Porch Lifts

If you or someone you love regularly uses a wheelchair or electric scooter, then you know first hand how difficult it can be to ascend the stairs. To help bridge the gap between different areas, many people choose to install a special type of mini-elevator called a vertical platform lift.

A vertical platform lift is a completely self contained unit that is installed next to a staircase. They are most commonly seen on the front porch of a home and so are called porch lifts. The individual in the wheelchair or mobility scooter must simply drive their mobility vehicle onto the porch lifts lifting platform. Once on the platform the platform lift is activated by a call button that raises or lowers the person vertically the distance of the stairs. Most can support around 500 pounds.
A vertical platform lift can mean the difference in being able to easily and freely leave your home and being stuck indoors or relying on someone to help you down the stairs. While most commonly found outdoors, in some cases these mobility elevators can be installed inside as well. They are often used by schools and churches to allow access to stadium seating or stages. They are also installed in many businesses to ensure ADA compliance.

Most vertical platform lifts are permanently installed to a secure wooden or concrete base. When lifting a distance over 4’ 6”, the lift must also be secured to the side of the stairs. Portable units are also available though. These are most commonly seen at schools or other public areas, because they can quickly be set up in different areas and just as quickly moved.

A vertical platform lift is a device that helps to improve the lives and mobility of many people who use mobility scooters and other types of mobility vehicles.

Vertical Platform Lifts at Home

There are many millions of Americans that rely on a mobility scooter or wheelchair in order to get around. These mobility devices can make it possible to go places like parks or shopping centers. Most of the public areas that you will go on your mobility vehicle will be made to be accessible, but if you can’t make it out the door because of your front steps, then you might not be able to go anywhere.

This is where a vertical platform lift comes in. A vertical platform lift is a mobility aid that can lift a person and their mobility vehicle up and down the stairs. It is installed next to the stairs and depending on the unit and its options some are able to lift at heights of over 12 feet. They are frequently called porch lifts, because it is most common to see them on the front steps of a home.

While these devices are basically personal elevators, they do not require that you build any sort of special shaft or covering for them. They just require a solid base made out of wood or concrete that can support the weight of the unit and its rider. When installing a residential vertical platform lift, you typically do not need any special permits, but in commercial settings it is treated similar to an elevator, so you will need to consult your local building codes.

A quality vertical platform lift is completely weatherproof and able to withstand hot and cold temperatures. Even though a porch lift is very durable and resistant to almost all types of weather, it is still a good idea to cut any overhanging branches. Also if it is installed over an overhang, you will probably want to make sure you have installed gutters over this portion of the home.

Vertical platform lifts provide a great way to retain your ability to use your steps if you use a wheelchair or mobility scooter.

Wheelchair Lifts: Overcoming Obstacles

It is estimated that over 300,000 Americans use wheelchairs due to spinal cord injuries. Well over two million Americans are in wheelchairs for various reasons and many more rely on mobility scooters to move around. This number is rapidly growing every day. For these people who use wheelchairs or mobility scooters, the stairs present an obstacle that, without assistance, is insurmountable. Many of these people that rely on mobility vehicles also rely on vertical platform lifts to use the stairs.

A vertical platform lift is a special type of elevator that is mounted next to a set of steps. They are often called wheelchair lifts, because they are used to lift wheelchairs to the top of the stairs. Almost all of these lifts are designed for outdoor use, but can also be used indoors. The proper placement of these units is important though, and it is a good idea to trim any overhanging branches before installing the lift

These devices are capable of supporting a good deal of weight, and most support at least 500 pounds. Some portable units that are intended to be easily moved can not support quite as much though.

Vertical platform lifts are frequently found in homes, but many businesses also choose to install them, so that they can adhere to ADA regulations and to keep their business handicapped accessible. Commercial lifts are required to follow special codes set forth by the city or state, so if you are installing a commercial lift, you will need to consult your local building code.

These types of lifts are imperative to allow many people access to and from their home. Without them, they might not be able to easily and safely leave the home. In addition because they can be easily operated by the push of a button, it is possible to install a wheelchair lift and retain your freedom and independence.