Platform Elevators: 5 Proven Ways to Guarantee Accessible Living

by | Apr 27, 2026 | Lifts

Accessibility at home can often be a second thought until stairs and uneven floor transitions become daily obstacles. From raised front porches to split-level floor plans and stairs that present complications, vertical barriers can quickly limit the independence of homeowners and visitors alike. At RAM Elevators + Lifts, we specialize in sophisticated engineering that bridges these gaps. For over 30 years, we have provided platform elevators that offer a safe, reliable way to move between levels without requiring a total building redesign.

Our innovative all-electric, machine-room-less (MRL) design makes vertical access space-efficient and dependable for those who want to ensure they can remain at home comfortably for as long as possible. Learn how a platform elevator like our Flex Lift model can transform your property and create a truly inclusive environment for everyone below!

1. Compact Engineering for Tight Spaces

Traditional elevators often require massive hoistways and separate mechanical rooms. A platform elevator (better known as a vertical platform lift or VPL) is designed to provide vertical access within a much smaller footprint for optimal convenience. RAM’s innovative  Flex Lift excels in these scenarios, offering a compact accessibility solution that fits into homes with raised entrances or small public buildings where square footage is at a premium. Because our systems are all-electric, they don’t require the bulky tanks or piping associated with older hydraulic elevator standards.

2. The RAM Flex Lift Performance Advantage

Not all platform elevators are built to handle the rigours of North America’s climate. Long winters and scorching summers can put strain on units and result in a shorter life cycle. As a Canadian-designed and manufactured product, RAM’s Flex Lift is engineered for both indoor and outdoor residential and light commercial use. Flex Lift stands out in the market with a 750 lb lifting capacity and a travel distance of up to 14 feet. While many competitors offer basic builds, RAM full-load tests every system to 125% of its rated capacity to meet the highest machinery reliability principles. And, as the name suggests, Flex Lift can be configured with ease, making it perfect for unique spaces!

3. All-Weather Reliability Without the Smell

One of the biggest complaints about traditional lifts is the smell of hydraulic fluid and poor performance in cold weather. Flex Lift uses a patented, all-electric, fluid-free drive system. This means no petrochemical smells in the home and no oil thickening when temperatures drop. Our specialized grease is rated to perform perfectly from -40ºC to +40ºC, ensuring you have dependable access in any weather!

4. Supporting Independence and Aging-in-Place

For homeowners, VPLs are a key component of successful aging-in-place strategies. As our mobility changes over time, even a few steps at a garage entry or front door can become a source of stress and potential injury. Installing a RAM Flex Lift enables individuals to remain safely in their homes for longer, and can help you enjoy the space you know and love for as long as possible.

5. Simplified Installation with the Square Tube Rail

Structural compatibility is where RAM’s Flex Lift model truly leads the industry. Why? Most platform lifts use rails that pull against the wall, requiring heavy shoring. Our proprietary 4×4 square tube rail system redirects all forces downward into the floor. This engineering approach makes the Flex Lift much easier to install in retrofit scenarios and older buildings where wall reinforcement is difficult or expensive. That means better accessibility is available for more homes across North America!

Professional Reliability Through a Trusted Network

RAM is proud to partner with a network of trained product dealers across North America. Our distributors work hand in hand with our experts to learn the product inside and out so every install is as seamless and code-compliant as possible. That means you never have to worry about end-use quality or performance issues and can enjoy peace of mind where it matters most.

CONTACT RAM ELEVATORS + LIFTS TODAY to learn how the Flex Lift platform elevator can support your independence and home value.

The RAM Team

RAM is a proud North American manufacturer of superior elevating devices for both residential and low-rise commercial use across Canada and the United States. Founded in 1987, our vision has been to engineer impactful accessibility solutions without aesthetic compromise.

GROUNDED SIMPLICITY,
ELEVATED DESIGN

Get started with RAM today.