Wheelchair accessibility ramps are necessary for various properties but must also be designed to handle enough weight without suffering damage. The weight that a ramp can take on at any time can vary, as some wheelchairs can weigh hundreds of pounds depending on how they work. The weight of whoever is using that wheelchair can also vary, as bariatric patients may require wheelchairs for mobility. Fortunately, our staff at REDD Team can prepare an accessibility ramp that fits your weight standard.
Considerations For Wheelchair Weight
The average weight of a wheelchair is important to note when planning wheelchair accessibility ramps. The weight of a wheelchair will vary depending on its ability to propel a person and the ability of the user or a caretaker to control it.
Some of the lightest wheelchairs weigh 20 to 40 pounds. But heavier wheelchairs, which can weigh 100 or even 200 pounds, are necessary for heavier people or those with special medical needs that require regular monitoring. Those heavier units can have batteries and motors; they might carry various additional items necessary for someone’s health.
What About the Person Using the Wheelchair?
The weight of whoever is using the wheelchair is also worth consideration. Many people who use wheelchairs are substantially lighter than non-disabled persons due to various physical concerns or conditions.
Don’t forget about any caretakers that might push a wheelchair. That person’s weight will add more pressure to the ramp.
These weight points make it vital to determine how much weight a ramp can handle. REDD Team can help you plan wheelchair accessibility ramps to handle the weight.
What Is the General Standard For Ramp Weight?
An average wheelchair ramp will have a capacity of about 800 to 1,000 pounds. But it’s also best to have a ramp that can handle at least five times the anticipated load. Remember that sometimes multiple people will use the ramp at once, so planning something that can handle more weight for all those people will be ideal for your space.
The ramp should also be made of a material that can handle all that extra weight. Aluminum is the best choice, as it has greater tensile strength and can manage as much weight as steel without taking up as much space. It can also resist rust and wear.
Aluminum is also safer to use than wood. While many people use wood for their ramps, it can break apart and wear regularly. A sturdier metal like aluminum is ideal for this case.
REDD Team will be there to serve you with wheelchair accessibility ramps made here in America using top-quality aluminum materials. Based on your specifics, we can design a new ramp and deliver all the pre-fabricated parts to your site. You can visit our website or call us at 800-648-3696 to learn more about what we can do for your wheelchair ramp needs.
