At Access Rehabilitation Equipment, we commit to providing you and your loved ones solutions for life! Fitting your lifestyle, each aid and equipment is tailored to the unique challenges you are facing, so work with us to find the independence and mobility you want!
Choosing the right access ramps for your home
For those of us who rely on mobility equipment as transport, access becomes a huge part of our daily lives. Whether searching for a temporary ramp after an accident or surgery, or as a long-term modification solution to yours or a loved one’s home, finding suitable ramps may not be as straightforward as you may think. Many people are surprised to find just how many options and variations are available.
The team at Access Rehabilitation Equipment have compiled this informative article to help you choose the right ramp for your circumstances.
What types of access ramps are available?
Timber ramps
Custom designed timber wheelchair ramps and rails can be a very attractive access addition to your home or business. They can be completely custom built and designed to suit any sized mobility device. Timber ramps can also be stained or painted to compliment your existing colour scheme. Be aware that there are strict specifications to adhere to within the Australian Standards for ramp safety, so we recommend using a certified builder rather than a DIY project for your home!
Portable fibreglass and carbon fibre ramps
These lightweight but durable ramps are manufactured with a unique combination of uni-directional glass and carbon fibre materials making them a very portable option. They feature an anti-slip grip surface that is essential for areas that could be exposed to the elements and can also be supplied with the added security of raised safety edges. These ramps are a great alternative for areas where a fixed permanent ramp is impractical.
Aluminium access ramps
High quality and lightweight but strong, aluminium ramps are suitable for mobility scooters, powered wheelchairs and other mobility devices. They’re foldable and can be custom made to your specifications as a fixed or portable option.
Rubber ramps and wedges
These tough, durable and weather resistant ramps allow suitable access over steps and raised areas for wheelchairs and walking frames. They bridge gaps over thresholds and can be tailored to your requirements. They blend in well to the surrounds and are very affordable. We can supply from a range of standard sizes or custom made to suit your specific requirements. Extremely durable and attractive these ramps are increasingly popular due to the fact that they are also very environmentally friendly being constructed from recycled rubber products!
Purchase or rent your wheelchair ramps?
On occasions, ramps may only be required for a short period of time, whether to accommodate a visiting relative, or due to short-term illness or injury. Portable ramps can provide solutions for almost every home and are available for rental.
What to do when you’re ready to buy ramps
When you’re ready to start measuring and arranging your purchase, safety is the priority. Meeting Australian Standard safety requirements will help prevent any unnecessary mishaps. Different materials are suited to different weights, transport methods and locations. Tops of handrails should be 900mm – 1000mm from the surface of the ramp and may be required on both sides. The gradient ratio, which is the length of ramp required per unit of height, may vary depending upon the overall ramp length, materials used and area it is to be constructed.
Consult the experts at A.R.E. to eliminate any confusion and to help you make an easy and informed decision on the best ramp solution for your needs. Increasing your accessibility should be a rewarding process, not a stressful one. It’s all about making your life easier after all.
Providing solutions for life
