There is no shortage of home mobility solutions to try out, from vertical platform lifts to fully enclosed residential elevators. Each has its own strengths, and the right choice depends entirely on your home and how you plan to use it. Below, let’s dive into the ins and outs of vertical lifts vs. home elevators, and when a home elevator may be the better option for your home. Read on!
#1: You Need to Move More Than 2 Levels
Distance drives the decision between a vertical lift vs home elevator more than many may think. Think about your daily routine. Do you find yourself needing access to bedrooms on the second floor, a home office on the third level, and storage in the basement? Home elevators handle this kind of regular, multi-level movement with ease, making them the natural choice for larger homes.
A vertical platform lift works well for short distances of around 14 feet, such as from your main floor to an elevated deck or down to a basement workshop. Home elevators, on the other hand, can travel three or more floors.
#2: You Value Greater Re-Sell Value
While some home upgrades are “nice-to-haves,” others make a real difference in the listing. Did you know that home elevators are becoming one of the most sought-after features in many communities? In some North American markets, home elevators have been seen to boost property values by 10% or more. While there’s no guarantee of how much value a home elevator will add to your home, it’s clear that more people are recognizing its real value. From growing families to those looking to age in place, demand is continuing to rise.
This trend reflects something deeper happening in Canadian neighbourhoods. As our population ages, more buyers are thinking ahead about their long-term needs. They’re not just looking for a home that works today, but one that will work for decades to come.
#3: You’re Interested in More Customization
While home mobility solutions serve a purpose, they should also feel like they’re part of your home. This is where elevators truly shine, as they tend to offer greater customization options to match home finishes than other solutions. On the other hand, home lifts tend to offer a more basic yet polished baseline design. Vertical lifts prioritize utility and functionality, leaving little room for them to be seen as a centrepiece (unlike luxury glass elevators or the like).
Home elevators can be tailored to complement your existing interior design. From sleek glass panels that showcase panoramic views to classic muted finishes that match your kitchen cabinetry, the options are extensive. You can choose lighting, trim colours, door styles, and control panels that blend seamlessly with your home’s aesthetic.
#4: You Want a More Discreet Design
If you prefer your home modifications to be seamless rather than statement, a home elevator may be the smarter choice. Home elevators can be built into floors, walls, and other structures. These mobility solutions can be placed into closets or other vertical clearances to create a more integrated appearance. Home lifts, in contrast, are self-contained but are typically more visible in nature. There are fewer ways to tuck a vertical platform lift out of sight, since the platform, gate, and tower all need to remain fully accessible at each landing.
The discrete nature of home elevators becomes especially important in heritage homes or spaces where maintaining the original character matters. A well-designed elevator installation can preserve your home’s existing architectural appearance while adding modern functionality.
Upgrade Your Home Mobility with RAM
Since 1987, RAM Elevators + Lifts has manufactured award-winning elevators and lifts across North America.
Deciding between a vertical lift vs home elevator can be challenging, and the RAM team is here to help. Reach out to the RAM team today to learn more and find a dealer near you.