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Understanding the Difference Between Mobility & Wheelchair Ramps

Live accessible with Advantage Ramps. Our company offers aluminum modular ramps, portable ramps, and threshold ramps. Read to learn which mobility ramp is best suited for your needs so that you can choose the right ramp for your home.


Aluminum Modular Ramps

Aluminum modular ramps provide a safe, accessible transition for those who use a wheelchair, walker, or scooter. Aluminum construction ensures a lightweight, weather-resistant build plus handrails for maximum stability of the user. 


Benefits of Aluminum Modular Ramps

  • Lightweight

  • No construction or digging needed 

  • Can be installed in the front, back or side door, or in the garage

  • Extremely durable

  • Can safely hold up to 1,000 pounds


How Do Aluminum Modular Ramps Compare to Other Ramps?

Aluminum modular ramps are better than wooden ramps. Unlike wooden ramps, which require concrete footings, aluminum ramps require zero construction. Wooden ramps also require plot plans by the township, making aluminum ramps less costly to build in comparison. 


Aluminum modular ramps are also better than steel ramps. Due to the heaviness of steel, there is not as much range for the ramp’s width. Contrastingly, aluminum ramps are light enough to allow for 3 whole feet of width. Steel ramps are also painted, which can result in chipping and rusting over time.


Portable Ramps

Also known as suitcase ramps, portable ramps are easily movable for your short-term or mobile access needs. It’s called a suitcase ramp because you can use the handles to carry it like a suitcase. 


Portable ramps can come in one or two step ramps. It’s so transportable that when folded, it can fit into the trunk of your car. Portable ramps can range from 2 ft to 10 ft. While light in weight, its strength is heavy duty with an 800 pound weight capability.


Benefits of Portable Ramps

  • Transportable 

  • Easily folded and stored - just unfold the ramp and lay it down on the step

  • Comes in a variety of sizes

  • Can come with a slip resistant surface - good for steeper angles and when wet

  • Can safely hold up to 800 pounds.


How Do Portable Ramps Compare to Other Ramps?

A suitcase ramp does NOT replace a modular wheelchair ramp. Because portable ramps are not equipped with railings, they are only allowed for a minimal flight of steps for wheelchairs or scooters.


Do NOT use portable ramps at too steep of an incline, as this can put the user in danger of falling. Be sure that you have the proper length ramp for the designated area. If you aren’t sure, call Advantage Ramps so we can help you make the right decisions regarding your ramp needs.


Threshold Ramps

Threshold ramps are ideal for wheelchair, walker, or scooter users to overcome changes in elevation (bumps, ledges, curbs etc). Made from metal or rubber, these ramps can be installed in interior and exterior door sills plus small elevation changes for safe and smooth transitions. Height ranges from 0.5 inches to 6 inches. 


Benefits of Threshold Ramps

  • Provides easiest access to exterior door threshold

  • Simple design

  • Safe to cross elevated or rough surfaces

How do Threshold Ramps Compare to Other Ramps?


When choosing a ramp, it's essential to consider the specific needs, the environment it will be used in, and whether a temporary or permanent solution is required. Threshold ramps are ideal for addressing small height differentials, while other types cater to varying accessibility requirements.

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