If you need an aluminum wheelchair ramp, whether it’s for accessibility, aging in place, or temporary mobility needs, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Step 1: Assess the Need
- User: Who is the wheelchair ramp for? What are their mobility needs (e.g., wheelchair, walker, scooter)?
- Frequency of Use: Will it be used daily, occasionally, or temporarily?
- Duration: Is this a short-term (post-surgery) or long-term solution?
Step 2: Evaluate the Site
- Entrance Location: Which doorway will the wheelchair ramp access? Front, side, or back?
- Available Space: Measure the distance from the door to the ground and available run-out space.
- Obstacles: Always check for obstacles such as stairs, railings, uneven ground (affecting the elevation) and landcaping.
Step 3: Understand the Requirements
- Slope/Grade: As per American Disability Act (ADA) guidelines, the recommended slope for the ramp should be 1:12, which means that for every 1 inch of rise, 1 foot of ramp is needed.
- For instance, for a 14 inch rise, a 14 feet of ramp is required.
- Landing Areas: Flat platforms are needed at the top, bottom, and for turns.
- Weight Capacity: Standard aluminum wheelchair ramps support 800–1,000 lbs.
Step 4: Choose the Ramp Type
- Modular Aluminum Ramp:
- Durable, rust-proof, adjustable.
- Good for long-term or large rises.
- Folding/Portable Wheelchair Ramp:
- Lighter, great for temporary or travel use.
- Limited to smaller rises (up to 3–5 steps).
- Threshold Ramp:
- For small rises (door thresholds or single steps).
Step 5: Get Accurate Measurements
You’ll need to know:
- Height from ground to entry
- Width of the doorway
- Available space in front of the entryway
- Desired ramp path (straight, L-shape, switchback)
NOTE – Cairo Contracting professionals are always a phone call away to assist you with these measurements and recommend the most suitable and cost-effective accessibility solution to meet your mobility requirement.
Step 6: Choosing Professionals for Installation
- Professional Installation: It is always recommended to choose a professional accessibility solutions provider to get the wheelchair ramp delivered and installed. These professionals are trained to install complex layouts or meet ADA compliance for safety.
Step 7: Get Quotes or Shop for Kits
- Local Accessibility Equipment Providers like Cairo Contracting can be your best bet to avail and install the ramp at the earliest and at a much cost-effective price.
- Medical Supply Stores for threshold ramps.
- Online Stores such as Home Depot, or Lowe’s also sell ramps for accessibility. However, it is always recommended to check if these stores offer –
- Custom configurations
- Installation services
- Permits (some municipalities require them)
In nut-shell, the aluminum wheelchair ramps are easily available items that can be installed quickly for your use. Get in touch with Cairo Contracting today and get your free quote for immediate assistance.
