Threshold ramps play a crucial role in making your home accessible for you and/or your loved ones using mobility devices like wheelchairs, scooters, and walkers. However, when it comes to selecting the right threshold ramp for your needs, how do you know which one is best for your home? With two popular options, rubber and aluminum threshold ramps, each material comes with its own set of advantages and considerations. In this blog, we’ll delve into the factors you should consider when deciding between a rubber threshold ramp and an aluminum threshold ramp.

Threshold Type, Height, and Width

Perhaps the most important consideration when selecting a threshold ramp is compatibility with your threshold. Whether a rubber or an aluminum threshold ramp would be better suited for your threshold depends on the factors listed below. 

Threshold Rise

In general, rubber threshold ramps accommodate a lower threshold rise than aluminum ones. While most rubber threshold ramps can accommodate rises of up to 4.75 inches, aluminum threshold ramps can accommodate rises of up to 9 inches. As a general rule of thumb, rubber threshold ramps are most often used for shorter threshold rises while aluminum ramps are better suited for larger rises. 

Uncommon Threshold Rise 

Both rubber and aluminum threshold ramps are generally sold in a selection of rises. However, you may run into trouble if the rise of your threshold does not correspond with one of those available ramp rises. Thankfully, unlike rubber ramps that are stuck at a static height, adjustable aluminum threshold ramps are available to exactly meet the rise of your threshold. If you’re having trouble finding a threshold ramp that matches the rise of your threshold, an adjustable aluminum threshold is the way to go. 

Wide or Narrow Thresholds 

Another factor that may affect your threshold ramp selection is the width of your threshold. Depending on where your door is and its width, you may not be able to accommodate a wide threshold ramp. However, rubber threshold ramps can be cut to fit any width while aluminum threshold ramps cannot. If making the ramp fit your space is a concern, a rubber threshold ramp could be a great option. 

Swinging vs. Sliding Doors

The type of threshold ramp you select will also depend on the type of door. For standing swinging doors like most entryways are, both a rubber or aluminum threshold ramp are sufficient. However, if you’re looking to make your sliding patio door more accessible, only the aluminum sliding door threshold ramp is compatible.  

Durability and Longevity 

In general, both rubber and aluminum threshold ramps have similar weight capacities from 500-750lbs and are quite durable. There are, however, a few considerations that set them apart. 

Weather and Environmental Conditions

In most applications, the threshold ramp will be used to create a gentle incline from the ground outdoors to the top of the entrance’s threshold. This means the ramp will spend most of it’s time outside. While rubber itself is generally non-slip, it does not have nearly as much traction as HandiRamp’s aluminum threshold ramps that feature a patented non-slip surface. In weather conditions like rain or snow, the rubber may become more slippery, while the raised-button surface of HandiRamp’s aluminum threshold ramp creates traction in up to an inch of snow or ice. If the threshold is covered by an awning or roof, a rubber threshold ramp may be protected from rain and snow and will be non-slip enough. If not protected from the elements, an aluminum threshold ramp will be far more non-slip in any weather condition.  

Wear and Tear 

While both rubber and aluminum threshold ramps are created to be extremely durable, they don’t hold up the same over time. Think about your gym shoes. The more you wear them, the more the soles start to wear down and they become less comfortable. Rubber threshold ramps are like that too. Rubber ramps can begin to wear down over time and will need to be replaced. The longevity of your rubber ramp will depend both on the outdoor elements its exposed to as well as the extent of use. It will likely last you many years, but will eventually need to be replaced. Aluminum ramps, on the other hand, are constructed of a hard-wearing metal that will not rust and can withstand virtually any weather condition. They likely will never need to be replaced. 

Should I Get a Rubber or Aluminum Threshold Ramp? 

Still deciding? We’ve gone into detail on the factors that differentiate rubber and aluminum threshold ramps above, and you can use this pros and cons summary to help you make your final decision: