A few steps at the door are the most common barrier to getting a wheelchair into a house. In Massachusetts, where many homes sit well above the street or are built as split-levels, a ramp is often not practical. A wheelchair lift usually is.
Why not a ramp?
A ramp must stay at a gentle slope to be safe, so it grows longer with every inch of height. A front door three feet above the ground can call for a ramp that crosses the whole yard. A vertical platform lift covers the same rise from a pad a few feet square.
At the front entry
The lift stands beside the steps and raises the platform to the level of the porch or landing. The Apex Green travels up to 6 feet, which covers most residential entries. An enclosed model keeps the weather off the rider.
In the garage
For many families, the best entrance is through the garage. The lift sits out of the snow and rain and opens onto the door into the house.
Split-level and raised ranch homes
In a split-level, the front door opens onto a landing between two half flights. A lift at the entry gets you inside, but the stairs within still have to be dealt with. A stair lift on one or both short flights, or a home elevator, completes the route.
What the installation involves
A level pad at the base, a power supply and a safe landing at the top. We check the site, advise on local requirements and carry out the installation and testing.
Public buildings
The same lifts serve churches, schools and offices, where code requirements apply. We help building owners choose equipment that meets them.
Nationwide Lifts of Massachusetts is based in Wilmington, MA, with a second office in Raymond, NH. Call (978) 218-7161 or request a free quote.