Wheelchair lifts are a great tool for those who rely on wheelchairs to get around. They provide increased independence, convenience, and cost efficiency.

There are several types of lifts, including stairway lifts and vertical platform lifts. Each has its own safety, capacity, and lifting height requirements.

Stairway Lifts

If you have a home with stairs that are not wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair, or your stairs are too steep or narrow for a chairlift, a stairway lift might be the best mobility solution for you. They can be easily installed in a single day and take up minimal space in your home.

Stairway lifts come in a variety of styles and can be easily customized to fit your specific needs. For example, some models have an adjustable seat that allows the user to adjust their seating height for maximum comfort and safety.

A stairlift is considered durable medical equipment (DME) by Medicare and could be covered under a medical insurance plan like Medigap. However, these plans generally only pay a certain amount, so it’s important to talk with your doctor before you start shopping for a stairlift.

In addition to stairlifts, some dealers also offer inclined platform lifts and house wheelchair lifts. These options are usually available for an additional cost.

Vertical Platform Lifts

Vertical platform lifts are an affordable alternative to a wheelchair ramp for accessing elevated locations such as porches, decks, and stages. They can also be used to provide access in commercial buildings.

Cost is largely dependent on the lift’s size and weight capacity. Larger and longer wheelchair lifts are more expensive than smaller and shorter units.

Meeting State/Local Codes & Passing Inspection is another major factor in the cost of a vertical platform lift. For this reason, it’s important to choose a company that will follow proper installation procedures and ensure that the lift meets ADA standards.

Safety features are critical, and they’re typically available with most platform lifts. For example, many models feature tie-downs to keep the lift stationary when not in use and non-slip surfaces for added security. They also include a stop switch on the platform control panel that shuts the lift when an obstruction is detected underneath.

Hoistway Construction

Wheelchair lifts are a great way to increase mobility for anyone who needs help getting up and down the stairs. They are available in a variety of styles and sizes, including ADA-compliant units that fold up when not in use.

Most are installed in a hoistway that is built into the home’s structure, although some models can also be placed within a pit or mechanical room. This allows for a greater range of placement options than a shaftless elevator, while still offering added value to your home.

These are generally the least expensive home elevator options, and they are often used to serve two stops in a hoistway. They are operated with a cable wound around a drum that is attached to an electric motor. They do not require a separate machine room and are typically less noisy than other options.

Installation

Wheelchair lifts are an excellent way to provide wheelchair accessibility in a variety of settings. Whether you’re a property manager, business owner, or just want to make your home more accessible for someone with mobility issues, these devices can make it much easier to get around.

Installing wheelchair lifts is usually a simple process. However, it’s important to prepare the area correctly before you begin assembling.

The first step is to build a sturdy base platform, either concrete or solid wood. If you’re installing the lift outside, you may need to also install drainage.

After you’ve constructed the base, it’s time to assemble the lift itself. This will typically take about 3 to 4 hours, depending on your skill level and the complexity of the lift.