Home accessibility is critical for people who have become disabled due to aging or an injury. Often, the first thing they think of is a ramp to help them get in and out of their home. And in many cases, a ramp is exactly the solution they need.
However, ramps aren’t always the right choice. So let’s talk about when a ramp won’t work—and ramp alternatives.
When a Ramp Isn't the Right Solution
One place where a ramp might not work well is the garage. While garage ramps do exist, they’re often impractical because a standard garage doesn’t have enough space to accommodate a ramp with a safe slope.
Remember, local building codes and ADA guidelines require at least one foot of ramp for every inch of rise (a 1:12 ratio). That means if your garage entry is 24 inches above the ground, you’ll need a 24-foot ramp. In a typical garage, that’s simply not feasible.
A common question we hear is:
“Why can’t I just install a short ramp in my garage?”
Rather than tell you, let me show you in this video:
If you don’t want what happened to Amy and me to happen to you, you might want to think twice before putting a short ramp in your garage.
So, What Are Ramp Alternatives?
So, if a ramp won’t work, what are the alternatives? Let’s cover three possible solutions: Vertical Platform Lifts (VPLs), Walker Steps, and Stairlifts.
Vertical Platform Lifts (VPLs)
A VPL is essentially a platform you either walk onto or roll onto in your wheelchair or scooter. The platform then lifts you to your door’s threshold, bypassing the steps entirely. VPLs are great because they take up much less space than ramps. They also work well in garages, where the solid floor provides a sturdy base to anchor the lift. For more details, check out this page on our website.
Walker Steps
Walker steps have a shorter rise (the step height) and a longer tread (the step depth). The shorter rise makes them easier to climb, while the extended tread provides space for a walker, if needed. The biggest advantage of walker steps over VPLs is cost—walker steps are significantly more affordable. The drawback, of course, is that they don’t work for wheelchair users.
Stairlifts
Stairlifts are often associated with basement or second-level staircases, but they can also be used on garage and outdoor stairs. If you or your loved one can transfer on and off of a chair, a stairlift could be an alternative to a ramp. This photo shows a stairlift with custom stairs and a platform we placed in a garage while a customer recovered from an injury.
In this case, the stairlift was a short-term rental, so the staircase was built to be temporary. However, if you’d prefer a more decorative solution for a long-term stairlift, we can accommodate that as well.
Still Have Questions?
Still unsure which solution is right for you? We can help! Give us a call or complete the form below, and our staff will walk through the options with you. Our goal is to provide all the education you need to make the best decision for you and your loved ones.
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Complete this form or call 810-213-6377.
