Home is the one place where you should feel safe, with all your needs catered to. For those with mobility challenges, a ramp can be a home game-changer. A modular ramp is an aluminum accessibility aid made of sections that get assembled at your home to suit the contours of your property. As it is made from aluminum, the pieces are lightweight and easy to handle, but create a strong structure that requires little maintenance. Using this solution makes providing a safe entrance to your home a simple, practical possibility.
Benefits of a Modular Ramp
If you’re looking to improve your home access, consider these aluminum ramp benefits before making your decision.
Resistance To Florida’s Extreme Weather
As these ramps are constructed from lightweight aluminum, they’re remarkably unaffected by Florida’s temperamental weather moods. They don’t fade or crack like wood under the blistering rays of the Sunshine State’s mid-summer blaze or swell and warp when exposed to its torrential downpours. Unlike a wooden ramp, aluminum doesn’t need regular treatment to protect it from the elements and doesn’t expand or contract as the temperatures change.
Designed To Suit Your Space
As a modular ramp system comes in sections, it can easily be adapted to fit into your outdoor area. Due to the versatility of the design, these ramps are customizable and can be used over uneven ground, providing safe access in all situations. They’re quick to install and provide an easy entrance immediately.
Quick Installation For Immediate Use
Unlike a cement ramp that takes many days to dig, frame, pour, and dry cure before being ready for use, an aluminum ramp takes a few hours to build and fit. Once the construction is finished, it’s immediately ready to be used. Even exceptionally large, complicated ramps only take a day or two from start to finish.
A Long- And Short-Term Solution
Ramps are ideal for those who need a permanent means of access as they can last approximately 20 years without degrading or becoming unsafe to use.
They’re also a great solution for those with temporary mobility challenges, such as during recovery from surgery or injury. The benefits of using mobility equipment in rehabilitation, such as these ramps, can make the recovery process smoother by avoiding setbacks or reinjury.
Moving House? Take Your Ramp With
Moving to a new home poses extra challenges for those with mobility limitations. Investing in a ramp takes care of one of the chief challenges: stairs. One of the key benefits of the modular ramp design lies in its ability to be easily dismantled, transported, and adapted to the new home in a reasonably short time.
Rental Property Access Redefined
Living with limited mobility in a rental property is challenging. Many access solutions, such as a platform lift, require alterations to the building’s structure which is seldom allowed in a rental agreement. The flexibility of this ramp system does away with this issue, as no lasting changes are made to the structure of the home. This gives those living in rental homes an access solution that is temporary, but safe and strong.
Safe, Speedy Exit In Emergencies
Apart from the possibility of injury during regular usage, stairs can be terrifying in emergency situations. A ramp gives those inside the means of leaving the building quickly and safely, should the need ever arise due to an earthquake, fire, or other natural disaster.
Upgrade Accessibility But Keep Your Curb Appeal
The standard appearance of an aluminum modular ramp is bright silver, which might not suit the aesthetic of your home. However, improving access to your home doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style. These ramps can be powder coated in a variety of colors. Simply pick one that blends in with the exterior facade of your home and enjoy all the benefits without the eyesore.
Installing An ADA-Compliant Ramp
By installing a ramp that complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act’s (ADA) requirements for ramps, you know that you’ll be getting a solution that is designed to be safe to use, even in Florida’s heavy rainfall conditions.
Slope And Surface Standards
Angle and surface criteria ramps must meet include:
- Minimum width of 35 inches across for a wheelchair to move easily.
- A maximum rise of 30 inches between platforms.
- Edge protection to keep the wheelchair on the ramp.
- Level, adequately sized landings.
- Suited to wet conditions, including non-slip, well-drained, and maintained ramp and platform surfaces.
Handrails For User Safety
Another ADA compliance requirement is the inclusion of handrails. Each ramp comes with a continuous handrail that runs from the start of the ramp on the ground to the front door entrance. Other handrail specifications include:
- Height: Handrails must be a height of 34 – 3 inches above the surface of the ramp.
- Continuity: No obstructions along the tops or sides are allowed.
- Grip size: Handrails should be easy to grip onto.
- Space to the wall: There should be a gap of at least 1.5 inches between the rail and the wall to prevent hand injury.
- Smooth handrail surfaces: Edges should be rounded, smooth, and free from sharp elements.
- Strength and stability: Rails need to be strong enough, and wobble-free to support users while they find their balance.
Who Should Consider Installing A Modular Ramp?
The short answer? Anyone with mobility challenges! They’re well-suited to heavier devices such as scooters and wheelchairs, but equally helpful for those with walkers, canes, or crutches. Your exact needs will be discussed during a free consultation with the Advanced Mobility Inc. team, and during the installation process if needed.
Home Mobility Is Our Specialty
At Advanced Mobility Inc, our team has many years of collective experience in providing residential and commercial mobility solutions. Contact us today to discuss how a modular ramp can fit into your outdoor area. We would love to help make your home feel safe and welcoming for all.