How to Get a Wheelchair Into a House With Steps (What Wisconsin Homeowners Should Know)
For many homeowners, steps at the entrance of a home aren’t something that gets much thought—until suddenly they become a barrier.
Whether it’s after a surgery, hospital stay, or a change in mobility, getting a wheelchair into a home with steps can quickly become a major challenge.
A question we hear often is:
“How do we safely get a wheelchair into a house with steps?”
The good news is that there are several safe and effective solutions depending on your situation, home layout, and timeline.
Why Steps Become a Problem So Quickly
Even a small set of steps can make it nearly impossible to safely enter or exit a home with a wheelchair.
This often becomes an urgent issue when:
• Someone is being discharged from a hospital or rehab facility
• Mobility has suddenly changed due to injury or illness
• A caregiver is trying to safely assist someone into the home
In these situations, finding the right solution quickly is critical.
Option 1: Wheelchair Ramps
One of the most common and effective solutions is installing a wheelchair ramp.
Ramps create a gradual slope that allows a wheelchair to safely move up and down without navigating steps.
When a Ramp Works Best
A ramp is often the best option when:
• The height of the steps is relatively low
• There is enough space for proper ramp length
• A long-term solution is needed
Important Consideration
Ramps require space.
A general guideline is:
For every inch of rise, about 12 inches of ramp length is needed.
So even a few steps can require a longer ramp than expected.
Option 2: Temporary or Portable Ramps
For short-term needs, temporary ramp solutions can be very helpful.
These are commonly used when:
• Someone is recovering from surgery
• The need is expected to be temporary
• A quick solution is required
Portable ramps can often be installed quickly and removed when no longer needed.
Option 3: Vertical Platform Lifts
For homes where space is limited or the height is significant, a vertical platform lift may be a better option.
These lifts raise and lower a wheelchair vertically, similar to a small elevator.
When a Lift Makes Sense
A lift may be the better solution when:
• The entry height is too high for a ramp
• There is limited space available
• Ease of use is a priority
Option 4: Small Modifications That Can Help
In some cases, smaller modifications can improve accessibility:
• Adding grab bars near entry points
• Adjusting thresholds
• Improving lighting and footing
While these may not replace a ramp or lift, they can improve safety.
What About “Quick Fix” Solutions?
Families sometimes try temporary workarounds like:
• Lifting the wheelchair manually
• Using makeshift boards or surfaces
• Attempting unsafe transfers
These approaches can increase the risk of injury for both the individual and the caregiver.
Safe, stable solutions are always the better choice.
How to Choose the Right Solution
The best option depends on:
• Height of the steps
• Available space
• Budget
• Whether the need is temporary or long-term
In many cases, a quick home assessment can identify the safest and most practical solution.
Accessibility Solutions in Southeast Wisconsin
Four Corners Mobility provides:
Serving:
• Waukesha
• Milwaukee
• Brookfield
• New Berlin
• Oconomowoc
• surrounding Southeast Wisconsin communities
As a locally owned business backed by occupational therapy expertise, we focus on practical, real-world solutions that help people stay safe and independent at home.
Request a Free Home Safety Assessment
If you're trying to figure out how to safely get a wheelchair into your home, we’re happy to help.
📞 262-207-4219
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest way to get a wheelchair into a house?
For most homes, a properly installed wheelchair ramp is the simplest and most cost-effective solution.
How long does ramp installation take?
Many ramp systems can be installed in just a few hours depending on the setup.
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