Disability ramps offer wheelchair-bound users freedom.
However, that can happen only if they are constructed well. Some of them can be very challenging to use or even dangerous, making it important to choose products that have been manufactured to DDA guidelines.
Aspects That Matter
There are a number of different aspects you need to keep in view while choosing a disability ramp such as:
#1 Materials
There are various materials that can be used in the construction of wheelchair ramps including:
Concrete – This is a rough textured surface material that has been used for years in the construction of wheelchair ramps. However, this is a permanent feature which can be quite expensive to pour, install and maintain.
Wood – Hardwood is resilient and is able to weather the elements, however, it does require a significant amount of maintenance to prevent it from rot and warping. A poorly-maintained wooden ramp can be very unsafe or difficult to use in the rains. Since wood can become slippery when wet, it needs to be finished with sand grit strips, which provide a safer surface in rainy weather.
Aluminium – This is a very commonly used material in the construction of wheelchair ramps. It is lightweight, strong and corrosion-resistant. Since it is an extruded surface, it has grooves that help maintain traction even in wet conditions. While it is resilient, it’s also lightweight, which can sometimes cause it to wobble or bend. An aluminium ramp either needs to have a textured finish or an additive surface material that provides proper traction to wheelchair tyres.
Prefabricated Aluminium – Prefabricated aluminium sections are a cost-effective option as you are able to assemble them yourselves. However, care needs to be taken while carrying out the installation. You also need to maintain an extended lead time, as a company would have to manufacture and ship them.
Steel – This material is distinctly heavier than aluminium. It doesn’t have the flexibility that the latter has. Depending on the type of steel you purchase, it can sometimes prove to be more cost-effective than aluminium and more secure as well. It is important to keep in mind that unprotected steel is prone to corrosion and rust. Opt for sheets that have a special coating. This is where Colorbond sheets come into the picture. These sheets and are available in a range of colours and are coated with a special material. This makes them resistant to rust and corrosion. These ramps have a textured surface which helps prevent slippage.
#2 The Cost Factor
There can be a wide variation in the cost of a disability ramp depending on a number of factors including:
- Material
- Location
- Labour
- Difficulty of the project
Choose The Right Ramp System
It is a good idea to opt for materials such as Colorbond, which are very long-lasting and provide you value for money. When you are getting wooden or concrete ramps there can be a very wide cost difference based on the contractor you hire for the job.
In comparison, when you opt for modular wheelchair ramps like the ones that we at Adapta supply, they offer the perfect balance between functionality, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Since these ramps have a modular design, they are not considered to be permanent fixtures, and you don’t need permits like ones required for concrete or wooden ramps.
When you choose our wheelchair ramps, you can rest assured that you are getting top-quality features that are durable, practically maintenance-free and very cost-effective too. For more information about our ramp rails systems, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at Adapta. You can call 1800 232 782 or contact us through this form.
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