When you decide that you want a handicap accessibility ramp on the exterior of your home or business, one of the first topics that you'll need to think about is the ramp's material. You'll commonly see handicap ramps made of wood and aluminum, and each material provides its own set of advantages. When you hire a company that will build and install your ramp for you, it's a good idea to talk about the pros and cons of both of these materials. Here are some reasons that you might wish to move forward with an aluminum ramp.

It Provides A High Degree Of Traction

One thing that you'll appreciate about an aluminum handicap ramp is that it offers a high degree of traction for those who use it. In virtually every case, you'll find that the ramp itself has a textured design that gives it a slightly rough surface. This texture is integral for providing traction, both for people on wheelchairs and those who are waking with them. Wooden ramps, conversely, may not offer the same degree of traction — especially when they're wet.

It Is Unlikely To Require Maintenance

Another reason that many people choose aluminum for their handicap ramps is that this material won't likely require maintenance. It offers a high degree of longevity, which is ideal if you plan to be in the same home or business for several years. You don't want to worry about regular upkeep jobs for your ramp, which may be something that you face with a wooden ramp. For example, wood requires fresh applications of paint or stain on occasion to keep it looking its best. Additionally, wooden posts can rot over time, which means that you'd need to replace them sometime in the future. Such jobs aren't applicable to an aluminum ramp.

It May Provide Advance Notice Of Peoples' Arrival

When someone in a wheelchair uses an aluminum ramp, you'll often be able to hear the person coming. For example, as he or she travels up the ramp, some of the ramp's sections might shift to a small degree, creating a metal-on-metal sound. This can actually be a reason to choose this material. If you operate a business, you might like the idea of going to the door to open it for the person when you hear him or her moving up the ramp. Wooden ramps may be quieter, which means that you wouldn't get this advance notice.