Making Mobility Ramps Work for You
Click on the photos below for specific product information. Mobility ramps can make previously inaccessible areas both inside and outside the home accessible to wheelchair users. Designed for all types of wheelchairs, power chairs and scooters, ramps can be interior or exterior, permanent or portable. There is a wide variety of options from which to choose based on your specific needs. The following information provides a summary of the type of wheelchairs and scooter ramps available for purchase from mobility suppliers. In addition, you may click on any of the images for specific product information.
Exterior Ramps
- Decide whether you want a permanent or temporary ramp.
- If you’re building a permanent ramp, check whether you need a building permit. In some cases you will be asked to submit a plan to make sure the ramp conforms to the building code.
- Whether it’s a permanent or temporary ramp, make sure it’s made from a weatherproof material that won’t rust, peel, or fade in the sun.
- The ramp should have the safety features you require, such as a nonslip surface and sturdy leg supports and handrails.
- Mobility ramps should be sturdy enough to withstand daily use and wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs comfortably.
- Make sure the rise of the ramp is appropriate for you. The usual ratio is 1:12, or for every one inch of rise, there are 12 inches of horizontal run. But a more gradual 1:20 ratio is more comfortable for some.
Interior Ramps
- A common problem with interior ramps is making them too short and steep. Make sure the ramp is built at a comfortable rise, one that suits your age and conditioning.
- If the ramp is next to a wall, you can have a handrail installed to help you pull yourself up the incline.
Portable Ramps
Portable ramps come in all varieties, depending on your need. For accessing vans, look into multi-fold ramps, telescopic track ramps, and roll-up ramps. Threshold ramps allow wheelchairs to cross thresholds easily.Suitcase and roll-up ramps, which are the most portable, help you up curbs and short steps. For an article covering important wheelchair ramp safety tips,
click here.
Additional summary information on ramps types can be found by clicking here or on one of the related articles below.
 
Related Articles
Portable Mobility Ramps
Suitcase Wheelchair Ramps
Scooter Ramps - Safety Tips
Types of Wheelchair Access Ramps
Tips on Making Your Home Wheelchair Accessible
Advantages of Portable Ramps
Folding Wheelchair Ramps
Benefits of Modular Ramps
ADA Wheelchair Ramp Specifications
Modular Wheelchair Ramps
Renting a Mobility Ramp
How to Build a Wheelchair Ramp
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