Rubber vs Aluminium vs Timber Wheelchair Ramps: Which Is Right for You?
- Australian Made
- 100% Recycled Rubber
- No Drilling Required
- NDIS Registered
When you need a disability ramp, one of the first decisions is which material to choose. Rubber, aluminium, and timber are the three most common options in Australia, and each has distinct advantages depending on your situation. This guide provides an honest comparison to help you make the right choice.
Quick Comparison
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | 100% recycled Australian tyre rubber |
| Available gradients | 1:8, 1:10, or custom gradient to suit |
| Maximum height | Custom – we manufacture ramps for any height requirement |
| Width | Custom – made to your exact doorway or transition width |
| Surface | Non-slip textured rubber, safe when wet |
| Installation | No drilling, bolting, or gluing – place and use |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Both – weatherproof and UV resistant |
| Compliance | Manufactured to comply with AS1428.1 |
| Guarantee | 4-year guarantee on all ramps |
| NDIS | NDIS registered provider |
When to Choose Rubber Ramps
Rubber ramps are the best choice when:
- You need to address doorway thresholds, sliding door tracks, or shower hobs (heights typically under 100mm)
- You want a custom-made solution that fits your exact doorway dimensions
- You’re in a rental property and can’t make permanent modifications
- You want a discreet solution that doesn’t look like medical equipment
- You need a ramp in a wet area (bathroom, shower, outdoor entry)
- You want zero maintenance and zero installation effort
Rubber ramps are less suitable for very large height changes (over 100–150mm) or situations where a folding/portable ramp is needed for travel.
When to Choose Aluminium Ramps
Aluminium ramps are the best choice when:
- You need a portable ramp you can fold up and take with you (e.g., for accessing vehicles, public buildings, or travelling)
- You need to address a larger height change (e.g., 2–4 front steps) without permanent construction
- Weight is a consideration – aluminium is significantly lighter than rubber or timber
- You need a temporary solution for an event or short-term access need
Aluminium ramps are less suitable for custom doorway applications (they come in standard sizes), wet areas (the smooth surface can be slippery), and situations where noise or temperature are concerns.
When to Choose Timber Ramps
Timber ramps are the best choice when:
- You need to address a significant height change permanently (e.g., front steps, verandah access)
- Aesthetics are important and you want the ramp to match your home’s exterior
- You own your home and are happy with a permanent installation
- The ramp needs to be longer than 2–3 metres with handrails
Timber ramps are less suitable for rental properties, indoor doorway applications, temporary needs, and anyone who doesn’t want to deal with ongoing maintenance.
Can You Combine Materials?
Absolutely – and many of our clients do. A common approach is to use a timber ramp for the main external entry (front steps) and rubber ramps for all the internal doorways, sliding doors, and bathroom access. This gives you the best of both materials where each is most effective.
At Ramps R Us, we specialise in custom rubber ramps for doorways, thresholds, sliding doors, and bathroom access. If you also need a structural timber or aluminium ramp for larger external steps, we can advise you on the best approach and refer you to trusted builders in our network.
Need Help Deciding?
The best way to determine which ramp material suits your situation is to get a professional assessment. We offer free home assessments across Melbourne where we’ll evaluate every access barrier and recommend the most practical and cost-effective solution for each.
Call 0422 166 173 or email info@rampsrus.com.au to book your free assessment.
Free Home Assessment & Quote
We visit your property, measure every access barrier, and provide a detailed quote – no cost, no obligation.
Free Home Assessment
We come to you, measure every access barrier, and quote – all free.
Why Choose Us
- Custom-made to your exact measurements
- 100% recycled Australian tyre rubber
- No drilling, bolting, or gluing
- AS1428.1 compliant
- NDIS registered provider
- 4-year guarantee
- Free removal if no longer needed
- Made in Mentone, Melbourne