Wheelchair ramps are important for accessibility and help to ensure safe and seamless mobility for those with disabilities. If you’re installing one at your home and have opted for a lighter material, you might be tempted to use the DIY approach. However, installing a professional for a wheelchair ramp is always the better choice, regardless of the material it’s made of. Keep reading to find out why.
Safety and Stability
One of the most important reasons to hire a professional is safety. A poorly constructed ramp can pose a serious risk. By installing it yourself, you risk issues like instability, an overly steep incline, or uneven surfaces. Professionals have a better understanding of load-bearing requirements for different materials as well; they can ensure the structure is stable enough to support regular use and that the ramp complies with all safety standards.
Accessibility Regulations
While ramps on your personal property aren’t required to adhere to ADA regulations, doing so can help ensure that your ramp is as safe and accessible as possible. Professionals are well-versed in all accessibility regulations, the ADA included. They can make sure your ramp adheres to slope ratios, ramp width, handrail requirements, landing sizes, and more.
Customizing the Design
Every property is different, and a prebuilt ramp might not be a perfect fit. A professional can help to tailor a ramp to meet specific needs. They’ll assess your property’s layout, consider factors like available space and entryway design, and set up the ramp in a way that meets your mobility needs. They can also determine if the material you’ve selected is best for your environment, and offer modifications or changes if needed.
Avoiding Costly Mistakes
DIY ramp installation can lead to mistakes like incorrect measurements, unstable foundations, or inadequate anchoring. Fixing problems like these can be much more expensive than just hiring a professional from the very beginning. Their expertise ensures the job is done right the first time, avoiding costly mistakes—which not only increase expenses, but stresses as well.
Installing a wheelchair ramp is not a construction project you should try to do on your own. A ramp is a mobility and accessibility device, and you need to ensure that it is safe and reliable for consistent access to your home without fear of further injury. The best wheelchair ramps aren’t just made of quality materials; they’re installed by experts so that you get the best, safest results for your home.
