How Long Should My Wheelchair Or Scooter Ramp Be?

What else should I consider when purchasing a wheelchair or scooter ramp?

To use this chart to determine the proper incline for a wheelchair or scooter ramp there are a few steps that should be done beforehand:

1. Determine the incline your wheelchair or scooter is designed to climb
2. Measure the distance from the top step or landing to the ground. That distance is called the rise.

Once that measurement for the rise has been made, refer to the ramp incline chart to find the proper ramp length. For example, if someone was interested in a 3 wheelchair or scooter ramp and rise was 9″, then the incline would be 14.5° The ADA has suggested that a slope of 1:12 the best suited for wheelchair or scooter ramps. That means for every inch of rising the wheelchair or scooter ramp extends 12 inches or one foot. That means the ideal wheelchair or scooter ramp incline in degrees would be 4.8° Once the wheelchair or scooter ramp is installed, make sure that the wheelchair or scooter ramp is used only with a qualified helper.

Note: The table above is only a guide. Look at the equipment’s manual for the proper degree of incline. Do not exceed its recommendation.

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Finding the right length and rise for a wheelchair ramp is only part of solution, other factors need to be considered as well. Consider where the wheelchair or scooter ramp will be placed. If the wheelchair or scooter ramp is placed in a high traffic area or will be used frequently, consider getting an aluminum wheelchair ramp. An aluminum wheelchair ramp is a weather-resistant, heavy-duty wheelchair ramp that will help you get the most for your money. If the ramp is placed in situations that require it to extend or shorten to various lengths, use a telescoping wheelchair ramp. The telescoping ramps are still sturdy, although the weight capacity is slightly less than other wheelchair or scooter ramps. In some cases, a full ramp may be too much for little places around the house. Doorways, raised landings, and sliding glass doors would all benefit from wheelchair threshold ramps. Despite their small size, wheelchair threshold ramps have a weight capacity of 600 lbs. For situations in which mobility is important, consider using a suitcase wheelchair ramp. These modular wheelchair ramps fold neatly into a suitcase size package with a handle for convenient carrying. These suitcase-sized packages are easy to lift, making it easier on the caretaker’s back. Another portable wheelchair ramp option is the Trifold Ramp. This ramp folds for easy portability.

If you have any additional questions about which wheelchair or scooter ramp is right for you, contact Vitality Medical at 1-800-397-5899 or [email protected].

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