For customers, loved ones, or anyone with a mobility device, a wheelchair ramp can make a world of difference in everyday life. These ramps let users safely and independently access buildings and places that would otherwise not be possible for them. 

If you’re a business owner, installing a wheelchair ramp at your business may be mandatory in order to comply with ADA requirements. But these ramps aren’t just for businesses– consider installing a ramp at your home for greater day-to-day accessibility. 

In this blog post, we’ll cover the differences between a temporary vs permanent wheelchair ramp so that you can make the best purchase decision for your unique needs.

Wheelchair ramps are platforms that make it easy for people with mobility restrictions to navigate inclines and declines. They can be essential for those who use wheelchairs, power scooters, rollators, and even busy parents with strollers. 

An accessible alternative to stairs (and far more affordable than an elevator), wheelchair ramps are typically made from materials like aluminum, concrete, and wood. Costs vary widely: a small threshold ramp can be purchased for under $200, while structured permanent ramps can cost thousands. 

These ramps are typically installed in places of transition. For example: business entrances, parking garages, home decks, etc. They’re a simple way to make any place more welcoming and inclusive. 

One of the first decisions you’ll make when purchasing a wheelchair ramp is choosing between temporary or permanent options. 

Temporary Wheelchair Ramp

Temporary wheelchair ramps are built to be portable and can be moved from one location to another. They are easy to assemble/disassemble and are often made from lightweight materials like aluminum. 

These portable ramps are an ideal option when a wheelchair ramp will only be required for a short period of time, such as for events or to accommodate a temporary injury. 

A temporary ramp is generally more affordable and doesn't require expensive construction costs. They can be set up in a single afternoon without making permanent alterations to your home or business. 

Temporary ramps are an out-of-the-box solution and don’t have unlimited options for customization. You can purchase modular ramps in many dimensions to fit your space, but they are not as customizable as a ramp built specifically for your home or business. 

Permanent Wheelchair Ramp

Need a solution for more long-term accessibility needs? Consider purchasing a permanent wheelchair ramp. Usually made from sturdy materials like wood or concrete, these ramps are built to last. A permanent ramp may be ideal if you own a home where a family member has an ongoing disability, or are a business with a more permanent location. 

Because permanent ramps can be custom-built precisely to your needs, they are more customizable than temporary ramps. Not only will it perfectly fit the dimensions of your space, but you can specify the design and style of the ramp. For businesses that would like to maintain a specific aesthetic style, a permanent ramp may be a preferable choice.

Permanent wheelchair ramps can provide increased durability in the long run, though they are more expensive. These ramps require construction time, labor, and materials. While they can increase the value of your property, often specific Zoning restrictions need to be taken into account. 

Here are some factors to consider when choosing between a temporary and permanent wheelchair ramp: 

• Personal needs: Who will be using this ramp? What are their specific mobility requirements? 
• Timeframe: How long will the ramp be needed?
• Portability: Will you move locations in the future? If so, consider portable wheelchair ramps. If you'll be moving frequently, you may look into a folding ramp or suitcase ramps for easy transport.
• Budget: What is your budget for this ramp? 
• Compliance: Keep in mind local Zoning regulations and ADA guidelines
• Space: What dimensions does your ramp need to accommodate?
• Additional Features: Do you want your ramp to include continuous handrails? Safety edges? Raised landings?
• Style: Do you need your ramp to fit with a certain aesthetic or style? For example, a business may choose to install wood or concrete ramps to match existing building architecture.

A wheelchair ramp can help open the doors of your home or business to more experiences and greater community engagement. Whether you need the flexibility of a portable ramp or are looking for the stability of a permanent installation, adding a ramp to your home or business can do a long way in improving accessibility for all. 

Not sure what the best wheelchair ramp is for your needs or budget? Contact our team of product experts at any time– with decades of experience, we’ll work with you to find the perfect solution for your space.