Are you in the market for a comfortable, wheelchair-friendly accessibility solution for your home? Are you considering investing in a wheelchair lift, but aren’t sure of the process? While wheelchair lifts certainly have no shortage of benefits for homeowners, it’s no surprise that the installation process can feel overwhelming if unsure what to expect.
In this short blog with the RAM Elevators + Lifts team, let’s shed some light on the process and debunk some common misconceptions about wheelchair lift installations at home.
#1: Wheelchair Lifts Require Major Structural Changes
No one loves living in the middle of construction. Fortunately, wheelchair lifts offer the best of both worlds: a comfortable, minimally-intensive ride similar to an elevator and simple, streamlined installation similar to a chairlift. These mobility devices are typically relatively simple in structure, allowing them to be seamlessly integrated into a wide range of spaces.
At RAM, the Flex Lift is our mainstay wheelchair lift that’s built with dignified accessibility at the forefront of its design. With nearly 70 total configurations and various sizing options, this wheelchair lift is ideal for seamless mobility in nearly any home space. Due to its compact and simple design, this VPL is typically installed with minimal structural changes.
#2: Installations Can Take Weeks to Complete
While a wheelchair lift offers significant benefits to day-to-day living, that doesn’t mean it has to have a long, drawn-out installation process. Fortunately, a wheelchair lift installation is a relatively straightforward process that’s planned and coordinated throughout.
While your home’s existing architecture and layout influence the total time, it’s often not as long as many homeowners may think! In many cases, a wheelchair lift can take as little as a few hours to install from start to finish.
#3: It’s Only Possible During Renovations or New Builds
Sometimes, to the surprise of many, wheelchair lifts can be retrofitted in existing homes just as easily as new builds. Some of the best things come in small packages, and wheelchair lifts are no exception! As a result, a wheelchair lift can typically be installed in existing spaces with few total modifications.
That said, RAM’s Flex Lift VPL does include several requirements for proper installation, including a:
- Nearby dedicated circuit to provide sufficient power
- Nearby tower that’s large enough to accommodate the travel distance
- Sufficient landing (if one isn’t already present)
- Carriage gate (for certain distances)
Your installer will work with you to ensure all these requirements are met on installation day.
#4: You’re On Your Own After Installation Happens
Having a wheelchair lift installed can feel like a big step—and not what you ever need to take alone. After the wheelchair lift installation, your installer will walk you through the basics of operation, safety features, and ongoing maintenance.
Just like a fridge or washing machine, a wheelchair lift is an important home investment. That’s why consistent maintenance is necessary to keep it in proper working order for years to come.
At RAM, we have nearly 40 years of experience training and managing our extensive dealer network throughout North America. Your dealer will be there to support you with any questions, comments, or concerns you may have about your wheelchair lift installation. The RAM team is also available for any product-related questions.
Experience the RAM Advantage
At RAM Elevators + Lifts, we aim to make 10,000 more buildings more accessible by 2028, in addition to the 35,000 we’ve done to date. Ready to achieve more accessible living? Reach out to us today to learn more about our award-winning home mobility solutions and get in touch with a RAM dealer near you.
We look forward to supporting you and helping you find the right home mobility solution tailored to your needs and lifestyle. From wheelchair lift installation to post-care support, RAM is your reliable home mobility partner.