Vertical Platform Lifts
Vertical Platform Lifts are also known and commonly referred to as VPLs or wheelchair lifts. They can be a great alternative to a ramp when space is an issue or the rise is too great to accommodate a ramp with proper slope. Wheelchair lifts can be installed inside a home, outside or in a garage. They are also available for commercial applications, though our general contractors and elevator license only allows us to work in residential settings when it comes to VPLs. Platform lifts come in various sizes, colors and layouts to best fit in the space. The main components are the tower (the tall part that houses the motor, batteries, electronics and lifting mechanism), the platform (the part you drive your wheelchair on) and the top landing gate (the safety gate or door at the top of the lift that locks and prevents anyone from falling off when the lift is not in the "up" position).
So how much space is really needed for one of these lifts? We like to leave a 5x5' clear area at the bottom of the lift for the person to drive onto the platform and/or turn around if needed. The lift footprint itself is about 5x5', which includes room for the tower and platform dimensions. Finally, we require installation with a 5x5' top landing deck or platform as well. As mentioned earlier, there is a code requirement for an upper landing gate to be tied electronically into the wheelchair lift, so the door remains locked unless the lift is fully in the "up" position. Some clients request that we place the lift right at their doorsill, but this means we have to mechanically lock their entry door into a lift that can become an obstruction in the event of an emergency if the lift were to stop working. With a top landing platform, people can come and go using the entry door as usual and a set of stairs, without having to take the VPL every time. Also, if the wheelchair lift ever stops working, there is still a way out in case of emergency that will not block the egress route. All in, we need about 75 square feet either in a straight path or in an "L-shape" for the lift to fit and function properly.
To determine whether you need a wheelchair lift or a ramp, you'll want to consider several factors: ease of maintenance and service (how quickly and how costly will service calls be when the lift breaks), cost comparison (wheelchair lifts are classified as home elevators, and start around $20-25k. You can get about 60+ feet of ramp for that same amount, as long as you have the space for it!), and long term living goals and health prognosis (if you plan on moving or making a recovery from your mobility challenges, a ramp is usually the right choice compared to a VPL). We help you discover what's right for your home and needs.