AmeriGlide manufactures and sells high-quality mobility solutions, including wheelchair ramps. Their mission is to provide affordably priced mobility solutions to those in need.
AmeriGlide Inc. got started in 2004 in Raleigh, and now they serve the entire United States through a network of dealers and service technicians. They have corporate offices in Arizona, Georgia, Kentucky, Missouri, and North Carolina.
What Is a Wheelchair Ramp?
A wheelchair ramp can be defined as an inclined plane that allows a wheelchair user to access higher levels of a building with ease. To make use of a ramp, a wheelchair is simply pushed along its surface.
Wheelchair ramps can be permanent, semi-permanent, or portable. Permanent wheelchair ramps are permanently screwed in, while semi-permanent ramps rest on top of the ground and are used in the short term.
Why Would You Need a Wheelchair Ramp?
Wheelchair ramps are essential for wheelchair users, as they allow them to access buildings or places that they would have otherwise not been able to. Additionally, wheelchair users with access to wheelchair ramps are more likely to lead happy and independent lives as they age in place.
Lastly, ramps can also help in the case of a medical emergency, as they help medical staff move patients with ease.
In many countries, wheelchair ramps are a requirement for commercial buildings and make up a part of the building’s code. The UN Convention on Rights of Persons with Disabilities requires member nations to enable persons living with disabilities to live independently and be able to take part in all aspects of life.
What Are Wheelchair Ramps Made of?
Permanent and semi-permanent ramps are usually made from aluminum, wood, or concrete. Portable ramps, on the other hand, are made from aluminum and fold for easy transportation. Finally, portable ramps can be used with vans to load and off-load a mobility device.
AmeriGlide Wheelchair Ramps
AmeriGlide offers a premium selection of permanent and portable wheelchair ramps for homes and businesses. Most of the ramps are ultra-lightweight for easy transportation. To purchase one, contact an AmeriGlide accessibility specialist.
Design Guidelines for AmeriGlide Wheelchair Ramps
AmeriGlide wheelchair ramps comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements. This stipulates that wheelchair ramps have a slope of no more than 1:12 for business and public use. This is the equivalent of 1 foot of ramp for every one inch of elevation.
The ADA also limits the length of the ramp to 30 feet. This measurement is taken prior to a rest or turn of the platform. The entire run of the ramp can be as long as needed, but there should be a break every 30 feet. Note that these guidelines apply only to commercial ramps and not to residential ones.
International Wheelchair Ramp Design Guidelines
The maximum ratio of 1:12 also applies in the UK, except for steeper ramps that are fitted on existing buildings. The same goes for Hong Kong, where wheelchair ramps may not exceed a 1:12 ratio, unless you find yourself in a situation that falls under the Barrier Free Access (BFA) terms.
In South Africa, 1:12 is the maximum ratio unless the difference in level is less than 400mm. In that case, 1:10 is allowed. Lastly, The National Construction Code of Australia requires that a wheelchair ramp have a maximum incline of 1:8. This translates to a 1-meter rise for every 8 meters travelled horizontally.
Potential Benefits of Installing a Wheelchair Ramp at Home
Improved Mobility
This is the most important benefit of using wheelchair ramps; they improve mobility for wheelchair users. In other words, they allow them to move about their homes independently and freely. They also minimize accident risks during trips to and from grocery stores, medical facilities, and other places that the disabled person frequents.
They Are Cost Effective and Convenient
Wheelchair ramps can be easily installed, removed, and transported if they are portable. Portable versions can be separated easily, making them easy to carry, store, and install anywhere in a home.
Caregiver Friendly
Caregivers believe wheelchair ramps are highly beneficial, as they can be used to improve accessibility and boost the independence of the patient. They can also be used to help the caregiver transport equipment, groceries, and other items.
They Enhance the Resale Value of Your Home
Installing a high-quality ramp will make your home more appealing to prospective buyers. This, in turn, will boost the resale value of your home.
How Much Does an AmeriGlide Wheelchair Ramp Cost?
The cost of an AmeriGlide wheelchair ramp varies based on a number of factors, including ramp length, elevation angle, and materials used. Typically, the price ranges between $1,000 and $2,800. Here is some more information about the factors that will increase the cost of a ramp:
Labor Costs
The cost of labor will vary from one geographical location to the next. In a densely populated area, you can expect to pay more for labor because the contractors may be busier.
Ramp Materials
Aluminum is commonly used to manufacture wheelchair ramps. Aluminum is easy to install and maintain but may cost more to purchase. Wooden ramps require regular maintenance but are cheaper in the short- term.
Ramp Length
The height of the stairs determines the required length of the ramp and impacts cost.
The Ramp’s Intended Use
Electric wheelchairs are significantly heavier than push wheelchairs. As such, electric wheelchairs will require a stronger support and will tend to cost more