Virtually maintenance free

Requires regular maintenance

Will not rot or rust

Subject to decay

Easy assembly with minimal tools

Requires hiring a contractor
or carpenter

No building permit required

Requires permit

Ramp can be easily expanded, reconfigured or moved

Configuration can be changed through demolition and reconstruction

An asset that can be reused,
 resold or rented

No resale value. Can actually
lower resell value of home

24' system with handrails set up
in less than 30 minutes

Typically 2 days

No environmental impact

Can have potentially dangerous chemicals or applied treatments