This blog will be helpful for those who are trying to invest in a wheelchair before purchasing one. With many options available in the market, this post will help you get a brief idea about aluminum and steel wheelchairs. Wheelchairs are mostly made of aluminum, steel, or a mix of both. Depending upon your budget and term of use, you can make your choice.
Wheelchairs can give support to people with mobility issues; they help you become independent and also boost your confidence level. Buying a wheelchair can be a task with many options in the market; it can be confusing and overwhelming. To make things a bit clear, we have created a list of things to be considered before investing in the wheelchair:
- Your Weight and Wheelchairs’s weight
- Wheelchair size
- Capacity of wheelchair
- Frequency of use
- Budget
- Availability of spare parts
- Seat materials
- Durability and maintenance
- Portability
Let’s talk about the advantages and disadvantages of both aluminum and steel wheelchairs. To make things clearer.
Aluminum Wheelchair:
Aluminum wheelchairs are known for their lightweightness, because of which it is easy to transport. This feature is particularly beneficial for individuals who lead active lifestyles and need a wheelchair that can keep up with their daily activities. Furthermore, the rust resistance properties of aluminum make it an excellent choice for moisture and a humid environment, ensuring longevity and durability even in challenging conditions. The looks of the aluminum wheelchair can be more appealing and have a modern, contemporary look. It is relatively low-maintenance, requiring less upkeep compared to steel wheelchairs.
The disadvantages of Aluminum Wheelchairs include a lower weight capacity than steel ones, which limits usage for heavier individuals. Costing is another factor to consider, as aluminum wheelchairs tend to be more expensive than steel alternatives. Another disadvantage of aluminum wheelchairs is that they are not as durable as steel wheelchairs. They are more prone to damage, scratches, dents, and structural damage over time.
Lastly, if you are looking for lightweight, stylish wheelchairs and low-maintenance mobility solutions, you can opt for aluminum wheelchairs.
Steel Wheelchair:
Steel wheelchairs are renowned for their excellent durability, stability, and cost-effectiveness. They are one of the common options in a wheelchair. Steel wheelchairs also have a high weight capacity compared to aluminum ones and can be suitable for individuals who are on the heavier side. The cost of steel wheelchairs is relatively more affordable than aluminum. The heavier weight of steel wheelchairs provides increased stability and resistance to tipping, making them suitable for users who require extra balance and support.
While steel wheelchairs come with many benefits, there are some drawbacks. One of the challenges is transport and maneuvering due to its heavy weight. Unlike aluminum, steel is prone to rust and corrosion, particularly in humid or wet environments. Regular maintenance and protective coatings may be necessary to prevent rust damage. The design in steel wheelchairs is more on the traditional side, so if you are looking for something modern, then you may not find more design options.
In summary, steel wheelchairs are the ultimate choice if you want affordability, durability, stability, and weight capacity.
In conclusion, if you are planning to purchase a wheelchair, always seek professional advice from a physical therapist or an occupational therapist. They can provide personalized recommendations based on the user’s medical condition and lifestyle needs.
Water Orthopedics, a leading manufacturer of premium aluminum and steel wheelchairs, offers a diverse range of models tailored to suit every individual’s unique tastes and preferences in design. Along with wheelchairs, we have different mobility equipment available. Browse our website to learn more about our products.
Here is a link to high-quality, lightweight, high-performance aluminum framed wheelchairs manufactured by Water Orthopedics.
Go to this link if you want to learn more details about stable, comfortable, durable, high-quality steel wheelchairs, which Water Orthopedics also designed.
Get in touch with us for more information; click here.