Our Complete Guide to Semi-Permanent Wheelchair Access
Portable, threshold, and installed ramps are familiar terms in the ramping world. But what about semi-permanent access?
Semi-permanent wheelchair access avoids the disruption of full installation projects and achieves a leave-in-place solution that’s still relocatable if needed. The Permaramp range is designed specifically for this purpose: strong, safe, and adaptable ramps that can be reused elsewhere.
With solutions for thresholds, steps, handrails and bariatric needs, Permaramp makes it easy to find the right ramp for your access challenge.
How to Choose the Right Semi-Permanent Ramp
For wooden thresholds
- Best choice: Permaramp-Original
- Why: Fix straight into the threshold for a secure ramp solution.
- Options:
- Bariatric use → choose the 90cm wide version
- Extra safety → add Quickrail handrails
For uPVC thresholds
- Best choice: Permaramp-Adjust
- Why: Self-supporting design avoids fixing into the threshold, so there’s no damage. Adjustable telescopic legs accommodate different threshold heights.
- Options:
- Bariatric use → choose the 90cm wide version
- Bridging directly inside → add the Entry Flap accessory
- Extra safety → add Quickrail handrails
For multiple steps or higher rises
- Best choice: Permaramp-High Rise
- Why: Covers heights from 10ft to 16ft with a safe gradient. Despite its reach, it’s quick and easy to install.
- Options:
- Bariatric use → choose the 90cm wide version
- Bridging directly inside → add the Entry Flap accessory
- Extra safety → add Quickrail handrails
For extra safety & support
- Best choice: Any Permaramp with Quickrails
- Why: Handrails provide added security and confidence, and are recommended wherever possible. Quick to install, and available in 4 colours: Graphite, Safety Yellow, Garden Green, and Heritage Brown.
For Bariatric users:
- Best choice: The 90cm wide option (available across the range).
- Why: Wider surface for extra stability and safe access.
For bridging directly into the property:
- Best choice: Add the Entry Flap accessory (works with Adjust and High Rise).
- Why: Smooth transition over door frames or thresholds.
Accessories & Customisation
- Quickrails: add safety, support, and colour choice
- Entry Flap: bridges into the property smoothly
- 90cm wide option: bariatric solution available across the range
How steep should the ramp be?
Ramp gradients must always be safe and sensible. 1:12 and 1:15 are common gradients required by social services and local authorities for independent access. If you are unsure about the gradient needed for your semi-permanent wheelchair access ramp, please contact our team of technical advisors. Its good to note that Building Regulations don’t apply to Semi-Permanent ramps.
How long should the Semi-Permanent ramp be?
The ramp length is dependent on the height required to ramp up or down, and the gradient required for safe and sensible access. Remember: the longer the ramp, the easier the slope.
Follow these steps and use our handy guide to choose the ramp length. If you are unsure on what gradient is safe and sensible for you or your clients, contact our team of trusted assessors for free advice, they are here to support you. You can also use our Free Ramp Gradient Calculator Tool too.
- Measure the step height and level difference (Total height of steps, or height to the resting point on the vehicle)
- Use the Ramp Length Guide below
| Step height / level difference (up to) | Length at 1:6 | Length at 1:8 | Length at 1:12 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10cm (4”) | 60cm (2’) | 80cm (2’ 8”) | 120cm (4’) |
| 15cm (6”) | 90cm (3’) | 120cm (4’) | 180cm (6’) |
| 20cm (8”) | 120cm (4’) | 160cm (5’ 4”) | 240cm (8’) |
| 25cm ( 10”) | 150cm (5’) | 200cm (6’ 8”) | 300cm (10’) |
| 30cm (1’) | 180cm (6’) | 240cm (8’) | 360cm (12’) |
| 45cm (1’ 6”) | 270cm (9’) | 360cm (12’) | 540cm (18’) |
| 60cm (2’) | 360cm (12’) | 480cm (16’) | 720cm (24’) |
Installing your Permaramp
Permaramp Semi-Permanent Ramp’s are designed to be quick and easy to install for end-users, mobility dealers, and our installation team. Our expert team of Trusted Advisors install Permaramps nationwide, with ramps ready in as little as 30 minutes! If you would like to install the Permaramp Semi-Permanent Ramp yourself, instructions will be provided with the ramp. Why not watch our Permaramp Quickrail Video below?
Maintenance for your Permaramp
Our range of semi-permanent wheelchair access ramps have unique Gripdeck surface for incredible grip and sustained outside use. The ramps may be cleaned with normal cleaning products. The maximum recommended cleaning temperature is 50°C. If the ramps become damaged or slippery, they should not be used. Please contact us for for further advice in the unlikely event that this occurs.
Get in touch
The Permaramp range offers practical, reusable, semi-permanent solutions for almost every wheelchair access need — from tricky uPVC thresholds to high rises and bariatric use. With customisable accessories and simple installation, it’s a flexible alternative for fully installed ramps.
Still unsure which ramp is right for you? Get in touch with us, and we’ll recommend the best option for your situation.
Call us on: 020 8275 0375
Email us at: sales@enable-access.com

