Adding ramps to a home isn’t just for wheelchair users. Many people find that access is easier when a ramp is in place, from those who struggle slightly with steps to anyone trying to move a fridge! In fact, strategically positioned and well-considered ramps add value to homes, making them a more attractive prospect for potential buyers.

Read on to find out our top five benefits of ramp access at home.

First – Know Your Ramps

Before we get into the nitty gritty of ramp benefits, it’s important you know what we mean when we talk about home access ramps. There are different types to choose from:

• Permanent Ramps – This is where a concrete slope is laid to help access from outside, perfect for homes up steep slopes or with step access. They do take up space, but there’s no need for them to look ugly. With a range of modern designs and some beautiful aesthetic choices, a permanent ramp can add convenience and beauty to your home.
• Temporary Ramps – Perfect for short-term or occasional use, temporary ramps are often made from aluminium and can be moved and repositioned as needed.
• Modular Ramps – A modular ramp allows for multiple configurations and reuse of ramps, in a way that suits the needs of the user and the building, providing medium-term access that can be redeployed elsewhere in a different layout if and when needed.

Now that you know your ramps, let’s move on to the benefits of home ramps!

1 – Increased Independence and Mobility

Mobility and access are, of course, the primary reasons for having a ramp, whether at home or elsewhere, but it’s easy to forget the huge impact it can have on that feeling of independence.

Many people can be anxious when confronted by steps, especially if they’ve had a fall before – and often they can be too embarrassed to say anything. As well as providing direct and clear access for wheelchair users, a ramp offers comfort for those who find stairs a little daunting, or struggle with their mobility.

The ramps are empowering, providing safety and security for those with mobility issues, allowing unrestricted access to the home with confidence and dignity.

2 – Improved Safety and Reduced Risk

Ramps are also safer. Steps present a real risk for the elderly and those with mobility challenges, especially when those steps are outside in poorly lit areas, where they can become wet and slippery in the dark.

It’s not just the safety of those with mobility issues, however; ramps help reduce the strain on caregivers and family members who provide assistance to their loved ones. Not having to regularly help someone with stairs or push wheelchairs up steep hills means fewer bad backs or strained muscles.

A ramp provides peace of mind for all, ensuring that, even in an emergency, everyone is able to leave the building safely no matter the hurry.

It is important however, that your ramps are installed by professionals – they need to have the correct incline and surface, or they can actually increase risk and be more hazardous than the stairs they replace! 

3 – Enhanced Accessibility, Both Inside and Out

Without a ramp, many people simply miss out on going outside. Not wanting to be a burden to others, they retreat inside the house without complaint – and the longer time passes while they avoid the stairs, the harder it becomes.

For some, the stress and effort of stairs they were once comfortable with can become a barrier to fresh air and sunshine. Sometimes, friends and family shy away from visiting because they struggle with access into the home – it’s not just the resident who benefits.

Plus, ramps can also help with shopping and deliveries, providing that extra support needed to get a few more bits home. No one wants to face stairs after a trip to the supermarket!

4 – Greater Convenience for Everyone

Ramps aren’t just for wheelchairs – a gentle incline is much better to walk up and down for many.

Consider visitors who may be a little less agile, those with small children pushing buggies and prams, children looking to bring their bicycles from the road, or the shopper who uses a trolley to get a little more from a trip to the shops – they may not be outwardly asking for a ramp, but they all breathe a sigh of happy relief when they see one!

Temporary ramps are an ideal addition if someone is injured – a broken leg or a recent hip replacement can make stairs an insurmountable obstacle; no so the humble ramp. And they’re easily removed once everything is healed.

5 – Aesthetic Appeal and Increased Home Value

Despite an image of cold hard metal, or unsightly grey concrete, good ramps are far from ugly. There are a wide range of modern designs to blend your ramp in with your home exterior or garden, they can be dressed with plants and flowers, with no need for an off-putting utilitarian look.

In fact, thanks to some inspired designs and architectural flourishes, homes with ramps become more appealing than those lacking such universal access.

A ramp is a selling point for a home, providing convenience that many people don’t even realise they want….. until they see how seamless and beautiful it can be!

Boosting your property value, safety, and access in one simple adaptation – the benefits of ramp access at home are clear.

Ramps and the Disabled Facilities Grant

While ramps are a valuable investment to your home, we know that the cost of adapting a property in this way can be considerable – thankfully there is help.

The Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) provides financial support for those who need ramps at home – and the process is simple. After an initial assessment by an occupational therapist, a recommendation will be made to the council for the grant, who will conduct a simple means test to see if you qualify. From there, it’s a simple application form before the contractors are brought out for a site assessment with your occupational therapist to determine where ramps are needed and provide a quote.

It’s a swift process from quote, to grant approval, to the commencement of works – and before you know it, your home will benefit from improved access and greater safety.

We at John Ford Group are a specialised contractor who work with councils and occupational therapists to provide the finest ramp work under the DFG scheme, as well as privately. We pride ourselves on undertaking the home improvements with minimal disruption and the full respect of the residents.

We see first-hand just how valuable ramps can be, enhancing quality of life and providing safety and peace of mind for everyone.

To find out more about us and to see how we can help you improve the access and safety of your home, contact us today.