Vertical Platform Lift With Stair Access: A Guide for Homes in Colorado

For homeowners with mobility challenges, stairs can be one of the biggest barriers to safe and independent access. Ramps can be a good solution for smaller height differences but can take up a lot of space with multiple stairs. Another practical solution is a vertical platform lift with staircase access which enables a wheelchair or mobility scooter user to travel vertically between different levels without having to leave their mobility device.

Vertical platform lifts in Colorado are an excellent choice for homeowners in Colorado seeking accessibility upgrades for decks, porches, garages, entryways and other raised spots. Independent Living Solutions, Inc. provides vertical platform lift and wheelchair lift solutions that allow people to access elevated areas more safely and independently.

What Is a Vertical Platform Lift?

A vertical platform lift (also known as wheelchair lift or porch lift) is a mobility device that raises a person between two levels. Rather than needing to transfer to a chair, the user can roll onto the platform from his or her wheelchair or mobility scooter.

The platform then moves up or down to the desired level. A VPL differs from a regular stair lift that runs along the staircase, and usually requires the user to transfer to a seat.

Vertical platform lifts are a solution for residential applications where there are stairs, raised entrances, decks or other changes in elevation that create accessibility challenges.

Why Select a Vertical Platform Lift With Stairs Access?

A vertical platform lift with stairs to get on and off can be especially helpful when a house already has stairs leading to an entrance or raised area.

Instead of removing the existing stairs an alternative accessible route can be provided by a lift as well as the stairs. This can enable family members who want to use the stairs to continue to do so while providing a separate means for wheelchair and mobility scooter users to reach the same level.

Such a setup can be beneficial for homes with:

• Several entrance stairs
• Elevated front porches
• High decks
• Garage to house elevation changes
• Split level areas
• Little room for long ramp
• Wheelchair users who cannot use stairs safely
• Mobility scooter users requiring direct vertical access

Independent Living Solutions, Inc. states that VPLs are particularly helpful in situations where a conventional ramp would be restricted by multiple existing stairs or where a ramp would interfere with parking in a garage.

Vertical Platform Lifts vs. Stairway Lifts

Both systems help people with stairs and changes in elevation but vertical platform lifts and stair lifts are different.

Vertical Platform Lift

VPLs have a flat platform that moves up and down. You may remain on the platform during the ride with a wheelchair or mobility scooter. No transfer from the mobility device to chair required.

Stair Lift Prices

Stair Lifts use a seat that attaches to a rail that runs along the staircase. The user rides the stair lift up and down the stairs.

If transferring from a wheelchair to a stair lift seat isn’t safe, then a vertical platform lift might be a better choice. The decision should be made based on the person’s mobility, the layout of the home, the available space and the specific problem of accessibility.

Where Are Vertical Platform Lifts Used?

One of the greatest benefits of vertical platform lifts is their versatility. They can be used in many parts of a Colorado home with an elevation difference.

Raised Entryways &Amp; Porches

A raised porch can be a major barrier for wheelchair and scooter users. A vertical platform lift can offer direct access from ground level to the porch or entrance.

This is especially useful when the entrance has several steps and there is not enough room to build a long ramp.

Deck Entry

An elevated deck can be an important part of a home for families who want everyone to enjoy outdoor spaces together. A platform lift can provide access to a raised deck that is accessible without the need for a large ramp structure.

Garage to Home Entrance

There is often a change in elevation between the garage and the living areas in many homes. This transition can be bridged with a vertical platform lift, which will save valuable space in your garage and driveway.

Vertical platform lifts are used for residential applications as well. Independent Living Solutions, Inc. lists garage-to-home transitions as an example.

Interior Level Changes

Some homes are split level or have small changes in elevation between living spaces. Depending on the layout of the home and available space, a platform lift can be an alternative to stairs.

Advantages of Colorado Vertical Platform Lifts

In Colorado you can find a variety of architectural styles, from traditional residential properties to split-level homes and houses with decks and porches on stilts. Many times, a vertical platform lift can provide an accessible solution without the need for a long ramp.

Greater Autonomy

One of the big advantages of a wheelchair lift is that you can travel up and down levels without having to get out of your wheelchair or mobility scooter.

This may reduce the dependence of many users on family members or caregivers to enter or exit the home.

Access in Space-Efficient

If the vertical rise is large, a ramp can need a lot of length. VPLs move in a vertical direction, so they can be a good option if space is at a premium.

Access for Wheelchair and Scooter Users

The platform carries the mobility device, so users do not necessarily have to transfer to a separate seat. Independent Living Solutions, Inc. produces residential VPL systems for use with wheelchairs and mobility scooters.

Indoor &Amp; Outdoor Uses

Vertical platform lifts for residential use may be used indoors or outdoors. The choice of appropriate equipment should be made taking into account the installation environment and its intended use.

For outdoor installations, homeowners in Colorado should take into account the equipment’s exposure to weather, temperature fluctuations, snow and other environmental conditions.

Key Considerations Before Purchasing a Vertical Platform Lift

Choosing a vertical platform lift is more than choosing based on appearance or price. The property and user needs should be assessed prior to installation.

Space Available

The lift requires enough space at the lower and upper levels. The user must have an easy access to the platform and an easy exit at the level of the destination.

The guidance for home modification in Colorado also mentions the need for an accessible route to the lift and enough room for wheelchair access at the top and bottom.

Vertical Distance Traveled

Different lifts are for different vertical travel requirements. Residential lifts can provide access to platforms, decks and porches up to 14 feet high, depending on the lift system, according to Independent Living Solutions, Inc.

The required equipment is selected by accurate measurement of travel heights.

Size of Platform

Platform dimensions are important because the platform needs to fit the user's wheelchair or mobility scooter comfortably.

If the user often carries groceries, equipment or other items, these needs should also be considered in determining the appropriate lift capacity.

Weight Limit

Every vertical platform lift comes with a weight capacity limit. The total load should include the user, wheelchair or scooter and any other items being carried.

You need to choose a lift with the right capacity to ensure it can be installed safely.

Vertical Platform Lifts Safety Features

Safety should be a priority in choosing accessibility equipment.

Features of vertical platform lifts can include:

• Safety sensors
• Emergency Stop Control
• Safety pans
• Platform or landing gates
• Automatic or retractable ramps
• Safety barriers
• Platform controls

Independent Living Solutions, Inc. lists safety sensors, emergency stops, automatic self-lowering folding ramps, safety pans and landing/platform gates as things to take into account when buying a wheelchair lift.

The exact features available will depend on the lift model and installation set-up.

Professional Vertical Platform Lift Installations in Colorado

A platform lift is an important piece of equipment for accessibility, so professional installation can help make sure that the equipment is installed in the right position for the property and set up correctly.

Independent Living Solutions, Inc. provides delivery and installation of wheelchair lifts and other mobility equipment. The company is based in Wheat Ridge, Colorado and offers installation, customer support, maintenance and repair assistance and replacement parts under the applicable manufacturer warranties.

A professional assessment can also help ascertain whether a vertical platform lift, stair lift, inclined platform lift, ramp or other accessibility solutions are better suited to the property.

Why Select Independent Living Solutions, Inc.?

Choosing the right mobility equipment provider is a key part of an accessibility project. Independent Living Solutions, Inc. is a supplier of mobility products and accessibility solutions for homeowners in Colorado.

The company offers vertical platform lifts for the residential market, including installation and ongoing service support. Its Wheat Ridge location caters to homeowners requiring wheelchair lifts and other accessibility equipment.

If you’re a homeowner not sure if a VPL is right for you, a professional assessment can help determine the most practical solution for your home’s design, the user’s mobility needs, and available space.

Increase the Accessibility of Your Home in Colorado

A vertical platform lift with a stair access is a great solution for overcoming raised entrances, porches, decks, garage transitions and other accessibility barriers. Unlike a stair lift, a VPL allows the wheelchair or mobility scooter user to stay on the platform for the vertical journey.

The right system for homeowners should be selected based on vertical travel distance, platform size, weight capacity, available space, entrance configuration and intended use when searching for vertical platform lifts in Colorado.

Independent Living Solutions, Inc. provides vertical platform lift and wheelchair lift solutions in Colorado, including installation, service and support. A professional evaluation can help determine if a vertical platform lift is the right accessibility solution for your home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What Is a Vertical Lift With Staircase Access?

A vertical platform lift is a wheelchair accessibility system that moves vertically between levels, allowing users to remain on a wheelchair or mobility scooter. It can be installed next to an existing staircase to provide an accessible alternative route.

2. Are Vertical Platform Lifts a Good Choice for a Wheelchair User?

Yes. Vertical platform lifts are designed specifically for people using wheelchairs. The user can roll onto the platform and travel vertically without changing to a separate seat.

3. Can I Install a Vertical Platform Lift Outdoors in Colorado?

Yes, residential vertical platform lifts are suitable for outdoor applications with the right equipment for the environment. The installation must take into account the property conditions and the lift specifications.

4. How to Select the Right Vertical Platform Lift in Colorado

Consider the vertical travel distance, the installation space available, the platform size, the weight capacity, the location and the mobility needs of the user. A professional home assessment can help you determine which lift configuration is best for you.