The short answer
Ramp pricing is driven by length, which is driven by height. Thanks to the safe-slope rule (about one foot of ramp per inch of rise), a low landing needs only a short ramp, while a tall porch can require a long run with switchbacks and level landings. Material matters too: aluminum modular ramps and custom wood ramps sit at different price points and suit different needs.
What drives wheelchair ramp cost
| Factor | Effect on price |
|---|---|
| Height of the entry (rise) | The biggest factor: taller means longer |
| Material: wood vs. aluminum | Wood blends in; aluminum installs fast and is reusable |
| Landings & turns | Switchbacks add material and labor |
| Handrails & finish | Code-compliant rails are essential and included |
Wood or aluminum: which is cheaper?
It depends on time horizon. Aluminum modular ramps install fast, need no maintenance, and can be reconfigured or removed later. Custom wood ramps cost more to build but look residential and are often preferred for permanent installations. We help you pick based on how long you’ll need it and the look you want.
When a lift beats a ramp
For a high entry where a compliant ramp would be very long, or simply won’t fit the yard, a vertical platform lift can deliver the same barrier-free access in the footprint of a small landing. We’ll run the numbers both ways. Financing is available for larger projects. See our financing page or contact us for a free measurement and quote.