PortaWalk's Prefabricated Steel Ramps vs. Aluminum, Wood & Concrete Wheelchair Ramps
Back to product info
The table below shows specifications for various types of access ramps on the market.
We encourage you to compare the different types of handicap ramps that are available and see the facts for yourself. We want to help make your decision to use our prefabricated steel ramps and sidewalk connections quick and easy without deciding for you. YOU make the choice.
For more information, or to speak with a PortaWalk Sales Representative about the benefits of our customizable modular access ramps, feel free to contact us.
| ALUMINUM |  |
WOOD / CONCRETE | BENEFITS OF PORTAWALK |
| Usually most expensive solution due to the cost of materials and shipping expense. | Most affordable solution due to type of material and ability to re-use whenever building relocates or your needs change. | Costly whenever building relocates due to tearing down, disposal cost, and reconstruction. | Cost |
| Installation time consuming and complex. Purchaser responsible for installation. ADA & TAS compliant. | No assembly required and easy to install. Service techs available if needed. ADA & TAS compliant. | Construction required and is a lengthy process. Customer responsible for ADA & TAS compliance. | Ease |
| Retrofitting in most cases but configuration limited. | Retrofitting design allowing multiple configurations for use in portable classrooms, modular offices, pre-existing and permanent structures, residential applications, and historical buildings. | Not applicable since wood and concrete systems require reconstruction every time your building is relocated. | Multiple Applications |
| Reusable. More difficult to modify configuration. | Reusable and portable for relocation by customer or PortaWalk staff. Easily modified each time it is moved for various configurations. | Wood and Concrete systems cannot be reused. Must be torn down, disposed of, and reconstructed each time your building relocates. | Re-use |
| Lead times are usually longer due to out of state shipment. | Lead times are within 2-10 working days. Emergency service available with 24-48 hour turn around. | Lead times are unpredictable, vary with each contractor, and are subject to weather conditions. | Lead Times |
| Walking surfaces are marginal in adverse conditions. | Epoxy anti-skid walking surface helps prevent slippage and provides added safety. | Unpredictable walking surface in wet conditions. Splinters contribute to unsafe conditions and personal hazards. | Safety |
| Legs are not infinitely adjustable and are somewhat obtrusive. | PortaWalk legs adjust readily for varying grade conditions to accommodate all building heights. | Not applicable since system does not adjust. | Adjustable |
| Aluminum ramps are susceptible to wobbling and lack sturdiness underfoot. Material frequently targeted by thieves for its resale value. | Made of durable steel and material not targeted by thieves. | Not sturdy. Wood rails are susceptible to warping, separations, and splinters. Requires continual weather treatment for preservation. | Durability |