How much does it cost to install wheelchair ramps for the disabled?
The ramps allow more comfortable access not only to users with reduced mobility, but also to the elderly, children, and, in general, to all citizens. Therefore, The installation of handicap wheelchair ramps is one of the most used solutions to save slopes of all types of commercial businesses, residential buildings, public spaces, etc.
The average price of installing a ramp for the disabled is between $1,285 and $1,841. This value can range from the $ 60 that it can cost to fix a prefabricated ramp of the simplest range to the $ 2000 that it could cost to provide accessibility to a community of owners. Among the aspects that determine this variation, we can highlight, mainly, the type of ramp to be installed, its extension, its constituent materials, and the complementary services that can be incorporated.
Cost factors for the installation of Handicap Ramp
Despite the relatively low price range, many factors can increase or decrease the cost of your wheelchair ramp. Unlike other home accessibility projects, you can control many of these dynamics. We'll address each factor later, but before hiring a renovation contractor, keep the following cost considerations in mind :
DIY or Hire a Pro: Some removable ramps are easy to create and move. Other owners, on the other hand, look for permanent ramps and usually hire professional contractors. In the latter case, the cost of handicap ramps increases.
Ramp Type: You can make removable or permanent ramps. Portable ramps are ideal for a particular use or after injury. If you have elderly parents in wheelchairs or other family members connected to wheelchairs, consider creating a fixed ramp. As you might expect, permanent ramps cost more.
Ramp Materials: Fixed wheelchair ramps are usually made of aluminum, steel, wood, or concrete. All have their pros and cons, but concrete tends to cost more than all other ramp materials.
Customization: If you plan to live in your home for more than 10 years, you need to build a custom ramp for your home. If not, ask the contractor about modular ramps that can be disassembled without professional help.
Slopes: Low slope ramps are ideal for everyone who uses them, but they also cost more because most handicap ramp contractors charge linear feet.
Landing: The flat surface is ideal for the top, bottom, and middle of wheelchair ramps(including long ramps). Otherwise, it will be very difficult for the user to actually open the door and enter the house. Additional landings are added to the overall handicap ramp price.
Lighting: Finally, if there is not enough outdoor lighting, consider ramp lighting. It may be necessary to hire an electrician for this addition. The average price for hiring an electrician is $300.
Minimum requirements
Among other issues, the width is regulated, which must be 120 cm. The slopes will vary depending on the length of the ramp: for routes equal to or less than 3 meters, the slope will be less than 10%; when they are from 3 to 6 meters, the slope will be less than 8% and those from 6 to 9 meters, the slope will decrease to 6%. If they are longer, they will have several sections, with rest landings. In addition, it must be taken into account that the floor must be non-slip and that there must be a double handrail, among other aspects.
Ramps that do not respect the regulations could pose a serious danger to public safety.
Types of ramps
There are various types that are adapted to the spaces and needs according to the frequency of use, the slope, the place for which they are designed, the weight they have to support, etc. These items can be permanent, semi-permanent, or portable.
Fixed ramps. Its use is permanent and its frequency of passage is high. They are designed to be bolted or are built on site. They are usually made of aluminum, galvanized steel, concrete or wood. It is the most used model in buildings open to the public.
Semi-permanent ramps. They are usually used with a medium frequency, so they can be withdrawn if circumstances require it. They are generally made of galvanized steel or aluminum. Folding ramps. They are a suitable alternative for homes and for charging a mobility device. They stand out for being handy and made of lightweight materials, which in turn makes them less durable than previous models.
Rolling ramps. They are another portable alternative, although this time they can be folded on themselves. The drawback of this modality is that it supports a more limited weight.
Telescopic ramps. This model can decrease or increase its length, which alters the inclination, adjusting to different slopes.
Bridge ramp. It is the simplest model, designed for small obstacles.
Ramp for vehicles. They are portable, lightweight, and vehicle-adapted ramps. They are designed to allow access either from the side or from the rear.
Wood Handicap Ramp
One of the most popular of all handicap ramps, wooden ramps are the cheapest. Wooden wheelchair ramps can be made from a variety of wood, so you should not have trouble finding wood grain within your budget. In addition, wooden ramps are usually the easiest to DIY.
The disadvantage is that wooden wheelchair ramps require a lot of maintenance. Sandpaper and seal to prevent warping and sagging. You should also watch out for corruption and monitor ramps after storms. The Wood handicap ramp is very slippery.
Aluminum Handicap Ramp Manufacturer
Another very modern ramp material is aluminum. If you are considering durable portable wheelchair ramps, aluminum is an excellent choice. Often, parts can be purchased separately and assembled without experts. You can also buy lightweight aluminum, which makes installation much easier.
But, like wood, textured processing is required to catch tires. Otherwise, the user may slip after a storm. Aluminum is expensive and tends to bend over.
Steel Handicap ramp
Steel is almost part of the metal family, but it tends to be less expensive than aluminum wheelchair ramps. In addition, steel is heavier than aluminum. If you think aluminum ramps can't support weight, steel is a less costly sensible alternative.
The disadvantage is that steel is less flexible than aluminum, making installation much more difficult. Like wood, steel ramps also require maintenance. Otherwise, it can rust or corrode, both of which will cost more to repair the ramp.
Concrete Handicap ramp
Finally, concrete should be strongly considered when installing permanent custom ramps. The safest concrete wheelchair ramps are very strong and require little repair. Of course, additional safety does not come at a price. Concrete is the most expensive household wheelchair ramp material.
Complementary accessibility systems
Stairlift platforms are lifting systems that make it possible to overcome vertical unevenness. There are different types depending, among other factors, on the section to be covered. They are a viable alternative when it is not possible or it is not advisable to install a lift.
DIY or Hire a professional?
Although not uncommon, many landlords and active DIYer can make handicap ramps or renovate other wheelchair-accessible homes. Wheelchair ramps can be built and installed within a week, especially when dealing with wood.
However, considering that the ramp needs to support a lot of weight and safety is a major concern for everyone who uses it, most homeowners hire a professional contractor.
In addition to completing tasks quickly, professional ramp contractors know ADA guidelines and are experienced in building the safest ramps on the block. The labor costs of ramp contractors range from $70 to $100 per hour, depending on experience, and most can build handicap ramps within two days.
How to make a handicap Ramp
If you have decided to take a leap of faith in DIY, we will help you. Not only can you save up to $1,200 by following the steps below, but you can also create a safe and durable wheelchair ramp for everyone to use.
• Define the ramp specifications: slope, landing, width, and weight.
• Determine whether you want to make a custom or modular and removable or stationary ramps.
• Arrange all boards side by side.
• Take another board and nail it to the back of the two boards that you have side by side.
• Using a drill, attach the bottom and top brackets.
• Add railings.
• Test the ramp.
Find a Handicap ramp installer
Installing wheelchair ramps is usually not an option, but you often have to spend time with your loved ones. Don't delay that time anymore.
If you need help installing wheelchair ramps, you can contact the Pavement services company that has a team of Handicap ramp installers. Call at 713.661.9295
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