Universal And Green

In lieu of traditional steps, stepless entries and stepless grade changes, in general and when practical, are a very green choice to incorporate into a home improvement project.  Seamless entries that eliminate steps is a sure way to also eliminate a future unnecessary tortuous and wasteful remodel that is a reaction to “aging” and associated challenges or an unexpected life changing event (i.e., temporary or permanent disabling injury).  Designing and building for the possibility/probability of Human Life Cycle changes is simply green forward-thinking.

BEFORE

Traditional ramps replacing existing steps on a home is generally a response to a Human Life Cycle Change (e.g., aging, illness or injury).  Traditional ramps are highly visible and a lower investment up front.  Traditional ramp structures (even the best built) will have a shorter life span when compared to stepless grade changes that are integrated into your landscaping, using bricks, pavers, concrete or similar on-grade building materials.  When selling your home, curb appeal weighs in heavily and a traditional ramp structure may be used against you at the time your home goes on the market, subject to the potential buyer. 

Cost is most always a consideration and what goes unnoticed will, in fact, cost you more up front.  Well constructed stepless grade changes and/or stepless entries are an investment in your property and will last indefinitely, while also making your home more appealing and more marketable to a broader population. 

TRADITIONAL low-cost wheelchair ramp (example).

Driven by budget factors and temporary-use considerations, there is and there will always be a place and a need for traditional wheelchair ramps on many homes.  Do consider however that the bigger investment in stepless entries or stepless grade changes may yield a better return on your investment, long term, while improving your home’s curb appeal and allowing your Human Life Cycle Design upgrades to go unnoticed, by Design; Universal Design.