Many individuals with mobility-related issues due to disabilities or age-related problems can benefit greatly from a stairlift. Stairlifts are a convenient, affordable, and non-invasive home mobility solution for people with limited mobility to navigate stairs effortlessly. It enhances independence and confidence. Stairlifts and vertical platform lifts enable individuals to access all levels of their homes safely, regardless of age-related issues or physical constraints. In this blog, we will explore the most common stairlifts used in residential buildings, their functions, and the features of residential vertical platform lifts to help you make an informed decision tailored to your specific needs.
Types of Stairlifts
- Straight Stairlifts: These are one of the most common and cost-effective options for residential buildings, and they are typically used in stairways without turns, curves, bends, or landings. They consist of a rail-mounted directly onto the staircase, providing a smooth ride along a straight path of the stairway. It requires a proper space at the top and bottom of a staircase so you can safely board and dismount it. The process of installation is usually straightforward and cost-effective, making them a popular choice of homes with standard staircase designs as they require minimal or no modifications inside the home.
- Curved Stairlifts: These are ideal for staircases with curves, spirals, or multiple landings. Curved stairlifts are custom-made to match the specific layout of your curved steps. These stairlifts offer seamless navigation through complex staircase designs but require precise measurements and excellent craftsmanship. This results in longer installation times, sometimes several weeks, further increasing costs.
- Outdoor Stairlifts: These are specifically designed for exterior staircases, with weather-resistant and durable materials that can withstand various environmental conditions such as snow, rain, and UV exposure. These stairlifts are ideal for providing safe access to gardens, porches, or garages. This further ensures that mobility is not confined to the indoors. They also include weatherproof covers to protect them when not in use, ensuring reliable year-round performance.
- Narrow Stairlifts: Ideal for staircases with limited width, narrow or steep stairlifts feature compact designs with folding seats, arms & footrests. This space-saving model ensures the staircase remains accessible to other users when the lift is not in use.
- Transfer Platform Stairlifts: Suitable for staircases with half-landings, transfer platform stairlifts require users to move between two straight staircases. These are the perfect solution for individuals looking for specific architectural layouts, but they require a certain level of mobility from the user.
Residential Vertical Platform Lifts
Commonly known as porch lifts, vertical platform lifts are engineered to transport individuals and their mobility devices, such as wheelchairs or scooters, vertically between different levels of their homes. They operate similarly to elevators but are more compact and often more affordable. This makes them suitable for residential use.
Key Features of Residential Vertical Platform Lifts
- Weight Capacity: Most residential vertical platform lifts can support substantial amounts of weight in order to accommodate both the user & their mobility device.
- Indoor & Outdoor Use: VPLs are versatile and can be installed both indoors and outdoors, which further provides access to raised decks, porches, or different floors within the home. Outdoor models of VPLs are built using water-resistant and durable materials to endure harsh weather conditions, ensuring safety and durability.
- Safety Features: Equipped with non-skid platforms, safety gates, and emergency stop buttons, VPLs prioritize the safety of the user while vertically going up and down the stairs. Some models of the VPLs also include battery backup systems to function during power outages.
- Space Efficiency: Compared to traditional elevators, VPLs require minimal space, making them suitable for houses with limited room for modifications. Their compact design allows for installation in places where a full-sized elevator may not be feasible.
Choosing Between Stairlifts and VPLs
When deciding between a stairlift and a vertical platform lift, consider the following factors:
- Mobility Needs: If the person relies on a wheelchair or scooter, a VPL may be more appropriate as it accommodates both the individual and their mobility device without requiring transfers. Stairlifts, on the other hand, typically require the user to transition from their mobility device to the lift seat.
- Staircase Design: Straight staircases are well-suited for straight stairlifts, while curved or complex designs may necessitate a curved stairlift or a VPL, depending on the user’s mobility requirements.
- Space Constraints: Assess the available space for installation. Stairlifts are installed along the staircase, whereas VPLs require vertical support and a stable base. However, they can often be installed in areas adjacent to the stairs or on exterior structures like porches.
- Budget Considerations: Straight stairlifts are generally considered more affordable. Curved stairlifts, due to their custom nature, are more expensive. VPLs vary in price based on height and features.
- Aesthetic Preferences: Both stairlifts and VPLs come in various designs and finishes. Consider the visual impact on your home’s interior or exterior and choose a model that complements your aesthetic preferences.
Conclusion
Enhancing accessibility in residential buildings through the installation of stairlifts or vertical platform lifts significantly improves the quality of life for individuals with mobility issues. It gives them independence and confidence to access different levels of their homes without the assistance of other people. It also gives peace of mind and reassurance to their loved ones that their senior and disabled family members are able to move up and down the stairs safely and comfortably. By understanding the different types of stairlifts and the functionalities of residential vertical platform lifts, homeowners can make informed decisions about home mobility solutions that best suit their specific needs, architectural constraints, and budget considerations.
