The ramp product range is separated over three following categories to further assist your selection:
Our products sometimes traverse more than one category, such as the Threshold Ramp range. (Threshold ramps are an ideal option for people using wheelchairs, walkers, and scooters who have a difficult time walking over an entrance way.)
When selecting a ramp, there are four characteristics that need to be considered: ramp length, ramp weight limit, ramp width, and the rise of the ramp.
Length: This is very important. A shorter wheelchair ramp will increase the steepness of the ramp, while a longer wheelchair ramp will decrease the steepness if used on the same application. You may also want to take into consideration the length of the wheelchair ramp when it is stored, if you are purchasing for a mobile application.
Width: Always make sure you have ample width to support your wheelchair use of the wheelchair ramp. Another consideration often overlooked is the width of friends and family in wheelchairs. A bariatric wheelchair is often wider and would require a wider wheelchair ramp to accommodate it.
Weight Limit: When calculating weight limit, remember that it is the weight of the wheelchair and the weight of the wheelchair user. You may also need to consider the weight of someone pushing the chair if you have limited mobility, or in the event you are injured and would need assistance with the use of the wheelchair ramp.
Rise: The rise is calculated as the vertical distance from the starting point (ground floor), to the end height of the ramp. When two different length wheelchair ramps are used for the same application, both will have the same rise, but a longer wheelchair ramp will be less steep. This is very important to consider, as no one wants to fall backwards!
A commonly overlooked characteristic of wheelchair ramps is traction. You should be able to utilize the ramp in all weather conditions and as such proper traction should be maintained.
It is also a very good idea to have proper measurements of the rise, minimum width, and weight requirements.
Download the ramp worksheet (.doc - 48kb).
