Wheelchair Ramps, Aluminum vs Wood and The Correct Way To Measure Ramps

For people with disabilities it is very hard to get around and climb up stairs. That is why there are wheelchair ramps that are made in many different sizes and lengths to help people in wheelchairs get around. Most of us in wheelchairs just want to get around like a normal person but we need help from people or with other things in life like steps. We need a wheelchair ramp to help us get in and out..

An aluminum ramp system is the most versatile of all ramp styles. The welded aluminum construction offers a lightweight design, that is stronger and more durable than wood. These wheelchair ramps can be disassembled and reused at different locations, and they can be set up in most any configuration. The aluminum surface is virtually maintenance free. Installation is quick and does not require a building permit since it can be considered a temporary structure. There are pros and cons of aluminum ramps and wood ramps. Aluminum ramps are the most effective choice and are maintenance free and minimal tools are required. A 24' foot ramp can be install in under 1 hour.

Aluminum ramps can be permanent or temporarily installed and can be reconfigured and moved.

Wood wheelchair ramps have to be maintained at a high maintenance yearly cost. Also it requires footings, a contractor and usually requires a building permit. It is nonadjustable, can not be moved, and is a one time use ramp. There is no resale value and it usually takes 2 days or longer to be built.

Also if you live where there is snow and salt it will not hurt an aluminum ramp like it would hurt a wood ramp.

The wide variety of ramps on the market are ideal for negotiating steps and getting you smoothly over any transition in height that a doorway may present. Wheelchair ramps can also help you from loading and unloading a wheelchair from a vehicle.

The best ramps out there are the aluminum ramps. You can make them in any size or length. It all depends on the length, height, and the width of your wheelchair or scooter and the size of the house or building you are trying to get into.

To meet ADA codes you must have 1 foot of ramp run for every 1 inch of rise. There are exceptions to this rule only if there are space restrictions. So if a porch and steps have a total rise of 24 inches, 24 feet of ramping would be required. No wheelchair ramps can be made that are over 30 feet without an intermediate resting platform. This platform may be a straight or turn platform. The resting platform must be a least 60 inches in length and as wide as the ramp that is leading up to it. Any platform that changes direction must be at least 60 inches by 60 inches. Handrails are required on any wheelchair ramp that has a rise over 6 inches or ramps that are over 6 feet in length. Handrails are required on both sides of ramps with continuous rails on switchback and dogleg platforms.

I have found the best ramp out there is the aluminum wheelchair ramp instead of wood. The wood ramps cost more in the long run and can not be moved. It will not last as long as an aluminum ramp. So make sure you look for the correct ramp for your needs.