The Difference between Wooden and Aluminum Modular Wheelchair Ramps
Updated on: January 20th, 2026
Wooden vs. Aluminum Wheelchair Ramps
Because modular wheelchair ramps are large purchases and a considerable investment, homeowners and caregivers understandably look for ways to reduce the cost of setting up ramp solutions. One factor that comes up a lot with our customers is the question of whether it's better to build or buy a wooden wheelchair ramp instead of purchasing a modular aluminum handicap ramp. It's a valid question, and there are pros and cons to both.
If you would like to learn more about wheelchair ramps and all of the additional factors that go into finding the best solution for your specific scenario and needs, please see our article on How to Choose the Correct Wheelchair Ramp.
Aluminum Wheelchair Ramps for Lower Maintenance
Unlike wood, aluminum ramp systems are not always permanent. Most aluminum ramps come in a modular design, which means they can be changed or customized after you have a system installed. You can purchase individual components, like ramp, stair, platform, or handrail sections to design a custom ramp that can be altered to fit your requirements. Aluminum ramps are also usually cheaper than wooden ramps and set up is easy. Aluminum ramps do not require a lot of maintenance and many ramps have built in traction surfaces. Aluminum ramps are more prone to dents, and the silver metallic finish doesn’t discreetly blend into the surroundings.
Pros of a Modular Aluminum Ramp System
- Lower maintenance
- Semi-permanent; can be moved or removed
- No risk of rotting, insects, mold or mildew
- Installation is simple with most lines
- No building or construction needed
- Built-in surface traction
Wooden Wheelchair Ramps for Warmer Aesthetics
It's hard to resist the warm appeal of a wooden wheelchair ramp, however the time and cost requires to build one can be prohibitive compared to an aluminum modular system. Because of the natural composition of wood, a wooden ramp system much be treated similar to a deck in that it will require regular maintainence. Annually or biannually, restaining or repainting will be required, and there is a risk of attracting insects, mold and mildrew as with any other wood product. In climates with inclement weather, wooden ramps may also be slippery and require additional traction for safe use.
Pros of a Wooden Ramp System
- Lower cost, depending on lumber prices
- Paint or stain to match your home
- Permanent structure
- Can be built to exact specifications
| Inquiry | Treated Wooden Ramps | Aluminum Modular Ramps |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $$ | $$$ |
| Experience Required | Requires a contractor to customize a system to your home or facility | Can be installed with a few tools by hand |
| Additional Needs | Footings required | No concrete footings or pads required |
| Installation Time | About two days | Depends on the system, ranges from 30 minutes to a few hours. For example, a 24' system can be installed in 30 minutes. |
| Maintenance | Requires regular maintenance to prevent rotting | Minimal maintenance, but more prone to denting |
| Traction | Traction surface must be applied separately | Traction surface built into the surface |
| Finish | Requires yearly treatment | No paint or stain needed |
| Permanence | Permanent Installation | Can be disassembled |
| Adjustability | Cannot be modified or adjusted | Can be altered after installation |
| Aesthetics | Blends into surroundings, more discreet | Metallic finish does not blend in as well as wood |
Both wooden and aluminum wheelchair ramps can be customized and installed to be ADA compliant. Aluminum ramps will be lighter, and easier to maintain. If you know someone who is skilled in woodworking, a wooden ramp can be a great lower cost alternative, but will require more upkeep. If you don’t know a carpenter or woodworker, hiring a contractor out for installation gets costly.
Before making a final purchase, consult and determine your individual home needs and home owner’s association rules, or business requirements. No matter your choice, a quality wheelchair ramp system will provide the freedom and independence to easily navigate in and out of your home or office.
Frequently Asked Questions About Permanent Handicap Ramps
Are aluminum ramps better than steel ramps?
Honestly, no. Aluminum is one of the most common metals used to manufacture wheelchair ramps because it's lighter to ship and install, holds up well in almost any environment including snow and salty air, and can easily meet the same weight capacity that a steel ramp can.
Does Medicare cover access ramps?
Yes, in certain scenarios. Some Medicare Advantage plans will cover the cost of a wheelchair ramp if it's needed to prevent injury or reduce need for emergency care. Wheelchair ramps are considered Durable Medical Equipment, which qualifies them to be reimbursable under Medicare if used for medical purposes/deemed medically necessary by a physician.
What could I use instead of a wheelchair ramp?
Installing an outdoor stairlift is one way to skip installing a permanent wheelchair ramp.