When deciding which kind of ramp you should purchase to help someone with a disability safely get in or out of a home, these are some of the factors you should think about.
How much ramp is needed?
When trying to figure out how much ramp you need for you home, you need to know how many inches high are your steps. The American with Disabilities Act states that for every one inch of height, there must be 1 foot of ramp. So if you stairs are 24 inches high, you would need 24 feet of ramp
Price
When comparing the prices of a wood ramp versus an aluminum ramp. The wood ramp would usually cost anywhere from $3,500-$8,000 on top of the man hours needed to build. While aluminum ramp would cost about $3,000-$5,500.
Time
On average a wood ramp would take about 2 days to 1 week to build depending on the size of the ramp and the weather. The aluminum ramp takes only a fraction of that time; it can be done in less than a day.
Maintenance
Both ramps are going to need maintenance at some point just like anything would. The wood ramp would have to be clean regularly and must reapply a stain or sealing product. Aluminum on the other had is very durable and would not have to be replaced for several years.
Traction
Wood itself can be quiet slippery when it becomes wet which can be a danger for someone in a wheelchair. Traction pads can be added to the wood but this would cost an extra amount of time and money. On the aluminum ramps the traction is built into the aluminum that allow the wheels to safely move and not slide.
Inclement Weather
As you know, Maryland weather is very unpredictable and can cause all sorts of problems. In cases of snow or ice normal rock salts should not be used on wood or metal ramps, a cost effective way to fix this problem is using kitty litter to help with the traction of the ramp. Aluminum ramps will be more durable to the weather and stay safe while wood ramps become slippery in the snow or ice.
Modular or Portable
This is mainly for a preference as it depends on how long you would like to have the ramp in place. Once a wooded ramp is built, there is no taking it down without destroying the ramp, so they are meant to be a long-term ramp. Aluminum ramps can be moved or collapsed to be stored away for when they are not needed, they also can be left out for as long as they are needed. This allows for easier movement of the ramp if it is only needed a few times a year.
Age in Place with the Help of Ace Handyman Services
At Ace Handyman Services Columbia, saftey is our priority. We specialize in aging in place and can help you choose the right ramp for you. We have been providing Maryland homeowners with professional home improvement and repair services for years. Give us a call at 410-549-9696 and we can walk you through the process and can help you install your new ramp!