Concrete ramps have been the solution for mobility challenges for years, but are fast being overtaken by their counterpart, recycled rubber ramps.
Ramps are important and sometimes vital in certain situations, especially when it comes to assisting and increasing the mobility of elderly and disabled people. Ramps can also be used in commercial spaces to access elevated surfaces and minimize the risk of injuries and accidents.
Sometimes it can be difficult to determine which ramp is better suited to your space, so we have outlined some differences below to assist you in making your decision.
Concrete Vs. Rubber
As the name suggests, concrete ramps are small slabs of concrete, constructed to increase mobility and accessibility in a space. Although strong and solid, it may fracture or break down due to temperature change, or expansion and contraction.
Rubber ramps are the modern version of concrete ramps, often made from recycled tyres, and are known for their durability, flexibility and portability.
Installation
Rubber ramps are easily installed and removed, and are more labor-friendly, whereas concrete ramps are far more difficult to construct and cannot be moved without a significant amount of work. Rubber ramps can also be made according to the requirements and specifications of the area, being able to be cut and fit to doorways and openings, whereas it is much more difficult to manipulate concrete ramps accordingly.
Concrete ramps are great for spaces like large warehouses or zones where large trucks and forklifts are needed and there are standard dimensions to work with. Whereas rubber ramps are easily adaptable and suited for many smaller circumstances as they can be cut and fitted to suit any scenario.
Durability & Safety
Rubber ramps are perfect for temporary modifications but are durable enough to last for many years with little maintenance. They provide a highly superior slip resistance, which is critical to the use of the product in areas such as nursing homes and care facilities where they are used to assist elderly and disabled persons. In comparison, concrete ramps are very slippery in nature when wet, unless grip tapes are applied.
Rubber ramps, although they provide a firm, solid surface are also flexible and lend to a more comfortable transition between floors, compared to concrete ramps which are hard with no flex at all.
Maintenance
Maintaining your rubber ramp is very simple and can be done using a simple solution of soap and water. Rubber ramps are highly durable and basically maintenance free. Indoor ramps can be vacuumed and mopped as standard floors and outdoor ramps can be hosed down and swept as needed. However, to properly maintain its concrete counterpart, harsher chemicals are needed and it also tends to become discoloured or cracked over time, which can lead to safety hazards as well.
We hope these points will help guide you towards choosing the best solution for your space!
Are you looking for a rubber ramp solution in Australia? Get in touch with us for more information, or advice regarding ramps and other disability modifications.