You’re likely to be wondering what type of material is best for your wheelchair ramp. There are four main types of materials that can be used to build wheelchair ramps: aluminum, concrete, steel, and steel. Let’s have a closer look at the materials to help you choose which wheelchair ramp is best for your needs.
Aluminum Ramps
A man riding on an aluminum wheelchair ramp with powerchair Aluminum ramps are a great choice because of their many advantages. Powder-coated ramps are now available from most manufacturers and can be customized to match your home or business’s aesthetics.
Aluminum ramps can be installed quickly and easily. Aluminum ramps are usually installed for $50 per square foot and can be completed in less than a day.
Aluminum ramps are easy to maintain and extremely durable in the long term.
It is easy to remove an aluminum ramp. The ramp can then be moved or sold.
Aluminum ramps can be rented if you have temporary needs.
Wood Ramps
A wooden wheelchair ramp can be a great option for homeowners because it is more affordable and visually pleasing than a steel ramp. A well-built and maintained wooden ramp can be both attractive and functional.
These are some of the things homeowners need to keep in mind.
Constructing wooden ramps takes a lot of time, materials, and labor. A wooden ramp can take as long as a week to construct, which adds up to expensive labor costs. A wooden ramp may cost between $100 and $200 per linear foot depending on its layout.
A wooden ramp must be kept safe and attractive like a wooden deck. A wooden ramp can rot, crack, warp, warp, or fade without it.
Wooden ramps can become slippery in wet conditions, so it is important to use non-slip treads.
A wooden ramp cannot be moved. It takes significant time and labor.
Concrete Ramps
Concrete ramp in Naperville, IL. Concrete is not often used in residential areas. It is much easier to add a concrete ramp to a structure during its initial construction. However, one can be added to an existing property or home if it is permitted by the property’s layout.
Concrete ramps are difficult to construct and require a lot of labor. These ramps can be as high as $200 per foot.
Concrete ramps can be durable and can support a lot of weight. However, they are easy to crack over time.
It can be costly and time-consuming to remove a concrete ramp.
Steel Ramps
Modular ramps can be made from either aluminum or steel. These materials may look similar but they have significant differences in their properties.
Steel is heavier than aluminum, so it can take longer and be more challenging to install.
Steel ramps can rust (see the image). If the ramp is to be used for a long time, it will need to be rust-proofed and maintained. This is particularly true in humid climates.
It can be challenging to remove and/or relocate steel ramps due to their heavy weight.
Verdict
All types of ramps are different, but an aluminum ramp is the best for both permanent and temporary applications. Aluminum ramps are simple to install, cost-effective, durable, and can be removed or moved easily. A qualified aluminum ramp provider may also be available in your locality.
Considerations During Buy Of A Wheelchair Ramp
Here are some important things to consider when selecting the right mobile ramp for your home. We want you to be able to make the best decision for yourself and your family.
Is there an area where a ramp for wheelchairs could be installed?
Threshold
If your landing or doorway is not very high, a threshold ramp can be a great option. Hoveround has a wheelchair ramp that can easily be installed at your thresholds. It’s non-slip and anti-slip.
Set Of Steps
If your home is too steep, Hoveround offers two options: a single-fold wheelchair access ramp that folds in half like a suitcase, or a trifold wheelchair lift, which splits in half and is made of durable, welded aircraft-grade aluminum.
Raised Landing
For a raised landing, a solid 36-inch ramp is the best choice. This allows you to exit your home safely and comfortably. Depending on your requirements, handrails may be required. Handrails are available on the PVI OnTrac wheelchair ramp.
Vehicle
A wheelchair ramp can be used for transporting your power wheelchair. The optional TLE (top lips extension) can be added to the ramp. This will increase the length of your lip from 3 to 9 inches. The TLE can be used to place the ramp on the floor of the vehicle for safe and simple transportation.
You’re likely to be wondering what type of material is best for your wheelchair ramp. There are four main types of materials that can be used to build wheelchair ramps: aluminum, concrete, steel, and steel.