The first question is how high the entry is, because that sets the ramp length. A gentle slope needs more length than most families expect, so a few steps can mean a ramp that wraps along the house or switches back with a landing. Ask installers to measure the rise and sketch the layout before quoting. Ramps for wheelchairs also need level landings at the door and at each turn.
Burlington's weather and lots matter. Winter brings snow, freezing rain and salt, so choose a surface that sheds water and stays grippy, and ask how it'll be cleared. Aluminum doesn't rot and handles salt well. Narrow lots near downtown can make space tight between the house and the driveway, so a side or back entrance may work better. Check whether the city needs a permit for a permanent structure near the property line.
Prioritize installers who build wheelchair ramps for seniors regularly, not just decks. Look for handrails on both sides, edge protection so wheels can't roll off, and a non-slip surface. Ask about the warranty, and whether they'll come back to adjust it if the ground shifts after a thaw. Response time matters if something breaks in January.
Our default recommendation is a modular aluminum ramp from an accessibility installer. It goes in quickly, can be reconfigured, and can be removed or resold later. A custom wood or concrete ramp blends in better with the house, but the trade-off is a longer build and more upkeep. Burlington has a small number of ramp specialists, so families often compare Hamilton and Oakville installers too, shown nearby. An installed ramp may qualify for the federal Home Accessibility Tax Credit.