Threshold ramps are a safe, cost-effective way to help a loved one using a wheelchair, walker, or scooter safely through a doorway where the threshold or door frame is raised above the walking surface.
There are many different types and sizes of threshold ramps and sorting through the pluses and minuses can be daunting. To help you find the right doorway threshold ramp, we have created an easy-to-follow guide that you will find below.
Feel free to jump right to the section that will help you most, or take the full guided tour on how to find the right ramp for your unique situation!
When you or a loved one is physically challenged and reliant on a wheelchair, scooter or walker, even the smallest physical barrier can impede the person’s mobility. One of the most common physical barriers is an elevated doorway threshold between the outside and inside of a home, office, or commercial structure. Even a half inch difference between the walking surface and the entry way can create a dangerous situation.
When there’s a difference in height between the walking surface and the threshold of a hinged or sliding door, a threshold ramp is needed to make the entryway safe and convenient for all people.
A threshold ramp is an inclined plane (a flat surface rising at an angle) that creates a smooth, continuous platform from one walking surface to another. Threshold ramps allow those in wheelchairs, scooters, or using walkers, to move safely and freely through doorways, passages and raised landings that might otherwise an obstacle.
There are multiple key measurements needed before you purchase your threshold ramp for a standard door or entryway. These measurements include the height of the threshold, the width of the door opening, and the amount of space on the walkway where the ramp will rest.
If you’re looking for a threshold ramp system for a sliding door, there are additional measurements you’ll need. First, you will want to measure the rise on both the inside and outside of the sliding door. Second, you will also need to measure the width of the sliding door frame from the inside to the outside edge. (photo). In our resource, Measuring for a Threshold, we’ll explain how the length of the threshold ramp you choose – no matter the type of ramp – will depend upon how many inches the threshold is above the walking surface. While the mathematics is simple, accuracy is important to find a safe, effective ramp. We offer a full discussion of the ADA recommendations, and why those recommendations often do not apply to a residential threshold ramp.
There are a number of types of ramps that are both associated with and suitable for use as a threshold ramp. For example, if the threshold is only an inch or two above the walking surface, and the price is the ultimate concern, there are plans online to construct a simple wooden ramp that can provide adequate service under light-duty and favorable environmental conditions.
However, for a longer-lasting, safety-first solution that can withstand inclement weather, heavier use, and higher threshold rises, rubber and aluminum threshold ramps are the preferred choice.
The type of threshold will also affect the type of ramp you will be purchasing. While there are a variety of rubber and aluminum ramps that will work perfectly with standard doors, the sliding door threshold ramp is constructed specifically for use with sliding doors.
Understanding the pros and cons of different types of ramps shouldn’t be a challenge and with our help, it won’t be! You can start your journey by visiting our resource, “What Type of Threshold Ramp Do I Need?” Here you’ll find a detailed explanation of the various ramp types that may suit your needs.
After you’ve taken the critical measurements needed for the threshold ramp, selecting the right ramp for your home or office becomes a balancing act that optimizes a number of parameters. For example, here are some variables you’ll likely consider as you choose the type of ramp to purchase.
We answer these and other questions in our resource, Selecting the Right Threshold Ramp, helping you to find a safe, effective and affordable solution. To make the process just a bit easier, we’ve created a Threshold Ramp Configurator that, based on your answers to these and other questions, will produce a ranked list of the ramps that you’ll want to consider for purchase.
We have a wide variety of safe and inexpensive threshold ramps. Threshold ramps are always in stock and ship same-day or next business day. Our team will guide you through your decision, ensuring that you receive exactly what you need. When you choose Handi-Ramp you are choosing an experienced team that will:
*An additional shipping charge will be added for orders outside of the contiguous United States.
Additional shipping charges may apply for residential, limited access locations, and lift gate needs.
They made my wheelchair life even greater. Not a chance-to make it any better than it is. God must help you designing stuff!!!
Paul Fitzgerald
Livonia, MI
Even though these ramps were custom bent for me (2 1/2″ I got them the next day on a holiday weekend. I plan to buy again!! Excellent product and service.
BJ Underwood
Clawson, MI
My husband used his ramp 3 years ago and now I have moved and took it with me for my mother to use.
Gwen Query
Longview, TX
I like the simplicity of the design.
Andy McMahon
It was exactly what I needed.
Comella Harston
Hobart, IN
Products look good and are good quality.
Access Ability, INC.
