Installing A Wheelchair Ramp

It is difficult to understand the difficulties that a person with a wheelchair has to access some places. The main obstacles can be steps, changes of level, entrance to stores, exit to terraces, etc.

In many cases, we are not aware of what this means until we are not overcoming any of these elements. This is why we must adapt our https://patriotmobilityinc.com/ cities, buildings, and businesses to the diverse needs that exist in terms of mobility.

Not all ramps will give you access to all the places that present an obstacle; you will have to choose what best suits your needs and solves the most significant barriers. To do this, you must take into account several factors.

Slope

The slope of the ramp is the essential aspect when choosing it because a ramp with a very steep slope is not going to make it easy for you to move around. Even for people on foot, a steep ramp can be a hazard.

For wheelchair users, a steep ramp increases the risk of falling. It may also mean that the slope cannot be negotiated, either because of the user’s muscular capacity or the power of the power chair motor.

Although the ramp’s steeper, the shorter it will be, the ideal degree of incline is in a ratio of 1:12, i.e., for each unit of height, the ramp will be 12 units longer.

With a lower slope, the ramp is longer, but there is less danger of your chair slipping.

Transition

The wheelchair ramp is the perfect tool for overcoming a height obstacle, but we must keep in mind that it has to be adjusted to the surface on which we use it.

Therefore we must also consider the height of the curb that has the ramp because if it is too high, the chairs can not overcome it and will be a hindrance rather than a help.

The ramp-floor transition must be adequate so that you do not encounter new obstacles while using your ramp.

Landing

If there is a door at the end of the ramp that needs to be opened, there should be enough room for you to maneuver without having to be straining on the ramp itself to avoid falling backward.

Levels

If a ramp is very long, it is advisable for safety reasons to have levels to rest or make a turn if needed. In many cases, ramps are arranged in a zigzag pattern to bridge large slopes and provide rest areas between sections.

Weight

Keep in mind that the ramp must support your weight and the weight of your wheelchair, and any other objects you carry with you.

This is another of the essential features to take into account to avoid accidents.

Types Of Wheelchair Ramps

Depending on the obstacles you have to overcome daily, you will have to choose one type of ramp or another.

Threshold Ramp

This ramp is the perfect aid you need to overcome the step or height change ledge in some doorways. They have very varied designs and combine materials such as aluminum and rubber. They can also be modular so that they can be easily installed and repositioned. They cannot be used directly for steps.

Modular Ramp

They are usually semi-permanent or portable ramps, rigid and with lower prices. They are lightweight, solid, and maintenance-free systems and suitable for indoor and outdoor use. They require installation and come prefabricated in various heights and lengths that can accommodate most steps. You should make sure you have the correct measurements you need to make installation easier and smoother.

Portable Ramps

When folded, they look like a suitcase. They are lightweight, easy to transport, and are made in one piece to help you overcome isolated steps. They are the most economical on the market and an excellent choice for use at home.

The most important feature of any wheelchair ramp is that it must be safe. Keep in mind that you will not be able to use just any ramp with just any type of wheelchair or surface. Carefully study your day-to-day needs, and based on that, choose the ramp that is right for you.