Aidapt Lightweight 5Ft Folding Ramp
A five foot aluminium platform offering a manageable 1:10 slope across typical domestic doorsteps while remaining lightweight enough for frequent folding and carrying.
How to Make a Wheelchair Ramp
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If you’ve ever wondered how to make a wheelchair ramp for your home or garden, the good news is that it’s easier than you might think.
To make a wheelchair ramp for domestic access, calculate the required gradient from the total step rise and construct a sturdy timber or modular aluminium track. The structure must include non-slip decking, protective side upstands, and level resting landings at entry doorways to ensure safe, stable transit. With some basic planning, the right materials, and a little time, you can build a ramp that provides independence, safety, and convenience for wheelchair users and those with mobility challenges.
Why Building a Wheelchair Ramp Is a Great Idea
Making your own wheelchair ramp isn’t just about saving money. It’s about improving accessibility for everyone. Whether it’s for your home entrance, garden, or vehicle, a ramp allows wheelchair users, elderly family members, and people using walkers or strollers to move freely and safely.
Some of the biggest benefits include:
- Independence: A ramp gives wheelchair users the freedom to come and go without needing constant assistance.
- Safety: Reduces the risk of trips, slips, and falls compared to steps or uneven surfaces.
- Convenience: Makes moving groceries, prams, and heavy items in and out of the home easier.
- Increased property value: Homes with accessibility features are more appealing to a wider range of buyers.
Choosing the Right Ramp Design
Before you start building, think about where you want the ramp and how steep it should be. The recommended gradient for wheelchair ramps in the UK is 1:12, meaning for every inch of height, you’ll need at least 12 inches of ramp length. This ensures a gentle and safe slope.
Here are a few common types of wheelchair ramps you can make:
- Wooden ramp: Ideal for garden or home use. It’s affordable, easy to build, and can be customised to fit your space.
- Aluminium ramp: Lightweight, durable, and often modular, so perfect if you want something portable.
- Concrete ramp: Permanent and sturdy, best for homes that need long-term accessibility solutions.
Step-By-Step: How to Make a Wheelchair Ramp
Building a wheelchair ramp is straightforward if you follow these key steps:
- Measure the area: Measure the height from the ground to the top step or door threshold to calculate the ramp length based on the slope ratio.
- Choose materials: Select wood, metal, or concrete depending on whether you want a temporary or permanent ramp.
- Build a solid base: Make sure the ground is level and compact before placing any materials.
- Secure handrails: Add sturdy rails for safety, especially for longer ramps.
- Check stability: Test the ramp with different weights to ensure it’s safe for use.
Tips for a Safe and Long-Lasting Ramp
A well-built wheelchair ramp should be easy to maintain and safe in all weather conditions. Consider these tips:
- Use non-slip materials like grip tape or textured paint.
- Ensure good drainage to avoid puddles and slippery surfaces.
- Inspect the ramp regularly for wear, loose screws, or cracks.
- Consider adding lighting for visibility during the night.
These simple touches make your ramp safer and extend its lifespan, ensuring it remains reliable for years to come.
Cost and Materials: What to Expect
The cost of making a wheelchair ramp depends on materials, size, and whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring a professional.
Wooden ramps are usually the most affordable, with DIY kits available online for as little as £100 to £300. Aluminium and modular ramps can cost more but are durable and require less maintenance.
If you’re on a budget, look for bundle deals and ramp kits online.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to make a wheelchair ramp is a rewarding project that brings freedom and accessibility to your home. It’s a practical, affordable, and meaningful improvement that benefits everyone, not just wheelchair users. Whether you’re helping a loved one or improving your property, a safe and sturdy ramp makes a huge difference.
Take the time to plan it right, choose the best materials, and enjoy the satisfaction of building something that truly changes lives.
Ramps to Compare
The Ramp People 4Ft Telescopic Wheelchair Ramps
Supplied as a pair of extendable channel tracks, these lightweight aluminium ramps slide out smoothly and pack away into an included storage bag for travel.
The Ramp People 6Ft Folding Wheelchair Ramp
This six foot folding ramp delivers a gentle slope across two domestic steps while maintaining a high load rating suitable for heavier powerchairs and seated occupants.
Aidapt 4Ft Tri-Fold Suitcase Ramp
A four foot multi fold ramp that maintains a practical 1:8 gradient over single steps and low kerbs while folding down into a compact square for easy stowage.
The Ramp People Folding Wheelchair Ramp
A robust full width suitcase ramp built with durable side profiles and an all weather grit surface that provides steady traction for indoor and outdoor thresholds.
Aidapt 5FT Telescopic Wheelchair Ramps
Telescopic aluminium channel ramps that extend over domestic threshold steps, providing smooth roll-on access for manual chairs and powerchairs.
Aidapt Aluminium Bridging Threshold Ramp
Bridges awkward door thresholds without tools, offering immediate doorway access while awaiting council grant adaptations.
Drive Devilbiss Aluminium Portable Threshold Bridging Ramp
Offers a lightweight 4 kg aluminium bridging solution over raised doorway thresholds with anti-slip underside pads.
The Ramp People Rubber Ramps for Wheelchairs 3.8Cm
Moulded from dense natural rubber, this 3.8cm threshold wedge offers high grip and can be trimmed with a utility knife to fit exact doorway widths.
Aidapt Aluminium Bridging Threshold Ramp
A portable aluminium bridging ramp, sold in a choice of lengths and heights, for door thresholds and low kerbs.