If you struggle with mobility issues or care about someone who does, you know the challenges of getting in and out of doors. What seems like an insignificant height difference at an entryway or a small step down to an alfresco area can be frustrating at best and dangerous at worst.
To help with safety and accessibility, the mobility experts at AccessAble Home Modifications frequently recommend rubber threshold ramps to create a gentle slope as opposed to a jarring bump.
Why Do I Need a Rubber Threshold Ramp?
Rubber threshold ramps are ideal for bridging gaps between the ground and the height of a threshold, raised landing, small curb, and other low steps on walkways. These ramps are useful for places where a large wheelchair ramp is not necessary, such as the edge of a walk-in shower or a single step to a patio.
Rubber threshold ramps are helpful in places where constructing a larger ramp would violate agreements between a landlord and tenant.
Why a Rubber Threshold Ramp?
The two most common kinds of threshold ramps are made from rubber and aluminium. However, the ramps made of rubber have several advantages over the metal ramps, including,
- The rubber material will not rust or corrode
- The material naturally conforms to the surface it is placed on, ensuring a secure fit on different surfaces such as wood, cement, carpet, and many more.
- The majority of rubber threshold ramps are made from recycled tyres. So, you will pay less and help the environment at the same time
- The material makes the rubber threshold ramps naturally slip-resistant
- Rubber ramps are easy to cut, so installation around corners or on odd-shaped steps is simple
- Because they are free-standing, the rubber threshold ramps are easy to install and can be moved to another location if necessary.
What are the Disadvantages of Rubber Threshold Ramps?
There are a few situations where a rubber threshold ramp is not your best option, such as:
- Rubber ramps do not work with sliding glass doors because the rubber will not cover the door’s tracks. There are aluminium threshold ramps made to work with sliding glass doors that fit well
- Depending on the size, some rubber ramps are heavy and difficult to move
- The rubber threshold ramps are not always the best choice if you are in an area that gets ice or snow.
- Ice and snow tend to cling to rubber threshold ramps, and the material becomes very slippery. Additionally, it is difficult to remove snow and ice from a rubber ramp without causing damage, and you can easily cut and ruin a rubber ramp with the edge of a snow shovel
Will My Ramp Stay Where I Put It, or Will It Slide?
Using an adhesive to keep the rubber ramp in place is always good. An adhesive sealant will keep the ramp in its proper place and help keep you safe.
How Do I Care for a RubberThreshold Ramp?
The ramps are easy-care products. You can keep your ramp clean by washing gently with warm water and a mild detergent. Avoid using tough scrub brushes or harsh soaps when cleaning ramps. Some chemicals in stronger cleaners can cause premature wear on the ramp and potentially make use dangerous.
What Size Ramp Should I Get for My Home?
To find out the best size rubber threshold ramp, measure the space first. Not only will the width be a point of concern, but you will need to calculate the proper grade for the ramp. In Australia, the recommended ratio is 1:8. This means you will need a ramp with a grade of fewer than eight degrees. You will also want to examine the measuring to make sure the top of the ramp will fit smoothly at the edge of the last step. Not checking this can leave you with a ramp that will not be much help.
We see many people who want a threshold ramp struggle with measuring and installing the ramp. The different sizes of the ramps compound the average person’s issue as some are much heavier than they appear. By working with a professional, the job will be much safer and faster than turning the mat into a do-it-yourself project.
Ensuring safe accessibility for you and your loved ones is a priority for you and a priority for us as well. If you have questions or would like information about our services and products, feel free to reach out to us. Our experienced staff can get you the answers you need to move forward with your modifications.