Home adaptations: What to consider when adding a wheelchair ramp to your house

If you’re considering wheelchair ramps, you’re likely looking for ways to make your home more accessible. Home adaptations such as these can offer freedom, independence and safety for those with mobility issues.

This guide is here to help you understand your options when it comes to adding a wheelchair ramp to a house. Read on to explore the benefits of installing a wheelchair ramp, the types of ramp available and other key points to consider.

Benefits of adding a wheelchair ramp to a house

Adding a wheelchair ramp to the outside of your house offers many benefits. First and foremost, it makes your home much easier to access for people who use wheelchairs. Even if you don’t have mobility issues, installing a ramp lets you remain in your home if you become less mobile later on. It also makes your home more welcoming to any guests who might need one. Plus, it's not just for wheelchairs — ramps are also safer for people with mobility issues who use canes and walkers.

Types of wheelchair ramps

The first thing to consider is what type of wheelchair ramp to choose. These can broadly be divided into permanent and portable wheelchair ramps.

Permanent wheelchair ramps

Think of a permanent ramp as a solid part of the house – like an accessible equivalent to steps up to your front door. These ramps are built to last and can be designed to blend seamlessly with your home. Made from robust materials like concrete, wood or steel, they can handle a lot of weight and require minimal upkeep.

Having a permanent wheelchair ramp installed is a big project, and can be more expensive upfront. However, like other home adaptation services, it offers a long-term investment in accessibility, independence and quality of life. 

Portable wheelchair ramps

If you want a less permanent solution, portable ramps are a good option. There are various kinds of portable wheelchair ramps to choose from:

• Non-folding ramps.
  Non-folding ramps are the simplest design. They are straightforward, secure metal platforms that help you get from one level to another. They’re made of lightweight metal, and can come in different designs, e.g. with handrails.
• Folding ramps.
  Folding ramps, as the name suggests, can be folded up and put away when not in use. Again they’re made of lightweight metal, and have handles on one side for easy lifting. 
• Channel ramps.
  Channel ramps have a convenient two-track design, which helps keep the wheels of a wheelchair in place on the ramp. Channel ramps can also be foldable.
• Threshold ramps. 
  Threshold ramps are perfect for smaller gaps like kerbs and raised doorways. They are smaller, inexpensive and more easily portable and storable.

Overall, portable ramps have several advantages over permanent ones. They are less expensive and time consuming to install, and can be moved between locations (e.g. the front and back doors). They can even be taken with you when travelling, or when you move house.

Key considerations when adding a wheelchair ramp

Other than permanent vs. portable ramps, there are several key factors to consider when adding a wheelchair ramp to your house. 

Firstly, space: ramps require more space than steps, as they need to be long enough to provide a gentle incline. You will need sufficient room for the ramp and ample level spaces at the top and bottom for turning. If you lack the space, you could consider a vertical platform lift or outdoor stair lift instead.

Wheelchair ramps should not exceed a gradient of 1:20 (20 inches of length for each inch of height). They must also be wide enough to comfortably fit a wheelchair – at least 900mm. 

Ramps with textured or treated surfaces can help prevent slips, particularly when wet. You may also wish to choose a ramp with handrails to provide extra support and safety when walking.

Finally, check whether you’ll need planning permission. Ramps typically fall under permitted development, but you’ll need to consult your local authority to be sure.

How to install a permanent wheelchair ramp

Having a professional to install your wheelchair ramp can be simpler, safer and quicker than doing it yourself. Here’s what you can expect when you hire a contractor to handle the installation.

1. Consultation.
   Your contractor will start with a site visit to understand your specific needs and the layout of your property.
2. Design.
   The contractor will design a ramp that fits your space. They'll consider the total rise and the length needed to achieve a gentle, accessible slope. They’ll also discuss your material options with you.
3. Construction.
   Your contractor will handle all aspects of the build, from measuring and cutting to installing the ramp. It’s a lot of work, which is why permanent wheelchair ramps can cost several thousands of pounds. Portable ones can be as cheap as a few hundred pounds.
4. Safety and compliance.
   The contractor will conduct a final check to ensure the ramp is stable and secure, and that it meets all regulatory requirements.

Visit Complete Care Shop today to browse a wide range of wheelchair ramps, wheelchairs and other mobility aids. If you need help choosing the right products for your needs, contact us to speak to our in-house experts.