Wheelchair Access Ramps & Accessible Thresholds

For most wheelchair and scooter users, just one step is as big an obstacle as an entire flight of stairs. Ground level differences, stairs and other obstacles can often be handled easily with the use of a portable wheelchair ramp. (When permanent wheelchair ramps are installed, it's important that the stairs are also available for walking people to use as wheelchair ramps can be difficult to negotiate for those who have balance or range of motion issues.)

Thresholds which are common with most types of doorways and entrances may be access issue for some wheelchair users. While many wheelchair users can negotiate most thresholds it can still be a difficult and bumpy process. To make a threshold less of an obstacle there are many sizes and types of small threshold wheelchair ramps available which can be anywhere from 6" to 24" long and ordered in a width suitable for your doorway or cut down to fit.

  While it may seem obvious that the purchase or construction of a wheelchair ramp will be a less expensive option than purchasing a vertical platform lift such as a porch lift, there are limits to the use and economy of wheelchair ramps. A wheelchair or scooter ramp which is very long can be an obstacle in itself as the user or care giver may not have the strength or stamina to negotiate the length. In addition to length, another consideration is that, when exposed to the weather in northern climates someone is going to have to remove ice and snow from the wheelchair ramp prior too each use. This maintenance requirement is often impossible for the wheelchair ramp user to take care of themselves.

  I've written the written the fact sheets for this web site to discuss the types of wheelchair and threshold ramps. While the majority of this information on wheelchair and scooter ramps is rule of thumb, it's always a good idea to contact building inspectors in the case of permanent wheelchair ramps and a retailer or health care professional in the case of portable wheelchair ramps, to help make decisions about which ramps will create a safe and functional situation and servce your needs.

It is also a good idea to refer to manufacturers recommendations for the mobility device being used whether it be a manual or power wheelchair or a scooter.