Threshold Access Ramps

Threshold access ramps can be used either indoors or outdoors.  Threshold access ramps generally enable the wheelchair or scooter user negotiate rough or uneven surfaces, including doorways or other raised areas. More often than not, threshold access ramps are simple in design as well as function but although this is the case, the installation of threshold access ramps vastly simplifies the lives of those with a mobile disability by easing transportation in and around the home or office.  Comparatively speaking, threshold access ramps are considered the smallest sized access ramp available.

Likewise all access ramps, there are many different types of threshold access ramps to choose from.  Threshold access ramps can either be of a permanent/semi-permanent design or a portable one to enable ease of transportation.  As such, permanent or semi-permanent threshold access ramps can be made out of either steel or wood while portable threshold access ramps are typically made out of aluminum, a lightweight alloy or even fiberglass.  Some threshold access ramps are even made out of rubber to ensure better traction.  There are even threshold access ramps that are made out of recycled plastic for those who are environmentally conscious.  All these threshold access ramps vary in height and steepness in accordance with the obstacle, in this case doorway, landing or step.

Steel threshold access ramps are relatively uncommon and are usually custom-made given the fact that they are mainly used as permanent threshold access ramps and are therefore usually commissioned in construction.  As such, the costs for steel threshold access ramps may vary and are usually quite costly given the price of steel is not cheap.  Aluminum threshold access ramps are usually used as an alternative as not only are they lightweight, they are also relatively cheap with prices starting from as low as USD $50.00 for a small aluminum threshold access ramp.  They can decently hold approximately 300 pounds of weight.

Fiberglass threshold access ramps, although highly portable and lightweight are also very expensive with prices starting from USD $200.00.  They can comfortably withstand weights of 500 pounds.  Besides being used for wheelchairs, fiberglass threshold access ramps are also tailored for powerchairs as well.

Rubber threshold access ramps are also highly popular due to the fact that not only are they generally better looking but they are also highly durable, very nearly indestructible and have virtually no weight limitations.  Like their steel or fiberglass counterparts, rubber threshold access ramps can also be custom-fitted to your home or office’s specifications or even interior décor so as to not seem out of place.  However, rubber threshold access ramps are also relatively heavy and thus are not recommended as a portable threshold access ramp.  Because of its durability, its ability to withstand extreme weights and overall attractive design, the rubber threshold access ramp is also quite expensive.  Its price ranges from at least USD $100.00 to USD $500.00.  In view of the fact that it is not very portable, when contemplating a rubber threshold access ramp, careful consideration should be given especially when given the fact that there are quite a few doorways in a typical household.  For the financially constrained, perhaps priority consideration should be given to major doorways such as main entrances and bathrooms keeping in mind the usual route taken by those who are wheelchair bound.