigate for people using a scooter or wheelchair. Several factors determine the length of the ramp that is required, including whether the ramp will be used at home or in a commercial setting, the space available and any obstacles such as trees, walkways, or structures that might limit the area where a ramp can be placed.
When selecting a ramp, the first thing to consider is how many steps it'll need to climb. This can be determined by measuring the rise of the steps, or using a device to measure incline and length. The length of the ramp should also include any other distances, such as curbs or sidewalks, that might need to be crossed.
Once the total rise has been determined, you can evaluate it against the Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines for slope ratios. The ADA recommends a ramp of at least 12 inches long for every inch of vertical rise. This results in a 5-degree incline.
If the person using the ramp is living in a one-story home, a threshold ramp may be a better option instead of installing a larger ADA-compliant ramp. Bridge Threshold Ramp For Wheelchair (
Mobilityscooters89876.Mybuzzblog.Com) ramps are designed to be placed over small bumps or thresholds that are found in doorways and other entryways and allow the user to push their wheelchair or scooter over the bump without difficulty.
Portable
wheel chair ramps for vans, such as ramps for suitcases that fold in half or quarters, are sized to fit in most vehicles and often come with handles. These ramps are great for those who need an interim solution or plan to move in the near future. Modular ramps are available in lengths that are longer and can accommodate different stair-heights.
Incline
The slope of the ramp you choose is an important consideration for those using the wheelchair or scooter. A steep ramp could be dangerous or difficult for anyone who must climb and descend the ramp, regardless of their abilities. ADA guidelines recommend a ramp slope ratio of 1:12, meaning that for every inch of vertical rise there should be 12" (one foot) of length. This ensures that the ramp is safe, and also that there is a smooth landing at the top and bottom to allow for a smooth transition.
Wheelchair ramps are available in a variety of sizes and styles, to meet the requirements of most accessibility needs and steps heights. These ramps can be permanent, semi-permanent or portable. They are available in a variety of materials and can be utilized for commercial or residential occupied use.
Permanent ramps can be constructed into the concrete pad or the ground. They are designed to last a long duration. Installation is often subject to a permit. These ramps are the ideal choice for those who have the need to regularly access their home or building using a scooter or wheelchair and can be left in place until required.
modular ramps for wheelchairs ramps can be designed to meet a variety of accessibility needs. These ramps are made from modular segments that can be easily assembled on the spot. These ramps are utilized by public or commercial occupants and must be in compliance with strict ADA guidelines.
Portable ramps are usually made of aluminum and fold like a suitcase for easy transport. They are available in a variety of sizes that start at 2' and extending up to 12'. These ramps are used to transport power chairs or scooters into vans as well as for a the short incline of your home. Some of these ramps are able to support up to 300 lbs while others are able to support 100 lbs. These ramps are the perfect solution for temporary or occasional use. They are also an affordable alternative to a full sized permanent ramp.
Surface
A wheelchair ramp is a great option to retrofit stairs in your home and connecting steps in sunken living rooms or even just surmounting an incline in the front of a home. There are a variety of ramps, and they're not all made equal. There are some questions you should consider asking yourself to ensure you find the perfect ramp for your needs.
The type of surface the ramp will be constructed on is a crucial aspect to consider. The most common surface is a non-slip material that will help reduce the risk of falls especially in rainy weather conditions. Non-slip materials include rubber, aluminum and foam.
If you must use a wheelchair or scooter in the rain you may want to consider an accessible ramp with a waterproof 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 a permanent solution or if it can be removed and moved. Permanent
garden ramps for wheelchair users are constructed on site from concrete, metal or wood. They are more expensive and require a permit for installation.
Modular ramps, which are typically made of aluminum, are a more affordable and flexible option. They can be customized to fit into a variety of vehicles, and also have handles for easy transportation. They can be removed from the home without causing damage and are an excellent option for people who move or travel frequently.
Another alternative is a suitcase ramp which is smaller version of the ramp that is modular and can be transported in the trunk of a vehicle or in a bag that is small enough for storage. These are not ADA compliant and should only be used for personal use. The only drawback of a suitcase-style ramp is that it cannot support larger vehicles, like a power
wheelchair ramps specifications or scooter.
Handrails
There are many options for wheelchair ramps, including permanent, semi-permanent or portable. Permanent ramps are bolted in place, while semi-permanent ramps rest on concrete pads and can be moved to a new location without affecting the surface underneath. Portable ramps are foldable, making them easy to transport. They are used to load power chairs into vans or for short slopes.
Wheelchair ramps can be built out of a variety that include aluminum metal, wood and concrete. The type of material used can impact the cost and installation timeframe. It is crucial to think about the size and weight of the mobility device, and any other accessories or people. There is a chance of selecting a ramp that is too small or not able to support both the user as well as the equipment.
Handrails for ramps are not required, but recommended to ensure safety. They can to prevent falls and provide stability for users, especially when walking up the steps leading to the ramp. To ensure ADA compliance, ramps should have 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 the handrail on both sides to prevent people from falling off the ramp.
Consider a modular aluminum handicap ramp if you require a ramp for your wheelchair that is durable and affordable. They are less expensive than other types and can be constructed in a fraction of the time required for a permanent wood or concrete ramp, which may require the building permit and can take weeks to complete. A modular ramp is constructed using pre-fabricated ramp sections for quick assembly. They are perfect for homes with stairs that have to be cleared or for temporary use when visiting family members or friends members with steps. They come in a variety of lengths that can be used to accommodate a wide range of step heights. Safety features such as anti-slip tapes and glow-in-the-dark mats are essential to have on any ramp.