3 Things to Consider When Selecting a Contractor for Your Wood Handicap Ramp

We have to admit that there are just some things that we may not build by ourselves. In efforts of trying to save money and also to have a sense of fulfillment, people always look towards DIY instructions to their projects done. It works for some people, and for some it doesn’t. In the case of Wood Handicap Ramps, although that you can definitely build them on your own, this article is intended for those who doesn't want to, or cannot build the project by themselves. This article features 3 major things to consider when selecting a contractor for your Wood Handicap Ramps.

1. License and Compliance – The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) imposes strict guidelines for design of handicap ramps to ensure the safety of any wheelchair operator who will use it. It is imperative that you check if they have the proper licenses to construct such project. It's also a good idea to do your homework and check back on how they fair in terms of compliance with safety standards in building handicap ramps by checking on they previous projects. Having a quick chat with their previous clients as a referral or testimony would be good if you are up for it.

2. Ask for a Mock up/Scale Model – Describe in detail how you want your ramp be designed. It is important that you and your contractor see eye to eye on how the project is going to be constructed. From materials to safety features, everything should be discussed as detailed as possible. Providing pictures of the location, on site visits and sample plans will help your contractor come up with a design that will both meet what you need and as well as the safety guidelines for the ramp. Once the design is finished, ask for a scale model or mock-up so that you would know how your ramp would look like in the contractors' perspective.

3. Budget – After everything is discussed and the design is laid down for you to see, the next thing that you have to consider is how much they would charge for the project. Talking to several contractors would be ideal so that you would have more options. All you need to do is choose the contractor who can provide balance in quality and cost. If you have a good budget for the project, might as well spend it on other things that can improve the project as a whole. You can allocate what you can save and have additional safety and maintenance features for the ramp, like installing heat plates to melt the ice on the ramp in winter. Your projected cost will also determine how much you would be paying for the permit. On the other hand, if your budget is lower than what they charge, be honest with them so that they can adjust the costing and still meet safety guidelines. Never compromise the security and safety for lower cost, it would defeat the purpose.

Getting a good contractor for your wood ramp is crucial for the success of the project. With the contractor meeting all 3 mentioned would also give you a feeling of assurance that your project is in good hands.