How Much Does It Cost to Install a Wheelchair Ramp?

In this guide

Wheelchair Ramp Cost per Foot

Project costs for installing a new ramp for a safer home are often priced per foot. These prices for a quality low slope design can vary based on the chosen material. However, costs generally range between $100 and $250 per foot. Ramp measurements vary greatly depending on the location and the main use of the ramp. For example, a 4 ft. or 8 ft. ramp would most likely be used for a short doorway or several steps, while a 20 ft ramp is more common for front porch or driveway ramps. Here are some common wheelchair ramp sizes and the average material cost.

Ramp Cost by Material

Buying a new ramp means you need to choose the material that works best for your home. You have your choice of wood, concrete, steel, aluminum, and rubber ramps. One of the main things to keep in mind is how sturdy you need the ramp to be. If used for just one wheelchair user or a lighter load, this may influence which material you wish to use, the same for if it will be used for multiple wheelchair users several times a day. The table below shows the average costs per linear foot of popular ramp materials.

Rubber Ramps

A rubber wheelchair ramp is one of the most affordable options, priced around $50 to $150 per linear foot. This material should only be used for short thresholds or mini ramps, as it’s not as durable as other options. A long rubber ramp would not be strong enough to safely bear the wheelchair and user weight, especially for the taller height of multiple steps. Rubber is non-sticky and slip-resistant, making it a good choice for shower ramps and other indoor areas. It’s also easy to clean with a broom or hose as required, which is why some homeowners feel it's more functional than fashionable.

Wooden Wheelchair Ramp Cost

Installing a wood wheelchair ramp costs $100 to $250 per linear foot on average. The benefits of this ramp material include its affordability and easy installation. Plus, wood is widely available at most home improvement stores, so no matter where you live, your installer should be able to find the desired type of wood. One thing to keep in mind with wood ramps is they need more maintenance. An extra coat of primer every few years helps to stop warping and rotting that could make the ramp uneven. You will also want to add a slip-resistant coating for traction during wet weather.

Aluminum Handicap Ramp Prices

Metal handicap ramps such as aluminum average $150 to $200 per linear foot. The aluminum handicap ramp prices tend to be slightly more affordable than concrete or steel. Aluminum brings certain advantages to the table, like high strength and corrosion resistance. Something to remember is lightweight aluminum bends and wobbles more easily. That’s why annual checks are important to make sure the ramp is still sufficiently sturdy, and no nuts or bolts are loose. You can also buy a prefabricated aluminum ramp for $100 to $800 on average.

Concrete Wheelchair Ramp Cost

The average concrete ramp cost per linear foot is between $200 and $250 per linear foot. It’s on the more expensive side, but it’s extremely durable, making it a good choice for permanent accessibility solutions. Another reason why homeowners often opt for the higher concrete ramp cost per square foot is they are robust and offer an aesthetic appeal. These ramps match with the rest of the house and the driveway. Keep in mind that the total cost of a concrete handicap ramp is often higher, with added labor for pouring and setting the concrete. If you need to remove this structure in the future, it can be difficult and pricey. As long as you want a driveway or porch ramp that lasts for 10 to 20 years, then the higher concrete wheelchair ramp cost may be worth it.

Steel Handicap Ramp

Steel wheelchair ramp prices average between $200 and $250 per linear foot. Despite the similar pricing, a steel ramp is not as permanent as a concrete one but still offers great stability for regular wheelchair use. One of the biggest benefits is that galvanized steel works well in outdoor areas to add texture traction for safe movement. One possible downside is the possibility of corrosion and rust. On the other side, steel dries off quickly to avoid rotting that often affects wood.

Cost to Build a Wheelchair Ramp

The cost to build a handicap ramp is well worth it for professional service. Professional ramp builders and installers produce a high-strength ramp that lasts longer than a DIY version. Of course, safety is the top priority. Experienced ramp builders can efficiently construct a safe ramp customized for the wheelchair user.

The building process and wheelchair ramp installation cost include an initial evaluation of the site for measurements so the design can be drawn up and approved. This is especially important for disability safety and ensuring the ramp meets all permit requirements and code regulations. The building process can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days or weeks, depending on the design.

Installing a prefabricated aluminum ramp could be done in the morning or afternoon while building a 50-foot ramp down a steep driveway with multiple runs and turns would take much longer.

Depending on the company, your professional installer may work solo or with several contractors on-site. Generally, masonry professionals charge between $60 and $90 per hour for a concrete ramp based on the location and scope of the job. A carpentry professional for wooden wheelchair ramps may be slightly less expensive, around $50 to $75 per hour. Cost may vary slightly by state and the size of the ramp project.

Average Cost of Wheelchair Ramp by Type

Many different types of wheelchair ramps are available to consider for your home project. They cost anywhere from $50 to $3,000. This depends greatly based on where you need it installed, how often it’s going to be used, maintenance preferences, budget requirements, and much more. This table highlights the average costs for each type of ramp available for home installation.

Threshold Ramps

Threshold ramps are short, small ramps used for doorways and entryways, ranging in price from $50 to $1,200. If the door frame is higher than the floor, then a threshold ramp is a smart and safe solution. This is true for people who are recovering from surgery or using walkers and canes to get around.

The two main materials used for threshold ramps are aluminum and rubber. The average cost of aluminum threshold ramps is $50 to $200. Rubber threshold ramps are usually priced between $100 and $600. Aluminum ramps are high-strength yet relatively lightweight for easy installation, with a slip-resistant surface that also holds up well against rust and corrosion. Rubber is another reliable, sturdy material for short ramps in doorways and split-level stairs. This is an eco-friendly choice, and it does not require major installation. Just remember that ramps without slip-resistant coating can be slippery at times.

There are several different kinds of threshold ramps, also referred to as mini ramps. Here are the most common to consider for your home wheelchair ramp needs:

Stand-Alone Ramp

The average price for stand-alone threshold ramps is $50 to $500. These self-supporting ramps can accommodate up to 9” in height for doorways or room entry points. The adjustable leg design and slip-resistant surface help keep these ramps safe and sturdy with custom sizing available. These ramps usually weigh around 40 pounds but can accommodate between 500-700 pounds. Check with the manufacturer or your installer to confirm the weight specifications for a specific stand-alone ramp.

Bariatric Ramps

Bariatric ramps cost $150 to $1,200 on average and are specially designed to safely bear heavier loads. The careful construction of these ramps minimizes the risk of slipping and increases traction. They are relatively simple to install, with ample holes in the top corner so you can attach them to the doorway. Bariatric ramps can also handle the weight of electric mobility scooters. They may be wider and longer, with a heavy-duty look that doesn’t suit all living spaces. However, safety comes first, especially for bariatric residents.

Portable Ramp Prices

Portable ramps range in price from $100 to $3,000 and are ideal for renters or for people who are temporarily disabled following an injury or an accident. Fixed ramps may be a better idea for people who use a wheelchair for life. Portable ramps are convenient as they can be moved from room to room or used for traveling. Some people also choose to test out portable ramps before installing a permanent ramp at their home.

Folding Ramps

Also called suitcase or multi-fold ramps, these slip-resistant ramps average $100 to $600 and may have one or many folds to make them small and easy to transport. Suitcase ramps are generally made of aluminum and have different weight specifications.

Telescoping Ramps

The average price for telescoping ramps is $150 to $500. These ramps accommodate height differences with easy adjusting and a locking mechanism that keeps the non-skid tracks firmly in place. Extend or shorten these ramps as required.

Roll a Ramp Price

Roll-up ramps cost between $200 and $1,000 on average. These ramps are similar to folding ramps but can be rolled up for storage and are lightweight and compact. Many rollable ramp varieties come with the option to change the length so you can use it to cover shorter or longer distances without getting in the way, also minimizing tripping hazards in the process.

Track Ramps

Track ramps cost anywhere from $200 to $2,000. Track ramps are also made of lightweight aluminum and have two individual tracks that align with the wheels on both sides of the chair. They can be folded or opened to achieve the desired length. These ramps are usually easier to store and bring when traveling as they take up less space.

Bariatric Ramp

The price of portable bariatric ramps ranges from $400 to $800 on average. Most bariatric ramps support around 600 pounds of weight, if not more. Some multifold varieties are preferred for easy transportation. The wider dimensions and stronger support system allow for reliable accessibility even on the go.

Pathway Ramps

Pathway ramps cost between $500 and $3,000 on average, but they can be even higher depending on the model you choose. These modular ramps offer multiple configurations combining ramps, platforms, and stairs. They are made from aluminum and come with handrails and other safety features for a sturdy accessibility solution on the go.

Modular Ramps Cost

Modular ramps cost between $400 and $3,000 on average and are generally less expensive than their custom counterparts. These ramps are typically prefabricated and delivered in several sections for your contractor to put together quickly. Aluminum and steel are the most common materials for modular ramps that can be modified to suit your property. Accurate measurements are key to success with a modular ramp, so make sure you have a reputable installer on hand to help with this project.

Semi-Permanent Ramps

A compromise between permanent and portable ramps, semi-permanent ramps cost between $1,000 and $2,000 on average. Instead of being firmly anchored into the ground like permanent ramps, semi-permanent ones are safely installed but easier to remove if need be. They may not require as many customizations and approval as fully permanent ramps. A modular aluminum ramp is one of the most common semi-permanent accessibility solutions.

Permanent Ramps

Permanent wheelchair ramps for homes cost between $1,400 and $3,000 on average. They can be made out of wood, aluminum, steel, concrete, or rubber. The main benefit of permanent ramps is that they offer the highest level of stability and are extremely reliable. However, they are firmly positioned in place and cannot be moved to other areas of the house or other properties without considerable labor and removal costs. Households with regular wheelchair users or several seniors often find this to be a sensible investment.

Custom Ramp

Custom ramps cost between $1,400 and $3,000 on average, although they can be as high as $6,000 depending on the design and materials. A custom ramp is usually permanent and anchored into the ground. You can personalize it to suit your property with the help of a professional. You can choose from wood, aluminum, steel, rubber, and concrete with the right number of runs and turns for the length and slope of your ramp.

Handicap Ramp Locations

Ramp installation is important for many areas of the home, but it depends on the overall design and the accessibility requirements of the space. For example, wheelchair users may need a kitchen ramp or handicap shower ramp because they use these rooms every day. However, a ramp for a storage building in the backyard may not be as important. This greatly depends on each individual situation. It’s a good idea to consult with your ramp installer to discuss your needs.

Pricing depends greatly on the length of the ramp and the material. Typically indoor ramps are shorter and therefore less expensive than outdoor ramps. A 20-foot wooden ramp for the front porch or driveway may cost you around $2,500 on average. A short 4-foot wooden ramp for one room in the house may cost around $400 or $500.

Indoor Ramps

When constructing an indoor ramp, make sure to choose designs and materials that suit your accessibility needs and complement the rest of your home. Popular choices include wood, rubber, steel, and aluminum. For example, while wood is prone to rotting and warping outside, it works well inside for bathrooms, kitchens, and family rooms.

Indoor ramps for the bathroom, kitchen, bedrooms, and living rooms are usually shorter than outdoor ramps. That’s why building a ramp for a shed or putting a wheelchair ramp over steps tends to have a higher price tag. More materials are usually required to navigate lengthy outdoor areas. If you’re interested in building a ramp over steps outside or installing a handicap deck ramp, your installer would need to make recommendations based on the weather in your region and what sort of deck ramp would last the longest.

Outdoor Ramps

Indoor and outdoor ramps differ in the materials used for their construction. The materials used to build an outdoor ramp should be able to withstand all weather conditions. It is also important to make sure that the ramp will be safe and usable at all times. For instance, water should not accumulate on the ramp’s walking surfaces during rain. Pressure-treated wood, concrete, aluminum, and galvanized steel are good choices for outdoor ramps.

The height of the deck with a wheelchair ramp would influence the final project cost. These ramps need to be as low as possible for safety and would likely be more expensive than an interior ramp. A driveway or front porch ramp is typically built with wood, aluminum, or steel to ensure a sturdy construction that can handle the elements.

In addition to a wheelchair ramp for a porch, many homes also need a ramp for garage steps. You can have permanent garage entrance ramps custom made of wood or metal, or if a cheaper garage threshold ramp works for your stairs, this is a popular solution to start with.

ADA Ramp Requirements

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) provides certain codes and guidelines for installing ramps. ADA guidelines for ramps are some of the most important ramp specifications to consider for your home safety improvement. These guidelines are required for ramps on public property and commercial buildings such as nursing homes and care centers. Though most homeowners are technically not required to adhere to these standards when building a ramp for private residential use, they are recommended and serve as an excellent reference point for wheelchair ramp design plans. Plus, these requirements impact the cost of ramp installation if certain weight capacity, landing size, and length/vertical rise must be achieved. Your contractor can help you further navigate these requirements and make your ramp as ADA compliant as possible.

ADA Ramp Railing Requirement

ADA requirements for ramp railings recommend that each handrail is installed within 34 to 38 inches from the surface. Rails are required for ramps that rise six inches or more or are more than 72 inches long. They need to be on both sides to ensure adequate safety for all wheelchair users and anyone helping them.

ADA Ramp Width Requirement

ADA guidelines also detail how wide ramps should be to accommodate wheelchairs properly. Generally, ramps should be no less than 36 inches wide. They can be much wider if space allows it. Level landings must be at the top and bottom of the ramp, with at least 60 inches of length and the same width as the ramp itself.

Turns and Runs Requirements

Depending on the design of the house, some ramps may require turns or runs, especially if it’s a longer ramp spanning a taller height. For example, driveway and front porch ramps are more likely to have turns and runs than short ramps for different rooms in the house. It depends on your home layout. Each turn platform needs to be at least 5 feet by 5 feet to accommodate turning wheelchairs. The ADA requires a rest or turn platform for every 30 feet of wheelchair ramp. Rest and turn platforms can be placed at shorter intervals along the ramp to increase safety and stability.

ADA Ramp Slope Requirement

While installing any ramp, always use the least possible slope. This means that you should build the longest ramp that can be constructed in that space. A ramp with a low slope has many advantages. Not only is it easier to climb, but there is also less danger of falling backward. It is safer to use a ramp during bad weather like rain or snow if the slope is not steep. The ADA recommends that the slope of a ramp in new construction should not exceed 1:12. The maximum rise for any run should not be more than 30 inches.

ADA Ramp Landing Requirement

The landing at the bottom and top of each ramp should be as wide as the ramp leading to it and have a minimum length of 60 inches. A level landing at the top helps the user to stop and open the door. A level landing at the bottom is necessary to prevent the user from veering off the course when making a turn. If the ramp changes direction at the landing, the landing size should be at least 60 inches by 60 inches. Sometimes, when the ramp is too long (longer than 30 feet), you have to build a level resting platform in the middle to help the user take a break.

Weight

Ramps are specifically designed for the type of weight they are intended to support. For example, some ramps are built only for manually operated wheelchairs, while some are meant only for electric wheelchairs. Talk to your contractor about how you intend to use the ramp so that he can design it accordingly.

Handrails

Disabled ramps with handrails are generally safer than those without. Ramps with larger dimensions will need guards and rails, likely increasing the total project cost. A ramp with a rise greater than 6 inches or a horizontal projection greater than 72 inches should have handrails on both sides to assist users and prevent accidents. The handrails for ramps for the disabled should be between 34 and 38 inches in height.

Edge Protection

Ramps and landings with drop-offs should have curbs (at least 2 inches), walls, railings, or projecting surfaces to ensure people do not slip or fall off. Side flares are a common choice for adding additional space to a top landing for easier navigation. Contractors will help you design a clear space for the top and bottom of the ramp.

How Do You Calculate the Length of a Ramp

To calculate the length of the ramp needed at your home, you need to measure the total rise from the bottom level to the top level. For example, if the ramp is for your front porch stairs, you need to measure the distance from the pavement to the porch floor. The total rise must be divided by the slope.

The slope measures the steepness of the ramp. For safety, a lower slope is better. The ADA recommends a slope ratio of 1:12 or 8.33%. The slope may be slightly higher or lower based on the wheelchair user, weight, and level of independence.

When in doubt, you should always ask a professional how to determine ramp length for your property. Their measurements will be more precise. They can suggest custom solutions to make your home safely accessible for wheelchairs.

Ramp Insurance

Home ramps are a safety requirement for many residents who have limited mobility or use a wheelchair. The costs of this improvement project can add up, especially if someone is already paying hefty medical bills for their treatment. In some cases, financial assistance may be available for those who need a modular or permanent ramp at home. Below are a few of the main options to consider when financially planning to put a ramp in your home.

Medicare ramp coverage is often the first thing seniors and their families think of when paying for home ramps. This federal program provides health insurance for most adults 65 years and over. For the most part, traditional Medicare policies do not cover residential modifications and equipment upgrades. That’s because wheelchair ramps are covered in Medicare’s Durable Medical Equipment policy, which requires a licensed physician to declare the ramp a medical necessity.

Although older Medicare plans aren’t much help for home ramp installations, some seniors have better luck with the newer Medicare Advantage plans. Some plans cover supplemental benefits such as healthcare items that prevent injury, lower the likelihood of emergency care, or compensate for practical functions. People with metastatic cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, and other forms of dementia and memory loss may qualify for special supplemental benefits through Medicare Advantage to help with home wheelchair ramps and other upgrades.

Medicaid ramps are a possibility for seniors with low income and people affected by a disability. Each state may have different Medicaid policies, but there are regular benefits and long-term nursing home care benefits. There are also waivers through Home and Community Based Services (HCBS). As an entitlement program, regular Medicaid typically only covers wheelchair ramps necessary for medical care. This is highly unusual, and few successful cases have had to go through court. Luckily, many states offer HCBS waivers to help with home modifications and adaptations such as wheelchair ramps.

Assistance for veterans includes the VA’s Cash and Counseling program, in which qualifying veterans select certain services and equipment within their care budget, such as wheelchair ramps. Home Improvement and Structural Alteration (HISA) grants are another option. This funding makes homes more accessible for veterans, whether their disability is due to their active service or normal aging.

Ramp Maintenance

Like any home feature, ramps require maintenance and cleaning to keep them in good condition. Some ramps need more maintenance depending on the material. For example, a wooden ramp is susceptible to water damage. A metal ramp may experience rust over the years. That’s why waterproofing and rustproofing are important, especially for these two materials.

Cleaning and maintenance depend on the material, so check with your ramp installers for their most up-to-date recommendations. Most ramps can be swept clean or vacuumed regularly to get rid of dirt and slip hazards. Hoses can be used to clean outdoor ramps when not in use.

In addition to cleaning, you should also watch for any sagging, rotting, or loose bolts on your ramp. Generally, you can evaluate this yourself, but if you have questions or think there is something seriously wrong with your ramp, it’s best to get the professionals involved to inspect it.

Ramp Alternatives

While wheelchair ramps are a worthwhile investment for many homeowners and families who need to safely navigate around the house, there are several alternatives to think about, such as wheelchair or scooter stairlifts. Similar to the lifts used in vans but with a special design for the higher heights of home stairs, these lifts are less expensive than the shorter and straighter staircase. On average, a home stairlift installation will cost between $4,000 and $8,000.

An even more expensive option is a home elevator, which averages around $35,000 to $50,000. The significant expense includes all the electrical and mechanical work required to ensure a safe elevator. While elevators are arguably the most attractive and convenient, ramps or stairlifts are much more budget-friendly while still offering a safe, reliable accessibility solution.

Custom vs Modular Ramps

Modular ramps are usually less expensive than custom ramps, starting around $400 and going up to $3,000 or more depending on the size and type. Modular ramps function as fixed ramps but can be disassembled, moved, and set up again. They are generally made of lightweight aluminum, require low maintenance, and are ideal for temporary or semi-permanent use. In most cases, you will not need a building permit to install a modular ramp. This kind of ramp usually comes in several pieces for your contractor to put together, a process that takes less time than installing a more permanent ramp.

While you can usually purchase modular ramps on the lower end of the price scale, custom wheelchair ramps tend to be more expensive, as with most specially designed home projects. Expect to pay between $1,400 and $3,000 on average for a personalized ramp to suit your property. Custom ramps are built by a contractor to meet a client’s specific needs and are usually permanent. Common materials used in the construction of custom ramps include wood, concrete, and metal.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Ramp Lighting

Since normal porch lights or street lights may not provide adequate visibility, you may want to consider hiring an electrician ($40 to $100 per hour) to install additional ramp light fixtures. In-deck LED ramp lights ($45 to $75 per eight-piece box) may be a good option.