Ramps and platform lifts are devices specifically designed to allow people with reduced mobility to access elevated places more easily. These individuals thus gain independence and can move more easily inside and outside their homes without needing the help of a caregiver. A look at these two types of equipment.
The Platform Lift
The platform lift is a mechanical device that can accommodate a person or a wheelchair.
Advantages
The platform lift takes up little space given its mode of movement. It either rises vertically or follows the existing staircase’s trajectory. This device is therefore suitable for confined spaces. Furthermore, vertical models are functional in all seasons, and their use does not expose you to any danger, regardless of the weather. The area to be cleared of snow is also smaller, and if you wish to install a winter shelter, the work will be much less expensive.
The platform lift also offers more independence to the user. Furthermore, it shows great durability if properly maintained. And one of the biggest advantages of this type of device is that if you are eligible for the grant program, repair costs are covered by the government’s Home Adaptation Program (PAD). Moreover, it is possible to opt for used equipment less than 5 years old to reduce expenses, even within the framework of the PAD.
Disadvantages
The biggest disadvantage of the platform lift is that its installation requires the prior construction of a concrete slab. The scope of the work is therefore more significant.
The Ramp
The ramp is a specific infrastructure designed to replace stairs for people with reduced mobility or those who use wheelchairs.
Advantages
The access ramp has no mechanical parts. It is therefore easy to use, and its maintenance costs are reduced. Furthermore, this type of device does not require major changes to the support. You just need to remove the few ground stakes to remove it.
Disadvantages
This device is much more cumbersome. Indeed, you must install a 12-foot long ramp for every inch of elevation change, according to the 1:12 ratio. In other words, an infrastructure that replaces 5 steps (35 inches) must be approximately 35 feet long. It is also necessary to consider resting platforms along the entire path.
Furthermore, the surface area to be cleared of snow in winter is larger, and moreover, the infrastructure is almost impassable during storms or ice. It thus offers less independence to its user. The installation of a winter shelter would also be costly given the size of the device.
The platform lift therefore seems more advantageous in the long term. However, the government wishes to prioritize ramps on the North Shore since residents generally have large plots of land in that area. It should be noted that it is possible to convert your PAD project into a personal project if the client wishes to install a ramp instead of a PFE. In such a case, it is important to know that the grant does not always cover repair costs. It is possible that these costs may fall entirely on the owner.
