Thresholds. If you’re healthy and fully mobile, you probably never even notice them. But if accident, illness, or age confine you to a wheelchair, you notice every single one. Even half an inch can create a problem. Thresholds are mostly used in doorways that open to the exterior. Their purpose is to close the gap between the floor and the bottom of the door in order to do the following:
- create a tight seal
- add rigidity to the doorframe
- direct water to drain to the outside
- protect against loss of cold and heat
- prevent bugs and other creatures from crawling in
In short, your doors need thresholds. Eliminating them is not a viable option. But, if you use a scooter or wheelchair to get around, you need a solution to help you get over them. That solution is a threshold ramp.
Threshold Ramps
Threshold ramps are a simple inclined plane used to create a continuous, smooth surface over the obstacle of the elevation change. Threshold ramps are inexpensive, simple ways to help folks using wheeled mobility devices to safely and independently crossed raised thresholds. Here are a few things you need to know to help you get the right ramp for your doorway:
Measure
You’ll need three measurements before purchasing a threshold ramp:
- The height of the threshold. Higher rises require longer ramps. Be sure to measure both sides; if the heights are different, your ramp will need to accommodate that.
- The width of the door.
- The space on both sides of the threshold where the ramp will rest. Again, higher rises require longer ramps, so you’ll need plenty of space for the ramp to sit.
Many ramp dealers provide online calculators to help you determine the size and configuration you need for your doorway.
Choose
With your measurements in hand, it’s time to choose the ramp. The following questions will help guide your selection:
- How much weight will the ramp need to support? Motorized scooters and wheelchairs are heavy.
- Will the ramp be exposed to rain, snow, and debris?
- Is the ramp temporary or permanent?
- What is your budget?
The Bottom Line
There’s no need to struggle with the hurdle of a threshold. Threshold ramps are designed to give people of all abilities safe and smooth access to your home. Wheelchair ramps for doorways are available in a variety of styles and materials, from discrete rubber mats to large aluminum plates. Talk to your local mobility specialist about finding one that’s right for you.