Winter Care for Aluminum Wheelchair Ramps

Quick answer: Keep an aluminum wheelchair ramp safe in winter by shoveling snow promptly, sweeping the tread surface clean, and using a magnesium chloride ice melt on any remaining ice. EZ-ACCESS aluminum ramps need little other maintenance: the metal thaws faster than wood or concrete, and the extruded skid-resistant surface won't peel or chip from shoveling.

Do aluminum ramps need special winter maintenance?

Very little. Because of their modular design and aluminum construction, EZ-ACCESS ramp systems need little or no maintenance to deliver years of trouble-free use. Winter is the one season that calls for extra attention, and the reason is the same for every ramp material: snow and ice on a walking surface become slippery, especially when conditions turn icy or wet.

The manufacturer's guidance is simple: treat your aluminum ramp the way you would treat any other outdoor walking surface in winter weather.

How to clear snow and ice from a wheelchair ramp

1. Shovel accumulated snow. Clear snow from the ramp runs, landings, and the transition at the top and bottom before it packs down.
2. Sweep the tread surface clean. A stiff broom removes the thin layer shoveling leaves behind and exposes the skid-resistant surface.
3. Apply ice melt if needed. A magnesium chloride salt substitute can be used to melt snow or ice that has built up on the ramp.
4. Check again before use. Melting and refreezing can leave new ice, so look over the surface before each use in freezing weather.

What ice melt is safe for an aluminum ramp?

EZ-ACCESS recommends a magnesium chloride salt substitute for melting snow and ice on its modular aluminum ramps. Magnesium chloride ice melts are sold at local retailers, hardware stores, and building centers during the winter season. Follow the product label for application rates.

Note: EZ-ACCESS and Express Ramps do not endorse any specific ice melt brand.

Aluminum vs. wood vs. concrete ramps in winter

Ramp material makes a real difference once temperatures drop. Aluminum's metal construction lets the tread surface thaw faster than other materials. Wood and concrete absorb moisture, which then freezes inside and on the surface, making those ramps harder to keep clear as the weather gets colder.

Will shoveling damage the ramp's anti-slip surface?

No. The skid-resistant surface on EZ-ACCESS modular ramps is extruded into the aluminum itself, not applied on top. It won't be damaged or peel during winter shoveling and routine maintenance, unlike grit tape or painted anti-slip surfaces that can lift, tear, or wear away.

Winter ramp safety checklist

• Shovel snow as soon as practical, before it compacts into ice.
• Sweep the tread surface after shoveling.
• Use magnesium chloride ice melt on remaining snow or ice.
• Clear landings and the ramp's top and bottom transitions, not just the runs.
• Keep handrails free of snow and ice so they can be gripped safely.
• Inspect the surface before every use in freezing or wet conditions.
• Use caution at all times: winter is hard on all outdoor mobility.

Winter is challenging for everyone who moves around outdoors, and especially for people who rely on a ramp. Proper upkeep of the ramp surface is essential to its safe use.

Frequently asked questions

How do I keep my wheelchair ramp from getting icy?

Shovel snow promptly, sweep the tread surface clean, and apply a magnesium chloride ice melt to any remaining snow or ice. Check the ramp before each use, since melted snow can refreeze.

Can I use ice melt on an aluminum wheelchair ramp?

Yes. EZ-ACCESS recommends a magnesium chloride salt substitute for melting snow and ice on its aluminum modular ramps. These products are available at hardware stores and building centers in winter.

Are aluminum ramps better than wood ramps in snow?

For winter upkeep, yes. Aluminum thaws faster and doesn't absorb moisture. Wood and concrete absorb water that freezes, which makes them harder to keep clear in cold weather.

Can I shovel an EZ-ACCESS ramp without damaging it?

Yes. The skid-resistant surface is extruded into the aluminum, so it won't peel or be damaged by shoveling and routine maintenance, unlike grit tape or painted surfaces.

Does an aluminum ramp need maintenance the rest of the year?

Very little. EZ-ACCESS aluminum modular ramps are designed to need little or no maintenance for years of trouble-free use. Winter snow and ice removal is the main upkeep task.