With more than 250 million people worldwide relying on some type of mobility aid, it’s no surprise that our homes are evolving to meet our needs. There is no shortage of options on the market, all designed to make navigating daily home life easier. Vertical Platform Lifts (VPLs) and Ramps are two of the most popular solutions, naturally leading many to ask, “Which one is right for my home?”
Join us here at RAM Elevators + Lifts as we put these home mobility options head-to-head and help you uncover which best fits your needs. Let’s elevate the conversation together.
What is a Vertical Platform Lift?
A vertical platform lift (VPL) is a motorized mobility device used to bring someone between two levels. Designed with the needs of mobility-aid users at the forefront, VPLs are designed for simplicity and ease of use. Unlike full-size home elevators, VPLs typically travel up to about 14 feet, making them ideal for porches, decks, and other shorter, everyday distances.
At RAM, our Flex Lift features cutting-edge engineering to create a powerful, controlled ride each time. Available in 70 different configurations, this powerful all-electric lift integrates seamlessly into nearly any home space.
What is a Ramp?
A ramp is an incline pathway designed to help those with mobility aids move safely across short vertical distances. Thanks to their simple, non-motorized design, ramps can be installed in several ways. You can have a contractor build one, buy one from a retailer, or even DIY a basic one. That being said, homeowners should follow ADA-recommended guidelines when building or buying a ramp. One of these guidelines is that the maximum slope of a ramp should be 1:12, meaning that a 30-inch porch would need a 30-foot ramp.
Ease of Use
A home modification should be easy and simple for anyone using a wheelchair, scooter, or other mobility aid to use on a daily basis. Generally speaking, vertical platform lifts are easier to use. Users simply enter the platform, push a button or switch, wait as they’re brought smoothly to the next level, and exit the platform.
Ramps, on the other hand, are also simple to use, with some key considerations. Ramps require the full manual effort of the user to push or propel themselves forward. This can become tiring quickly, especially when moving up or over longer ramps.
Cost
When it comes to choosing any home modification, cost is often the first factor that comes to mind. So, let’s take a closer look. A ramp will generally have a lower upfront cost than a VPL. However, this can even out once maintenance and upkeep are factored in. Like VPLs, ramps require regular maintenance. Wood ramps often demand more frequent upkeep, including sealing and staining. Whereas aluminum or stainless steel ramps are lower maintenance, but still need periodic checks for rust or wear.
Installation Location
“Location, location, location” doesn’t just apply to real estate—it matters when installing accessibility features too. Both vertical platform lifts and ramps can be installed either indoors or outdoors, with some considerations in mind.
Not all ramps come with essential safety features, like non-slip surfaces, handrails, drainage points, and side rails—making it difficult to use outdoors while exposed to the elements. A VPL, on the other hand, is well-suited for both indoor and outdoor use. From its simple loading design to its automated, controlled motions, VPLs offer a smooth riding experience in rain, snow, and everything in between.
So, Which is Actually Best For You?
When it comes to choosing whether a vertical platform lift or ramp is better for your home, it’s generally up to individual needs and preferences. Though if you’re looking to future-proof your home with a seamless, versatile solution that lasts for years to come, a vertical platform lift is an exceptional choice.
Elevate Your Living with RAM
At RAM Elevators + Lifts, we’re passionate about elevating accessibility, one level at a time. Start the conversation with us to learn more about our simply stunning vertical platform lifts and find a dealer near you. With almost 40 years of experience bringing home mobility solutions across North America, RAM is your reliable partner in barrier-free home living.