Choosing Portable Ramps For Wheelchair Accessibility

Portable ramps are a great way to help adjustable wheelchair ramps users navigate through inclines, like stairs or curbs. They are lightweight, and can be folded up or folded to be stored.

Find a wide range of ramps available from local accessibility equipment stores or medical supply stores. Online retailers provide detailed descriptions, reviews and comparison tools for various ramps.

Folding Portable Ramps

Folding portable ramps make for an extremely convenient wheelchair accessibility solution for wheelchairs. They can be placed in many locations to increase access for wheelchair users to get around obstacles such as stairs, curbs and elevated surfaces. They are also less costly and complex to maintain than in-floors ramps, which makes them an appealing option for many people.

When you are choosing a portable folding ramp, you must consider a variety of factors, including the size and weight of your wheelchair, mobility device or scooter, and the surface that you will be using it on. Ideally, the ramp should have an incline similar to or slightly higher than the slope of the step or obstacle it will be used to traverse. Ask healthcare professionals or accessibility experts to get advice if you're unsure about the appropriate ramp size to meet your needs.

Ramps come in a variety of styles, designs and capacities to suit your individual wheelchair and mobility requirements. There are a variety of options available that range from simple threshold ramps that are suitable for small doors up to full-length ramps that can be loaded into the back of vehicles.

In addition to being lightweight and compact, portable wheelchair ramps are usually constructed of robust materials to ensure their durability and strength. They also come with a non-slip surface to reduce the risk of slips and falls in any weather.

The most common type of portable ramp is a single-fold one which can be folded and secured with a center hinge. Some models come with a second hinge centered across the width of the ramp, further supporting and distributing the weight to provide an increased capacity for load. Some models are designed to be folded into multiple pieces, and can be carried around in a manner similar to a suitcase for maximum convenience. Some are constructed of a set of linked links that can be added or removed to make an individual length ramp and they fold into a cylinder for easy storage. These ramps are sometimes called "roll-a'ramps". The different styles of portable ramps are designed to offer high levels of safety, portability and ease of use.

Easy to Setup

You'll need a ramp that is easy to set up and use. Because portable ramps are intended to be rolled around on occasion and may need to be stored between usage, the ability to easily put it together or take it apart is a must. Some models can fold in half or quarters and are sized to fit in the majority of vehicles, making transportation seamless. Some models have handles that make them easy to carry like a suitcase. They are ideal for loading a powerchair into a van or climbing small inclines.

It may be important to think about the weight that your ramp is able to support, depending on the type you choose. If you're using power chairs and require more capacity, you might want to consider ramps with more strength and stability.

If you're not sure which type of ramp would best meet your needs, you may want to contact our Ramp Experts. They can help you decide which is best suited to your needs and answer any questions that you may have. They can also help you calculate how much slope you'll require and offer recommendations on the appropriate ramp length to meet your needs.

Another factor to take into consideration is the material that your ramp is constructed of. Wood joists are rough pressed wood that could be difficult to hold with your hands. They can even cause fractures. You can attach plastic handles on the outside of each board to make it easier to handle.

Another option that is suitable for those who frequently travel, are looking for a threshhold ramp to help navigate single-step entrances or want an almost instantaneous set up/unfold ramp is a track channel ramp. This type of ramp has an aluminum frame with tracks to which wheels are attached so you can simply roll the ramp onto the track and be ready to go. These ramps are also compact enough to be rolled into the back of your vehicle or onto an airplane to travel on.

Costs less than in-floor ramps

Both ramps that fold out and those that are in-floor provide a variety of advantages that can help those with mobility issues. There are a few key differences between the two ramp styles that can help you choose.

For example, some people prefer the versatility of a ramp that folds out and stores in the doorway of their vehicle and then extends outwards to be used. The ramp is easily accessed by the user and can be lowered by hand or mechanically at the push of the button. It also features perforations in the ramp's flooring to make cleaning and maintenance simpler. Certain models also have safety belts that help secure the wheelchair when in use.

Another significant difference between the two styles of ramps is that the fold-out ones can be used in conjunction with rear-entry and side-entry conversions. They can be found on vehicles such as the Honda Element or Chevrolet Traverse. In contrast, in-floor ramps typically are best suited to rear-entry conversions. This permits the wheelchair to be to be placed behind the driver's chair which is a good option for families or people who travel with other wheelchair users.

In addition that, fold-out ramps are typically less expensive than in-floor ramps. They are simpler to store and use as they have fewer parts. This will reduce the time and money you spend on maintenance.

Keep in mind, though, that the price of a ramp isn't always fixed. The price of a ramp can be affected by many factors including the material used the location, the material, and labor. A ramp made of Trex for instance is more expensive than one made from aluminum. Medicaid programs in a few states might cover the cost of ramps, but there are usually stipulations or eligibility requirements. Medicare for instance, requires that a doctor declare the ramp to be medically necessary in order to cover it. The government has recognized that ramps could enhance the quality of life for those with disabilities.

Simpler Maintenance

In addition to ensuring that your ramps are free of debris, snow and ice, it is important to also make sure your ramp is safe for all who use it. It is crucial to include rails that prevent wheelchairs from falling off the edge. Also the slope of the ramp must be at a level that is safe and not too steep or shallow. Also, you should add salt to the ramps as you would roads or walkways to aid in traction.

If you'd like to to take your ramp with you when traveling, search for ramps that can be folded or disassembled for easy transport. The ramps are typically sized to fit in the back of your vehicle and are equipped with handles which make it easier to carry. These ramps can be more expensive than floor-to-ceiling ones, but they can save you money on an installation that is permanent. This is a great solution for those who are who are looking for temporary wheelchair accessibility solutions.

Another kind of portable ramp is a threshold ramp, which can be used to bridge small gaps in height such as doorways and single steps. These ramps are commonly used in offices and homes to help wheelchairs and scooters navigate over obstacles and continue through doors.

Threshold ramps typically consist of aluminum that is lightweight and smaller than other types of wheelchair ramps. They can be easily rolled up and put away in a coat closet or even in the trunk of your vehicle when not in use.

A telescoping stairway is similar to a threshold stairway, however it can be used for loading mobility scooters at the rear of vans. The ramp has two narrow channels which extend and retract in order to match the wheels of the mobility scooter or wheelchair. It can be used alone or with a threshold at the entrance to your home or business.

When shopping for a ramp to improve accessibility in your business or home, consider connecting with local disability organizations. They may have a network of manufacturers and suppliers, and can provide recommendations or direct you towards reputable resources that sell ramps at affordable prices. In addition, they may be aware of any financial assistance programs that could be available for the purchase of accessible equipment such as ramps for wheelchairs.