Access Ramps for Wheelchairs

There are several types of access ramps for wheelchairs, typically falling into categories i.e. whether they are permanent, semi-permanent or portable access ramps.  Basically, access ramps for wheelchairs enable wheelchair users (this includes powerchair users as well as mobility scooter users) to negotiate terrain or circumstances that typically do not permit the use of wheelchairs (and in most cases, almost any wheeled equipment) such as steps or curbs.  Access ramps for wheelchairs also enable wheelchair users ease of transportation in and out of their homes or buildings as well as vehicles.  Access ramps for wheelchairs can be defined as an inclined plane which permits the its users easy access to either buildings or vehicles and also over steps or curbs.  Some buildings or public areas are already installed with access ramps for wheelchairs.  Usually public access ramps for wheelchairs are designed to the specifications that have been set and approved by the ADA or Americans with Disabilities Act.  Thus these public access ramps for wheelchairs usually meet (and in some cases exceed) international safety standards.

Permanent access ramps for wheelchairs can be constructed out of several materials namely wood, metal or concrete.  Careful consideration should be given when deciding on the type of materials to be used.  Access ramps that are made out of metal for example are very sturdy, secure and durable but may be given to heat up especially on hot summer days.  Wooden access ramps for wheelchairs are visually pleasing to look at but they may not be the most durable as they are known to crack under extreme heat or become brittle if not treated with chemicals especially when they are exposed to extreme weather conditions. 

Concrete access ramps for wheelchairs are without a doubt the most durable and virtually indestructible but they are also inflexible and pretty much fixed to where they are constructed.  Permanent access ramps can be very expensive to construct as the materials used are not cheap and they almost always have to be custom-fitted.  Costs vary but typically cost at least USD $300.00 and above.  Keeping these factors in mind, permanent access ramps for wheelchairs can be highly beneficial when constructed at certain locations in and around the house or building in general.

Besides this, semi-permanent access ramps for wheelchairs can also be given consideration as they are sturdy and durable enough to permit relatively heavy duty usage but also portable enough to move in and around the home or building.  However, semi-permanent access ramps may not be compact enough for storage but they should be portable and light enough to transport in and around the building.  Semi-permanent access ramps may be made out of any material, be it metal, fiberglass or even aluminum.  Semi-permanent access ramps for wheelchairs do not cost as much as permanent access ramps but a decent one can set one back at least USD $100.00.

Portable access ramps for wheelchairs are ideal to be transported from one location to another especially when there is a need for mobility.  Portable access ramps are designed to either be folded or unfolded or slid into place to accommodate the negotiation of uneven terrain.  Typically portable access ramps for wheelchairs are designed to be compact enough to store in a vehicle or at least take as little space as possible when stored.  There are many options to choose from and portable access ramps can cost as little as USD $69.90 to as much as USD $500.00 depending on the materials used as well as the weight capacity.