Vertical platform lifts (also referred to as a “porch lift”, “wheelchair lift” or “wheelchair porch lift”) is a powered machine that is designed to take you vertically from one level to another level. Often times, you see them mentioned in conjunction with a front or back porch, since people can easily use them to get from ground level to the porch of a home.
Vertical platform lifts are much like an elevator, but generally used for shorter vertical distances. (Although, not always the case.) These lifts can be used outside or inside of the home.
A vertical platform lift can be used in many different situations, but are predominantly for:
- Those who have difficulty navigating stairs
- Users of a wheelchair, walker or other mobility device,
These lifts essentially make it so individuals are able to safely navigate a vertical space, without having to use the stairs.
Most people find platform lifts are good options for a home due to its compact size. They take up less space than a handicap ramp, which make them perfect in a home environment. Also, they are easier and more versatile than a home elevator. Please note, that there are typically requirements that have to be met in order to install one of these lifts. We can walk you through those to make getting yours installed efficiently.
We are proud to offer our clients some of the highest quality vertical platform lifts and accessibility products from trusted manufacturers.
More on vertical platform lifts
Residential vertical platform lifts are to help people using a wheelchair, power chair, scooter or other mobility device up and down between the levels of your home. These lifts can be used to traverse heights of up to 10 feet or more.
Forever Home offers consultation and installation of indoor and outdoor vertical platform lifts. There are a wide variety of models available to help meet your specific needs and requirements.
Vertical platform lifts installed inside to assist people who use a wheelchair are commonly referred to as ‘wheelchair lifts’. They can be installed inside the home or the garage. Often, these lifts are chosen to alleviate an unsightly ramp or to accommodate space requirements.
As your thinking about your home, you should know that these lifts require a level concrete pad to be installed on. Typically, a concrete garage floor will do just fine. Of course, a visit from us to review your home and requirements will allow us to assess exactly what your home will require.
Forever Home in Avon, CT has partnered with some of the nation’s top home access equipment manufacturers to ensure your home has exactly what you need. All installers are trained and experienced experts.
Vertical platform lift cost
Typically, a home elevator is much more expensive than a vertical platform lift. Often times, these lifts are priced between $4,500 and $11,000. Where the price falls depends on the manufacturer, model and features. (Installation costs not included.)A platform lift is generally more affordable than a home elevator.
Home elevators can run $30,000 or more (plus installation) and often require extensive remodeling before being installed. In contrast, a home elevator will almost always require remodeling of some kind before even buying the elevator and having it installed. This makes a platform lift a much more affordable option.
Options & Features
Most manufacturers offer a variety of options and features.
When we come to your home for a home accessibility evaluation, we will do an assessment of your current needs, capabilities and home. This allows us to provide you the exact information and configuration you need to know. It allows for an easier installation and ensures your lift provides safe and comfortable use of your new vertical platform lift.
Some of the features you can opt for, include:
- Easy-use gates
- Battery back-ups (for use when power is out)
- Emergency shut-off
- Obstacle sensors with auto-stop
- Load balancing sensors
- Weight detection
Give us a call and we’ll discuss how a vertical platform lift can help you make your home work for you.
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Photo credit: Wynnum Hall – vertical platform lift, Brisbane City Council , CC BY 2.0
