Choosing Portable Ramps For Wheelchair Accessibility
Portable ramps are a great solution to help wheelchair users navigate over inclines such as curbs or steps. They are lightweight and can be folded or rolled to store.
Find a wide range of ramp options from local accessibility equipment dealers or medical supply stores. Online retailers offer detailed descriptions as well as reviews and tools for comparing different ramps.
Folding Portable Ramps
Portable ramps that fold are a fantastic solution for wheelchair accessibility. They can be deployed in a variety of locations to facilitate accessibility for wheelchair users to get around obstacles such as steps, curbs and raised surfaces. They are also less expensive and more difficult to maintain than in-floor ramps which makes them a more attractive option for many.
When you are choosing a portable folding ramp, you must take into consideration a number of aspects, including the weight and size of your wheelchair, mobility device or scooter, and the surface you'll be using it on. Ideally, the ramp should have an incline that is similar to or slightly higher than the incline of the step or obstacle it will be used to navigate. If you're uncertain about the ideal height for you consider consulting a healthcare professional or accessibility experts for advice.
Ramps come in a variety of designs, styles and capacities that will meet your specific mobility and wheelchair requirements. There are many options available that range from simple threshold ramps for small doorways up to ramps with full length that can be loaded in the back of vehicles.
In addition to being lightweight and compact portable ramps for wheelchairs are typically made of robust materials to ensure their durability and strength. They also come with a non-slip surface to reduce the risk of slips or falls in any weather.
The most popular type of portable ramp is a single-fold ramp which can be folded and secured using an elongated hinge. Some models have an additional hinge that runs along the width of the ramp, which helps to support and distribute the weight. This gives the ramp an increased capacity for load. Certain models can be folded in multiple pieces and then carried as a suitcase. Still others are built from linked links that can be joined or removed to make a custom length ramp, and they fold into a cylinder for simple storage. These ramps are sometimes called "roll-a'ramps". The different styles of portable ramps are designed to provide high levels of security, portability and accessibility.
Easy to Set Up
You'll need a ramp which is easy to set up and use. Portable ramps can be occasionally used, and they may need to be stored in between uses. This makes it important that they're easy to assemble or disassemble. wheelchair ramp for front door can fold in half or quarters and are sized such that they fit into most vehicles. This makes transportation simple. Certain models have handles which make them easy to carry around like a suitcase. They are ideal for loading a powerchair into a van, or for climbing small inclines.
It is important to consider the weight that the ramp can support, depending on the type you select. If you're using power chairs and require a higher capacity, you might want to consider ramps with more stability and strength.
If you're not sure what type of ramp will best meet your needs, you may want to contact our Ramp Experts. They can assist you in determining which ramp is the best for you and answer any questions that you may have. They can also estimate the amount of incline needed and provide recommendations on the right ramp length for your needs.
Another factor to think about is the material your ramp is made from. Wood joist ramps are made of extremely rough pressed wood and are difficult to handle with hands alone and could cause scratches. You can attach handles made of plastic on the outside of each board to make it easier to hold.
Track channel ramps are an alternative option for those who travel frequently or require an entry ramp to help them cross single-step entrances, or require ramps that can be erected and then unfolded in a matter of minutes. This style features an aluminum frame with tracks on which wheels are mounted so that you can simply roll your ramp onto the track and be ready to go. These types of ramps are also small enough to fit into the back of your car or onto a plane for travel.
Costs less than in-floor ramps
Both fold-out ramps and in-floor ramps have a range of advantages that can help those with mobility issues. However there are some important differences that can help you choose the best ramp design.
Some prefer a fold-out, portable ramp that can be put away in the vehicle's entryway and then extended outward to be used. The ramp is easily accessible to the user and can be set up manually or mechanically at the push of the button. It also features perforations in the ramp's floor, which makes cleaning and maintenance a breeze. Some models are also equipped with safety belts that help secure the wheelchair during use.
Another important distinction between the two styles of ramps is that the fold-out ones can be used with both side-entry and rear-entry conversions. This means that they are able to be fitted to vehicles such as the Honda Element and Chevrolet Traverse. In-floor ramps are ideal for rear-entry conversions. This permits the wheelchair to be to be placed behind the driver's seat, which is a great choice for families or people who travel with non-wheelchair users.
In addition they are generally less expensive than in-floor ramps. They are simpler to store and use, because they are made of fewer components. This can cut down on the amount of time and money you spend on maintenance, which can save you money over the long term.
Keep in mind, though that the cost of a ramp isn't necessarily fixed. Many factors can influence its cost, including material location, construction and labor. A ramp made of Trex, for example will cost more than one made from aluminum. Medicaid programs in certain states may cover the costs of ramps, but there are often restrictions or eligibility requirements. Medicare for instance requires that a doctor declare the ramp medically necessary in order to cover it. The government has recognized that ramps could enhance the quality of life for disabled persons.
Simpler Maintenance
It is important to not just ensure that your ramps are free of ice, debris and snow, but also ensure that it is safe for everyone who uses it. This means adding rails to prevent wheelchairs from falling off the edge, and making sure the slope of your ramp is safe and that it's not too low or steep. You can also salt the ramps as you would walkways and roads to increase traction.
If you'd like to be able to take your ramp along when traveling, search for ramps that can be folded or disassembled to make it easy to transport. They are usually designed to fit inside the back of your vehicle and have handles that make it easier to carry. They may be more costly than in-floor ramps, but they will save you money on the installation of a permanent one. This is a great option to those seeking temporary wheelchair accessibility solutions.
Another kind of portable ramp is a threshold ramp which can be used to fill in small gaps like doorways and single steps. They are commonly employed in commercial and residential buildings to allow wheelchairs or scooters to move through these obstacles, and then proceed through the doorway.
Threshold ramps are generally made of aluminum that is light and are smaller in size than other kinds. When not in use they can be folded up and put in a closet or even the trunk of your car.
A telescoping staircase is similar to a threshold stairway, but it can also be utilized to load mobility scooters at the rear of vans. This ramp features two narrow channels that extend and retract to match the wheels of the mobility scooter or wheelchair, and it can be used by itself or along with an threshold ramp at the entry point of the business or home.
Think about contacting local disability organizations when you are looking for ramps that can improve accessibility at home or in the office. They'll likely have a network of manufacturers and suppliers. They can offer suggestions or direct you to trusted resources where you can purchase ramps at reasonable cost. They may also know about financial assistance programs that can help you purchase accessible equipment such as ramps for wheelchairs.