Building a wheelchair ramp is a terrific option for individuals who wish to make their companies or homes more accessible. With over 6.8 million Americans utilizing assistance equipment such as wheelchairs, scooters, or canes, it is critical to consider their mobility!
Of course, whenever it concerns ramps, there are numerous possibilities. Removable ramps, fixed ramps, and portable ramps are all choices. We recommend various goods based on your mobility and situation. Portable ramps are a terrific method to guarantee that you, a family member, or a patient can always move about their environment. Continue reading to discover more about wheelchair ramp installation!
What You Should Know Before Installing a Wheelchair Ramp
There are a few points to consider before purchasing and installing your portable stair ramp. For your convenience, we’ve included a few below.
Ramp Positioning
You’ll want to know where you’ll be utilizing your wheelchair ramp before you buy it. Is there a certain door you always use? Is the location clear enough to utilize the wheelchair ramp without being obstructed? Will the door be large enough to allow for simple movement? These questions will assist you in determining the ideal location for your wheelchair ramp.
Size of the Ramp
Once you’ve determined where you’ll be utilizing the ramp, you can calculate the necessary height, breadth, and length. Examine all of your alternatives’ safety features to verify that the ramp you choose is the best match for you. If you’ll be traveling frequently, you’ll also want one with a simple wheelchair ramp construction method.
Material for the Ramp
There are wheelchair ramps available in a range of materials. Portable stair ramps are frequently made of aluminum or steel because they are easy to build. The heavier the material of your ramp, the more difficult it will be to install and transport.
Weather Influence
If you want to use your wheelchair ramp outside regularly, you should think about how the weather may affect it. Steel ramps rust more easily in rain or snow, so if you live in an area prone to severe weather, you should choose a different form. If your ramp is built of a material that warms up fast, extreme heat may also be a concern. You don’t want to burn your hands when attempting to fold your ramp back up.
Maintenance
The final consideration is upkeep. The frequency with which you use your ramp will have a big impact on how often you need to repair it. Depending on usage, materials, and other factors, certain manufacturers may provide regular maintenance or extended warranties. Consider these maintenance requirements when purchasing a wheelchair ramp.
Once you’ve acquired your ramp, we’ll go through the finest wheelchair ramp safety precautions to follow.
Precautions When Using a Wheelchair Ramp
When utilizing a wheelchair ramp, safety is of the utmost importance. There are a few best practices to follow before you begin using your ramp to ensure safe use every time.
- Examine your surroundings. Check for any obstacles that might cause your ramp to tilt or snag on your wheelchair. Before moving, clear the area of any potential obstructions.
- Make use of safety features. Before utilizing your ramp, double-check that your wheelchair’s seat belt and anti-tip wheels are securely fastened.
- Concentrate on yourself. To minimize unintentional tipping or falls, position your wheelchair in the center of the ramp. If you are too far to one side, your ramp may tip.
- Go slow. There’s no need to rush to get anywhere. Take your time and go slowly to prevent sliding back down the slope or to check for unstable movement.
