At some point, you’ll need to learn how to rent a wheelchair ramp. Whether it’s for a couple of days or long term, things happen. It can be for yourself or a friend in need. Knowing what types of ramps, what materials can be used, or even deciding between having the slope installed permanently will be useful to know when the time comes.
The following are the decisions you need to make when you decide to rent a wheel chair ramp:
- Ramp length and weight capacity
- Type of Ramp
- Material you want it made of
- How much you’re willing to spend
- Portable or Fixed Ramp
- Renting short term vs. long term
- Where or which company you want to rent from
The seniors’ guide to renting a wheelchair ramp will guide you to rent the best wheelchair ramp that meet your individual needs.
If the idea of renting a wheelchair ramp seemed like so much then, now you are at the right place.
How to Rent a Wheelchair Ramp
Renting a wheelchair ramp requires you to know your options for you to choose the right one. Let’s walk through each of the decisions you have to make during this process.
Ramp Lengths
There are code guidelines for wheelchair ramps that are helpful to all users. The code states that there should be one foot of ramp for every inch of rising. For example, if the rise were 9 inches, then there would be 9 feet of ramp. Below you will find a table of ramp lengths and the type of slopes that can accommodate range:
| 6″ to 24″ feet | Threshold ramps |
| 24″ to 72″ feet | Portable (Suitcase) ramps |
| 24″ to 144″ feet | Lightweight (Track) ramps |
| 48″ to unlimited feet | Modular ramps |
Ramp Weight
It is crucial to user safety that we consider the proper weight capacity for the wheelchair ramp before renting. Passing the maximum capacity weight can lead to accidents and ramp failure. When deciding the maximum capacity amount, all the things that add weight to the user while on the wheelchair ramp should also count towards the mass.
Manual wheelchairs rarely weigh 50 pounds. A power wheelchair typically weighs from 375 to 400 pounds once the batteries are installed. Seating can add another 50 pounds, and if the wheelchair reclines, that might also add another 100 to 150 pounds. Overall, a typical wheelchair can weigh between 600 to 700 pounds. Still, there is no real way of knowing unless you weigh before renting. Below you will find a table of ramp maximum weight and the type of ramp that can accommodate weight:
| Up to 850 pounds | Threshold ramps |
| Up to 800 pounds | Portable (Suitcase) ramps |
| Up to 2000 pounds | Lightweight (Track) ramps |
| Up to 850 pounds | Modular ramps |
Types of Ramps
When you know the weight and the length the ramp can handle, then you can look at the styles of a ramp that are suitable for you.
Portable (suitcase) Ramp
Suitcase ramp is the most common portable ramp because it is easy to set up, use, carry, and transport. They take up little room when stored and are only suitable for low rises. The advantage of having a portable ramp is that it does not require long term installation. These ramps also apply slip-resistant surfaces for added safety.
Threshold (door) Ramp
The door ramp is used for doorways. However, the threshold ramp is for low rise places that need climbing. The threshold ramp can also move around as needed. These ramps of 100% recycled rubber tires allow wheeled mobility device users to maneuver their surroundings easily.
Lightweight (track) Ramp
Track ramps are considered very light, but that depends on their length. They come with distances up to 12 feet long and hold a maximum capacity of up to 2000 pounds.
Modular Ramp
Modular ramps are not portable because they have to be installed on-site and are usually too heavy or too long to move. Rent this ramp for places that do not offer permanent ramps for use. These ramps provide customizable and durable products that are fast and easy to install. Modular ramps do not rust during usage and require little to no maintenance.
Ramp Materials
There are four types of materials used to construct wheelchair ramps. These materials include:
Wood
Wood is a commonly used material in wheelchair ramps. Wooden ramps are affordable and attractive. Wood ramps cost between $100 to 250 dollars per foot. To avoid rotting the ramp has to be sealed.
Concrete
Concrete is the material of choice for ramps that the public will use. Concrete ramps offer a permanent and durable solution. Concrete ramps cost about $200 to 250 dollars per foot.
Galvanized steel
Galvanized steel is ideal for permanent choices. This material offers a long-lasting, sturdy ramp. Galvanized steel ramps cost about $200 to 250 dollars per foot.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass’s primary advantage is that its made of thin fibers making it lightweight. Fiberglass is a perfect material for portable ramps.
Short Term vs. Long Term Ramps
Needing a rental ramp for a day, a week, or a more extended period varies from vendor to vendor. There are some differences between short term and long term renting.
Long term rentals are cheaper to rent per day and offer contracts that require a signature. Semi-permanent rentals provide a wide variety of ramps to choose. Short term rentals are expensive when compared to the long term. They require a deposit fee and a renting fee. A short term ramp rental for six months is great for someone who is injured or if you are elderly, a long term ramp will make everyday activities easier.
Portable or Fixed Ramp
The final decision you will have to make will be between a permanent structure or a temporary ramp. Portable ramps are more affordable and lighter than a fixed ramp. They have different options that include fold up ramps, roll-up ramps, and track ramps. More often than not, you can find a safe and reliable portable ramp for less than $1,300.
If you just have someone needing wheelchair access for a few days or weeks, a portable ramp is the way to go. But, if you are trying to make somewhere work for someone in a wheelchair in the long haul, choose a fixed ramp. They will be less expensive over time and hold up better to wear and tear.
Ramp Rental Costs
The cost of rental is dependent on the length of the ramp. The longer the ramp, the more expensive. For short term rentals, you can rent between $100 to 275 dollars a day. If you are looking for something permanent, then you are looking at a one time fee between $300 to 800 dollars.
Ask your rental companies if they allow you to use a portion of your rental fee on a future purchase in case you decide to purchase something permanent.
Where to Rent Your Ramp
If you are a senior, you can apply for a waiver to pay for the costs of renting a ramp through your insurance. One way is to apply through the Area Agency on aging.
However, if you do not get approved, you can consider other options like rental companies in your area with a reputation. Avoid any rental companies that have no review from customers or have prices too good to be true.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have chosen your options for your personal wheelchair ramp rental, you can confidently reach out to rental companies for ramp installment. Make sure you hire a professional for installation.
