Wheelchair Ramp Buying Guide – the Basics

Wheelchair ramps are recognised as one of the most important elements to be included in a house plan. They enable the elderly and the physically disabled to enjoy complete freedom, as they allow users to access steps, doorways, move in and around the home safely and freely.

Threshold ramps also are a cost-effective and practical solution to enhance mobility. But, with a wide array of wheelchair ramps available on the market, how do you know which ramp would be best for your needs? To prevent you from buying the wrong ramp, we will help you determine the right one by providing all the things you need to consider before making a purchase.

 

Ask yourself these questions to help you purchase the right wheelchair ramp for your home.

Who will be the primary user?

When choosing a wheelchair ramp, the first thing you need to consider is the person who will be using it. If the primary user is healthy and somewhat active, then a lighter and more versatile ramp might be preferable, but if it's a senior, s/he might need a more durable ramp with added safety features, like grab rails.

All ramps have a maximum capacity that's why you also need to check the weight of the wheelchair and the person using it before buying.

Where are you planning to use it?

This is a relevant question when choosing the type of wheelchair ramp that will be most appropriate. Typical situations where a ramp will be needed is at an entrance to overcome a step or when you are loading a wheelchair or scooter into a vehicle. If the ramp is used at a public entrance, it must be able to accommodate other users as well.

A permanent or semi-permanent ramp may be more appropriate in these cases. But if the ramp is needed when you are out and about, it needs to be compact and lightweight, so it is easily carried.

Other Things to Consider

When buying a wheelchair ramp for your home, you also need to consider your home’s space, as well as the ramp’s weight capacity, width, length, and materials used.

Space

Before buying a wheelchair ramp, one of the most important things that you should consider is space. Examine all the spaces in your home that have steps or barriers where you'll need a ramp to transition from one area to another.

Width

To determine the ramp width you need, consider how wide is the wheelbase on your wheelchair. It's important to make sure that the wheelchair can safely cross the ramp surface with some margin for safety on either side. If you will use it to get in and out of a vehicle, consider the width of the door opening on your vehicle. Depending on the ramp you purchase, you will need 30 inches or more for a door opening.

Length

The length is a critical factor when buying a wheelchair ramp. A ramp that's too short will results in a steep grade, which is dangerous, especially in poor weather conditions. A longer ramp will decrease the steepness of the slope, making it safer and easier to use than shorter ramps, but it requires additional space which may not be feasible in your location.

Ramp Materials

The materials of your wheelchair ramp should be stable, and slip-resistant in all-weather circumstances. Low-maintenance composite materials can be an excellent choice. You should also consider low-maintenance handrail materials for years of comfortable use.

Wheelchair Ramps from Bendtech™

For almost three decades, Bendtech™ has been providing the elderly and disabled individuals with high-quality products to improve the quality of their lives. Wherever you are in Australia, we can provide you with the best solution to your wheelchair ramp needs at very competitive pricing.

Call Bendtech™ today 07 3290 4007 or send us an email to know more about our wheelchair ramps and to place your order.