15 Things You Didn't Know About Wheelchairs Ramps

· 6 min read
15 Things You Didn't Know About Wheelchairs Ramps

Wheelchair Ramps for Stairs

Stairs can pose a significant barrier to someone who is using a wheelchair or other mobility device. There are a variety of ramps to help you safely navigate the stairs.

One of the best models is an accessible ramp. These are typically "suitcase" style and fold flat to make it easy to transport and store.

A variety of materials

There are a variety of wheelchair ramps that are available on the market. Some ramps for wheelchairs are made of steel or aluminum and others are constructed from rubber or wood. The variety of options lets you find a ramp that is compatible with the design of your home. Moreover they are built to support the weight of the most powerful wheelchairs and scooters which means you can use them with confidence and without fear that they will break.

The material of the ramp will also impact the amount of maintenance required. Metal ramps, like, may rust in certain conditions. This is especially the case in humid conditions, where corrosion may be a risk to users. The most effective ramps are constructed of low-maintenance materials and are able to withstand a variety of weather conditions.

When selecting a ramp for a wheelchair, you will need to consider the amount of use it will be subject to and its maximum capacity. You must decide if you would prefer a permanent or portable solution. Portable ramps are usually made of light metals, such as aluminum and are designed to be easily moved between different locations, while permanent ramps are buried into the ground or concrete and are not easily removed.

Wheelchair ramps are available in a variety of lengths, so you can choose one that is the right height for the steps you want to skip. Some models are able to fold down, making them more convenient to carry or store in the vehicle. They are ideal for community facilities and they can be cut in such a way that they fit through doors.

Threshold ramps are a simple solution to a problem that affects those who utilize wheelchairs, walkers and other mobility aids. These are small ramps that fit against the threshold or lip to help a person easily get over the obstruction. They can be placed either in front of the threshold and remain in place, or they can bridge between the doorframes and the floor to provide an easy transition.

You can also choose ramps with an adjustable slope. Telescoping ramps feature channels that can be adjusted to the desired step height. They are light and can be made up to 2400mm (8ft) in length, which means they are suitable for larger powered wheelchairs.

Easy to Install

Installation is simple based on the type of ramp you choose. Wooden ramps can be constructed using a variety of construction materials and tools and generally strong enough to support wheelchairs and walker users. You may have to consult an expert to construct ramps that meet ADA standards. Ramp slopes, like, cannot be steeper that 1:12 that is to say they must rise by one inch per 12 inches in length. Make sure that the ramp is able to support the weight of a wheelchair or walker and has handrails on each side to ensure safety.

A wheelchair ramp can assist your loved one age gracefully in their own home. It can help improve their mobility and allow them to participate in social events with their family and friends. The best wheelchair ramp will depend on a number of elements, such as the location of the steps, the space available in addition to the length of time that you wish the ramp to last.

Some ramps are portable and can be folded away, while others are built with the intention of long-term use in mind. They include threshold ramps that sit just below the lip of a doorway or curb and single-fold ramps that can be carried like a suitcase. These are an excellent choice for those who require an emergency ramp or are traveling with their loved ones and require a lightweight, portable option.

If you require an extra long-lasting ramp, you can opt for a concrete ramp that is poured on-site or an aluminum ramp that is modular and comes in sections that can be slid together to create the desired length. The advantages of these types of ramps are that they are extremely durable, low maintenance and are covered by a lifetime warranty.

If you're in search of an accessible ramp for your loved one, go online to read reviews to determine the best one for them. You can also contact a local mobility expert such as Lifeway Mobility to learn more about the different ramp options and also to schedule a with a no-cost consultation.

Easy to move

Many ramps for wheelchairs are designed to be portable and easily moved from one location to the next. They can also be adapted to various heights or slopes and are suitable for use in various locations. These features provide a cost-effective solution for those not seeking an ongoing ramp installation. They can be used for trips for business, on vacations or even to visit friends and family.

Wheelchair ramps come in various materials and sizes. Some are made of aluminum or wood, while others are weatherproof. The homeowner's budget, design needs and personal preferences will determine the material they select. Wooden ramps are generally more affordable and blend in perfectly with the exterior of the home's decor.  foldable ramps for wheelchairs , on the other hand, are more durable and require less maintenance.

When you are looking for a ramp for wheelchairs it is essential to consider the capacity of the wheelchair or mobility scooter that will be used on the ramp. If the ramp is overloaded it could experience structural failure. It is also crucial to take into consideration the slope of the ramp as well as its surface. A ramp with a steep gradient could be difficult for wheelchair users to navigate, whereas an uneven slope could result in a loss of control.

Ramps that feature a non-slip surface and handrails offer greater safety to wheelchair users. They also lower the chance of falling or slipping, which could lead to serious injuries. There are ramps available in a wide range of colors that can be used to match various styles and requirements.


It is best to consult an authorized dealer in your area who is able to provide you with the right wheelchair ramp. They can answer all your questions and provide recommendations based on what your needs are. They can also construct the ramp if needed and provide training for its proper use. They can also assist you in applying for a homeowner's permit if it is required by your city or town. This will save you money and time as you can install your ramp earlier.

Easy to maintain

A wheelchair ramp is a fantastic way to ensure a smooth transition from one level into another when using a motorized wheelchair. It is essential to maintain the ramp in a proper manner like any other piece of equipment, in order to ensure its longevity and the safety and comfort of the user.

A few minutes of examining the ramp regularly will prevent minor issues from becoming major ones. The best way to keep a ramp in good condition is to clean away debris and dirt with a broom or dustpan, and then use mild soapy water to scrub it down. This is to be done at least once or twice per week to ensure that the ramp is clean.

The process of checking for corrosion and rust on metal parts like ramp rails, hinges and handrails is a routine maintenance task. If you notice any signs of corrosion or rust apply non-corrosive ice-blocking agents to avoid damaging the ramp components.

For safety reasons, it's also important to make sure that the slope of the ramp is in line with ADA guidelines. The slope should be one foot for every inch of the ramp's rise. However, it's important to consult your local codes for the specific requirements for your area.

Wooden ramps require more maintenance than aluminum ramps, but are still popular due to the fact that they have a natural appearance that blends better into the environment. Regularly applying wood preservatives can help protect the ramp from decay and rot, however you might also have to apply anti-slip tape to certain surfaces to stop users from sliding.

Portable ramps can be cleaned using an abrasive cloth or sponge and a noncorrosive cleaner. If you won't be using the ramps for a while, they are also easy to fold and store. Make sure to store the ramp in a dry location to avoid damage from moisture and other environmental factors.