Modular Wheelchair Ramps: What to Consider Before Installation
September 23, 2025

Every home is different, and every accessibility solution should be too. Modular wheelchair ramps are designed to adapt to your unique layout, whether you are working with a tall front porch, a narrow side entry, or limited yard space.
Choosing the right ramp means looking beyond the steps in front of you. It is about planning for safety, comfort, and long-term use.
At APA Medical, we have been installing ramps across the Twin Cities for more than twenty years. Our team helps families and case managers consider the details that make a ramp not only functional but practical for daily life.
Making your home more accessible
Even if your home has only a few steps, they can be a barrier for anyone using a wheelchair, walker, or scooter. Modular ramps provide reliable access indoors and outdoors so you can move between spaces safely and comfortably.
Smaller options, like thresholds or folding ramps, can help with quick transitions, while modular systems offer more permanent solutions for main entryways.
Four questions to ask before adding a modular ramp
When planning for a ramp, keep these key considerations in mind:
1. How much space is available?
Property lines, landscaping, or a narrow lot may limit the location of a ramp. In some cases, a side or back entry may provide the best solution.
2. How high is the entry?
Ramp length depends on the height of your doorway. Following ADA guidelines, a safe slope is one inch of rise for every 12 inches of ramp length. A taller porch may require a longer or U-shaped ramp.
3. Does the ramp need a landing?
Long ramps may need flat resting platforms to make climbing easier. These landings provide a safe place to pause before continuing up or down.
4. Is there enough light at night?
A ramp should be easy to see and use after dark. Adding porch or pathway lighting improves safety, especially if the ramp is on the side or back of your home.
Thinking through these questions now will help ensure your ramp is sized correctly, installed properly, and ready for long-term use.
Ramp options to fit your needs
APA Medical installs two dependable modular ramp systems:
- Aluminum ramps: Lightweight, maintenance-free, high-traction surfaces with an 800-pound capacity and a lifetime warranty.
- Steel ramps: Powder-coated for durability, with the same 800-pound capacity and modular flexibility. Steel ramps include a three-year warranty.
Both systems can be configured to fit unique layouts, giving you a reliable solution for your home.
Rental options
If you only need a ramp for a short time, rentals are available. Many families choose this option for temporary recovery. If you later decide to purchase, your first month’s rental fee is applied toward the final cost.
Coverage and assistance
Modular ramps are considered durable medical equipment (DME) and may be covered through Medicaid Waiver programs if a physician declares them medically necessary. APA Medical can help you review eligibility and guide you through the process.
Get started with APA Medical
A modular ramp is an investment in safety and independence, but more importantly, it is about making your home work for you. APA Medical can evaluate your space, explain your options, and install a ramp that gives you reliable access every day.
Call APA Medical at 612-722-9000 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and find the right modular wheelchair ramp for your home.