Choosing the proper portable wheelchair ramp is not difficult. There are a few issues that the purchaser should consider in order to choose the portable ramp that will best meet their needs. The assistance of an experienced dealer will assist the purchaser in making the best decision.
Wheelchair and scooter ramps are essential for mobility both indoors and outdoors, and choosing the right portable ramp for stairs is critical to ensuring usability and safety. There are several types of wheelchair ramps available, as well as many factors to consider before purchasing a portable ramp.
This buying guide discusses the various types of wheelchair ramps, the key specifications to consider when purchasing a portable ramp. Its recommendations for the installation and use of a wheelchair or scooter ramp.
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Table of Contents
Details about your mobility device
Without specific information about your mobility device, you risk selecting a ramp that is too small or incapable of supporting the weight of your scooter or wheelchair. Make a note of its length and width, as well as the total combined weight of the device, accessories, user, and caregiver. The majority of dimensions and weights are usually available on the manufacturer’s website. This will give you a good idea of the minimum dimensions and weight capacity you’ll require. If you want track ramps that only accommodate the wheels of a wheelchair measure the tire width as well. Please keep in mind that most manufacturers have a maximum
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Choosing a Style for a Portable Wheelchair Ramp
Once we know the weight that the ramp must be able to handle and the approximate length that will be required we can look at the style of the ramp that will be most suitable. . It is necessary to determine whether portability is required. Also, how the ramp will be moved from one location to another. The following are the ramp options for you to choose from.
- Threshold Ramps
- Suitcase Ramps
- Multi fold ramps
- Solid ramps
3. Location
Because most ramps can handle both indoor and outdoor weather, location is more about the environment and surroundings. A threshold ramp may be just what you need. If you need a small residential ramp to help you get over doorways and small steps in your home or outdoor area. Larger ramps may be a better fit for high-rise buildings and commercial settings. take note of any environmental features that may interfere with ramp placement, such as a curved sidewalk, awkward door, angled patio step, and so on. If your ramp will butt up against a doorway, the top of the ramp must be designed with flattened side rails or an extended lip.
4. Portability
If you want to take your ramp with you whether you’re travelling next door or across the country, you’ll need a portable solution. Ramps that fold in half or quarters are an excellent solution because they are typically sized to fit into the majority of vehicles. They are usually equipped with handles. If you need a more permanent solution, modular wheelchair ramps can be purchased in longer lengths. They can typically be disassembled and moved if necessary. They aren’t intended to be a quick and easy ramp solution like some of the lighter models.
5. Additional characteristics
Ramps come with a variety of surface options, such as a grit coat, integrated traction lines, or heavy duty punch plate traction. Some ramps include mounting holes and pins for permanent or semi-permanent installation. Some have lip extensions at the top to help with the transition between the ramp and the connected surface. Others also include handrails, which are useful if you don’t always use a mobility device.
