Buying a Residential Ramp Avoid These Common Mistakes

By Ed Wimbish

Mobility ASAP by Affiliated Medical Equipment

. http://www.mobilityasap.com/

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Buying a Residential Ramp Avoid These Common Mistakes

Residential Wheelchair Ramps are very popular for improving access in and out of a home. When done correctly, they are very useful and effective. When done wrong, they present a new hazard which can be worse than the stairs they are meant to bypass.

Avoid These Common Mistakes.

1. Using plywood. Plywood absorbs moisture and can become extremely slippery. They also will rot in a very short time. Ramps constructed with aluminum or steel are built to last many years and can be reused or recycled when you no longer need them.
2. Buying a ramp that is too short. Americans With Disability Act recommends 1 linear foot of ramp for each inch of rise. A ramp that is too short is like a ski slope. Great for sliding down but, very unsafe for walking or riding up and down in a wheelchair or other mobility device.
3. Not installing hand rails. Building code in most areas require handrails for any ramp 6 inches or higher off the ground. Portable ramps are not covered by this requirement but, are usually fairly close to the ground.
4. Building a ramp that is too narrow. 36″ is the minimum recommended width of a residential ramp.
5. Hiring the cheapest contractor to build a ramp. Many contractors with no expertise in accessibility design will gladly take your money and provide an unsafe or even unusable ramp.

The best place to shop for ramps is a company that specializes in mobility and accessibility products. They will have the knowledge and expertise required to show you the best ramp to meet your needs. These companies can also show you alternatives to ramps such as outdoor stair lifts or wheelchair lifts which may be better suited to your needs and budget. As always, a good place to start is by checking with the Better Business Bureau to find an Accredited contractor.