Start with the entrance you'll actually use every day. Many Surrey homes sit a few steps up from grade, and split-level and rancher layouts are common across neighbourhoods like Fleetwood, Guildford, and Cloverdale. A good installer measures the total rise, then plans a gentle slope (roughly 1:12) with level landings at the top and bottom so nobody has to fight gravity while turning a wheelchair or walker. If the rise is high, expect a switchback with a resting platform rather than one long, steep run.
Rain drives most of our advice here. Surrey gets a lot of it, so prioritize a non-slip surface, good drainage, and sturdy handrails on both sides. Aluminum ramps handle our wet winters well and won't rot or warp the way untreated wood can. For older homes with settling foundations or soft ground, ask how the ramp will be anchored so it stays level over time.
Our honest recommendation for most families: go modular rather than a permanent poured or framed build. Modular ramps install quickly, adjust as needs change, and can be removed and resold later, which matters if this is for a temporary recovery or if you may sell the home. The trade-off is that a modular aluminum ramp usually costs more up front than a basic wood one, and some people find it less "built-in" looking. We think the flexibility and low maintenance are worth it in our climate. If the ramp is permanent and the budget is tight, a well-built wood ramp with proper treatment and drainage is a fair second choice.
Whatever you choose, hire a licensed, insured installer with real senior and accessibility experience, not a general handyman. Ask about warranty on both the ramp and the workmanship, and how fast they respond if a handrail loosens or a section shifts. In our experience, the companies that ask about your parent's mobility and daily routine before quoting are the ones worth calling back.
