Home » Blog » How to Buy or Build Wheelchair Ramps: A Complete Guide
Karin Willison, MA
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Are you looking to make your business or home more accessible for everyone? Our complete guide to wheelchair ramps details everything you'll need to know and do to meet the Americans with Disabilities Act regulations — or to design an accessible home entrance for a wheelchair user.
This article will provide an in-depth guide to all the types of wheelchair ramps available. We'll discuss everything from permanent installation options to portable ramp models — design elements, functional benefits, and practical considerations — as well as pricing and where to find the best deals. We’ll break down everything you need to know about building wheelchair ramps too, from choosing the right material to determining installation requirements — so you can provide comfortable and secure access anywhere.
As a lifelong wheelchair user who remembers life before the ADA, I am passionate about improving accessibility for all. I am recommending the items listed here because they work for me and other people with disabilities I know and trust. If you have suggestions to add to this guide, please let me know!
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Introduction to Wheelchair Ramps
The lack of accessibility in our communities makes daily life extremely challenging for people with disabilities. Although the Americans with Disabilities Act has been the law for over 30 years, far too many businesses are still inaccessible to people who use wheelchairs, scooters, and other mobility devices. I find what I call the one-step problem to be especially galling — businesses that have just one step at the entrance. This is simple and inexpensive to fix, yet tens of thousands of businesses have not bothered to do so. If you're one of those businesses, whether you've been dragging your feet about it for years or just moved into a space with a step and recognize that accessibility is both legally and morally necessary, this guide will help you quickly remedy the problem and make your store welcoming to all.
If you or a loved one has a mobility disability, you may also have noticed that most apartments and houses have steps. Searching for accessible housing can be frustrating, and you'll be lucky to find a home with just one or two steps at the entrance. That means you'll need a wheelchair ramp, which is probably what brought you here. I hope this guide will make it easy for you to find what you need so you or your loved one can fully enjoy your new home and community.
Wheelchair Ramp Measurements and Requirements
If you are buying or building a wheelchair ramp, you'll need to consider any legal requirements and regulations that apply to your building, or your personal needs if the ramp is for private residential use. Here are the factors to consider:
ADA Regulations for Wheelchair Ramps for Public Buildings
The Americans with Disabilities Act requires that wheelchair ramps meet specific standards to ensure safety and usability.
- For every 1 inch of rise, you need 12 inches of ramp length, a 1:12 slope. This slope is very gentle and designed for people using manual wheelchairs who may not have a lot of strength. The calculations for this are very simple — you need 1 foot of length for every 1 inch of rise. So for a 6-inch step, you need a 6-foot ramp.
- Ramps over 6 feet in length must have handrails that extend 12″ beyond the ramp length
- Ramps over 30 feet must have a minimum 5′ x 5′ level landing between sections to allow manual wheelchair users to rest.
The diagram below illustrates the proper measurements for ADA-compliant wheelchair ramps.
Wheelchair Ramps for Private Home Use
The Americans with Disabilities Act does not apply to private homes, which means you have more flexibility about the type of ramp you can build and the slope. If you have good use of your arms or you use a power wheelchair, you may be able to handle a steeper grade than the ADA permits. A 2:12 slope — every 2 inches of rise needs 12 inches of ramp — may be just fine, especially for shorter lengths such as thresholds and half steps.
As a power wheelchair user, I find that a 4 to 5-foot long ramp is comfortable to use for a single step without assistance, but if you're pushing your wheelchair or someone else's, you may want a 6 or 7-foot ramp. It’s your home and you don’t have to follow the ADA, but you should consider your safety and the safety of others.
If you are building or buying a ramp for permanent home use, I recommend following the ADA and making it 36″ wide, as that will give you the most space to navigate. For portable ramps or thresholds by narrow doors, 30″ to 32″ wide will be usable for most people, except those with extra-wide bariatric manual wheelchairs. Power chair users generally don't need handrails, but you should still have a barrier along the edges of a long ramp for safety.
How to Choose the Right Length for a Wheelchair Ramp
Start by calculating the correct ramp length and width, and determine whether you need handrails and/or landings. First, measure the overall height to your porch or stoop in inches; this is known as the rise. Multiply that number by 12 to get the length (run) in inches for an ADA-compliant ramp.
Stair heights vary, so it's important to measure the actual steps before purchasing a ramp or materials. Standard steps are 7.5 inches high, but many steps are shorter, and some, especially in older homes, may be taller.
You'll also need to consider the space available when constructing a ramp. If your stoop is 14 inches from the ground but only 10 feet from the street, you won't have room to build a long enough ramp going straight. Instead, you'll need to build parallel to the house with a landing at the top. For a very long ramp, you might need two perpendicular sections or a switchback.
Wheelchair Ramp Weight Capacity
When buying a wheelchair ramp, be sure to take note of the weight capacity. The most common weight capacities for wheelchair ramps are 600 pounds and 800 pounds. I recommend buying a ramp with an 800-pound rating, especially if the ramp will be over 2 feet long. The average modern power wheelchair, such as a Permobil or Quantum, weighs about 400 pounds. Add a 200-pound person and you're right at the limit. For a short ramp, this is usually no big deal, but a longer ramp could sag in the middle or even break under pressure.
If you already have a ramp that is struggling to cope with a power wheelchair, you can reinforce it from underneath with bricks, cinder blocks, or wood blocks. This supports and distributes the weight to prevent the metal or wood from bending.
Portable ramps that are made of lightweight materials such as aluminum are especially susceptible to bending and sagging, so always check the weight limit before you buy — and the price. Some companies label 800-pound capacity ramps as “bariatric” and charge a lot more for them. Others offer a high-quality product for a price comparable with 600-pound ramps. I've recommended those with fair pricing below!
Types of Wheelchair Ramps
There are many different kinds of wheelchair ramps available. While some are permanent, many are portable for travel, and others can be easily installed without making changes to the structure of a home and removed when no longer needed. Here are some examples, along with suggestions for when and where to use them.
Threshold Wheelchair Ramps
Threshold ramps are perfect for thresholds (obviously) and other small bumps that don’t quite amount to a step. They range from very short inclines that simply smooth out a drop between the threshold and floor, to mini ramps that are perfect for half steps a few inches high. I especially like rubber and foam threshold ramps because they don't rattle when you roll over them like metal ones, and they're more aesthetically pleasing.
Ruedamann Threshold Ramp, Durable Solid Rubber with 2200lbs Load Capacity, Non-Skid and Anti-Slip Surface, Wheelchair Ramp for Doorways and Bathroom...
【Quality Material】The threshold ramp is constructed with quality natural rubber material that provides safety with no pungent smell, durability and enhances traction of the ramp ...
7 used from $26.24
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Last update was on: November 29, 2024 5:07 AM
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VEVOR Rubber Threshold Ramp, 4" Rise Threshold Ramp Doorway, 3 Channels Cord Cover Rubber Solid Threshold Ramp, Rubber Angled Entry...
Safe and Secure Access: Our rubber door ramp provides a secure and efficient way for you and your loved ones to access your home, especially for those who have difficulty walking ...
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Last update was on: November 29, 2024 5:07 AM
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Vinyl-Door-Threshold-Ramp Door-Transition-Strip 36 inch, Threshold 1/2'' ~ 3/5'', Thresholds Ramps for Doorways, Wheelchair Ramp Edge-Reducer Threshold-Transition-Strip for Home/Door/Floor (Grey)
【Door Threshold Ramp】Is a breeze to install and fits thresholds between 1/2'' and 3/5'' in length. Just make sure the surface is smooth and dust-free before installation. ...
1 used from $15.99
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Last update was on: November 29, 2024 5:07 AM
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Candockway 3" Rise Threshold Ramps Doorway, Wheelchair Ramp with Non-silp Surface, 4400 LBS Capacity, Solid and Portable, for Steps, Driveway...
【Rubber Material】: This straight-grained rubber ramp is made of good rubber, which is durable, has good compression resistance and is not affected by the weather. No pungent ...
3 used from $78.21
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Last update was on: November 29, 2024 5:07 AM
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CINNYE 1.8'' Rise Solid Rubber Wheelchair Ramp,Threshold Ramp Used for Thresholds,Doorways and Bathroom (High:1.8 Inch(Pack of 1)) Black
【Size】35.4"Width X 9.6"Length X1.8"Height, Supports over 1500lbs, Used for a wheelchair through doorway, threshold and curbs【Good anti-skid effect】The surface of the rubber ramp ...
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Last update was on: November 29, 2024 5:07 AM
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Portable Wheelchair Ramps
If you’re trying to enter a home that has one or two steps at the entrance, you’re going to need something a bit longer. When shopping for a ramp, consider whether it needs to be portable and temporary, such as for visiting family or staying someplace for a few weeks or months, or if you’re going to be living at a location long-term.
I typically carry a 4-foot ramp with me when I travel, which allows me to comfortably enter a friend or relative's home with one step. If you regularly visit homes with two steps, a 6-to-8-foot ramp is a better choice. If you are shopping for a longer portable or semi-portable ramp, I recommend choosing a model that folds in quarters or rolls up for easy storage and transport.
PENSUN 7FT Wheelchair Ramp, 84" L x 29" W Threshold Ramps, Non-Skid Portable Foldable Wheelchair Ramps for Steps, Lightweight with...
High Quality Materials And Upgrade Design: Wheelchair ramp is made of high quality aluminum materials, sturdy and durable. The transition plate at both ends can better fit the ...
2 used from $314.41
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Last update was on: November 29, 2024 5:07 AM
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TaiH Leo 4FT Wheelchair Ramp, 48" L x 29" W Wheelchair Ramps, 800 LBS Capacity Wheel Chair Ramp, Portable Wheelchair...
【NOTE】: Please notice that it is normal for the wheelchair ramp to sink during use, and it will rebound soon. 4FT Wheelchair Ramp are available for 4 inch -12 inch step heights ...
2 used from $131.86
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Last update was on: November 29, 2024 5:07 AM
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Ruedamann Threshold Ramp, Aluminum with 600lbs Load Capacity, Portable and Anti-Slip Surface, Wheelchair Ramp for Doorway, 10L x 31.5W Inch,...
【Quality Material】 The threshold ramp is constructed with quality aluminum material that provides efficiency, anti-rusting and water resistance.【Humanized Design】 The wheerchair ...
3 used from $55.19
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Last update was on: November 29, 2024 5:07 AM
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Modular Wheelchair Ramps
Modular wheelchair ramp kits are designed for permanent or semi-permanent installation in situations where a longer ramp is needed. Let's take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of these kits so you can decide if one is right for you.
Advantages of Modular Wheelchair Ramps
- Easy to buy: Simply measure your steps and choose the correct ramp length and landings.
- Easy assembly and installation: All instructions and materials are included.
- Strong and durable: Metal ramps will last many years. They are less vulnerable to damage from water and de-icing chemicals.
- Semi-portable: Metal ramps can be disassembled and taken with you when you move or sold if no longer needed.
Disadvantages of Modular Wheelchair Ramps
- Ugly: Nobody wants to attach one of these metal monstrosities to their front porch unless they have no other options. Seriously, the designers of these ramps need to do better. Aesthetics matter and people with disabilities are tired of being stuck with unattractive equipment.
- Expensive: Due to the materials (and the disability tax), these ramps are costly to purchase.
- Noisy: Metal ramps can be creaky and make unpleasant sounds as a wheelchair rolls on them, especially a heavy power chair.
How to Build Your Own Wheelchair Ramp
If you need a long wheelchair ramp or you want a ramp that blends aesthetically with your home's exterior, building your own (or hiring a handyperson) is often the best and least expensive option. Most homemade wheelchair ramps are constructed from wood, but you can also use a composite material like Trex. If you live in a wet or snowy climate, it will last longer!
I recommend the DIY wheelchair ramp kit below to help you get started. It gives exact instructions for the materials you'll need to purchase from your local hardware store and comes with fittings for easy assembly.
Palmer DIY Wheelchair Ramps - Our Kit, Your Wood, 2hr Build
$150.00
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Amazon.com
Amazon price updated: November 29, 2024 5:07 AM
How to Make a Wheelchair Ramp Look Good
Let's face it, many wheelchair ramps, especially pre-made ones, are not very attractive. Manufacturers need to care more about making mobility products look good! These tips will help you build an aesthetically-pleasing ramp or give a not-so-appealing ramp a makeover.
- If possible, I recommend replacing a home's front walk to provide a seamless entrance in concrete; this works great for 1-2 steps if you have enough space. If you need something less permanent and/or cheaper, placing a ramp over the existing path is still a good idea.
- It's OK to replace or cover the existing steps — able-bodied people can use the ramp too.
- Wood and composite are far more attractive than metal and can be stained or painted to match your home. Be sure to use side railings that match your home's exterior.
- Add decorative or solar light caps to the tops of posts to make them more attractive and functional.
- Plant bushes along the side of the ramp to hide it. If you use the handrails, avoid vines or climbing plants that may wrap around them. You can also install raised beds and plant flowers or vegetables within easy reach.
- Build a fence or use temporary fence panels to hide an unattractive metal ramp.
- Add an outdoor carpet runner. This can reduce the creaking and rattling of metal ramps.
- Build a ramp in the garage. That way you don't have to worry about whether it matches your exterior.
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Suncast 4 Panel Reversible Outdoor Screen Enclosure, 44" (H) x 23" (W) per, White
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Custom Size Backed Non-Slip Area Rugs Runner, Easy Clean, Waterproof Runner Rugs for Hallway Entryway, Kitchen, Laundry, 3FT x 6FT,...
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Tips for Finding or Building an Affordable Wheelchair Ramp
If you live on a fixed income as many people with disabilities do, it can be difficult to find a low-cost wheelchair ramp. Here are a few tips for accessing affordable equipment and financial support.
1. Search for used ramps for sale online.
You can often find practically new or lightly used ramps for sale online or locally from people who purchased them for an elderly relative and no longer need them. I've seen modular metal wheelchair ramps for half the cost of retail on Facebook Marketplace.
EBay is another great place to find used and discount wheelchair ramps. Here's a sampling of just a few of those currently available.
Aluminum Wheelchair Ramp with Handrails - 5' L
Weather-proof and durable, this maintenance-free ramp is an excellent alternative to wood. The one-piece design makes installation easy, simply place the ramp where you need ...
Free shipping
Modular Threshold Ramps for Doorways, 1" Rise Wheelchairs Ramps for Home Indoor
[ANTI-SLIP SURFACE ]: The modular threshold ramp has non-slip tread pattern, can reduce the risk of slip and fall better, more friendly and safer for wheelchairs and scooters.
Free shipping
Modular Threshold Ramps for Doorways, 1" Rise Wheelchairs Ramps for Home Indoor,
[ANTI-SLIP SURFACE ]: The modular threshold ramp has non-slip tread pattern, can reduce the risk of slip and fall better, more friendly and safer for wheelchairs and scooters. ...
Free shipping
Aluminum Wheelchair Ramp with Handrails - 3' L
Weather-proof and durable, this maintenance-free ramp is an excellent alternative to wood. The one-piece design makes installation easy, simply place the ramp where you need ...
Free shipping
Aluminum Wheelchair Ramp with Handrails - 4' L
Weather-proof and durable, this maintenance-free ramp is an excellent alternative to wood. The one-piece design makes installation easy, simply place the ramp where you need ...
Free shipping
Aluminum Wheelchair Ramp with Handrails - 10' L
Weather-proof and durable, this maintenance-free ramp is an excellent alternative to wood. The one-piece design makes installation easy, simply place the ramp where you need ...
Ruedamann Threshold Ramp,1" Rise Modular Aluminum Entry Ramp,800 LBS Capacity...
Lightweight Yet Sturdy Material – Made of high-qualityaluminum, the ramp is bothlightweight (3.3 lbs) andstrong, supporting up to 800 lbs for maximum reliability. Quick
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2. Build a LEGO wheelchair ramp.
Yes, you can build a ramp out of LEGOs! They work best for one, maybe two steps, and the only cost is the LEGOs and your time to assemble them. To learn more, check out Ability Magazine's article about the LEGO Grandma, who pioneered this concept in Germany.
3. Contact your local Center for Independent Living for resources.
Centers for Independent Living are nonprofit disability-led organizations that help people access equipment and services. Some centers have an equipment library or donation program for mobility aids and may have small ramps available. They can also help you find local organizations that will assist you with building or buying a ramp.
4. Pursue assistance from government programs such as the Veterans Administration, Medicaid, and Vocational Rehabilitation.
Various state and federal agencies offer assistance with making your home accessible. If you receive Medicaid, search for “Medicaid home modifications [your state]” to find out what services are available. If you work or you're seeking employment, your state Department of Vocational Rehabilitation will pay for modifications that enable you to get or keep a job, including a ramp, accessible bathroom, kitchen remodel, etc.
For more complex and expensive remodels, state and federal programs can be extremely helpful. However, it can take a minimum of several months and potentially two or more years to get through the complicated process of receiving assistance. Therefore, if you are unable to get in and out of your home, I recommend trying every other option on this list first. Your best plan is to purchase a basic ramp or find local volunteer help, and then work with government funding sources for bathroom and kitchen access.
Learn More About Wheelchair Accessible Housing
This guide is part of a series on wheelchair accessibility. Check out our other articles for further resources.
- How to Find Wheelchair Accessible Housing
- How to Make Your Home Wheelchair Accessible Without Remodeling
- A Complete Guide to Buying and Building Wheelchair Ramps
Do you have advice about wheelchair ramps?
I hope the information in this article will assist businesses, landlords, and homeowners with buying or building a wheelchair ramp so we can create a more accessible world for all. If you have more resources to suggest, please leave a comment below or contact us and we will update this article periodically. If we share knowledge, we can make life better for us all.
Karin Willison, MA
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Founder and Editor-in-Chief of The Ability Toolbox. I received my BA in English from Stanford University and MA in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles, and have worked in entertainment and health media for over 20 years. I also blog about traveling with a disability. As a wheelchair user with cerebral palsy, I am deeply committed to amplifying the voices of the disability community through writing and advocacy.