Anyone in a power wheelchair or mobility scooter, either permanently or temporarily, understands how frustrating it can be to have limited access to certain areas, especially in their own home. If you are in a wheelchair or have to use a mobility scooter to get around, it simply does not make sense to pay large amounts of money for remodeling your entire home. The good news is that with handicap access ramps, you can find a way to get around anywhere you need to go, without having to spend a large amount of money.
Handicap Access Ramp Specs
For safety, the majority of wheelchair ramps should adhere to certain specs. These specs are even more important if the ramp is installed in a public area. According to the American Disabilities ACT, commercial ramps need to have a slope of 1:12, which means that for every inch of rising, there needs to be 12 inches of length. The higher the ramp, the longer it should be. There are no regulations on residential handicap-accessible ramps they can be a bit steeper, but should not have more than a 2:12 slope. In other words, if you're using a ramp for your home, you should have 1' foot of ramp for every 2" inches of rise.
It is also important to consider the incline rating of your
mobility scooter or
power wheelchair. The last thing you want to do is to have a ramp that is too steep for your scooter or power wheelchair incline rating.
Power Wheelchair Ramps for Handicapped Access Weight Specs
Prior to purchasing any type of mobility scooter or wheelchair ramp, it is important that the weight of the person, including the chair, is determined. Some ramps are not designed to hold wheelchairs holding adults, especially those who are obese. This is why you must consider the weight of the user ahead of time.
Types of Mobility Scooter Ramps for Handicapped Access
There are several different types of wheelchair ramps available. Most ramps are made of aluminum or rubber. You need to decide if you want a temporary or permanent ramp. It is also important to consider the material that is used for the ramp since each one has pros and cons.
- Temporary vs. Permanent Wheelchair Ramps
A permanent handicap access ramp is ideal for homes or businesses where someone is using a wheelchair day after day. Temporary wheelchair ramps are better suited for living situations where the user may be renting or for someone who is only going to be in a wheelchair for a short period.
There are two general types of wheelchair ramps to choose from: platform and track. The track wheelchair ramps are made of two different sections, which accommodate each side of the chair. This is a lighter option, which is good if the ramps need to be moved or repositioned. Platform wheelchair ramps offer an elevated and even surface. This is a heavier design but will be easier for those in a wheelchair to navigate.
There are several different material options for handicap access ramps, as well, which include: wood, galvanized steel, aluminum, concrete, fiberglass, rubber and plastic. Chances are your budget will help to determine which option is right for you.
When you begin looking for handicap access ramps for sale, you should consider all of the options so you can find the right ramp for your specific needs.
Andrew Fatalo is the CEO of Statewide Mobility & Mobility Scooters Direct. He has over 14 years of experience directly repairing Mobility Scooters & Power Wheelchairs. He also has been consulting with customers since 2005 when he entered this industry. Andrew gives back to the handicapped community by hosting mobility scooter and electric wheelchair giveaways which you can learn more about by following our Facebook page.